In our most recent From the Tap podcast, we spoke to Allison Handler of Ridgewood-, NJ-based Allison Handler Interior Design about the importance of the designer-builder relationship in creating and completing successful projects. She says this partnership is a sacred one because a builder is a designer’s partner in crime throughout the whole project.
“I have worked with many different builders throughout the course of my career and have noticed a huge difference in both the process during the build, as well as the final outcome based on the relationship and partnership between us and the builder,” she added.
The qualities Handler looks for in a builder includes one who respects what she does as a designer and welcomes her as part of the process. She says in the male-dominated builder business, she is not always a welcome addition to a project. She makes time to let them know the value she brings to the process and how she can make their jobs easier.
“We are both there to share in the responsibility of completing a successful project,” says Handler. “Communication is key, so when you have an easy-going relationship with a builder you are comfortable working with, the whole project flows much smoother.”
The designer has preferred builders with whom she works, just as she would choose preferred vendors. Over the years, she has learned something from each builder, and she shared her tactics for identifying which work best for the different kinds of projects in which she is involved.
Handler says attention to detail is the most important quality when choosing a builder. She also wants someone who is aligned on all project expectations, and a good personality is always a plus. She also shared some red flags to avoid when working with a builder.
For more tips on building a successful designer/builder relationship, listen to the podcast on Spotify, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Pandora and other outlets.
