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Nova
Designs + Builds aesthetic sensibilities keep developing , and our approach is changing constantly as we learn .
“ Alongside this , we try and design to a budget . We ’ re usually within ten percent of whatever budget we set . As such , we reverse engineer , and design with cost control in mind , while striving to achieve aesthetic satisfaction . We have a robust database that enables us to drive cost containment , and I believe this is something that sets us apart within the sector .”
Respectful , reciprocal partnerships
With a double major in music composition and classical studies , John ’ s route into the industry was far from textbook . From a chance opportunity to refurbish his existing accommodation , he went on to flip properties and seek out opportunities to add value to renovation projects . “ The company I was buying cabinets from , was a Swedish company called Swenova . They asked me if I would be interested in taking over the business . So , I did , and that became Nova . It ’ s certainly been a steep learning curve but a rewarding one , for sure . Our vision , for a long time , has been to try and create an enjoyable work environment . Subcontractors form an integral part of our workforce . As such , we try to ensure they make money working with us , feel part of the team , and are supported . We extend this approach to our vendor relationships too . It ’ s equally important to foster respectful and reciprocal partnerships with our suppliers .”
Looking to the future , John shares his hopes for the coming year . “ We have two very large projects in San Francisco that we hope to finish in 2024 ,” he continues . “ One is probably going to be a $ 20 million home and the other is approaching $ 11 million . Current economic factors make the market unpredictable . That said , we should complete two projects in Napa that will go on the market in 2024 . Beyond that , we ’ ll break ground on a further two or three homes in the same area . As an organization , we ’ ve never advertised for work but always seem to have three years of work ahead of us . I ’ m always looking for projects that make sense , but it ’ s unpredictable how and when you find them .
“ In 2024 , we hope to find opportunities and other projects , because I think this year will pick up . People are adjusting to the economic circumstances . While there has been a swathe of unpredictable factors ,” he concludes , “ we ’ re just going to roll with the punches as they come . We have learned that over the last 35 years !” ■
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