Great Expectations
It’s not a trade secret, but it can make all the difference in any design/construction project. Setting expectations, including the highs and the lows of any endeavor, will prepare all involved for the reality of design and construction, and not just the dreams. Yes, we always start with the dream, a stubborn problem solved, an image updated, a transformation achieved, but we don’t do anyone any favors by avoiding talking about the pitfalls. Because if you can show/tell me about a project that has had no hiccups/challenges, I will not believe you until I interview all parties involved with said project.
The truth is, that after completion, we often forget how we got there, how the zillion decisions got made, materials received, and how construction got put on hold due to you name it: permitting, a snowstorm, funding revoked, tariffs, pandemics, etc., and yet somehow was completed. The process is exhilarating and frustrating and fun.
When the project is somewhat close to the dream, all is forgiven and the results celebrated. Working with design and construction professionals minimizes stress by anticipating challenges before they happen. That not only results in better project outcomes, but also in fewer surprises. Why? Because our experience means that we can help set your expectations, not only for the design, but also for the entire process.
Take a look at our happiness curve (above). We have been using this exact diagram for decades. When I reviewed the curve with a client who was a founder of a Tech company, he asked to share it with his team, because it closely reflected the process of software development! Who knew? He loved it because everyone gets a little discouraged at the bottom of the curve, but we know from experience that the low point usually happens very close to the successful completion of the project. It’s delightful!
So now you know why the windows of our office’s storefront have these words: Dream, Design, and Delight. Let’s dream together, design together, suffer together, and then, just after the low point on the timeline, we can feel the delight together!
No matter the type of project you have been dreaming about, please schedule a free half hour phone call, then set up an initial consultation, and learn more about how we set expectations, build trust, and use our expertise to help you make better decisions for better project outcomes.
We love what we do, and we look forward to speaking with you about your dreams and great expectations.