The interior designer and general contractor (GC) relationship can make or break a build. This crucial collaboration, from concept to execution, ultimately shapes the built environment we interact with daily. So how can we work together in a more collaborative way to bring our clients’ visions to life?

Today I’m joined by construction manager and general contractor Jason Mews. We explore this critical partnership and get answers to these questions: When should designers and general contractors begin collaborating on a project? How can a healthy, happy relationship between these two professionals help from different cost perspectives? How do color renderings, furniture, and field visits benefit the end result? All this and more is waiting for you!

In this episode, we cover:

• How designers and general contractors can best communicate

• How designers can modify renderings to help contractors and clients

• What contractors wish designers knew about project costs

• The best time to bring a contractor or construction manager in on the design

• How design and building choices shifted during the pandemic with supply chain issues

• The value of construction field coordination

• The best time to plan field visits as a designer or architect

• Why you should consider pre-construction meetings

What are you taking away from this episode? Did you have any aha moments about a recent general contractor and designer-collaboration? Let us know on Instagram!

More about Jason Mews, Construction Management and General Contracting, Lippert Bros. Inc.

From Wisconsin, Jason Mews commenced his career at a prominent national commercial construction firm in Madison. Initially tasked with a 6 to 8-week contribution to the Oklahoma State University School of Architecture project, his role evolved into a 6 to 8-month commitment. This period brought about a move and a serendipitous meeting with his now wife. Jason engaged in various Oklahoma-based projects and small-scale endeavors with an automobile manufacturer; Jason's path then led him to pursue both the oil and gas industry and an MBA simultaneously. He has returned to the commercial construction arena, aligning with a smaller, family-owned enterprise. His portfolio showcases diverse projects, including significant works such as the First United Bank Moore Community Banking Center, Kickingbird GolfCourse Enhancement, and the Pottawatomie County Administration Building. Jason's ventures also extend to the residential domain, with constructing a lake house / short-term rental property.

Links and Mentioned Resources

Interior Design Resources

Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance

Connect with Katie Decker-Erickson

Book Your Coaching Strategy Session with Katie!

Business Coaching for Interior Designers

Facebook

Instagram

Subscribe to Colorful Conversations with Katie Podcast

YouTube

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

More about Colorful Conversations with Katie

Welcome to “Colorful Conversations with Katie”! Join us for a vibrant webcast where we seamlessly blend the realms of design and business in a fun and professional setting. Available on YouTube or any of your favorite podcast platforms!

Hosted by the dynamic Katie, a seasoned expert with nearly 20 years of experience in both fields, this engaging series promises to ignite your creative spark and sharpen your entrepreneurial acumen. From exploring the latest design trends to uncovering strategies for building successful ventures, we dive deep into the colorful world where aesthetics meet profitability.

Whether you’re a budding designer or a savvy entrepreneur, this webcast is your go-to source for inspiration, insights, and a dash of lively conversation. Tune in and let your imagination, business and life take flight!

This post may contain affiliate links, so I may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through links on my site at no additional cost to you.