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EMAIL lesm@designdevelopment.com
PHONE 919.848.4474, 1002
EDUCATION
Architectural Drafting & Design Degree |
Wake Tech, Raleigh, NC
WITH FIRM SINCE 1998
Les proudly served in the United States Marine Corps.
LES MURRAY
CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION
Q
&
A
with Les Murray
What is s a memorable moment you have had working with a client?
"While working on the amphitheater and courtyard at St. David’s School, I assisted the Brassfield & Gorrie superintendent in laying out the sidewalks the old-fashioned way—using approximately 1,500 feet of string to ensure they aligned precisely with the centerline of the amphitheater stairs and the flagpole. It was a great reminder of how much effort goes into turning a design concept into a finished product—and the final result was truly impressive.
What’s your favorite part of your role at the firm?
"I get to see our designs come to life from installing the footings to getting the Certificate of Occupancy.
What's a memorable moment you’ve had working with a client or colleague?
"While at MOLAS looking at the bear encloser I was standing a couple of feet away from a window when a big black bear stuck his head and arm into the window to say good morning.
How has technology changed the way you manage construction over the years ?
"When I first began working in Construction Administration, everything was handled on paper. It would take weeks just to mark up seven identical copies of submittals before they were distributed. We also had to maintain original hard copies of every Change Order for each team member. Now, everything is done digitally.
Tell us something about yourself.
"I play Santa Clause every Christmas for the kids - and for many years I would bleach my hair white each December 1st.
What do you think is key to a successful architectural office–builder relationship?
"The best owner-architect-contractor relationships during construction are built on open, honest communication, with transparency and no hidden agendas.
What’s one of the most important lessons you’ve learned overseeing construction projects?
"There is not a perfect set of drawings, there is not a perfectly built building in this world. But there are a lot of beautiful buildings.