It's Wisdom Wednesday, and as my Dad would say Wisdom is Power......the owl always listens. Last week I touched on the importance of calling in the experts when taking on a project and using their skills to improve your space. In Design one of the greatest assets we bring to the table is the power to listen, to hear our clients, to seek the conversation with the space and fulfill the function.

When planning your project you may seek out expertise of trades, and this should be coordinated by a General Contractor. This is what I would call the Team Lead in the trades, a person that understands all the roles of the team, able to question the trade and ensure that your project is being ran to plan efficiently. The person maybe a trade person too, and able to work along with the trades, mentor and inspire the project - that is an amazing lead. I have worked in such with such a trades person, under collaborative builds/reno with Green Craft Homes - Vancouver.

The General Contractor person plays a key role in coordinating the needs of your reno/build with the necessary trades. Trades may include, the carpentry, painter/mudding, electricians, tile setters, joiners, and of course the plumber. It will also include inspectors and the ability by the General Contractor and the team of trades to ensure permits are pulled and met at inspection levels.

Remember to be respectful to your trades and embrace there expertise - your reno/build will be enhanced in skill levels that way, setting the tone in creative passion. It should never be just another day to question.

The role of the Designer is also key in the trade team or in a solo consulting design role with the client.

When the Designer is working with a General Contractor, the role is not only for Design by also to liaison with the Clients and Trades. To ensure that Client has been given the best material and vendor selections in accordance to availability and budget, the design vision is maintained, and that the reno/build Design Plan is being followed. The Designer is that voice of not only the project but also the Client to the the trade team. The Designer maintains that voice in presence during the project conversation, through site visits, lead & mentor and being able to problem solve - this will complete and enhance a successful project.

In the role of consulting Designer, is now a guide expert and liaison for trades and Client. We are the General Contractor plus, plus, plus. We develop the complete Design Plan, source trades, materials & vendors, and maintain relationships throughout the reno/build. The Designer will use their expertise design skills and knowledge, and common sense to ensure that the project is completed efficiently while maintaining budget expectations.

Remember by consulting the expertise of a Designer, you will receive the highest standard of creativity,we ensure that the right materials are selected, give solutions and professionalism to your vision - we enhance the Design for YOU the Client.