Inverness architects tells Prime Minister they could have completed Number 11 makeover in fraction of the cost
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
Controversy still simmers over Prime Minister Boris Johnson and fiancée Carrie Symonds supposedly lavishing anything up to £200,000 on a makeover of number 11 Downing Street.
But an Inverness-based architects service is claiming it could have comfortably kitted out the under-fire PM’s flat, on time and on budget, for the £30,000 public cash spend allowed.
The designers claim a “dream home” could be kitted out “from concept to completion without any John Lewis nightmares” – a reference to the PM’s supposed disdain for the national department store.
Features fit for UK leader’s lifestyle include soundproof walls, door closers, a zip line and and “oven-ready”’ kitchen deal
The team at architect HOKO Design, which opened its first north of Scotland studio in Inverness in March following a £400,000 investment, drafted a mood board for Number 11 Downing Street.
The company claims it is packed with a host of high-end practical features to match the demands of private and public life as the nation’s premier.
As a cheeky dig at Mr Johnson’s infamous 2012 mishap in getting stuck on a zip-line, the firm has included one linking number 11 to number 10 Downing Street in its costing.
It also includes an ‘oven-ready’ kitchen, the firm says is perfect for delivering on promises of a top-notch dinner; door closers to ensure those important conversations remain private; and sound-proofed walls to ensure neighbours aren’t disturbed at any time day or night.
There is also the option of a zip line next door to Number 10 – but be sure to wear suitable safety equipment.
Danny Campbell, founder at HOKO, a full-service architecture to interior design firm, said: “The Prime Minister could have saved himself a lot of time and hassle had he come to HOKO.
“As an architect I am always on the lookout for ways to help make the most of space and that of course extends to our nation’s leader.
“Like many in the UK, I was shocked at the suggestion £200,000 be needed to refurbish any flat – even in one of London’s most exclusive areas – and we are more than willing to show what is possible for the very generous £30,000 afforded by the people of this nation.
“As with every project, we have carefully taken the personal and professional requirements of the client into consideration, and created a design fit for the lifestyle of the Prime Minister and his family.
“We will of course be able to deliver it on time and on budget, and with all aspects of the project from concept to completion delivered by HOKO and its partners. Mr Johnson will be able to sleep easy in our hands, free from nightmares of any kind.”
Mr Campbell added: “Home improvement projects are a big thing for anybody, and everything we do is geared towards making the process smoother, easier and less stressful. We design the space, we build the space and now we can fill the space.”
