Gregg Venable | Founder of Draaw Studio

Gregg Venable, founder of Draaw Studio, LLC — An Architectural Design Studio — joins host Phil Bonelli as our featured guest on this segment of North Georgia Business Radio.

Gregg brings with him a wealth of experience and expertise in the architectural and design industry. He’s sharing with us why his unique approach to effective client collaboration sets him apart from other design firms and how he’s able to maintain the delicate balance between technical knowledge and the ability to interpret and communicate client needs effectively.

Phil and Gregg are also talking about what it takes to start a side hustle while working a full-time job!

Key Highlights of This Episode:

00:00:33 – Building the Business You Want
The discussion begins with a focus on being intentional about building a business, followed by an introduction to Greg Venable and Draw Studios, an architectural design firm.

00:04:16 – The Value of Collaboration
Phil and Greg emphasize the importance of collaboration in the design and architecture process, as well as the role of architects in challenging and guiding clients’ ideas to provide better solutions.

00:11:56 – Transitioning from Drafter to Architect
Greg shares insights into the transition from being a drafter to an architect, highlighting the role of an architect in adding value to clients’ ideas by challenging and enhancing them based on expertise and experience.

00:15:32 – Adding Value to Your Business
Gregg discusses the importance of adding value to your business by challenging and adding to your products or services. He emphasizes the need to look for opportunities to improve and exceed customer expectations.

00:16:16 – Begin with the End in Mind
Gregg and Phil talk about the importance of starting with the end goal in mind for any project. Whether it’s a new build or a renovation, understanding the ultimate outcome is crucial in providing the best solutions for clients.

00:17:59 – Starting Your Own Firm
Gregg shares his journey of starting his own firm and the importance of doing side projects that don’t conflict with your primary job. He highlights the value of entrepreneurial mindset and how it can benefit both employees and employers.

00:20:26 – Supporting Entrepreneurial Employees
Phil and Gregg discuss how employers can support entrepreneurial employees by allowing them to pursue side projects and gain additional expertise. They also emphasize the benefits of employees thinking like owners and how it can improve their performance.

00:24:15 – Community Support and Collaboration
The conversation shifts to discussions about local restaurants and the importance of community support. They highlight the success stories of local businesses and the value of collaboration within the community.

00:30:28 – The Importance of Side Projects
Greg discusses the value of side projects and how his past employer supported him in pursuing his own architectural design firm, Draw Studio, as long as it didn’t conflict with his primary job.

00:33:12 – Efficiency and Prioritization
Phil and Greg delve into the importance of efficiency and prioritization, emphasizing the need to focus on multiple tasks without conflicting or overlapping, leading to better performance and growth.

00:36:33 – Surrounding Yourself with Supportive People
Phil and Greg emphasize the significance of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals and fostering a positive work environment, suggesting that a toxic work environment can hinder personal and professional growth.

00:37:33 – Client-Focused Growth Strategy
Greg explains his strategy for building his architectural firm, focusing on finding clients that provide repeat work or referrals, emphasizing the value of being selective and niche to add more value.

00:40:15 – Conclusion and Contact Information
Phil wraps up the conversation by highlighting Greg’s entrepreneurial endeavors and architectural services, encouraging listeners to support local businesses and contact North Georgia Business Radio X for future highlights.