Fluent in Construction: Why You Need to Get Your Design-Build Lingo On Point

Remember when your parents told you learning a second language would open up a whole new world? Well, they were onto something. But forget French or Spanish—the language you really need to master is Construction-ese. Lucky for you, we’ve got just the crash course you need.

Sponsored by Ultraviolet Agency and the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), mark your calendars, design enthusiasts: On Monday, October 28, 2024, from 10:00 to 11:00 am at High Point Market followed by Q&A and lunch, we’re bringing back our wildly popular panel discussion: “Fluent in Construction: BTS with Interior Designers Influencing The Construction Choices That Shape Their Interiors.” (Yeah, it’s a mouthful, but trust me, it’s worth it.)

Now, you might be thinking, “But I’m a designer, not a builder!” Well, let me tell you something—you’re both in today’s design world. And if you’re not? You’re falling behind faster than last season’s color trends.

Why Construction Fluency Matters (And Why You Should Care)

Let’s break it down. Being fluent in construction gives you:

1. The power to communicate your vision without playing a frustrating game of design telephone
2. The ability to troubleshoot on the fly when stuff hits the fan (and trust me, it will)
3. The street cred to stand toe-to-toe with contractors and not get bulldozed (pun totally intended)

Plus, it’s just plain cool to know your joists from your girders. Impress your friends! Amaze your clients!

Behind every stunning interior is a symphony of construction choices and collaborations. In this clip, Lisa Shaffer of Lisa and Leroy drops gems on the invaluable role designers play in bridging the gap between vision and execution at the S/24 “Fluent in Construction” panel discussion.

Building strong relationships with trusted contractors/trades from day one allows you to provide realistic budgets, get jobs done right, and ultimately deliver extraordinary spaces for clients. As Lisa says, “That’s how you can really start to build your portfolio and get those jobs.”

Meet the Design-Build Dream Team

We’ve assembled a panel of design superstars who are so fluent in construction they probably dream in blueprints:

What You’ll Learn (Besides How to Sound Really Smart at Market After Parties)

This isn’t another panel where you try not to nod off in a too-hot room. Our panelists will be serving up some serious knowledge. We’re talking real, actionable insights that’ll have you itching to start your next project before the session’s even over.

Here’s a taste of the key insights they’ll be dishing out during the discussion:

1. X-Ray Vision for Interiors

Elizabeth reveals her approach: “I look at all our projects through the lens of a builder initially and then as a designer. When the floor plan makes sense, then the design will follow.”

2. The Construction Fluency Superpower

Sharon drops this truth bomb: “It gives me the ability to react to and overcome any unforeseen conditions… It is a total asset.”

3. Tackling “Oh &*$%” Moments

Rachel shares a nail-biter: “On a recent project, we ran into a major structural challenge that could have derailed the design. Thanks to my construction knowledge, I was able to collaborate quickly with the contractor to find an alternative solution.”

4. Navigating Contractor Relationships Like a Pro

Sharon’s secret weapon? “I over-deliver on information. I create a job Bible for every aspect of the project, so anything they need is available at their fingertips.”

5. Balancing Pinterest Dreams with Real-World Constraints

Sharon keeps it real: “My aesthetic vision and practical construction realities go hand in hand. I review everything I design beforehand with my contractor to ensure that what I envision is possible.”

6. Making Clients Love You (and Your Bank Account) Even More

Rachel spills the beans on client trust: “My construction know-how has definitely taken my ability to serve clients to the next level. They trust me not just to design something beautiful but to make sure it’s feasible and won’t blow the budget.”

7. Leveling Up Your Project Game

Heather doesn’t just talk the talk—she walks the walk. “We just completed a large hotel for Chip Conley. If we didn’t have construction knowledge, this job would not have happened.” Talk about a glow-up for your portfolio!

And hey, while you’re at it, keep an eye out for the future. Rachel’s crystal ball shows “a major push toward sustainability and cutting-edge technology taking center stage in design and construction. Smart home solutions, energy efficiency, and integrated lighting systems are leading the charge.” Meanwhile, Heather is betting on “QR codes that go to your spec book on plan sets.” The future is now, people!

Join the Construction Conversation

So, are you ready to become bilingual in the language of design-build? Join us on Monday, October 28, 2024, from 10:00 to 11:00 am at The Point. Come armed with questions—we’ve got a 15-minute Q&A that’s hotter than a welding torch.

Don’t be that designer who’s still trying to explain their vision with hand gestures and interpretive dance. Get fluent in construction and watch clients line up faster than you can say “load-bearing wall.”

Join us at High Point Market for this can’t-miss event! No RSVP is required but the arrive early to ensure a seat.