Today we’d like to introduce you to Larry Paschall.
Hi Larry, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Like a lot of firms, Spotted Dog Architecture started unintentionally. After 8-1/2 years with two other partners, I decided the time had come to focus more on advocacy within the profession. I had been speaking at various conferences for over 15 years, and the idea of working behind the scenes to help elevate individuals within architecture had a strong appeal. However, because of the relationships I had built throughout my career, I walked away with four clients. Clearly, fate had a different plan, and in June 2016, Spotted Dog was created, and we’ve continued to work with clients across the Dallas area.
I have continued to focus on advocacy. However, efforts are centered around the LGBTQIA+ community inside and outside architecture, versus architecture in general. I continue to speak at conferences, and I am currently the author of The Big Gay Architect blog.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I would like to say the last eight years have been smooth. Architecture has always had an ebb and flow. However, my last firm opened in January of 2008, just in time for the recession. Not the best of plans, but the jolt forced us as architects and owners to push ourselves when thinking of how to reach clients and grow our brand. Consequently, when the pandemic hit, I felt better positioned. Spotted Dog is also a residential-based firm, so we had plenty of new stay-at-home clients needing new offices and spaces that simply needed updating.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Spotted Dog Architecture?
Spotted Dog Architecture specializes in single-family residential projects, from renovations to additions to new construction. We believe that the client relationship is the most important aspect of any project, especially due to the very personal aspect of working in someone’s home. Consequently, we have worked on a wide scale of projects and have taken on projects some architects would deem as too small because we felt we could have a great time working with the client.
What does success mean to you?
As a residential architect, success comes at the end of a project, when the homeowner can begin to enjoy using the spaces we’ve created. We are entrusted with each client’s home, and they rely on us to bring their vision forward. To see that come to fruition, and to see them happy, is success. Having them refer us to their friends, however, is also a good measure for us. To be able to look back through a client list and trace who referred us to who is an interesting experience. Two clients have referred us to six different clients. That registers as a success.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.spotteddogarchitecture.com
- Instagram: @SpottedDogArch
- Twitter: @SpottedDogArch
Image Credits
Headshot by Beau Bumpas
