Dear Expert: A couple we know hired an architect and 
by the end of their project they felt that the design they received was what their architect wanted—and not what they, the clients, wanted. How can this be avoided?
A. Regular, direct communication is key. Our firm prides itself in checking our “ego” at the door. We constantly strive to truly listen to our clients’ desires and aspirations. We record a detailed program from the start of every project and revisit/modify accordingly throughout. Our office is very versatile in many different 
design styles, and our goal is to design a home that 100 perfect reflects you, not us.
—Jeff Murphy, Lead Designer, Owner, Murphy & Co. Design
