Despite the fact that most of my adult life has been spent working in the residential remodeling world, I seem to keep finding myself working with institutional clients and their boards. This was never the case when I was a sole proprietor but I have now come to realize why; these clients simply require more time, patience and diplomacy, something few owner operators have.

The work we have done with Morris Arboretum, The Professional Golf Association, Twin Spring Farm School, The Whitemarsh Foundation and the Gwynedd Racquet Club all have many things in common, the first of which is more than one decision maker. They leadership teams of these organizations all have a fiduciary responsibility to their supporters and are emotionally invested in successful outcomes.

The Design-Build process works for these clients because it provides a forum of discussion that leads to a solution based on the input of many. It also allows all involved in the organization to see progress in stages as well as a high level vision for the project before a capital campaign is initiated.

All of our institutional projects are as unique as their membership and they have all been a pleasure to work on. Should you know of anyone who represents an institution in need of such a process, please have them reach out to me to arrange a feasibility study.

Christopher Lux has spent the last 15 years in the residential remodeling industry and is a Design Build Consultant with Harth Builders in Spring House, PA. Chris is available for in home consultations as well as speaking engagements by calling 215-654-0364.