June 9, 2009 issue

My coming to Eastern Michigan University was almost purely by luck. I wasn't looking for a job at the time. A friend of mine was and saw the posting. I had been at George Hartman Architects (in Bloomfield Hills) for 12 years and never considered leaving.

It's the best move I ever made. It's a great team atmosphere in the physical plant. I've never worked with a better group of people on a day-to-day basis.

Before I came here, I was focused solely on the design side. Here, I expected to and fully participate in the planning and construction. I get to see a project from beginning to end. I get to see its use, its life. I get to see its end use. Most architects and designers don't usually get to see that.

Downing Hall renovation was my very first project at Eastern Michigan University. We did nine to 12 months of work in four months. We managed to get it done and it's my understanding the students are still really enjoying it. I also had a lot of fun with McKenny Hall. We were able to restore it back to its grandeur. With Mark Jefferson, right now, we're working on what the building will physically look like in terms of materials and finishes; what the bricks and mortar is actually going to be. At Pray-Harrold (renovation), we're in the planning and designing phase. It's fun to find solutions that meet multiple needs at the same time.

The best part of my job is that I get to participate in a lot of different phases of the construction. I get to work with students, faculty, staff, architects, contractors and collectively create a design solution to meet their needs. I do get to see it from beginning to end and then during its useful life. Obviously, the team atmosphere in the physical plant makes that possible. No one person goes out and does it all. — Contributed by Ron Podell

 

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