Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicholas Tsontakis.
Hi Nicholas, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My father was an architect, so I unthinkingly declared “architecture” as my major when applying to ASU (Arizona State University). As a freshman, I paid less attention to the work part of the university and mainly focused on the social aspect; only when I took a course on the theory and history of architecture did I get hooked. I learned about the lives and work of Frank Lloyd Wright, Mies van der Rohe, Le Corbusier, and the writing of Robert Venturi. It was then that I found a true purpose and drive to pursue architecture as my profession and dedicate my career to pursuing excellence in design. I started my business in 2010 as a drafting business for local residential architects and transitioned the company into a full-service architecture firm when I got my license in 2015. Our love for the field continues to grow with each project.
Please talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned. Looking back, it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect.
Ha! It has been rough, but worth it. The biggest struggle is balancing a passion to create with the realities of running a business. Simple things like knowing how much to charge, how to balance books, how to sell, and how to advertise took a lot of work. I just wanted to design beautiful buildings, which is also very difficult! However, I have taken courses and continue to learn how to design a profitable business that also allows me to design beautiful buildings. I continue to grow as a business owner and architect every day, and the challenges make the reward much sweeter.
As you know, we’re big fans of Dwell Boldly. What can you tell our readers who might need to be more familiar with the brand?
Dwell Boldly is a contemporary architecture firm practicing in Phoenix, a wonderful current city with a rich history. We specialize in modern architecture that fulfills our client’s dreams and also respects the physical surroundings and historical context where the building exists. We are proud of our name; it expresses our belief that when you hire us, you get something bold and unique that expresses yourself.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
To find a mentor, first get clear on your goals, then tell as many people as you know what those goals are, then listen to them when they say, “You should meet [this person]. They do exactly what you are talking about:” Find that person and ask them if you can buy them coffee because you respect what they do and want to learn from them.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.dwellboldly.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dwellboldly
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwz740y87k4sUQVq8Uh8g3Q
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