May Founder's Message

The 2025 Bisnow Houston Architecture & Design Summit was my favorite Bisnow event to date—and for good reason! More than half of the speakers were either clients or former colleagues, which made the experience all the more enjoyable. It was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect and reflect on how far we’ve come together.

At a time when our industry is facing rapid change and growing uncertainty, the panel discussions felt especially timely and relevant. I wanted to share a few key takeaways that stood out to me, insights I hope will resonate with you as well:

1. Designers Must Lead Early - We deliver the most value when involved at the outset—helping shape project goals, budgets, and strategy. Fluency in finance, regulations, and development dynamics is essential to making meaningful contributions.

2. Be a Strategic Partner, Not Just a Vendor - Designers must move beyond a transactional role. By understanding client intent and anticipating challenges, we can help drive better outcomes through deeper collaboration.

3. Communication Is a Core Design Skill - Translating complex ideas into clear, compelling stories—for clients, boards, and communities—is just as important as the visuals. Strong communication builds trust and alignment.

4. Adaptability Is Essential - With rising costs and evolving approval processes, the landscape is more unpredictable than ever. Designers must support clients with phased strategies and flexible, forward-thinking solutions.

5. Human-Centered Design Still Leads - The most impactful spaces are rooted in empathy and informed by data. Whether it’s a sensory room in an airport or daylight-filled classrooms, thoughtful design enhances emotional and physical well-being.

6. Balance Idealism with Realism - Ambition must be grounded in practicality. Clear expectations and honest conversations early in the process help prevent costly redesigns and unmet goals.

7. Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration Drives Success - The strongest outcomes emerge from diverse teams—planners, economists, educators, and behavioral experts. True innovation happens when multiple perspectives come together.

8. Invest in the Next Generation - We must empower emerging design leaders to expand their knowledge beyond the studio. Business, policy, communication, and resilience are vital skills for shaping the future of our profession.

From conversations on AI and automation to climate resilience and policy reform, one message echoed throughout the summit: The future of design isn’t just high-tech—it’s deeply human.

Thank you for being part of this thoughtful and inspiring community. I look forward to continuing this journey of learning, growth, and collaboration together. Call me at 281-799-4800. And don't forget to view, subscribe, and like our social media platforms: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.