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ML: The TDM Architects acquisition was focused on market synergies and overall approach to client service. TDM Architects had a 27-year focused expertise in K-12 education design, amongst strong expertise in several other markets. This complimented Studio+ very well. Additionally, their model for client-focused service and project delivery also aligned with Studio+. Lastly, their culture was one focused on their people first. This is embedded in our core values which are: ■ ■ People. It’s our motivation. ■ ■ Passion. We love what we do. ■ ■ Process. We’re continually pursuing excellence. ■ ■ Performance. We meet expectations. TZL: They say failure is a great teacher. What’s the greatest lesson you’ve had to learn the hard way? ML: Without getting into a long story, the greatest lesson is not to lose focus on your core business. The core business is truly what makes Studio+ successful. Remaining focused on architecture and design is critical. “When projects and schedules create challenges, having a mission focused on such a meaningful outcome keeps our team focused on the cause and result of the design, no matter the scale and complexity.” TZL: You founded the company in 2011. When starting the company why were you part of the team? ML: Through prior experience, our CEO, Damon Romanello, knew of the importance of someone to monitor and maintain the business side of an architecture firm. Fast forward 11 years, Studio+ has built an administrative and business operational foundation that has been critical to our growth and success, enabling growth at-scale without increasing non-billable overhead staff. That is ultimately what I bring as a partner to the firm. I am not a designer, but I have designed a powerhouse team of administrative professionals that allows our architectural talent to drive unparalleled client service and curated design – so they aren’t worried about non-billable administrative burdens.
TZL: What type of leader do you consider yourself to be? ML: I consider myself a very rational, servant- oriented leader. I truly believe that leadership can be achieved through building meaningful relationships based on synergistic goals. Listening, empathy, and stewardship are just some of the characteristics I use to guide my team. “The internal culture of a firm is so important. Not losing sight of this is vital to maintaining a long-term, successful firm.” TZL: It is often said that people leave managers, not companies. What are you doing to ensure that your line leadership are great people managers? ML: Very true and very tricky. We have recently implemented a 12-month firm-wide leadership training program, with an additional focus on those in leadership/manager positions within the firm. By giving managers access and training to the right tools, they will be better equipped to manage their teams in a successful manner. TZL: Since you founded Studio+ what is one of the top accomplishments you are most proud of and why? ML: Watching the firm grow from eight to 56 employees has been fantastic. Having Studio+ serve as a firm that captures the talent and skills of our employees and having the ability to create both a healthy professional life and the construct of a successful personal life is really what motivates me. Our team is the most important aspect of Studio+. Seeing that team grow has been the most rewarding result of my career. TZL: How many years of experience – or large enough book of business – is enough to become a principal in your firm? Are you naming principals in their 20s or 30s? ML: Principals get named when they have earned it. In most cases, this occurs when they have engrained themselves with core clients, delivered projects successfully, and driven repeat business. Motivating teams to succeed is also key. Equally important, principals of Studio+ embody the core values of Studio+ that are the foundation of the strong studio culture. That said, it seems like principals are typically in their late 30s or older. See TRANSFORMING LIVES , page 8
HEADQUARTERS:
Fort Myers FL
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES:
54
YEAR FOUNDED: 2011
OFFICE LOCATIONS:
■ ■ Fort Myers, FL
■ ■ Tampa, FL
■ ■ Orange County, CA
■ ■ Los Angeles, CA
MARKETS:
■ ■ Healthcare
■ ■ Senior living
■ ■ Corporate
■ ■ Education
■ ■ Commerical
SERVICES:
■ ■ Architecture
■ ■ Interior design
© Copyright 2022. Zweig Group. All rights reserved.
UNE 20, 2022, ISSUE 1446
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