Studio Insights: The Interconnection of Equipment and Workflow

Design-build projects look somewhat different in a pandemic. Timelines, budgets and materials are often in flux. Whether it’s a permanent installation for studios or one-day events, planning makes all the difference, as does having the right team. Discussing this subject, Studio Insights Host Tyler Kern spoke with Stefan Koniarz, project manager for Centerstage Global, and Peter Provost, president and director of design at Provost Studio.

As a project manager, Koniarz wears many “hats” to get the job done. “As a project manager, I can oversee it. As a technical director, I know what needs to happen. As a design manager, I can help make choices for what will work for fabrication,”he explained.

With his extensive experience, navigating through the pandemic difficulties was doable, but not easy. Koniarz noted how realistic timelines are now one of the more stressing components of the planning process. For instance, a regular item like laminates now may have a six-week lead time or is even back-ordered, which is less than ideal for both the customer and business.

With material availability in question, Koniarz and Provost noted that planning, expectations and being flexible are critical. However, shorter turn projects have the most pressure. “When you get with clients on a 90-day project and ideas start spinning, you need all the players in place so we can determine what we can deliver.”

Provost added, “That’s why we design-build in two phases. Phase one is the concept, parameters and scope. Having Stefan in that phase helps me know if something will work before we get to phase two.”

For more information about Provost Studio and their services, please head to www.provost-studio.com.