restaurant pretey

Obviously, previous work is the key. Don’t get wrapped up in press but rather, focus on the intangibles. Ask if the designer can collaborate: Is the designer willing to work with the client rather than only bring his or her ideas to the table. A healthy collaboration means checking one’s ego at the door.

Our first big break was in 2001. Jonathan Waxman called me to meet at the former Rose Café space on the corner of 5th Avenue and 9th Street. Ultimately, Jonathan hired me not because I was less expensive, but because he heard that I had the ability to provide a service without my ego getting in the way. The opening of Washington Park was a very proud moment for me as both Jonathan and I could sit back and enjoy the fact that we both participated in the process and became friends.