STLOUISHOMESMAG.COM AUGUST 2019 17
SLHL: What has been your most challenging project?
Ladd: Our most challenging project has also been our favorite. Again,
this remodel and addition took us out of our box of recreating existing
moldings and architectural details. Where we would normally mimic
each detail, we now had to bring together two different styles that
would work together. The difficulties and complexities on this
project were both from a budget and a technical standpoint. We
enjoyed the challenge of working with the homeowner and architect
to find a connection between design goals and budget goals.
SLHL: Do you use any technology to make your job simpler or
more accurate?
Ladd: Yes. We use software that provides the homeowner access to all
the job information via computer, tablet or smartphone. This shows
them all the proposed costs of the project, the anticipated project
schedule and organizes all change orders to allow them to see the
current construction costs. We strive to use technology in applications
with not only our homeowners but our subcontractors and regularly
seek new opportunities to integrate and streamline viable technologies
into our construction administration and project management.
Moreover, to aid in design development, we rely on virtual technologies.
As much as we enjoy modern technology, our in-house team is crucial
for our company to be what it is and to grow. Technology is nothing
without people who are willing to grow, learn and evolve. But as with
anything from a hammer to a computer, if the tool isn’t used properly
it only causes problems.
Photography courtesy of Ladd Suydam ContractingSLHL: What’s the best advice for someone considering a remodel?
Ladd: Our first two questions for a homeowner who is considering
a remodel are: “Why are you looking to remodel?” and “What’s your
budget for this remodel?” When answering the why question, we
work to get their goals in writing and get them to prioritize those
goals. This allows us to see a more formalized window into what they are
seeking while also helping in the communication process between
family members, so that we all begin on the same page. With a
prioritized list of goals, we have more tools to use if a budget point
needs to be reached. By keeping these two points in front of us at all
times, we are better able to work towards a scope that meets reality.
For both parties, the budget really drives this reality.
My job is also to manage expectations. What a client wants versus
what they want to spend might not line up. It’s our job to say what we
see is possible and probable early on. We also try to let people know
that the design phase can take time; it’s important to get that right.
The job itself takes time; change orders, while not desired, do happen,
and this isn’t a TV show where things are completed in unrealistic time
frames. We try to prep every client before a job starts so we can all
work together through the expected and unexpected. See
stlouishomesmag.com for resources.