Kitchen & Bath Business - May/June 2017 - 37

are slow. When things are not good, you need to
spend money and put your face out there."
Gilder is known for her clean architectural
design and California modern style and says it's
important to hone communication skills and to
have the right people in place.
"Clear and concise communication among
the designer, clients, the GC, subs and vendors is
critical in delivering a successful final product,"she
said."Having the right team in place really ensures
our projects run smoothly, which is of great value
to our clients."
LESSONS LEARNED

Gilder

"There is an art to selling design! Not every client
can easily visualize the finished product in plans,
elevations, details and concept boards alone.
Presenting a 3D perspective sketch or rendering
will invariably seal the deal.
"When construction is involved - no matter how
seasoned we are - something will go awry. It's to
be expected, but it's how we smoothly troubleshoot those onsite issues that is key.
Reynolds

"Learn different ways of communicating - not
everyone is the same.
"Spend more time up front getting to know

your clients so you can navigate the process
more successfully.
"Listen to their needs and what they want, validate their ideas, and incorporate their thoughts.
CLEARING HURDLES

While both designers were affected by the Great
Recession, they overcame the obstacles and came
out successful on the other side.
"When you face tough financial times you have
no control over, you have to figure out how to refuel
and convey the benefits of your services,"said Reynolds. "In this industry, we need to keep our selling
skills fine-tuned. Find out what you are made of as
a business owner, invest in your business, and figure
out how to make it succeed no matter what."
Gilder used the recession to start blogging,
which she said introduced her to the social media
world - where an online design community was
spawning - and to some of her best friends, colleagues and collaborators.
IMPORTANCE OF LEARNING, ATTENDING AND
BEING SOCIAL

According to Reynolds, she can't remember a year
she didn't go to the Kitchen and Bath Industry
Show, and Gilder says by attending such industry
events they are supporting their existing vendors
and building relationships with new ones.

Technology
Today

When asked if they are incorporating
more technology into their kitchen and
bath projects, Gilder and Reynolds said
yes in terms of appliances and plumbing
fixtures, but they admit this is still a new
topic for designers.
"Today so much is driven by new
technology, and it is up to us to keep
learning and taking that back to our clients," said Gilder.
"People are still a little afraid of it because they think it is complicated, but they
know they have to jump because of the
way things are moving," added Reynolds.

ABOVE & RIGHT Reynolds

and Gilder designed a tracery
ceiling detail to draw the eye
upward and create architectural detail in the Napa Valley
Showhouse kitchen. An island
on casters can be moved anywhere in the long and narrow
space and can also be used as
a buffet or bar cart. Viking appliances include a dual-fuel range,
custom ventilator system,
dishwasher, microwave drawer
and bottom-freezer refrigerator.

Kitchen & Bath Business - May/June 2017

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