High-end home design and construction projects often resemble the making of a Hollywood movie: they are big, complex undertakings that involve an entire team of creative, highly trained professionals. At their best, they can embody a shared vision and dedication to achieving top results for the client. But there are also inevitably areas where responsibilities overlap, where budget or time constraints conflict with aesthetic preferences, where personal relationships and communication can go awry. The goal of this B/A/D Talk is to consider best practices for how a design and building team can work together most happily and productively. What are the most successful methods of communication? How are areas of shared control negotiated? How can you make sure that everyone--including the client--feels informed, respected, and empowered to make her or his best contribution?

Panelists:

Interior designer Jennifer Palumbo, Jennifer Palumbo, Inc., Newton, MA

Gerald D. (Gerry) Frank, Bechtel Frank Erickson Architects, Lexington, MA

Jeff Adams, J. W. Adams Construction Company, Concord, MA

Joe Wahler, Stephen Stimson Associates, Cambridge, MA