5: Contractors and Designers Casual Conversations

Building solid relationships with our trades is essential for running a successful Interior Design business. Unfortunately, as Interior designers we generally have a reputation of either being too demanding and controlling or uneducated and inexperienced -or both!  Conversely, as Design professionals, we feel that contractors and trades typically do not welcome us onto a project nor our creative ideas for design. It can also be a concern for a designer that if they are not overseeing every step of the project, then original design plans may be altered and sometimes trades may even try to squeeze the designer out of the project completely.  These are valid concerns for both parties and today Claire sits down with two of her contractors for the second time to have a more casual conversation to discuss The Naked Truth on this extremely important topic. Working collaboratively and having a mutually, respectful working relationship is mandatory for everyone to show solidarity and work as a team.  Shane Ritcey, Owner of Ritcey Custom Cabinetry Shane Ritcey is a small business owner who has been in operation since 2008. A business built around customer relations and quality work. Ritcey Custom Cabinetry prides itself on rising to any design challenge. Walter, Summit Development Group Walter Ferreira from the Summit Development group. Walter is a general contractor whose company has been servicing southern Ontario for over 27 yrs. They facilitate all aspects of a project, whether it be for residential or commercial renovation, remodeling, custom builds and even outdoor landscaping projects. Walter's team combines quality workmanship and knowledge that provide clients with unmatched service.  **LINKS** Join my FREE private Facebook Group of over 4400 designers from all over the world: https://www.facebook.com/groups/interiordesignbusinessstrategies/ Find out more about my Coaching & Courses to excel your interior design business: https://clairejefford.com/interior-design-business-coaching/ Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clairejefford/ My Coaching YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/clairejefford?sub_confirmation=1 FREE resources for your business: https://clairejefford.com/interior-design-business-resources/ Walter's Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/summitdevelopmentgroup/ Shane's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ritceycustomcabinetry/