Architectural firm approaches 75th anniversary

Real Estate Weekly,  Feb 19, 1997  

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"We want to be viewed as image creators as well as project executors," says Tarella. Ideally, retailers seeking to create a new image would work with GSTA on everything from strategy to design planning and execution.

Not only flexible in its pursuit of new business opportunities, GSTA also practices flexibility in its design philosophies in order to best address the needs of its clients. Though they describe themselves as "modernists," the partners are quick to point out that the firm is not wedded to any one particular design style. "Architects today need to have a clear understanding of the business of design," explains Greenfield. "A client's needs drive a project, rather than our own style or egos. We custom-tailor designs to suit our clients and their current and future requirements."

The firm wisely stops short, however, of trying to be all things to all people. "Every client is not for us," says Sawicki. "We have developed a niche for ourselves and we don't want to go very far beyond it. We would never promise something we couldn't deliver."

Any acknowledgment of GSTA's diversity would not be complete without acknowledging each current partner's contributions, since their individual strengths have created the successful balance that continues to drive the firm forward. Greenfield sees himself as the voice of age and experience. "Knowledge of the client's business is first and foremost," he reflects. "I know how to develop clients and I know how to keep clients - and I've also been dealing with management issues for many years."

Tarella labels himself the "ego" of the crowd. "I have a strong design background and I represent new blood," he says. "I have a good sense of balance in terms of being able to both design and produce projects, and I love to be hands-on. I've also brought a new marketing thrust to the firm, and I'm constantly looking for other niches that we earn fill."

"I have a healthy way of interacting with clients," notes Sawicki. "They trust me and feel good about dealing with me - even the tough ones. I'm also the most patient, and I have a good understanding of the business requirements of running a firm in terms of business strategy and decision-making."

As the partners contemplate 75 years and beyond, one thing is certain. Three has never been a crowd at Greenfield.Sawicki.Tarella Architects.

COPYRIGHT 1997 Hagedorn Publication
COPYRIGHT 2008 Gale, Cengage Learning