Today we’d like to introduce you to Kim Centrone, AIA.
Hi Kim, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Growing up in Massachusetts I was always interested in architecture and construction. I watched my grandfather in his woodworking shop and listened to colorful stories about my great-grandmother, a feisty immigrant from Lithuania who was a developer of quality post-WWII housing. When the time came to choose an undergraduate major, I chose Building Materials & Wood Technology at UMass Amherst, essentially a construction technology program. I got my hands dirty with Habitat for Humanity and worked summers in lumber yards and doing warranty repairs for a major home builder. I learned so much, and I loved it.
My undergraduate degree led to four years of working in general contracting in Boston and Manchester-by-the-Sea on projects such as restaurants, museums, student housing, a music hall, and high-end coastal residential projects. The work was interesting but when I looked around, I didn’t see a career path within general contracting that scratched my creative itch. I wanted to do what the architect across the hall was doing.
I earned my Master of Architecture degree from the University of Maryland College Park in 2014. For several years I worked for local firms on multifamily, office, corporate amenity, and biotech projects. Ultimately, though, my passion is for custom residential work. I started Savvy Design Studio in 2021 as a sole-practitioner custom residential architecture firm. I am dedicated to working directly with homeowners to use all my rich, varied, and unique experience and skills to make their dreams come to life.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I love being a business owner and I am fueled by the constant juggling required to keep all the balls in the air. There are always challenges, some professional, some personal. They do keep things interesting.
Making the leap from employee to business owner requires a whole different mindset. Building up a trusted network of local professional partners – contractors, interior designers, engineers – simply takes time. While I handle the architecture, these are the people who I rely on to interpret, enhance, and execute the architectural vision. Good communication is a requirement.
Then there is the matter of running a business and having two school-aged children. Time management has become a science. Project deadlines and taking the Girl Scout troop camping are coordinated on the same calendar.
As you know, we’re big fans of Savvy Design Studio, LLC. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Savvy Design Studio is a boutique residential architecture firm serving Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC specializing in creative and inspired custom design. Projects include new homes, residential additions, and transformative residential alterations such as reconfigurations and façade upgrades.
When you work with me, you engage directly with a registered architect throughout the entire process, from concept to completion. Personalized attention and perks such as a 3D walk-through for larger projects are hallmarks of my business.
Savvy Design is a Collaborative design process, where clients are heard and understood; a Creative approach for beautiful design outcomes and outside-the-box problem solving; and Custom solutions, catered to how your family lives while protecting your investment.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
I have learned so much in almost five years as a business owner, I’m not sure where to start. The most important thing is communication. I publish more information on my website than most architects do, so that clients and potential clients may use it as a resource. My agreements with clients are detailed and clear, so everyone knows what to expect. Any surprises during the design process should be fun ones!
Construction can be stressful for homeowners. It’s important for them to feel confident in the design we’ve developed together, for us all to keep the goal in mind, and to know that I am there for them as a resource and advocate if needed. Setting expectations with the team and going in with well-intentioned, honest professionals is critical for a successful project.
Pricing:
- Pricing varies by project size, scope, and level of service. Typically, full architectural services from concept through the end of construction will run about 12-18% of construction cost, with 15% being typical. Minimum fees apply to bring a project through permit for small projects with a construction cost of about $50,000 or less.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://w.savvydesignstudio.net/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kim.centrone.architect/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/savvydesignstudiomd/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-centrone-aia-b310a242/
Image Credits
1. Headshot: Bruna Photography
2. Modern entry porch: Vertical Bird
3. Barn: Kim Centrone
4. Kitchen: Vertical Bird
5. Gray house: Peter Evans Photography
6. Dining room: Peter Evans Photography
7. Kitchen island/living room: Peter Evans Photography
