We are Overseas Pakistanis; my wife and I grew up as children in Islamabad. We lived here during our early life and then moved abroad. But Islamabad has always been a part of our lives and thoughts. We have been coming here regularly and most of our close relatives live here. Our children also started their elementary schools here. To have a house/home of our own in Islamabad had always been one of our passionate ‘dreams’. To build a house in Islamabad by an Overseas Pakistani, although is a ‘romantic idea’ but the reality is far from being rosy. Some people we know, have had troubles and pains in fulfilling such a dream! As the luck would have it, we were introduced to Montage Design Build by one of our close family members. We made the first contact with the wonderful lady, Ms. Sadia Hayat in December of 2019 during one of our visits. It turned out that Ms. Hayat is an architect and her brother Qaisar Mustafa, at that time, was in-charge of the construction, so they had complementary roles in the company. Ms. Hayat introduced us with the concept and working of their company, especially the idea of ‘Boutique homes’ and how are they different from other standard players in the construction industry in Islamabad. My wife and I had a general idea of how our home should be, but it was our discussions with Ms. Hayat which crystallized them into a specific design and layout. At the outset, it was clear to us that not only Ms. Hayat is on top of her field technically, but also has extensive experience of such construction projects. From there the journey began, she facilitated buying the plot and even went with us to the CDA office during the transfer proceedings. Just as taking possession of land was completed, the Pandemic (Covid-19) struck in March 2020! We thought that it would probably have a negative effect on the time frame of the project which we had discussed. But amazingly, Ms. Hayat was able to adjust to the new situation and most of our interactions took place via Skype. We started discussing specific points, requirements, house layout and she began preparing drafts of Building plan (Naqsha). She would listen patiently to our thoughts, ideas and elaborate the technical aspects in an easy way for us to comprehend. Clearly, she knew exactly what it would take and soon came up with the final version of House plan (Naqsha). The ‘Earth-work’ and ‘Grey structure’ were the first stages; we had planned to visit every few months and give our input if needed, but pandemic prevented us from traveling to Islamabad. Qaisar saheb would regularly visit the construction site to supervise the ongoing work and kept us informed by sending video clips and photos. As the ‘Grey structure’ was about to be completed, Ms. Hayat discussed with us a detailed plan of ‘Finishing stage(s)’. We discussed and agreed on each and every item, such as types of fittings and fixtures especially bathrooms and kitchen (all virtually, she would go to stores and via video calls show us various items) an incredible task and we are ever indebted to her for all her efforts and help. The project has been completed in about two years which also saw pandemic and a longer than expected time taken in digging, soil testing and to build the ‘Foundations’ in early pandemic period. A major part of our project involved ‘wood-work’ and Ms. Hayat arranged the wooden windows, doors, cabinets, fitted kitchen and other features to be made by artisans in Gujrat. Ms. Hayat also accompanied us to various vendors for furnishings like choosing fabric for curtains, preparation of curtains and to modifying some furniture items. 2 The technical assistance provided by Montage Design Build, especially Ms. Hayat has been phenomenal; we could rely on her advice on quite a varied spectrum of tasks such as Solar system, security cameras and devices and even in core landscaping work. On the financial side, it is also worth mentioning that modus operandi of Montage Design Build is that the Company charges a Fee for their services (which includes preparing the architectural, structural designs, designing the electrical, water supply and other services; their fee also includes supervision throughout the project until completion). All materials and items used in Construction and Finishing stages are to be paid by owner as per designs/plans/approved specifications and this is what they call “BOQs” (Bill of quantities). This arrangement worked smoothly between us and the company and there was never any friction or delay due to any issue from either side.We wish Montage Design Build all the best in their future pursuits and in their ongoing projects. It has been immense pleasure for us to have met and worked with Ms. Sadia Hayat and Qaisar Mustafa saheb and a big thank you for helping us fulfil our dream of owning a house/home in Islamabad.