project library
case study
''Kate has been, in a word, brilliant. She knitted together a potentially very awkward patchwork of estate agents and arranged a number of days of viewing with one property after another and no time wasted. She must have considerable powers of persuasion… She nailed every detail with thoroughness and a complete understanding of the practicalities."
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project overview
Our client approached us with a unique request: to find a dedicated space for their extensive private book collection, which had outgrown their home. Their vision was to create a personal library to house 7,000 books across 100 meters of shelving, along with a small kitchen, toilet facilities, and a comfortable reading area. The client wanted this space to be within a 30-minute radius of their home and provided us with a budget that posed challenges given the search area. Additionally, they requested our help in researching suitable shelving solutions for their collection.
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the challenge
To fully grasp our client’s needs, we held in-depth discussions to understand their preferences and goals. They were open to both renting or purchasing a property and flexible regarding the type of space, which broadened the search significantly. The project involved an extensive amount of research and collaboration with property agents to explore all viable options, as well as identifying the best library shelving solutions.
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annabel’s approach
We started by investigating shelving solutions, such as rolling stack and linear shelving systems, to understand the floor space necessary to accommodate 7,000 books. Working within the budget, we then considered a wide range of property options, including renting commercial workspaces, railway arches, self-storage units, and even residential properties for sale or rent.
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key steps
We took several key actions to meet the client’s needs:
📚 Contacted multiple shelving manufacturers and property agents to gather data.
📚 Conducted viewings of co-working spaces to assess their feasibility.
📚 Compiled and presented our findings to the client, which included:
- A detailed analysis of various shelving solutions, complete with prices, images, and measurements.
- A shortlist of suitable properties, both commercial and residential, complete with prices, images, and floorplans. -
results
After reviewing the options we presented, the client chose to view several commercial and residential properties. We arranged and attended these viewings alongside the client, providing guidance on each property’s suitability for their library. Following a second round of viewings, the client opted to purchase a period property within 30 minutes of their home. Once the purchase is finalised, we are ready to assist with acquiring and installing the shelving, as well as transferring their book collection to set up the new library.
annabel services
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project services
annabel offers invaluable support in managing the administration of any projects you face, whether they are monumental life changes such as a divorce or probate, or smaller, bespoke tasks where a lack time is hindering completion.
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household admin
Designed to enhance the efficiency and organisation of your family life. We understand the complexities of managing a household and our services are tailored to ensure that every aspect of your day-to-day life is seamlessly orchestrated.