If Mike is anything, he’s passionate. He’s been involved with architecture since his first internship as a junior in college in 1999. He graduated from the University of Hartford in West Hartford, CT, and has been with Phase Zero Design since the company’s inception. Mike’s attention to detail sets him apart —he refuses to accept sloppy work. And he’s worked on projects all over the country for the likes of BCBGMAXAZRIA, Ann Taylor, Harry & David, Carter’s, and multiple hospitality projects for Compass Group including work for their Chartwells, Lackmann, and Morrison divisions.
In his role of Project Manager, he’s continually relied on his work ethic and the pride he has in his own production to drive himself and his team to always do better. “Being able to start a project from a simple sketch or idea and guide it through the various stages of its life cycle is enormously satisfying,” Mike says. And when a client is happy with the finished product he’s had a hand in creating? Even better.
Describe your dream project.
I am really interested in developing and designing a ground-up Food Hall. I’m looking forward to creating an entirely unique experience that is directly correlated to the campus brand, and that is prepared to serve a diverse and ever-changing student body.
What does it mean to you to be 100% client-centric?
Being 100% client-centric, to me, means placing a heavy emphasis on satisfying the client’s needs, as opposed to putting your own needs or ideas ahead of the client’s. The whole idea of “It’s about you” centers around the idea of putting the client first and making them heard and making them feel like they are an integral part of the overall process and not just forcing your own ideas down onto them. Every decision and action that is made should be done so with the customer in mind. It is about truly understanding the customer, so that you can anticipate their wants, needs, and communication preferences. Creating these meaningful experiences can help build lasting relationships with your clients.
What makes you most proud about being a Phase Zero Design employee?
As someone who has been with the company since its inception, I can truly say I am proud of how far we have come. From very humble beginnings we have grown to become a company that provides opportunities to all who are willing to work for it, notices the contributions of everyone from the most senior level project manager to the new person who is just getting started in the profession, encourages a healthy work-life balance, has a caring leadership team, and provides an environment filled with strong purpose and close working relationships.
Massachusetts
35 Pond Park Rd. Bay 16
Hingham, MA 02043
781-452-7121
Connecticut
8 Wilcox St.
Simsbury, CT 06070
860-264-1624