Tell us about yourself & your company?
Kathy: I’m the founder of Phase One Design. We’re a Vancouver-based building design + interior design firm. We work with homeowners across Western Canada and beyond. We specialize in leading homeowners through the ever-so-important custom home planning process, which can often be extremely confusing and intimidating.
How did you get into the residential construction industry?
Kathy: I actually started out as an on-site construction project manager! I fell in love with the industry. I started Phase One Design in 2006, and never looked back.
What keeps you in the industry?
Kathy: Excitement and the people! Every single day is different, presenting new opportunities and projects. I’m also very blessed to always end up being surrounded by amazing colleagues, clients and industry peers, which motivates me to bring my A-game to the table every single day.
While navigating covid-19, what new opportunities have you discovered?
Kathy: I believe every day and situation, including COVID, presents new opportunities. You just have to look for them. The biggest one I’ve discovered and leveraged is the amount of time you save by not having to commute. Don’t waste it. Use that time wisely….for self-care, learning something new, spending quality time with loved ones, etc. I’ve also learned the power of turning a bad situation into a positive one. It’s really about your mindset, which is so powerful at influencing your day-to-day. If you start every single day with a positive mindset (even if you don’t feel like it), it can have a dramatic impact on how you feel and the things you accomplish. Don’t ever underestimate the power of this.
It’s 11AM Saturday morning, what are you up to?
Kathy: Haha! Probably working… or if not, probably at the gym.
What are your hobbies?
Kathy: Hiking, climbing, running, golfing – pretty much anything outdoors. Does being a foodie qualify as a hobby? 🤔 If so, add that one to the list too please!
Proudest moment?
Kathy: The first time we one an award for one of our home designs
What have you done in your community in the last year?
Kathy: Mentoring up-and-coming designers, specifically students who are interested in the industry. I love being able to share my knowledge to help others.
Favourite HAVAN moment and why?
Kathy: Filming Parade of Homes introductions with Dawn Sondergaard and Sonali Rayas. We somehow managed to drive from West Vancouver to North Vancouver to Burnaby, touring and filming 3 different homes, all in 4 HOURS. I had a flight to catch immediately after, it was a crazy packed schedule, but we pulled it off and it ended up being so much fun!! Let me tell you, these two ladies are the epitome of organization and scheduling!
Best work perk at your job?
Kathy: Being able to choose who I work with…And I choose only to work with nice people.
Last HAVAN member you spoke to?
Kathy: Mike Freedman with Audio Insider
What inspires you?
Kathy: The fact that you only live once.
What are you excited for / looking forward to right now?
Kathy: A big huge post-COVID event and/or party with more than 50 people at it!
Share an interesting fact about your life?
Kathy: I was a tomboy growing up. I think that’s part of the reason why my first dream job was to be an on-site construction project manager. When I finally landed my dream job, I worked side-by-side with the trades on site, wore steel toes and a hard hat, and loved every minute of it. For those who know me, that’s a huge difference from my daily attire now that almost always involves heels of some kind (what can I say, I’m short! I need heels!! Haha! ). It was one of the best experiences of my life. I learned a TON.
Last piece of advice you have received?
Kathy: Just be you.
Starbucks order?
Kathy: Venti half-sweet Caramel Machiatto with light drizzle
Song on repeat right now?
Kathy: Spotify playlist – 90’s HITS
Where were you born?
Kathy: Calgary
Pets?
Kathy: Yes, my little French bulldog furbaby Brutus ❤
Favourite holiday / destination?
Kathy: Anywhere new that I’ve never visited before!
Does pineapple belong on pizza?
Kathy: Yes absolutely!
First concert?
Kathy: New Kids On The Block! Yes, I was an 80’s kid 🙂
Last book read?
Kathy: The 5 AM Club by Robin Sharma… for the third time
Fun fact about you?
Kathy: I’ll pretty much try anything once
What do you collect?
Kathy: Wine….although I find it challenging to keep my “collection” stocked for some reason…
Netflix guilty pleasure?
Kathy: Currently, Queen of the South
