Since my first years in college, I began keeping a list of meaningful quotes. For me, they were architecture-related. Some distantly – theoretical; some straight up like a good cocktail. They all grounded me while at the same time lifted me – inspiring me to greatness.   It’s rare to find a client that allows you to actually produce architecture … Architecture, rather. I think I’ve only had a few since I completed my graduate work in 1996. So, like glancing at the ubiquitous motivational magnets magically clinging to the side of the Sub-Zero fridge, my list of quotes is occasionally dusted off from beneath the stacks of architecture and design journals for a quick read while I await the next exciting client.   The...

Being in the construction field, I am aware of the amount of time it takes to work on a project. There are meetings with clients to discuss the various aspects of the project, and going over their expectations. Then there are meetings and planning times to arrange for materials and subcontractors so everything runs smoothly. And, let’s not forget the actual time involved to physically complete a project. Now here I come telling you that there is more to be done to keep your business moving forward. Yet, the world is changing daily and new ways of business are constantly evolving. You could ignore them and hope it goes away but I find that impractical. Today, the internet and smartphones have changed how almost everything works, and...

All business is about people. While we sometimes get sidetracked and think it’s about the work we do, the products we sell and the service we provide, we need to remember that it’s really about the people we work with ... clients, employees and suppliers. When you step back and look at the big picture, you will see someone else selling windows and siding, someone else doing remodels and building new homes, someone else who works with the same suppliers and can provide the same products and services. What sets you apart? What can you do to build relationships with prospective clients? What can you do to ensure that your employees are treating people well and building those same relationships? Are you committed to helping your suppliers...

We hear a great deal about green homes. It’s it the news and many people try to use green in their homes as a selling point. However the term is misleading and has been branded in ways that many do not totally understand. Recently I asked someone if they were in the market to build a new home, would they make it a green-built home? I should also mention that this person is what I would call the average American; they are not wealthy but they are not poor either. They said they would love to but assumed it would add too much to the cost of the project. They were under the impression that “green” equals higher building costs. So there seems to be a few problems here that need to be addressed. One is that green needs to be rebranded to...