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AIBD Coffee with Bernie – December 2024

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Hi everyone!

If you’ve ever struggled with cash flow, the discussion among building designers at the December AIBD Coffee with Bernie might be of great help. All feedback is welcome!

As building designers, we must apply effective cash flow management to sustain our businesses. Challenges such as irregular payments, scope changes, and unforeseen expenses highlight the need for proactive strategies and clear communication. Sometimes this is hard to do, especially if you are a sole proprietor, but you can do it!

When you leverage tools such as QuickBooks, Zoho Books, and detailed spreadsheets, you can simplify your invoicing and payment tracking. Having consistent billing practices that you tie to project milestones can help you stabilize cash flow. And when you implement secure payment methods, thoroughly vet your potential clients, and use robust contracts, you can protect your work and mitigate risks.

It might sound like a lot, but having clear procedures for handling changes, reserving funds, and setting client expectations can foster trust and financial stability. By adopting these strategies and tools, we all can confidently navigate the complexities of cash flow while maintaining our professional integrity and keeping our clients satisfied!

Strategies for Maintaining Consistent Cash Flow

Here is a summary of the key points discussed about financial practices and avoiding common pitfalls.

    Payment Structures:

  • Require retainers for each phase, and apply them to invoices when you complete that phase.
  • Use milestone billing (35%-35%-30%, or 50% upfront and balance before engineering).
  • All payments non-refundable.
  • Include a clear scope of work and payment schedule in contracts.
  • Ensure that deliverables are tied to payments, and don’t release plans until payment clears.

    Timely Billing:

  • Send invoices promptly, and have payments due upon receipt.
  • To minimize risks, use smaller, frequent payments.
  • Require final payments before key deliverables, such as engineering submission.

    Legal and Protective Measures:

  • File liens for unpaid work, and ensure proper documentation and timelines.
  • Include a “Termination Adjustment Payment” clause (30% of incurred charges if a client cancels).

Payment Methods and Tips:

  • Venmo, PayPal, Zelle, ACH transfers, checks, and credit cards (with added 3% fee for card payments).
  • Accept ACH payments only from trustworthy, repeat clients.
  • Allow clients to opt for check payments to avoid fees but clarify potential delays.
  • If payment issues arise, explore lien options.

Client Vetting and Contract Practices:

  • Trust your instincts. Decline untrustworthy or scam-like projects.
  • Protect your business with non-refundable retainers and clear service agreements. Aim for concise formats such as a one-page proposal and a two-page contract.
  • Regularly review updates on project scope and payment expectations.

Other Recommendations:

  • Use templates and resources, such as the Designer Docs that AIBD provides.
  • For iterative or complex projects, bill hourly.
  • For clarity and cash flow continuity, issue monthly invoices.

Handling Changes While Maintaining Cash Flow

When billing for changes:

  • Charge extra for continual changes.
  • Include clauses in your contracts that define reasonable changes.
  • Use an hourly billing model for revisions beyond the initial scope.
  • Offer a flat fee for initial phases, such as the conceptual phase with one revision, and bill additional changes at an hourly rate.

Communication and Clarity:

  • Clearly outline the scope of work so that you manage client expectations.
  • To ensure fairness, notify clients when changes are out of scope.
  • Avoid itemizing your hours in your invoices. Instead, use a monthly sum total or minimum increments of one hour.
  • Communicate procedures upfront and adhere to them.

Cash Reserves:

  • Aim to keep at least three months of cash reserves on handto reduce dependency on immediate cash flow.

Employee and Subcontractor Payment Plans:

  • For teams or subcontractors, establish clear monthly payment plans to maintain financial predictability.

Advice for New Business Owners

Contracts and Procedures:

  • Always have a signed contract before starting work.
  • Clearly define your scope of work and billing procedures in the contract.
  • Do not hesitate to invoice or request payment for completed services.

Scam Awareness:

  • Vet clients carefully (e.g., check property ownership).
  • Request non-refundable deposits for added security.
  • Stay vigilant against digital scams (e.g., QR codes, fake ACH payments).

Client Relationships:

  • Payment signifies appreciation for services; ensure clients understand this.
  • Train clients on your billing expectations to avoid misunderstandings.

Definitions

  • Cash Flow: A scoreboard that tracks inflows and outflows of cash over time.
  • Assets: Items of monetary value owned by or owed to a company.
  • Cash: Money on hand that can be used immediately without relying on credit or pending transactions.
  • Accounts Receivable: Money a company is guaranteed or owed by customers but has not yet been paid.
  • Operating Cash Flow: A measure of whether a company is generating enough cash from regular activities to cover its near-term obligations.
  • Breakeven Revenue: The minimum revenue a company must earn to avoid losing money.
  • Accounts Receivable Days: The average number of days between delivering a product or service and receiving payment.
  • Negative cash flow: Cash flow challenge that requires pulling from savings to sustain the business.

Key Takeaways

  • Stick to established procedures for billing and communication.
  • Protect your business with clear contracts and fair, enforceable policies.
  • Build financial stability with reserves and consistent billing practices.
  • Stay cautious and proactive against scams to safeguard your time and business.

Thanks to everyone for reading and for your input and contributions to this valuable discussion!

Warm regards,
Bernie

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AIBD Coffee with Bernie – November 2024

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What a great discussion today with our residential designer colleagues!

Today’s topic was about contracts and agreements.

We started with sharing our coffee and tea mugs, and after an icebreaker video, we moved into our questions and discussion.

These designers care!

They openly shared their strategies and experiences with their peers, from setting clear boundaries on revisions to navigating agency requirements, and demonstrate a collaborative spirit that enriches the industry!

Their approach emphasizes integrity, trust, and a genuine desire to help clients realize their vision, while protecting the creative and professional standards that allow them to deliver exceptional work. This dedication to excellence and mutual support not only enhances client satisfaction but also fosters a respectful, supportive community within the design industry.

Here’s a recap of what we discussed. Enjoy!

Question 1 was: In your residential design work, do you use a standard agreement for every project, or do you customize it? If you customize, could you share some examples of what that looks like and explain why you choose to tailor the agreement for each project?

The discussion among designers brought out many great points.

In residential design, using customized contracts rather than a standard agreement is widely favored among design professionals to better address the unique aspects of each project and client relationship. Designers typically start with a basic contract template but tailor it for each engagement to reflect the project’s specific needs, budgetary constraints, and client preferences.

Many designers have multiple contracts across project phases, such as separate agreements for preliminary design, detailed construction design, and field observations, which can offer clearer structure and security for both parties.

A common approach to use is the 20-30-50 structure, where the preliminary design is estimated to be approximately one-quarter of the project, which allows the designer to adjust further phases based on early insights. Designers often base their contracts on hourly rates with provisions for adjustments. If clients request changes frequently, the contract allows a shift back to hourly billing after a specified number of revisions. This approach ensures flexibility and safeguards against unmanageable scope creep.

Additionally, designers emphasize transparency from the start, and discuss fees, revision policies, and other costs outside their scope, which they carefully detail in the agreement. Having this clarity upfront is essential because home projects can require compromises among factors such as house size, features, and budget.

To initiate the client relationship, some designers charge a booking fee, or use a letter of engagement, which helps to secure their time and resources. Some designers also include a preliminary feasibility study which is a lower-cost service that can assess the viability of the project. These customized, phase-based agreements reflect a commitment to manage project risks effectively while accommodating the client’s evolving vision.

Question 2 was: How do you address situations where a client disagrees with your fee after the agreement has been made and work has already started? Specifically, if the client claims they didn’t understand the terms of the agreement, how do you ensure clarity around payment terms and resolve the issue?

The professional designers who attended shared the following important points and their experience.

When clients dispute fees after the agreement is in place and work has begun, it is crucial to address the situation with clarity and professionalism. Ensuring that clients fully understand payment terms starts with a transparent, well-drafted contract, reviewed by both parties and even their legal counsel if necessary.

Having clear agreements help to minimize misunderstandings, and helps clients grasp the scope and value of the designer’s services from the start.

Demonstrating the value of the designer’s work is also essential. By emphasizing how the designer’s expertise can prevent costly mistakes and delays, clients are more likely to appreciate the long-term savings and benefits of hiring a skilled professional building designer.

Having a strong sense of one’s own self-worth as a designer is vital, and sets and communicates the designer’s value with confidence, which underscores why the fee is justified. While some designers might find it challenging to convey their value effectively, it helps to focus on specific qualities and services that differentiate their work from others. For example, building a reputation for reducing construction costs through precise communication and planning often leads to repeat engagements with builders and positive client referrals.

Designers who charge premium fees often provide enhanced services that stand out from others in the field. Understanding these differentiators can help build client confidence in the fee structure.

When having to address a dispute from the client about the designer’s fees, it is helpful for the designer to emphasize their commitment to open communication and the benefits of a clear agreement, and also reiterate the value of what you as a designer bring to the project.

When asked what these professional building designers put in their agreements that stand out from other designers, they responded with these helpful ideas:

  • Some designers often include unique provisions and clarifications to set their services apart and ensure that their clients have a clear understanding of what is and isn’t included in the project scope.
  • Many designers specifically outline the scope of services, and mention exclusions such as site plans or electrical plans, which prevent misunderstandings. To reinforce this clarity, some designers incorporate a summary of the client’s wish list and requested features, so that the clients can revisit their initial goals and expectations throughout the project.
  • Designers who have expertise in navigating regulatory requirements add value by guiding their clients through complex agency processes such as replat waivers or Geo-Haz submissions, which can be challenging without specialized support.
  • Structural design experience is another notable differentiator that allows designers to offer enhanced project stability and longevity.
  • To support seamless communication and execution, some designers include addendums or exhibits in their construction drawings, which outline specific design elements that streamline the construction phase. For example, designers who produce their own truss plans can help truss manufacturers understand and achieve specific design features, which aligns the final product closely with the designer’s original intent. These detailed inclusions clarify the scope and demonstrate the designer’s commitment to precision and expertise, which enhances the client’s confidence in their choice of a designer.

When asked about their experience with clients who ask for specific dates of the phases of the plans, the designers responded with:

  • Clients and builders sometimes request specific dates for each project phase, which can create challenges for designers who need time for thoughtful and creative development.
  • While setting clear phase deadlines can help to keep a project on track, frequent or last-minute changes by the clients often disrupt this timeline.
  • Designers aim to balance flexibility and structure, and recognize that the creative work they do requires space that is free from undue pressure.
  • Some designers manage expectations by advising their clients that the process might take longer than anticipated to ensure quality and precision.
  • Rather than charging penalties for missed dates, some designers sometimes offer incentives for early completion if that aligns with project goals and doesn’t compromise design quality. This approach emphasizes collaboration instead of imposing rigid deadlines, which fosters an environment where the designer and the client both feel supported and valued.
  • Clear communication about the impact of changes on timelines can help clients make decisions more thoughtfully, which prevents rushed requests near the completion of a phase of the project. Designers who address these timing expectations upfront and explain the value of the creative process, often find that their clients are more receptive to reasonable timelines and understand the importance of allowing space for quality work.

Our third question was: Did you watch the AIBD Monday Minute this week? Have you used something like the 20-30-50 proposal?

Here’s what the designers conveyed:

Many designers have found the 20-30-50 proposal model helpful for structuring project phases, though it often requires adjustment to fit the unique demands of each project and the client. In this approach, the project progresses through distinct stages: initial concepts (20%), design development (30%), and detailed working drawings (50%).

While this breakdown provides a clear, structured approach, some projects such as complex remodels or rebuilding after significant damage such as a fire, might need more flexibility. For example, designers might find that they need to invest more time in the preliminary design phase to clarify requirements before they move on to construction documents. The time they spend in this phase can sometimes surpass the time spent on later stages to ensure that all of the elements align with the client’s vision and avoid costly adjustments later on.

  • Many designers have developed custom payment structures to suit both their process and the expectations of the client. Some designers require a 50% deposit to start, with the balance due before they release documents to engineers, which ensures their commitment and reduces risk.
  • Other designers tailor the 20-30-50 structure to include additional phases such as a feasibility study or construction observation, with each phase billed upfront.
  • Designers often clarify in the contract that retainers or deposits are non-refundable, which can discourage clients from changing course in the middle of the project without considering the designer’s invested time and resources.

To avoid getting stuck in endless revisions, it helps for designers to define what constitutes a “revision” in their contracts.

  • Simple adjustments such as repositioning a door or a window might be included as part of the project, but structural changes such as relocating walls might need to count as revisions.
  • By setting clear boundaries about what constitutes a revision, designers can preserve the integrity of their time and maintain flexibility when clients request changes.
  • Some designers might adjust the final cost of the project based on the number of revisions and the square footage, while other designers might structure their fees according to each phase.
  • Having a tailored approach ensures that designers can manage the client expectations while preserving their own capability to produce high-quality and creative work.

In summary, the designers in this industry demonstrate a profound commitment not only to their craft but also to supporting each other and serving their clients with genuine care and diligence. They invest significant time and effort into creating customized agreements and structured processes such as the adaptable 20-30-50 model, that balance their creative freedom with their client’s needs. Their contracts reflect an understanding of the importance of transparency, helping their clients recognize the value and precision that goes into each phase of design.

What a great and lively discussion among everyone! So much gratitude for everyone who shared their strategies, approaches, and experiences!

Thank you for your participation and for reading!

Bernie

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AIBD Coffee with Bernie – October 2024

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Hi everyone!

We had a great AIBD Coffee with Bernie, with lots of helpful discussion among the designers who attended! It was great to see you all!

We started by sharing our most amazing coffee cups, which we normally do, and then we all took a poll using different compensation models that AIBD designers might use:

  • Per square foot
  • According to construction costs
  • Hourly cost, plus expenses
  • Fixed rates
  • Barter

Per square foot won the poll with 42% of those who voted!

Next, we got into our questions and discussion about what designers choose to use for their compensation model. It was an educational discussion participated by everyone!

Question 1: What are the advantages and disadvantages of charging by square foot versus charging by the hour?

Here’s some of what the AIBD designers conveyed:

Pricing strategies such as charging by square footage versus charging by the hour are frequently debated, with each approach offering distinct advantages and challenges. Charging by square foot is one of the most common methods, especially for residential and light commercial projects. This pricing model offers clients a straightforward way to understand costs in relation to the size of their project. For designers, it allows for the potential to earn more on larger projects and establishes a clear connection between the design effort and the physical space being created. For example, a designer might charge anywhere from $2 to $12 per square foot, depending on the complexity, location, and type of building.

Charging by the square foot can also have drawbacks, particularly when it comes to estimating the project’s total size during the early design stages. Designers mentioned scope creep, that when a project’s size and scope increase beyond the initial estimate, it can cause the final cost to spiral and create some tension between the client and the designer. Also, not all square footage carries the same value. For example, designing a small simple starter home versus designing a large complicated custom home can result in very different end values, even if both buildings have similar square footage. Large custom homes for clients would likely generate more revenue from their space and justify a higher per-square-foot charge compared to a production home. This makes a flat, uniform rate per square foot across all clients less practical, especially for these larger projects.

Some designers use a hybrid approach, starting with a fixed rate for initial phases, such as site assessment and conceptual design, then transitioning to a square footage-based price for later stages like design development or construction drawings. This way, clients can get a clear picture of the cost structure from the beginning, while allowing the designer to adjust their fees based on the final size of the project. Certain variables, such as governing authorities or building codes in a specific region, may influence the square foot pricing, particularly for residential projects where requirements can vary significantly by area.

Charging by an hourly cost, plus expenses is particularly effective for whole-house renovations and additions, where the scope is more un-predictable. For complex projects that require significant interaction with clients, where preferences, tastes, or demands may change frequently, charging by the hour could offer greater flexibility. Hourly pricing ensures that every moment spent on the project is compensated, which can protect designers from undervaluing their time, especially when working with demanding clients. Some designers even compare the two pricing models, square footage and hourly, to see how they match up, which can ensure that the designers remain competitive and fair while also securing profitability.

The concept of “value-based pricing” is another important consideration. This method involves setting prices based on the perceived value the project will deliver to the client. For example, a high-traffic commercial building will likely deliver more long-term business value than a similarly sized residential property, and the price per square foot should reflect that value. While this approach is particularly relevant to commercial projects, it is less applicable in residential work where the per-square-foot value tends to be more standardized.

Overall, the best pricing model depends on the type of project, client preferences, and market conditions. Market research and networking with colleagues can help designers gauge their competitiveness. Whether charging by square foot, by the hour, or by using a value-based approach, flexibility and careful planning are key to meeting both client expectations and business objectives.

This discussion was a great example of AIBD designers helping each other!

The second question was: Have you ever had to modify your services to match a client’s budget? Can you share an example without disclosing any fees?

Here’s what everyone discussed:

Ensuring a proper payment structure is essential for maintaining both the designer’s financial health and the overall success of a project. One crucial aspect is requiring payment before handing over completed plans to the client. Designers invest significant time, creativity, and resources into developing detailed plans, and withholding the final deliverables until payment is received helps protect them from the risk of non-payment. Many designers have learned the hard way that clients may delay or avoid payment after receiving the plans, leaving them with no leverage. As a result, it’s a standard practice to ensure that clients pay first, either in full or for the current phase, before designers give them the final plans. This protects the designer’s interests while keeping the project moving smoothly.

In addition to holding back the final plans, some designers request a down payment up front before they begin any work. This is another critical safeguard for designers. Requiring a retainer or a deposit of 50% of the total fee ensures the client has a financial stake in the project from the start. This not only secures the designer’s time and prevents them from working on speculative designs, but also filters out less serious clients who may not fully commit to the process. Designers who skip this step can find themselves at the risk of dedicating weeks or months to a project only to have the client back out without compensation. As some designers noted, charging in phases is a common approach. Dividing the work into stages and requiring payment before moving on to the next phase helps maintain cash flow and prevents disputes down the line.

Experience has shown that when clients have financial accountability from the outset, they are more likely to respect timelines, honor agreements, and maintain communication throughout the project. In contrast, clients who push for unlimited changes or demand fee caps without upfront payment often end up consuming far more of the designer’s time than anticipated. Implementing clear payment policies not only protects the designer’s livelihood but also creates a professional and mutually respectful relationship between the designer and client.

This was great advice and input from designers, based on their experience, ups and downs they have experienced with clients, and helped us all to gain more insight about our own processes and any changes we might want to make.

The third question was: What additional services do you offer that impact your costs but provide clients with an appealing reason to choose you?

Here’s what designers shared:

In addition to core architectural services, many building designers offer a range of additional services that not only enhance the client’s experience but also add significant value to the project. These extra services can increase the designer’s costs but often serve as key differentiators in a competitive market. For instance, offering detailed 3D renderings, such as fly-through and fly-around visualizations, allows clients to better visualize their project before construction begins, which can alleviate concerns or uncertainties.

Some designers prepare high-performance or healthy home checklists, which include recommendations for energy efficiency, air quality, and sustainable materials, ensuring that the client’s home is not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally conscious. By coordinating with structural engineers or other specialists, designers also help streamline the process for clients who might be overwhelmed by the technical aspects of the build.

Beyond technical support, designers help clients navigate the often-complicated world of permits and homeowners’ association (HOA) or architectural control committee (ACC) submissions. Many building departments require extensive documentation, which can be confusing and time-consuming for clients to manage on their own. By offering to handle these submissions or assist with gathering the required documents, designers demonstrate care and attention to detail, saving their clients time and stress. These services come with extra costs, as they require more administrative work and coordination, but they provide significant peace of mind to clients, making the overall design process smoother and more manageable.

Incorporating thoughtful gestures and client care initiatives can also enhance the client experience. Some designers send personalized gifts, such as photo books of the completed home, or host professional photo shoots as a final touch. These thoughtful acts build lasting relationships and show clients that the designer values their partnership beyond the project itself. Designers who also offer periodic site inspections to ensure that the build is progressing according to plan, or assist in reviewing pay applications, provide an extra layer of oversight that can be crucial for a client who is unfamiliar with construction processes.

All of these value-added services reinforce a designer’s commitment to both the client and the quality of the project, while cultivating trust and long-term loyalty.

These additional services, although they can impact a designer’s costs, create compelling reasons for clients to choose and refer them. It is essential to balance care and professionalism. Meeting the client’s practical needs, while guiding them through complex procedures, and offering them personal touches all contribute to a positive experience that goes beyond delivering a design.

As designers, we do our best to help our clients, keep up on the latest codes and advice, and share our knowledge to help each other along the way.

For more information about education, opportunities for Building Designers, and the AIBD Blog, go to: https://aibd.org/opportunities-for-building-designers/.

Thanks for reading!

Bernie

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AIBD Coffee with Bernie – September 2024

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Hi everyone! This month’s discussion at AIBD’s Coffee With Bernie was about whether clients are a good fit, and how to have the right expectations from the beginning. We hope you enjoy this discussion!

We started with an ice breaker: We would like to hire you to design our home. We have ideas and photos of what we like, a budget for you to help us create a home, and a year to plan. What designers conveyed:

As architectural designers, it’s essential to find the right balance between creativity and practicality when working with clients. Based on feedback from fellow designers, the ideal client is one who comes with a clear vision, understands their budget, and is willing to engage in open communication throughout the process. Having a year to plan allows for thoughtful, deliberate design decisions, ensuring the project stays aligned with both the client’s aspirations and budget. Designers value clients who can collaborate not only with them but also with builders and interior designers, creating a cohesive team environment. A realistic timeline and openness to suggestions allow the design process to flow smoothly. Additionally, involving a builder early on is crucial, especially for projects with specific budget and technical needs, like passive house designs or energy-efficient homes. Patience, respect, and teamwork are key to creating successful, sustainable, and meaningful projects.

We then discussed assessing the client fit with several questions:

  • How do you determine if a client is a good fit for your firm?
  • What red flags might indicate potential issues with a client?
  • How do you gracefully decline projects that aren’t a good match?

Assessing client fit is crucial for architectural designers to ensure smooth, successful projects. The process typically begins by evaluating the client’s expectations regarding budget, timeline, and design vision during the initial consultation. Red flags include clients who try to alter contracts, display unrealistic budgets, or don’t value the designer’s expertise. Clients with a history of issues with previous designers or those who attempt to micromanage can also signal potential problems. Pushy behavior or attempting to dictate how the designer should run their business often creates friction. Some firms use a pre-screening process or charge a consultation fee to filter serious clients and determine compatibility. When declining projects, it’s best to be honest and explain that the client’s goals and expectations do not align with the firm’s approach, preventing future frustration. Graceful exits, transparent conversations, and firm boundaries can help avoid difficult relationships and set the tone for future success.

Next, we discussed the communication and expectations of clients with these questions:

  • How do you set clear expectations with clients from the start?
  • What strategies do you use to ensure effective communication throughout the project?
  • How do you handle clients with unrealistic expectations about budget or timeline?

In the discussions about communication and managing client expectations, architectural designers emphasized the importance of consistent and transparent communication throughout a project. Many noted that face-to-face meetings, whether on-site or over a meal, can resolve issues more effectively than digital communication alone. Regular updates, such as weekly Friday follow-ups, keep clients informed and build trust, while also providing an email trail for reference. Designers stressed that all clients, regardless of project size, should feel that their project matters. Setting clear expectations from the start, especially around timelines and budgets, helps avoid misunderstandings, with many designers offering timeline summaries or handouts as part of initial meetings. Handling clients with unrealistic expectations requires education—”taking them to school”—and reinforcing trust through honesty and transparency. Building long-term relationships is key, with repeat clients, referrals from past clients, builders, and networking events like those held by the Chamber of Commerce and the local Home Builders Association, playing vital roles in growing business.

As designers, we all had a well-rounded and helpful discussion!

We then talked a bit about mentorship through the AIBD with one of its members.

Scott, a Virginia Beach-based entrepreneur with a background in managing hardwood exports and graphic design, is on an exciting journey to expand his skills in residential design. After teaching himself CAD and joining the AIBD to connect with like-minded professionals, he’s actively seeking mentorship to improve his plan-drawing abilities. With experience managing home projects in the Bahamas but not yet creating plans, Scott is eager to practice and get feedback on his work. Fellow AIBD members have encouraged him to seek mentorship through the AIBD’s College of Fellows, avoid working for free, and attend upcoming conferences to network and grow. He’s also been advised to take advantage of the AIBD’s resources like contract templates and to prepare for entering categories in the ARDA awards. With his entrepreneurial mindset and determination, Scott is well-positioned to succeed in his next chapter as a residential designer!

As we meet each month, we continue to learn and grow!

A reminder that you can find all of the AIBD recordings on our YouTube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/user/AIBDOnline. And, you can find the AIBD events, including the Monday Minute at AIBD.org/mondayminute.

Until we meet again, thanks for reading!

Bernie

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Designing a Dream Home in Tennessee

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A Blend of Equestrian Elegance, Entertainment, Wine, and Car Collections

Tennessee, with its rolling hills and expansive landscapes, is not only known for its rich music heritage and Southern charm but also for its equestrian culture, wine appreciation, and a growing passion for luxury living. Designing a home for clients in this region, who have a love for horses, entertaining, wine, and collectible cars, is an exciting challenge that blends traditional Southern architecture with contemporary lifestyle needs. Let’s explore how these passions influence architectural design.

Equestrian Elegance: The Heart of the Estate

For clients who showcase horses, the home is more than just a living space; it’s an extension of their equestrian lifestyle. In Tennessee, where vast, open land is available, creating a home with proximity to horse facilities is key. An on-site barn or stable, designed with both functionality and aesthetics in mind, becomes a central feature.

  • Barn and Stable Design: The barn must be spacious, ventilated, and climate-controlled to ensure the horses’ comfort year-round. A blend of traditional post-and-beam construction with modern amenities like automatic waterers, heated wash stalls, and custom tack rooms offers the perfect balance between beauty and functionality.
  • Equestrian Arena and Trails: For clients who showcase horses, an indoor or outdoor riding arena can be a highlight. These can be surrounded by lush pastures and tree-lined riding trails, enhancing the property’s natural beauty while offering spaces for training and leisurely rides.
  • Integration with the Home: In many luxury homes, stables are often designed within view of the main living quarters, allowing owners to enjoy the beauty of their horses from large windows or terraces. The aesthetic blend of rustic and refined materials, like reclaimed wood, stone, and metal, helps unify the home and equestrian facilities.

Spaces for Entertaining: Southern Hospitality Meets Luxury

In Tennessee, entertaining guests is a way of life. Designing a home that can host both intimate gatherings and larger events is key for these clients. From open-concept kitchens to expansive outdoor spaces, the home must flow seamlessly to create a welcoming atmosphere for guests.

  • Open-Concept Living Areas: The kitchen, living room, and dining area often serve as the heart of the home for entertainers. High ceilings with exposed beams, oversized kitchen islands, and multiple dining spaces allow for both casual and formal entertaining. In keeping with Southern tradition, the porch often becomes an extension of the living space, perfect for relaxing with guests.
  • Outdoor Living and Entertaining: In a region blessed with mild weather, outdoor living is a priority. Expansive patios, covered verandas, and outdoor kitchens create spaces where guests can gather to enjoy the scenic surroundings. Fire pits, infinity pools, and elegant landscaping add to the ambiance, while strategically placed outdoor lighting sets the mood for evening soirees.

Wine Cellars and Tasting Rooms: A Passion for Wine

For wine enthusiasts, a home is incomplete without a custom-designed wine cellar. These spaces are not only practical for storing a collection but also act as luxurious retreats where the owner can share their passion with friends and family.

  • Custom Wine Cellars: A temperature-controlled wine cellar is a must for those who collect fine wines. Architectural design can incorporate glass walls, natural stone, or reclaimed wood to create an environment that feels as refined as the collection itself. LED lighting can be used to highlight prized bottles, while the cellar’s location – whether in a lower level or integrated into the main living space – can reflect the client’s personal style.
  • Tasting Rooms: Adjacent to the wine cellar, a tasting room offers a space to savor and share the collection. These rooms can be designed with comfortable seating, mood lighting, and beautiful finishes, making it the perfect place for intimate gatherings or wine-focused events. French doors leading out to a vineyard-inspired garden or patio enhance the experience.

Showcasing Collectible Cars: The Ultimate Garage

For clients with a passion for collectible cars, the garage is as important as the home itself. More than just a place to park, it becomes a showpiece where their prized vehicles can be admired and maintained in style.

  • Luxury Car Garages: These spaces are often designed as a hybrid between a showroom and a workshop. Polished concrete floors, custom cabinetry, and climate control systems are essential for keeping the vehicles in pristine condition. Glass walls can separate the garage from the main living space, allowing the cars to be visible from within the home, merging the beauty of automotive design with architectural elegance.
  • Display and Workshop Areas: Clients may want to showcase their vehicles in a museum-like setting, complete with strategic lighting and rotating display platforms. At the same time, a workshop area allows them to tinker with their cars, adding a functional element to the garage space.

Blending Traditional and Modern Architecture

The architecture of homes in Tennessee often reflects the region’s blend of tradition and modernity. For these clients, this means a balance between the elegance of classic Southern design and the sleek lines of contemporary architecture.

  • Classic Southern Elements: Elements like wrap-around porches, pitched roofs, and dormer windows pay homage to traditional Southern architecture. These features not only add charm but also provide functional benefits, such as natural ventilation and shade in the warmer months.
  • Contemporary Touches: Inside, clean lines, expansive windows, and open floor plans create a sense of modern luxury. The use of natural materials like stone, wood, and metal throughout the home ties the design to its surroundings while ensuring a timeless appeal.

Conclusion

Designing a home for clients who showcase horses, entertain, enjoy wine, and collect cars requires a deep understanding of their passions and lifestyle. The result is a unique blend of functionality, luxury, and elegance that reflects their personal tastes while embracing the natural beauty of Tennessee’s landscapes. By integrating spaces for entertaining, wine appreciation, equestrian pursuits, and car collections, these homes become not just places to live, but personal sanctuaries that celebrate the finer things in life.

This home was a pleasure to design and the clients were a pleasure to work with.

Thanks for reading!
Bernie

AIBD Summer Conference – July 2024

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Hi everyone!

The AIBD summer conference was a great forum for meeting with designers and learning from the classes and presenters. This conference also provided helpful information about what to do with your business when you are ready to semi-retire!

Some of the key points about semi-retiring included becoming aware of your own fear factors. If you are considering fully retiring or semi-retiring, consider these actions:

  • Set time-sensitive goals in priority order.
  • It is helpful to create a business plan with an end date.
  • Test your own options and concepts.

It is essential and extremely important that you consider how a buyer looks at buying a business in these times. The generational priorities have changed and the possibility that you can sell your business might be smaller than you thought you could once realize. General advice is to evaluate what exit planning might look like for you.

  • Be aware that your non-tangible assets can be valued – your reputation, clients, connections and relationships with builders, intellectual property, and more.
  • Tangible assets can include plans and copyrights.

If you plan to stay in your current design business part time, as some designers are considering, you can half-retire and spend time on other interests!

Another session on lighting presented immerse experiences! The results were stunning and brought the homes to life with joy around every corner!

We also got to see the golden ratio tool/ruler. An interesting tool for the design industry! You can order it online.

Hope this helps you if you are considering half-retiring!

Thanks for reading!

Bernie

AIBD Coffee with Bernie – August 2024

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Hi everyone!

The August AIBD Coffee with Bernie was fantastic, with many designers in attendance! The topic was about the designer client interview, and various people gave helpful information and links. We got to see 12 to 16 people live! And we heard later that some of the younger designers who attended the session thought it was extremely helpful in their design work!

The first question in this session was about how to effectively structure your first meeting with a potential client and the key information to gather. The advice from multiple members who have a lot of experience:

  • Always prepare.
  • Consider the home owner, designer, and builder as one team.
  • Use someone on your team, other than you, to communicate with potential clients before they get to you, and determine if they are a good fit.
  • When first communicating with a potential client, include checklists with details to determine more about the client. Only after they review and complete the checklists, then discuss budget and schedule.
  • Outline your process with the client, how it works, and who the players are.
  • Offer a What To Expect page on your website, and consider putting a flowchart on that page that describes the flow.
  • If you are an AIBD member designer, be aware that checklists and forms are available and free for all members. As an AIBD member, you can access these documents by logging into your AIBD account.

The next question had to do with what you ask your clients to bring to the first meeting, and how they can best prepare. Some designers have helpful examples online. Message me if you want some references. Here’s what attendees had to say:

  • It helps if clients bring a survey, but in some instances problems can arise. For example, a valid survey might be missing or it might be outdated. If a client has a survey older than 5 years old, some designers have the client obtain a new one with a topo. Having the topo is extremely helpful.
  • Some designers have a disclaimer on their website and/or their plans that says they are not responsible for incorrect information on a survey that a surveyor provided. You can also reach out to the surveyor to get the DWG file.
  • Designers always ask for the survey, even if some surveys are wrong or missing info. Be sure to verify that the survey is correct.
  • In some cases, designers don’t ask the homeowner to get the survey because there are different types of surveys, and the client might not know which one to get. If you do ask the client to get the survey, be specific on what you need.

The third question prompted helpful feedback also. It was about the most effective methods the designers use to interview clients. Here’s what they said:

  • Listen. The importance of listening to the client cannot be overstated!
  • Through listening and asking questions, discover what the client is thinking.
  • Meet with the clients at their property.
  • Some designers charge for the first meeting with the client, some don’t, and some designers include it as part of the rest of the work. Whether you charge for the first meeting, or not, the first meeting helps you determine if the client will be a good fit.
  • If you have an assistant, they can interview potential prospects for you. The assistant should be well versed in what you do and able to speak intelligently with the clients about your process. That initial interview can provide your assistant with the right amount of information you need to know if the client might be a good fit. It can also educate your client about an overview of your process.
  • Overall, it was agreed and emphasized that designers provide a high level of value for everything they cover in the process of creating a set of plans.

Hopefully this blog helps you with your design work and meeting with clients. All feedback is welcome!

Thanks for reading!

Bernie

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BBKern DESIGNS wins an ARDA Award in Published Designs

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Lake Meadow

Project Description

This main level 2,350 square foot eclectic craftsman style home is designed for an empty nester with moderate square footage for potential downsizing from a larger home. The craftsman style home features a grand entrance with a centerline view to the dramatic vaulted ceiling and a huge series of arched windows and sliding glass doors in the Great Room.

The exterior is a cross gabled craftsman style home with various architectural features. The front exterior features a raised covered porch with tapered columns, stone bases and wrap around railing. An arched wood ceiling feature under the covered porch complements the entry door. The moderate pitched front facing gables with wide unenclosed eave overhangs and wood shingle siding on the upper portion of the gables stand out as an identifying feature of this eclectic craftsman home. The gable triangle knee braces and shutters are all handcrafted.

With a side entry Garage a window box detail was added with a tapered base supported by wrap around stone. The window box features three high placed linear windows to match the three high linear windows at the highest gable. Double hanging windows are featured on all sides of the home.

An enjoining spacious Kitchen and Island is designed with an open view to the Great Room. Centered with the Kitchen Island is a dramatic fireplace in the Great Room that captures the height of the fireplace stone, making the Great Room, Kitchen and Entry all open for a comfort traffic flow. Off the Kitchen sits a pass through counter bar for informal dining that opens to a quaint Hearth Room that can be used for private dining or a cozy sitting room.

Between the Entry way and the Great Room is a common pathway that leads to the Owners Suite and the All Purpose Room. The Owners Suite is a spaciously designed room plenty in size to accommodate a full bedroom furniture set and plenty of wall space for dressers or entertainment systems. A private door allows access to the outdoor Covered Patio. The Patio creates a private or entertainment friendly gathering for an outdoor experience that is accessible from the Great Room, the Hearth Room and the Owners Suite. Planning for build on the right property, the views will be astounding.

The Owners Suite is equipped with a huge 5-Piece Bath area. A unique feature from this floor plan is the Walk-In Closet that also enters a Laundry Room area, close to the Bedrooms. The 2nd Bedroom on the main level can be used as an All-Purpose Room that features a Study, Office or Guest Bedroom and a ¾ Bath.

The Lower Level introduces two more bedrooms, a gaming area, full sized wet bar, recreation sitting area and a fireplace. This plan is designed for a 3 Car Garage and a 300 square foot additional space that can be used for storage and or workshop.

This design is based on three key items. To market to the empty nester designing the floor plan to be open with easy traffic flow, to design using a polular eclectic craftsman style, and to maintain moderate square footage to make the home affordable with downsizing opportunities.

This home is published with the Rocky Mountain Plan Company (RMPC) and was recently submitted to Portfolio Home Plans for approval. This home has been built twice in the last 4 years. Pictures of one of the built homes is included in this submittal.

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BBKern DESIGNS wins an ARDA Award in Custom Homes

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Kiowa

Project Description

This Pueblo Revival home was designed in the most difficult lot due to the size of allowable building area and a geological panorama of sandstone red rock formations that take up about half of the 7,619 square foot lot.

Before the initial concept drawings took place, pre-meetings with city zoning ordinances and city geohazard mitigation engineers took place to ensure our concept ideas would be acceptable for city approval. Photographs of the lot are included to visualize the difficult lot. The concept rendering was superimposed onto an actual photograph showing an existing townhouse to the left and the sandstone red rock formation to the right.

My client requested a conceptual design of a neighborhood popular style Pueblo Revival home on three levels, with a rooftop patio. The project scope required a Kitchen, Great Room and Dining area to be open with large windows. The property has astounding views facing a scenic city view from the main and upper levels. The building pad, limited due to the sandstone red rocks required upper level cantilevers and decks overlooking the rock formations. The upper level floor plan required a large Master Bedroom plus two complete Bedrooms. Specific aging in place considerations had to be included in the design and a residential elevator was planned along with large bedroom doors and zero steps into the home.

The odd shaped building pad required a minimum foundation footprint of 1500 square foot, with room for just a 12′ wide front exterior. Using angled walls and a dramatic open curved stair to shape the edge of the sandstone rock, a design was created that provided a total of over 3,600 square foot of living area. The home features many outside spaces with three decks and a rooftop patio all positioned to capture all of the scenic views. The rooftop features a trellis covering with outside seating and dining. In order to dramatize the small front exterior, a Pueblo style courtyard with a double southwestern entry gate and a flowing water feature were designed for the building entrance.

To keep true to the Pueblo Revival, parapets, stepped up roofs, blunt angles, and canals were all included into the exterior design. The interior includes authentic mission tile flooring, rough hewn ceiling vigas, rough hewn lintels and rounded plaster finished kiva fireplaces which were placed in the corner of the Great Room and Master Suite.

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2020 AIBD President – Bernie Kern CPBD

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For the 2020 year, the voting members of American Institute of Building Design (AIBD) voted to make Bernie Kern CPBD, the President of AIBD. Because of his extensive skills and experience, Bernie was a good choice for AIBD President. This is because Bernie has owned and operated BBKern DESIGNS for over 25 years. And as a Certified Professional Building Designer, Bernie is a specialist in building design, serving clients in the Colorado Rocky Mountains area as well as for others around the USA.

AIBD has provided building designers with educational resources, and has developed nationwide design standards and a code of ethics for the building design profession for over 70 years. Today, AIBD is a nationally recognized association with members in 48 states, throughout Canada and in Europe, Asia, Australia and the Bahamas. The AIBD is also meeting the challenge of the future by educating members about new and improved building materials and technology that will impact how we live in the future.

As the president of AIBD, Bernie will serve as the chief executive officer of the Institute and will, subject to the directions of the board of directors, supervise the day-to-day business and affairs of the Institute. As the President, Bernie shall preside at all meetings of the board of directors. He will have the authority to appoint to, and will be an ex-officio member of, all standing committees except as otherwise provided by these Bylaws. And, as President, Bernie will have such additional duties as prescribed by the parliamentary authority adopted by the Institute and by the board of directors.