The Simonds Gallery

With butterflies in my stomach and my legs, mum and I headed to the Simonds Gallery in South Melbourne. I was so excited that we got there an hour early. A seek-peek at the gallery made me smile and I patiently waited for my appointment to start.

Eventually when the clock ticked over, I went to see the 'Electrical Lady' who talked me through all the opinions I had. I liked that I could move lights and power points for free. I added two security lights to outside to light up the yard at $180 each. I added an outdoor power point for my fishpond for $112. I was disappointed that I had to pay for the wiring for the phone line at $341.

Next was my colour appointment. This 'Colour Lady' was also very helpful and nice. She walked me through all the options I had and the upgrades I could pay for. Because I'm on a budget, I decided not to upgrade if possible. There was lots of choices in most areas, especially the laminate and bench tops. The only upgrades I made were for convenience rather than for decoration. I picked a solid wooden door for $742 so people can't look into my house. I chose locks for the bathroom and toilet doors ($22 each) because I hate going to homes and feeling like people are going to barge in during inconvenient times. I added towel racks to both bathroom and ensuit ($174) and toilet roll holders ($115) for obvious reasons. I loved the free up-grade choices. I got to pick lots of free items such as higher ceilings, pot draws, above bench cupboards, larger laundry cupboards and above cupboards, three-panel sliding door, etc. I also love being in a regional area, all flyscreens are free, even to my up-grade sliding door.

At this point, I felt like the 'Little Engine that could'. With such a big hill of excitement and the unknown in front of me, I was on a high. "I think I can, I think I can". Up and up. So exciting....

But there is always something... I hate that something that appears to dampen the mood! My something was the 'Flooring Guy'! And he definitely was 'flooring'. My heart sank with ever word he uttered.

"Extra costs for wooden floors as they went over the 50m2 that you are allowed...."
"Extra costs for carpet as they went over in the 100m2 limit..."

So much for my budget!

What made it worse was that the carpet I could choose from was very poor quality, felt rough and looked awful with barely any colour choices. If you are building with Simonds, be prepared and willing to pay extra for good carpet. Holding back tears, I tried to work out what I could afford. The 'Flooring Guy' only made things worse. He was so confusing as he talked about prices and kept hiding the full cost. In the end I chose upgraded carpet that felt alright but wasn't quiet the colour I had in mind.

As the day ended, I didn't feel quiet as excited. I don't think the 'Colour Lady' ever has many people almost in tears by the end of their Gallery appointments. (Thanks a lot, Flooring Guy!).

Over all, I was happy with my choices. I can't wait for the next step. I can't wait to see the finished product.