EP 184 | What Interior Designers Need to Know About Design-Build with David Supple

August 17, 2020

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Why do so many interior designers feel unprepared when they first enter the industry?

In this episode, Kimberley Seldon speaks with architect and design-build expert David Supple about the realities of learning on the job, building expertise over time, and creating successful projects through collaboration and preparation.

Formal education provides a foundation, but true expertise comes from experience, leadership, and working alongside skilled professionals. David shares insights on project leadership, team building, and why preparation before the design phase is essential for smoother projects and better client outcomes.

In this episode, we learn:
• Why education for interior designers continues long after formal schooling ends
• How preparation before the design process improves project success
• Why every project needs clear leadership and decision-making
• How expertise develops through hands-on experience over time
• Why collaborative teams of experts create better results for clients
• How surrounding yourself with skilled professionals accelerates growth and confidence
• Why creating a “love it” and “loathe it” list helps clients make better hiring decisions
• How stronger project leadership improves the client experience and project efficiency

About David Supple

David Supple is the owner and CEO of New Era Design and Construct, a Boston based residential DesignBuild remodeling firm. He is currently writing books on the True History of the Architect & Builder and DesignBuild – the Natural Approach to Building. David graduated from Tufts University with a degree in architecture and then worked in a California design studio for three years before founding NEDC in 2005.  He rapidly established the company as a leader in design excellence, winning over 30 awards and written about in over 30 publications, with over 5 million in annual revenue and 15+ amazing team members. An aspiring comedian, he currently practices on his wife & 2 children – they say he has a way to go.

Tufts 2002 graduate with a degree in Architecture—also played lacrosse.  Built New England Design & Construction from scratch, now one of Boston’s leading Design Build firms.  Passionate about Design Build as a fully natural and integrated design, planning and building process and returning Architect to its proper role of Master Builder – I.e. one who can both plan and DO.   (I could not build after graduating with an architectural degree which I felt had an aspect of falsity to it—I had to teach myself).  Built a creative, professional Design Build firm with vibrant people and artisan level build quality. We do high-end and luxury whole-home remodels in Boston.

Launched Design Build interview show where I interview industry leaders who are making a difference.

Establishing International Design Build Guild.

I am aspiring comedian and practice on my wife.

www.nedesignbuild.com

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Legal Disclosure | This podcast is for educational purposes only and provides general business advice for interior designers and design professionals. It is not intended as individual legal, accounting, or professional guidance. Kimberley Seldon and Business of Design® make no guarantees regarding accuracy and are not liable for how information is used. Strategies shared may not apply to every situation—listeners should seek qualified legal, financial, or professional advice before making business decisions. References and resources mentioned may change over time.

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