Design Development

Rens Hayes
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Design Development is your hub to learn direct from top professionals in real estate, development, design, and construction!

  1. 12/30/2025

    160: Ambition's Dilemma: Navigating Career Success and Life

    As listeners prepare to enter 2026, this episode offers a thought-provoking discussion navigating the often challenging interplay between career ambitions and personal life, with the goal of finding contentment in current paths while still striving for success. This week’s episode explores the balance between pursuing professional goals and maintaining healthy relationships with family and friends, with a warning against subconscious comparisons and ego-driven decisions pulling focus away from real values. By setting constraints on time allocation and problem-solving strategies, the conversation emphasizes self-awareness and disciplined action. Success in career and personal life doesn’t require sacrificing one for the other. It requires smart scheduling and prioritizing what truly matters. The episode closes as a grounded exploration of how awareness and long-term thinking sharpen decisions and drive personal fulfillment. Key Takeaways: The balance between career ambition and personal life is possible without sacrificing meaningful relationships or well-being.Self-awareness and disciplined action are key to achieving both professional and personal success.Identifying the right problems to solve is crucial to avoiding wasted effort and addressing root causes rather than symptoms.Long-term thinking helps to improve short-term decision-making and can lead to greater contentment and success over time.A commitment to lifelong learning is essential for uncovering blind spots and enhancing personal growth.Notable Quotes: "Finding content in who you are, the path you're on, the goals you have, and really the life that you're building.""You can advance your relationship with your kids, your relationship with your friends, your relationship with your spouse and pursue career goals.""You need to set constraints on your time and how you're allocating those across the areas of your life.""The root to all of those challenges we face in life is the root to constant pursuit of learning."Thank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend. Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go! Leave your thoughts in the comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

    13 min

  2. 12/23/2025

    159: Building a $500M+ Business Ecosystem with CEO Eric Garrett (Re-Run)

    Eric Garrett is the CEO and founder of The Garrett Companies, a multi-faceted holding company focusing on national multifamily development, construction, and asset management. Over the span of a decade, Eric has engineered The Garrett Companies into a $500 million annual revenue business, achieving notable growth with a unique approach in site evaluation and development. Eric's background spans real estate brokerage, banking, and multifamily development, showcasing his vast industry knowledge and entrepreneurial spirit. In this episode of Design Development, host Rens Hayes interviews Eric Garrett, CEO and founder of The Garrett Companies. The conversation delves deep into the complexities of growing a multifaceted real estate development and construction business that has achieved phenomenal growth since its inception in 2014. Eric shares insights into his unique site evaluation strategies, the importance of operational excellence, and his company's expansion into various sectors including capital fundraising, subcontracting, and restaurants. Eric Garrett's journey from a career in banking and brokerage to founding a multifamily development empire is explored, highlighting key lessons and strategies. From hiring slow and methodically to leveraging technology and AI for site selection, Eric reveals what makes The Garrett Companies stand out in the competitive real estate market. The conversation also touches upon the importance of company culture, strategic advisory teams, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that has guided their success. Key Takeaways: Eric shares how The Garrett Companies leverage their proprietary site evaluation software, augmented by AI, to identify lucrative development sites swiftly.Deep dive into their slow, meticulous hiring process ensuring cultural fit and technical expertise, contributing to high employee retention.Insights into maintaining a vibrant company culture through unique team-building activities and a strong pursuit of excellence principle.Discussion on strategically expanding into new markets and adding business lines in subcontracting and capital funds to create a self-sustaining development ecosystem.Eric’s career trajectory offers valuable lessons on seizing opportunities, understanding every facet of the business, and applying a holistic approach to real estate development.Thank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend. Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go! Leave your thoughts in the comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

    56 min

  3. 12/16/2025

    158: Rob Hagan, Associate Principal at CBT Architects

    Rob Hagan is an Associate Principal at CBT Architects, where he leads multifamily, mixed-use, housing, and hospitality work with a focus on retail planning and the public realm. With more than 25 years in practice, Rob brings a global perspective shaped by projects across the U.S., Abu Dhabi, Taiwan, and Europe. In this episode, Rob explains why retail and the public realm are inextricably linked and how the experience economy is transforming urban development. He shares how online shopping, hybrid retail models, and data-driven design are changing what belongs at the ground floor, and why understanding human behavior is crucial to the success of mixed-use projects. The conversation also explores Rob’s career journey, leadership philosophy, and commitment to inclusive culture. From mentoring young architects to founding initiatives like CBT Proud and Out in Design, Rob offers a clear view on how thoughtful leadership and community-building strengthen both firms and the industry. Key Takeaways Ground-floor retail shapes how people experience buildings.The experience economy is redefining urban retail design.Cultural context changes how architecture works and is lived in.Strong leadership comes from trust, inclusion, and empowering teams.Notable Quotes “The place where the average person has a chance to really have a meaningful experience with your building, if they’re not living there or working there, is at the ground level of the building.” - Rob"The best ideas are really the ones that come from multiple viewpoints coming to the table. And it’s not one individual who decides. Some of the tough decisions are the ones that are made through consensus." - Rob“[People are] really focused on going and making meaningful experiences. They’re not focused on going out and grabbing a good at a particular store as much as they used to be.” - Rob“Success in the business world is equal parts what you know and who you know, and the relationships you’re able to build really are the thing that can catalyze the next opportunity for you.” - Rob"I always tell people that leadership really is an act of continual greater efforts for selflessness. If you’re doing it right, it’s not about you. You are a conduit to meeting your clients’ needs and providing your team the opportunity to grow and learn."- RobResources:  CBT ArchitectsRob HaganBook Recommendations: Turn the Ship Around! by David Marquet, Start With Why by Simon Sinek, and The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick LencioniThank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend. Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go! Leave your thoughts in the comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

    44 min

  4. 12/10/2025

    157: Growthitect Guest Episode: Why “Word of Mouth” Is Failing Most Architecture Firms with Rens Hayes

    This week's episode is a guest episode on the Growthitect Podcast with Tyler Suomala (also featured in Design Development, Episode 147). Our discussion offers an insightful exploration into building a robust, long-term growth strategy that effectively balances relationship building with strategic marketing, since word of mouth alone may not suffice in today's competitive landscape.  I unpack the prevalent myth that architecture and engineering firms can thrive on word of mouth alone by emphasizing the necessity of developing a comprehensive business strategy. With an aim to equip firm owners with the right tools, the conversation navigates through essential concepts like the identification of the ideal customer and the critical importance of delivering distinguishable value.  Key Takeaways: Value Articulation: Understanding and clearly articulating the unique value your firm provides is essential for attracting ideal clients and driving successful word-of-mouth marketing.Strategic Growth Planning: Avoid relying solely on word of mouth; instead, implement a long-term growth strategy that includes active marketing and brand consistency.Client Language: Communicate your firm's value in terms that resonate with clients, like cost savings or efficiency improvements, rather than industry jargon.Business Resilience: In downturns, firms that demonstrate clearly defined value propositions and strategic marketing plans maintain a competitive edge.Continual Learning: Constantly seek out business education opportunities to mitigate risks and increase the value of your firm over time.Notable Quotes: "The actual goal is to win the right project with the right customer for the right price. It's not to win every project at any price." – Rens Hayes"Word of mouth doesn't just mean, like, I hope they say Rens is cool. It's about what they are actually saying about your firm." – Tyler Suomala"A lot of businesses are the same. The unique part is the industry-specific delivery." – Rens Hayes"How do architects know if word-of-mouth referrals will not dry up, and are they prepared for when that day comes?" – Tyler Suomala"If you don't know who you serve and how you create value to them, you can't influence word of mouth in the right direction." – Rens HayesResources: H+O Structural EngineeringLinkedIn: Follow Rens HayesThe Compound Effect by Darren HardyExtreme Ownership by Jocko WillinkThank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend. Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go! Leave your thoughts in the comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

    39 min

  5. 12/03/2025

    156: The Impact of Mission-Driven Real Estate with Anyeley Hallová, CEO of Adre

    Anyeley Hallová is the founder and CEO of Adre, a socially responsible real estate development company. She's committed to introducing inclusivity and equity in real estate, focusing on sustainable and socially beneficial development practices. She has an extensive educational background, including a Master’s in City Planning from MIT and a Master’s in Landscape Architecture from Harvard. She even impacted changes in the International Building Code advancing mass timber construction. She shares her journey from co-founder of project^, where she gained insights into sustainable design, to launching Adre, driven by her passion for promoting equity and environmental stewardship in urban planning. She speaks candidly about the systemic issues in housing policies influenced by historical discrimination and highlights how projects can be guided by core values rather than mere market trends.  Key Takeaways: Socially responsible real estate development integrates inclusive practices at every phase, focusing on who owns, designs, builds, and benefits from the property.The challenges faced by real estate developers can be countered with innovative funding solutions, combining philanthropy and investment for a blended return.Essential for progress is the incorporation of community needs and feedback, avoiding 'cookie-cutter' solutions in diverse locations.Notable Quotes: “Socially responsible real estate development requires thinking about ownership, community, and sustainable design at every phase.” – Anyeley“You can't manage what you don't measure. Innovative organizations create their own standards and metrics.” – Rens Hayes“The financial activism space is about using your money and your impact to create equity.” – Anyeley“Developers can solve issues with influence, not just with a project.” – AnyeleyResources: The book "Color of Law" by Richard Rothstein: Influential in Anyeley’s transition towards starting Adre."Coming to America" Podcast: Hosted by Anyeley’s husband, exploring immigration stories.A Kid's Book About Real Estate Development: Authored by Anyeley, aiming to introduce children to the fundamentals of real estate development.Thank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend. Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go! Leave your thoughts in the comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

    49 min

  6. 11/26/2025

    155: Mastering the Approval Process and Operations in Architecture with Matt Marotta, Managing Principal/COO at Icon Architecture

    Matt Marotta is the Managing Principal and Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Icon Architecture. With a diverse background in architecture and operations, Matt has been instrumental in leading projects across residential, institutional, and public domains. Having begun his career at Icon as an intern, Matt has risen through the ranks over two decades, becoming an owner and pivotal figure in the firm's leadership team.  Through a detailed discussion, Matt unveils the technological evolution within the architectural field, from hand drawings to AutoCAD and BIM, weighing the benefits and challenges each innovation brings. He highlights the critical balance between project management and operations, sharing strategies for fostering junior staff development and maintaining high-quality design standards. The episode also touches on the impact of AI in architecture, offering a glimpse into future efficiencies and opportunities in the industry. Key Takeaways: Stakeholder Collaboration: Successful project approval hinges on engaging stakeholders, iterating designs, and incorporating community feedback.Career Growth: Embrace new challenges and mentorship; ownership opportunities often arise from initiative and strategic learning.Technological Transition: From 2D drafting to BIM, each tool in architecture has strengths and challenges, and future innovation like AI promises further evolution.Team Development: Focusing on employee strengths and facilitating continuous learning are essential for a productive architectural practice.Balancing Roles: Operational success in architecture requires juggling multiple responsibilities while empowering team autonomy.Notable Quotes: "You always have to give something back... whether it's how it presents itself or how it fits into the urban fabric.""Ownership wasn't something I was ready for, but I don't think anyone ever is.""AI can probably get us to that next level... helping us with the errors in our construction.""As a managing principal, you can't be the champion for solving every problem on your projects.""Finding what your skill set is... as a junior staff, connects you with someone who can guide you."Resources: Icon ArchitectureWentworth Institute of TechnologyThe Six Types of Working Genius by Patrick Lencioni Matt MorottaThank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend. Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go! Leave your thoughts in the comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

    47 min

  7. 11/19/2025

    154: Navigating Career Growth from Project Architect to Principal w/ David Tabenken, Principal at Hacin

    David Tabenken is a seasoned architect and principal at Hacin, a renowned architectural design firm. With over two decades of experience in the field, David has worked on a diverse range of projects, including urban design and campus planning at Carnegie Mellon University and influential interior design endeavors like the restaurant Myers and Chang in Boston's South End.  David provides rich insights into the cultural heart of Hacin, emphasizing collaboration, innovation, and the importance of interdisciplinary thinking in fostering exceptional design. He reflects on the company's commitment to blending architectural visions with interior design early in the development phase, a strategy incorporating multiple perspectives, thus enriching the creative process. The conversation traverses projects ranging from local gems in Boston to residential stretches across the U.S., showcasing David's proficiency and dedication to architectural excellence.  Key Takeaways: Integration of Interior Design: Exemplifying how integrating interior design into architectural projects from the conceptual stage leads to more cohesive and impactful designs.Durability as a Metric: Using the longevity of a space without renovation as an indicator of successful design, as illustrated by the lasting impact of the Myers and Chang project.Cultivating Company Culture: David discusses the benefits of fostering a collegial and loyal company culture at Hacin, contributing to staff retention and firm stability even in economic fluctuations.Strategic Growth: The importance of deliberate and incremental firm growth, maintaining quality and stability without succumbing to rapid expansion pressures.Diversity in Influence: Celebrating the diverse educational and cultural backgrounds within Hacin’s team, enriching the firm’s creative approach and innovative problem-solving.Notable Quotes: "Having interior design integrated into our office has really impacted the way we do architecture." - David Tabenken"We're loyal to him [David Hacin], he makes it a good place to work, and he's very loyal to his staff." - David Tabenken"I always made it clear what was important to me was kind of growing as an architect, making sure I was not just doing design." - David Tabenken"At the end of the day, what you're designing needs to be good." - David TabenkenResources: HacinBooks: "How to Tell a Story: The Essential Guide to Memorable Storytelling from The Moth"Thank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend. Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go! Leave your thoughts in the comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

    48 min

  8. 11/12/2025

    153: James Gray, Senior Principal at Stantec

    James Gray is a seasoned architect and Senior Principal at Stantec, a leading global design and consulting firm. With a career spanning over three decades, he has been instrumental in leading significant growth and transitions in the architecture and construction industry. Starting at AD Inc., James cultivated a successful trajectory which eventually led to the company’s acquisition by Stantec.  Throughout the episode, James discusses the roles of cultural alignment in mergers and acquisitions, particularly highlighting the synergies realized through Stantec's acquisition of Page. With a focus on sustainability, the episode examines how urban architecture can solve environmental challenges and the potential of technology and policies in shaping the future. James also shares personal anecdotes about his career influences and pivotal projects, offering insights into the intricacies of architectural design and development from a leadership perspective. By understanding broader economic forces and trends, James provides practical strategies for thriving in both prosperous and challenging times within the industry. Key Takeaways: Leadership in Transition: James emphasizes the importance of building motivated teams and aligning their passion with organizational goals during periods of transition and growth.Navigating Economic Challenges: The episode provides insights into strategies for resilience and innovation in the face of economic downturns and market changes.Cultural Alignment in M&A: Discusses the critical role of cultural compatibility in successful mergers and acquisitions, drawing from the Page and Stantec integration.Sustainability in Architecture: Explores how urban densification and the evolution of environmental policies can address the challenges posed by climate change.Future of Design and Technology: Highlights the growing importance of electrification and artificial intelligence in shaping the future of architectural design and sustainability.Notable Quotes: "At the end of the day, motivation is the most important, and helping people be motivated for the kind of greater good is what I found to be the best recipe.""A big company is really a collection of individuals. It's a bigger collection, but it's still, and it has leadership. And the leaders of this company care about the work.""Insatiable curiosity is really important to being good at anything, frankly, and certainly in this business.""I like to say that I've been wildly more successful than I ever imagined.""Sometimes people probably called me nosy, which is sort of the other connotation of the same kind of set of behaviors."Resources: Stantec Thank you so much for listening and thank you for joining the Design Development community. Don't forget to subscribe to hear about the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend. Our goal is to help people in the industry identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of top performers. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story. Let's go! Leave your thoughts in the comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

    58 min
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About

Design Development is your hub to learn direct from top professionals in real estate, development, design, and construction!

Information

  • Creator
    Rens Hayes
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    160
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Design Development
  • Show Website
    Design Development

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