Sofie De Backer Interieurarchitecten + Decospot

We have rarely been so disappointed with a collaboration. From the very beginning, we had a strong feeling that our wishes were simply not being listened to. We explicitly stated that we wanted to work together, without a fixed budget, towards the ideal design for our home. That is precisely why you hire an architect: to brainstorm, improve, and innovate. What did we get? A first plan that simply sketched out our own idea—exactly as we had already indicated ourselves. Having to pay a hefty sum for that on top of it felt like a slap in the face. The whole point of hiring an architect became completely unclear to us. After a phone call, Sofie came on-site to get “a better picture” of the house. We had hoped for improvement, but again: no difference whatsoever. Lots of nice words, but absolutely no concrete translation into the plans. It feels as if there is mostly good talk, but the work is ultimately carried out by an intern with no understanding of what was discussed. After paying no less than €13,000, we receive comments at the end such as: “Oh, you want a different type of taps.” These were matters that were clear from day one. It only confirms once again: they don't listen. Another example: in a 300 m² home, we wanted a second full-sized bathroom with direct natural light. What did we get? A mini-bathroom, more of a shower cubicle, with a complicated and illogical solution via a skylight through the attic to the roof, plus a glass door. Truly incomprehensible. We then drew up three alternative solutions ourselves where a window *is* possible. The response: “Oh yes, that’s possible too.” This sums it all up: they do not contribute ideas at all, only confirming afterwards what we ourselves have already proposed. The conclusion is harsh but honest: they don't listen, they don't think along, and above all, they work quickly towards invoicing. Ultimately, we paid €13,000 for a plan that was simply our own idea — and we even had to work out the layout of a large space into two bedrooms, a toilet, and a bathroom ourselves afterwards. If you have money to spare, feel free to come here. But if you are looking for an architect who truly listens, thinks along with you, and adds value, we strongly recommend looking elsewhere!