A Century of Inspired Design

2009 is the 100 year anniversary of the founding of our firm.

I was reviewing the Modern Healthcare Magazine survey of design firms today (TRO JungBrannen is ranked number eight for those of you who follow that national publication) and discovered that of the 100 firms that were listed, only five have been in business longer than we have. Now, there are literally thousands of firms currently in practice in this country, many of whom are single practitioners, and although the AIA may not keep records regarding the longevity of design firms, it is very probable that those with a record of continuous practice of 100 years or more make up less than one percent of our profession!

Now, I usually don’t make a big deal about our firm’s one hundred year legacy simply because it has never before seemed like a highly important issue to our clients. But, I am rethinking that premise because these are unusual economic times, and many design firms are under unprecedented financial strain. Our clients, of course, are looking for stable, viable business partners with sustainable practices. They make significant investments in our professional services and they have a right to expect us to be there from the beginning to the end of their projects - a timeframe that often encompasses several years.

Our firm’s stability is reinforced in many ways. We have over 140 clients with whom we have active design commissions, and they represent the very best their respective industries have to offer. Our repeat business rate is among the highest in the design profession – over 90%. Of the more than 70 Principals and Senior Associates who share ownership of the firm, the majority have been with us for more than 15 years. Finally, we are broadly diversified in the services we offer, in the regions we practice, and in the markets we serve.

Design firms are a bit like restaurants…..they come and go. But the ones that offer extraordinary service, value, and quality endure.

Happy 100th birthday, TRO JungBrannen!