Design Development

Clara Wineberg is a principal at Solomon Cordwell Buenz (SCB), an architectural firm with a 90-plus year legacy, headquartered in Chicago and with offices also in San Francisco, Seattle, and Boston. Clara specifically spearheaded the establishment of SCB's Boston office, exemplifying her dedication and skill in expanding the firm's national presence. With expertise in high-rise development and urban design, Weinberg and her team at SCB have influenced skylines across major cities in the United States, showcasing their commitment to crafting sophisticated designs within challenging urban landscapes.Episode Summary:In this episode of Design Development hosted by Rens Hayes, we delve into a captivating conversation with Clara Wineberg, a principal from the venerable architectural firm, SCB. Weinberg's distinguished journey within the realm of architecture, her influential hand in high-rise urban development, and the strategic expansion of SCB's nationwide practice are among the pivotal topics uncovered. The discussion traverses through Weinberg's professional trajectory, her role in SCB's rebranding efforts, and the intricate dance of maintaining high organizational acumen while expanding a team's influence across the country.Weinberg sheds light on SCB’s approach to urban design, emphasizing the impact of architecture on community gathering and interaction at the street level, beyond merely altering city skylines. The episode also taps into Clara's thoughts on education in architecture, her assertive ambition to leadership, and the subsequent growth story of SCB, especially the establishment of the Boston office during the pandemic. With valuable insights into how architecture shifts with emerging trends and technologies, this episode unravels the intricate connection between technical expertise, social dynamics, and sustainable goals in modern architectural practice.Key Takeaways:Clara Weinberg values the representation of architecture at both the skyline level and the street level, highlighting the importance of fostering community interaction.SCB's growth has been organic, relying on strong industry relationships and strategic office expansions, as seen with their San Francisco and Boston branches.Early career development in architecture firms should encompass both conceptual and practical aspects, along with fostering critical thinking and business acumen.A principle at SCB embodies not just design leadership but also business ownership, entailing significant fiduciary responsibility.Weinberg embraces technological advancementThank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend.Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go!Leave your thoughts in the comment and reach out if you want to be valuable guest on the show!Design Development Podcast!Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Jay Parsons is a rental housing economist with a robust profile that encompasses a journalistic background and a longstanding career focused on the multifamily and single-family rental markets. With 15 years of expertise gained at RealPage, Parsons has developed a deep understanding of the industry, interacting with a diverse array of stakeholders, including investors, property managers, developers, lenders, policymakers, and renters. He is well-known for his insightful research and content shared across platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter. More recently, Jay Parsons has been instrumental in investment strategy for Madeira Residential, where he oversees a portfolio of approximately 11,000 units and focuses on growth strategies peculiar to attainable housing.Episode Summary:In this invigorating conversation on "Design Development," host Rens Hayes welcomes Jay Parsons, a journalist-turned-rental housing economist, whose insights on the multifamily housing market are both compelling and educational. With a passion for understanding and challenging conventional wisdom through data-driven analysis, Parsons brings a wealth of expertise from his tenure at RealPage and now WayMaker and Madera Residential.Jay delves into the current trends affecting multifamily housing, from the influx of supply to the strategies implemented during lease-ups in a fluctuating interest rate environment. The conversation pivots towards a deep dive into the pressing issue of attainable housing, revealing the vast needs of middle-income American households who are currently underserved by both market-rate and low-income housing options. Parsons gives a nuanced view on the state of institutional capital and underscores the varying perspectives on single-family rent as a burgeoning market segment.Key Takeaways:The multifamily development industry is at an inflection point, with a short-term challenge of high construction that leads to rent compression, but a long-term opportunity as supply normalizes.Institutional capital seems to be more cautious and on the sidelines, waiting for more stability and the right moment to re-engage with the market.The attainable housing sector presents a significant opportunity, addressing the 'missing middle' with an estimated 50 million American households seeking affordable housing solutions.Regulatory policies and the local political climate can substantially affect interest and investment in housing markets across the U.S.Despite current market challenges, Jay Parsons remains optimistic about the continuous demand and potential for innovative housing strategies, particularly in the realm of attainable housing.Thank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend.Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go!Leave your thoughts in the comment and reach out if you want to be valuable guest on the show!Design Development Podcast!Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Keith Flaherty is the CEO and President of Hallam-ICS, a company founded in 1981 that specializes in MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) consulting, industrial automation, electrical safety, and commissioning/validation services for various sectors, including life sciences, semiconductors, food and beverage, and more. Starting his career at Hallam straight out of college, Keith boasts a journey of rapid growth within the organization. With a background in electrical engineering and an MBA under his belt, Keith quickly rose through the ranks, eventually leading to his current leadership roles. He has been pivotal in transitioning Hallam into a 100% ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) company and embracing a culture of transparency and open-book financial management.Episode Summary:In this episode, Rens Hayes hosts Keith Flaherty, a leader who has dedicated his career to shaping the values and success of Hallam ICS. Within the realms of engineering consultancy and corporate leadership, Keith shares his journey and the principles that guide the multi-office company.Keith delves into the foundational story of Hallam ICS, his personal career trajectory, and the core values that have shaped both his and the company's path. From starting as an electrical engineer to stepping into executive roles, Keith's narrative is intertwined with wisdom on ownership structures, financial transparency, and corporate responsibility.Key Takeaways:Hallam ICS's Culture: Keith describes the importance of an existing ownership culture at Hallam ICS prior to transitioning to an ESOP, emphasizing that the ESOP reinforced, rather than created, their collaborative dynamic.Financial Metrics in Engineering Firms: Keith discusses crucial forward-looking financial metrics like net bookings to net revenue ratio and the significance of having a solid financial model for strategic planning.Leading Through Adversity: Reflecting on a critical period of downturn in the early 2000s, Keith highlights the role of leadership and a committed core group's collaborative effort in navigating financial hardships.The Positive Impact of Transparency: Keith underscores the positives of open-book financial management in creating an educated and empowered workforce that can make more informed decisions.Social Responsibility as a B Corp: Hallam ICS's commitment to the community and social missions is exemplified through various initiatives like service days and establishing a donor-advised fund for sustainable giving.Notable Quotes:"We work to live, we don't live to work.""We believe that every employee contributes to the success of the company, and every employee should share in that wealth.""You don'Thank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend.Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go!Leave your thoughts in the comment and reach out if you want to be valuable guest on the show!Design Development Podcast!Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Anthony Bond is the fifth-generation CEO of Bond, a family-owned construction firm with a rich history that stretches over a century. Founded in 1907, Bond has played a prominent role in shaping infrastructural development within and around the city of Boston. Bond’s leadership oversees two distinct divisions: Bond Building and Bond Civil and Utility, both of which exemplify excellence in their respective domains. Under Anthony's guidance, Bond nurtures a long-standing relationship with clients such as Eversource and contributes to the region’s landmark projects, including the central artery tunnel in Boston.Episode Summary:In this fascinating episode of design development, host Rens Hayes welcomes Anthony Bond to delve into the journey of a time-honored family business in the construction industry. The conversation sparks with a personal touch as Rens introduces us to Anthony's passion for skiing and the significance of family and balance in his life.The episode weaves through Bond's 100-plus-year legacy, emphasizing the company’s evolution and adaptation to meet the changing demands of the construction world. Anthony sheds light on the nuanced challenges of scaling a construction business while maintaining the essence of its founding values.Key Takeaways:Bond's longevity in the construction industry is reflective of its ability to evolve and specialize in both building and civil utility works.Anthony Bond emphasizes the importance of work-life balance and the need for professionals in the construction industry to unplug and recharge.Effective communication and early transparency in construction projects are fundamental to Bond's strategy for client satisfaction and repeat business.Anthony shares insights on leadership growth, the value of learning from a diversity of industries, and the importance of developing internal talent to foster company progress.The focus on nurturing relationships with clients has been key to Bond's enduring success, evidenced by their century-long collaboration with companies like Eversource.Notable Quotes:"Our business can be a big part of our identity, but it shouldn't be the only part of our identity." – Anthony Bond"Bad news early is better than bad news late." – Anthony Bond"We want to be the best contractor, but when I compare ourselves, it's not just about being the number one or two contractor. How can we be Apple? How can we change the industry?" – Anthony BondResources:Bond (Company Website): Bond's official siteFMI Leadership Podcast: Hosted by industry consultant FMI, offering insights and best practices in construction.Young Presidents' Organization (YPO): A gloThank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend.Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go!Leave your thoughts in the comment and reach out if you want to be valuable guest on the show!Design Development Podcast!Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

In this engaging episode, Ken Sanginario, an expert in business valuation and M&A advisory, discusses value growth strategies. He delves into the Value Opportunity Profile and the Certified Value Growth Advisor program, outlining ways to enhance enterprise value and lead companies out of distress. Listeners learn about the importance of financial analysis, standardized assessments for troubled companies, and maximizing intrinsic value in business.

Krysta Van Ranst is the founder of Building PPL, an innovative company specializing in outsourced learning and development programs, particularly for small and medium-sized businesses in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. With her early career beginning in event planning, Krysta quickly discovered her passion for learning and development during her tenure at Suffolk Construction. Her dedication to enhancing organizational cultures through learning opportunities has established her as a key figure in the field. Krysta’s work now involves aiding companies in obtaining training funds through grants, emphasizing the importance of investing in team competencies for corporate growth.Episode Summary:In this episode of Design Development, host Rens Hayes converses with Krysta Van Ranst, a leading authority on organizational learning and development, and founder of Building PPL. Listeners are invited to explore the often-underestimated role of learning and development in the growth and success of organizations within the real estate development and construction industries.Right from the onset, Rens underlines how significant learning and development opportunities are for employees' roles and the consequent growth of a company. The conversation delves into the challenges posed by an aging workforce in the construction industry and the strategic importance of preparing the next generation through intentional learning programs. Krysta emphasizes the need for companies to strike a balance between goals, relationships, and processes, which she explicates with a compelling equilateral triangle analogy.Key elements these show notes wrap into the episode include strategies for improving employee onboarding, utilizing government training grants effectively, and cultivating a robust learning culture. Through the dialogue, we receive invaluable insights into how businesses can foster environments of lifelong learning and development while driving strategic outcomes.Key Takeaways:Emphasizing the importance of a balanced focus on goals, relationships, and processes can lead to more successful teams.Training grants are a valuable resource for companies, allowing them to invest in their employees' learning and development proactively.Creating a positive and personalized onboarding experience is crucial for setting the tone for new employees' journeys.Companies should have systems to document and transfer the invaluable knowledge of long-tenured employees.Building career roadmaps is essential in helping employees understand their growth potential within an organization.Thank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend.Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go!Leave your thoughts in the comment and reach out if you want to be valuable guest on the show!Design Development Podcast!Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Kirstin Brown is the principal and president of Northstar Project and Real Estate Services, a consultancy firm based in Greater Boston. With a tenure of over a decade at Northstar, Kirstin has been instrumental in steering the company's growth and solidifying its presence across various market sectors. She holds a degree in finance and a master's in real estate development. Prior to her current role, Kirstin gained valuable experience at Spaulding and Sly, specifically in land evaluation and development processes, notably in the Seaport district's fan pier project.Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of Design Development, host Rens Hayes delves into a conversation with Kirstin Brown, an influential leader in the realm of real estate development. As the president of Northstar Project and Real Estate Services, Kirstin offers her profound insights into the industry, sharing her journey and growth through the ranks to become a significant figure in the field.The episode provides a comprehensive look at Northstar's approach to project management, development management, and advisory services, touching on the sectors they cater to and the methodology behind their corporate structure. Emphasizing their core values, Rens and Kirstin discuss Northstar's commitment to business development training, ensuring that each team member is equipped to contribute effectively throughout their careers.Key Takeaways:Northstar is dedicated to cross-collaborative work within the firm, allowing team members to gain experience in various sectors by working with multiple principals.Kirstin highlights the importance of principal involvement in projects, particularly during the initial stages, and explains how strategic decision-making in early phases is crucial for project success.The firm places a strong emphasis on business development training from the start of one's career, fostering a culture of relationship-building and network expansion.Kirstin's journey through different sectors of the real estate industry, including her work at Spaulding and Sly with the fan pier project, showcases her adaptability and expertise.The conversation also touches upon the challenges and evolution of property development in response to environmental sustainability requirements.Thank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend.Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go!Leave your thoughts in the comment and reach out if you want to be valuable guest on the show!Design Development Podcast!Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Nick Igel is a seasoned professional with an impressive track record in real estate development, design, and construction. As a principal of 505Design at Cooper Carry and a founding partner of 505Design, Nick brings vast experience and expertise from his entrepreneurial journey. With a career spanning over two decades, Nick has been instrumental in establishing a multidisciplinary approach at 505Design that includes interior design, graphic design, planning, and architecture. Now part of Cooper Carry, he continues to infuse leadership, emphasizing building solid partnerships and cultures within organizations.Episode Summary:In this enthralling episode of Design Development, we are introduced to Nick Eigel, a foundational leader in the design and construction industry. His story is one of an unwavering drive for excellence and a commitment to creating spaces that resonate with people. As we navigate through Nick's professional journey, we uncover the strategic decisions behind founding 505Design and the subsequent acquisition by Cooper Carry.The conversation unveils the core principles that guided 505 Design from its inception—a company that p essence over mere aesthetics. Nick shares his unique perspective on fostering business culture and what it takes to keep a team united across geographic divides. With his profound insights into the evolution of retail design and the emergence of mixed-use developments, this episode is a treasure trove of knowledge for enthusiasts and professionals alike.Key Takeaways:505Design's naming strategy was a conscious decision to ensure longevity and flexibility beyond the founders' tenure.The multidisciplinary approach to projects at 505Design brings together diverse perspectives for richer solutions.Importance of company culture, curiosity, and understanding of societal contexts in the hiring process.The organic nature of the acquisition by Cooper Carry and what it means for future growth and market expansion.Building and maintaining solid partnerships necessitates nurturing relationships and aligning core company values.Thank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend.Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go!Leave your thoughts in the comment and reach out if you want to be valuable guest on the show!Design Development Podcast!Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Lizetta Fennesey is the General Manager of the Eastern Business Unit for Haley and Aldrich, a national environmental and geotechnical firm known for its expertise and substantial footprint across the United States. Her tenure at Haley and Aldrich has seen her rise through the ranks, beginning as a geotechnical engineer, evolving through project management, and overseeing substantial growth within the company. Lizetta boasts a rich professional history that includes a stint in real estate development, providing her with a unique perspective on creating customer value. Her leadership has been instrumental in the firm's growth from around 400 employees to approaching a thousand.Episode Summary:In this gripping episode of Design Development, Rens Hayes delves into the dynamic world of engineering and consultancy with the proficient Lizetta Fennesey of Haley and Aldrich. The conversation opens up pathways into the niche yet crucial realms of real estate development, underpinning the massive influence geotechnical expertise has on building the future's infrastructure.Lizetta pulls back the curtain on the intricate operations of a geotechnical firm, shedding light on the strategic evolution of Haley and Aldrich. From its historical roots to its colossal rise as an industry champion, listeners are led through a journey marked by innovation, adaptability, and unwavering client focus. Join her as she discusses the balancing act of professional ambition with personal fulfillment, providing a masterclass in navigating career growth alongside the joys of parenthood and the diverse paths leading to professional achievement within the engineering sphere.Key Takeaways:Comprehensive Understanding of Haley and Aldrich's Services: Lizetta discusses the various markets and sectors served by Haley and Aldrich, including implications of geotechnical work in construction.Importance of Contaminated Soils Investigation: The risks and due diligence associated with contaminated soils are central to real estate development and are thoroughly examined.Influence of Diverse Educational Backgrounds: From aspiring architect to geotechnical engineer, Lizetta’s personal career journey reveals the importance of educational choices on professional pursuits.Employee Ownership and Cultural Diversity: The episode uncovers how employee ownership serves as a retention tool and the emphasis Haley and Aldrich place on diversity and inclusion.Cultivating Leadership and Profound Learning: Insights into leadership development, personal mastery, and lean fundamentals as key to nurturing a productive and emotionally intelligent workforce.Thank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend.Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go!Leave your thoughts in the comment and reach out if you want to be valuable guest on the show!Design Development Podcast!Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Mike Kunz is a principal partner at Maugel DeStefano Architects, a well-established architectural firm with offices in Harvard, Massachusetts, and Portsmouth, NH. With a professional journey spanning over 25 years at the company, Mike Kunz started his career in architecture when emails and the internet were beginning to emerge. Having climbed the ranks within the firm from entry-level beginnings to eventual co-ownership and executive roles, Kunz's dedication exemplifies a 'started from the bottom' success story. An avid reader and enthusiast for personal growth, he also embraces practices like cold plunging for discipline and focus.Episode Summary:In this episode of "Design Development," we dive into the intricate world of architecture with Mike Kunz of Maugel Destefano Architects. This show peels back the layers of leadership, company growth, and the foundational culture that drives a successful architectural firm. From discussing how to navigate ownership transition to leveraging business development and the impact of remote work, this episode is rich with insights from Kunz's robust experience.Mike Kunz shares his journey, detailing how Maugel DeStefano Architects has navigated various economic downturns, embracing diversification as a strategy for resilience. The firm's growth, including a recent acquisition, is also unpacked, revealing a mindset geared towards continuous expansion while maintaining the heart of its successful business—client-centered design services. Discussions on the importance of healthy company culture and managing burnout highlight the human aspect of the architectural industry.Key Takeaways:Diversification and client-centered services have been vital to Maugel DeStefano Architects' resilience in the face of economic downturns.The ownership transition process within the firm is a testament to the balance of growth aspirations and preserving core company values.Active business development and marketing strategies keep the firm's engine running, fueling constant growth.Acknowledging the importance of culture, Kunz emphasizes the organic development of a team-focused environment.Effective remote work management has been achieved by balancing in-office collaboration benefits and at-home flexibility.Thank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend.Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go!Leave your thoughts in the comment and reach out if you want to be valuable guest on the show!Design Development Podcast!Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTubeFind out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/