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American Institute of Building Design (AIBD)

Where Inspiration Begins [Midweek Vibe]

Published 1 day ago • 3 min read

Hello Reader,

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Congrats on surviving Monday and crushing Tuesday.

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Now Wednesday beckons you to take a break and celebrate this week's Midweek Vibe!

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Where inspiration begins…

Recently, I was reviewing my floor plan solution with a client. I described how the floor plan created site lines, how the room adjacencies provided a sense of order, and when needed, privacy. I pointed out how the swing of a door left or right made a difference in utility and convenience.

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After we had gone through the plan, my client asked how many projects I had at that time, and I related about 25. She then asks me, “With so many projects, where does your inspiration come from?”

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My immediate response was from you, the client.

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Nighthawk, by Modern Rustic Homes (c)

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Designer and Client Relationship

Over the years, I have been privileged to work with hundreds of clients, and no two were the same. Everyone had something unique about them, as to how they wished to live in their home, their hobbies, or lifestyle.

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In every case, they had a vision, and I had the pleasure of helping to bring that vision to reality. One of the rewards for the work I do is the relationship that is formed between the designer and the client.

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It must be built on trust.

Trust starts by listening. Listening turns into understanding. Understanding becomes knowledge. Knowledge spurs solutions. A good floor plan design solves problems. Good design delights your customer.

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When Design Becomes Communion

Consider this…. When we (client and designer) engage to create a house plan, we get to know each other well. This process of sharing thoughts, ideas, and visions fosters a sense of unity; we commune.

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One of my greatest rewards, beyond creating a good design solution, has been the relationship I now have with my clients. Many have become dear friends. Hence, my work becomes communion.

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What is your inspiration?

What inspires you to take action? As I have thought about this issue of inspiration, I realize it goes way beyond the client. I would enjoy hearing your thoughts on what inspires you.
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Michael Grant, Residential Designer

Mobile & Text: (770) 656-2557

Primary Office: (706) 273-7140

eMail: MGrant@ModernRusticHomes.com

Web: http://www.modernrustichomes.com/

This week's contributor, Michael Grant, celebrates 20 years of AIBD Professional Membership this year. He established Modern Rustic Homes in 1996 and has been published in national and international magazines. Michael’s Industrial Design degree from Georgia Tech’s College of Architecture shows in his projects, which are a blend of Old World craftsmanship and state-of-the-art technology. He sits on the Georgia High Country Builders Association Board of Directors.

Has something inspired you lately? Please tell us about it

Submit a Midweek Vibe email at AIBD.org/submit.

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One more thing—we want to lead with transparency. AI was most likely used to complete this post in one way or another. Don't blame the technology if you find a mistake; in most cases, our emails are written by humans and AI-supported. Now and then, they are AI-generated and human-edited. Both humans and AI still make mistakes.

American Institute of Building Design (AIBD)

The American Institute of Building Design (AIBD) is a professional association that promotes the highest standards of excellence in residential building design. AIBD offers a variety of resources to its members, including continuing education, networking opportunities, and marketing assistance. AIBD is a valuable resource for anyone interested in a career in residential building design. If you want to improve your skills, network with other professionals, and stay up-to-date on the latest trends, AIBD is the perfect organization for you.

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