Creating A Symphony: Designers As Conductors

As designers, we are taught in school to develop framing plans, power plans that include lighting, structural details, and HVAC plans. We then pull them all together into a complete set of drawings. However, when we enter the “real world” of design, we find that we were taught how to do these drawings, not only because we are expected to create them for technical understanding, but also to be able to coordinate all of them systematically and converse intelligently with the highly-trained specialists who develop the physical aspects of our projects.

Our reps, consultants, and trades are invaluable. We aren’t sure we can say that with any more emphasis- they are invaluable. Not only do they reassure us as designers that our plans are solid, they too can bring their expertise and past experiences to suggest alternate solutions that may make a project even more harmonious. 

After 9 years of running Waldron Designs, we have worked with many different product reps, many different consultants, and specialized trades. We learned through trial and error which ones were amazing to work with and which… well, weren’t. 

Our reps do not always carry the lowest cost items. They carry items they can warranty and stand behind. Their assistance and knowledge ensure that we order the right products for the goals we have in mind. We applaud when a rep is able to thoughtfully redirect us to alternative solutions that keep the rhythm of our intended goals.

Our consultants often come at a high cost, but the experience they lend saves countless hours of research and prevents snags in the process of permitting and ensuring our designs are safe, healthy, and sustainable. We see the work that these behind-the-scenes masters do and highly respect the proficiency they bring to every production.

Our trades were selected after years of watching other general contractors work with their trades and determining which performed with a positive attitude and were respectful of the design professional. These are the members of our team that can make all the difference in the experience of our clients/audience. Knowing which trades are able to augment our offerings and represent our productions is key.

We are not plumbing experts. Our plumbing representatives know the functionality of their products and our plumber knows the most efficient way to install these pieces as well as the plumbing codes to follow in order to ensure a healthy and properly functioning home. They may play a supportive role in the entire project, but what they bring allows for greater cohesion and is a note that should not be overlooked.

We utilize lighting consultants to ensure that our client’s homes feel the connection between interior and exterior, not just in their materiality but in terms of atmosphere. Our electricians properly implement the selections to ensure safety, providing their suggestions along the way based on their in-depth knowledge. The structural engineer we work with is irreplaceable. He speaks our language and helps us and our clients to see the “why” in what he develops. Without these experts, our performance would truly be in the dark.

Sure, a conductor may have some experience playing violin, but that conductor cannot replace the entire violin section in a symphony. Designers may have some experience with land use, lighting design, and other key skills, but remove the experts, and we will see a subpar result. 

A great conductor knows what elements are important in creating a masterful symphony, but can never do it all on their own and expect a spectacular performance. Us designers are only as good as our team, and at Waldron Designs, our team is outstanding. Contact us if you have a production you’d like to bring to life.

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