Today we’d like to introduce you to Manolo.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Manolo. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I graduated from Architecture School the same week I got a job at MORE design-build (MDB) back in 2010. I spent the next nine years at MDB working in high-end residential projects and being exposed to the construction side of architecture. I worked my way up to design studio director at MDB and decided to part ways in March of 2018. I took a sabbatical to concentrate on family and personal endeavors. That ended up turning into Manolo Design Studio.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
We got pregnant two months after I decided to take a sabbatical (I guess I took my personal endeavors way too serious). All the design/code/permitting/construction has been the easy part, that’s what I did every day. It’s the clerical, accounting, taxes, insurance, and the stuff no one sees in the background what took the longest to get somewhat ok. I say somewhat because I am still tinkering with it.
Please tell us more about what you do, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I specialize in designing high-end residential homes. It’s all I’ve ever done when it comes to design. It is a joy at MDS to see a homeowner see the vision come to life when the project comes together at the end. I believe what sets us apart is the ability to navigate the difficult situations that arise with every construction project. Knowing you have a professional who will not freak out because “something went wrong” is reassuring, even when the client doesn’t realize it at the moment.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
Luck is a funny word in today’s culture. By no means do I consider myself unfortunate, but it has been hard work to get here. I come from a poor family, so learning to maximize every opportunity with the little resources I was given has been my mantra for as long as I can remember. One of the times I feel blessed (what others would call lucky) is when my daughter, who was born dead, was able to surpass doctors’ expectations of what her quality of life would be.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.manolodesignstudio.com
- Phone: 2144356330
- Email: manolo@manolodesignstudio.com
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