With the new company up and running, the conversation quickly turns to “Now what?” Up until now, I have been operating under a direct cause and effect mode of operation.
I should have a business plan or some goals – done.
I need to form an LLC – hire a lawyer.
I need a website – build a website (www.studioM-ad.com).
Business cards, bank accounts, software – check, check, check.
I need some work. . . . . . . hmmmm. . . . .
You can absolutely make the case that this last item does have its own cause and effect relationship. Marketing, word of mouth, donating time: all of these things will, no doubt either directly or indirectly, lead to work, but aren’t necessarily energizing those new bank accounts that were so easy to open up. Some days I already question whether or not I should have taken “the leap” – not in defeat – I think that’s just the way it goes. It takes time to get things moving.
In the DesignAdad spirit, I have found some design projects to keep me busy! Last week, Little Guy and I broke ground and immediately cut the ribbon on the LRCC project (that’s the Living Room Chair Castle in case you were not aware). The completed project captures the constant draw to venture under the dining room table with the safety of a tensile fabric roof to alleviate potential head trauma on the previously referenced table. Unfortunately, plans to demolish the structure were immediately carried out as dinner was being served.
But what am I really looking for? Although LRCC may be a bit on the “smaller side” of projects, it is the definitely the case that I am more able to handle the smaller now that I have my own firm. I hear it often that ” I can’t afford an Architect”. It’s all relative, but the chances are that I can take a look at your home renovation or maybe have some advice for your small modification. I’m also willing to expand the job! Just because I own my own firm doesn’t mean I’m looking to create the next architectural monument. Architectural consulting (to other firms), drafting, shop drawings, peer review – all viable sources of work. Ego aside, I’m here to work and spend time with my family. The big projects are out there. I welcome them. But I realize that there are a lot of people out there who just need some help.
About Studio m Architecture + Design
Of course I am looking for larger projects as well. I am fortunate enough to have worked in all aspects of many different project types over the years and that gives me the advantage of being to handle larger projects on my own. It’s unfortunate that some professionals get categorized within a very narrow realm of responsibility while working for a firm. Luckily I was able to gather a wide array of experience.
So, the “Now what?” is here! Let me know how I can help you. In the meantime, I will be exploring the qualities of the various fortbuilding materials that Little Guy and I find around the house. Maybe we’ll venture into cardboard next….
Architecture/Design Products:
I have not purchased this product yet, but if you’re looking to step up your fort making, this may be the way to go. I’m sure there is an ongoing global Architectural debate about maintaining the integrity and the spirit of the home fort and utilizing local materials from the living room may be the way to go. However, the only thing that is constant is change. I support both the old school way of thinking and the new wave kit of parts. www.crazyforts.com
Design a Dad 