“I had the pleasurable experience as the Interior Designer, and part of the construction team to work with Lavern as the Project manager on a 12,000 sq. ft. commercial build in Edmonton. The Edmonton Mennonite Guest House is an affordable house for people from outside of Edmonton to stay while receiving treatments at the Cross Cancer Institute, hospital or have family in the hospital. Although this was a commercial build, the mandate required this build needed to feel like a warm, inviting, comfortable "home" with a healing element to it for the guests who are experienceing a difficult time in their lives. The house has common areas for guests, 8 guest suites, and a residential side for the volunteers living there. It was important the volunteers living there for extended periods of time, being of service to guests, feel like it was their own warm and comfortable home as well. With these requirements and as a commercial build created some callenges so as not to feel like a hotel or have an institutional feel. Lavern was open to suggestions and design concepts presented, learned about them, listened, and moved forward. He understands the importance of quality and materials used to get the feeling desired and ensured that quality was followed. He kept the project moving foward at a steady pace despite some challenges. Lavern is kowledgeable with contruction and processes, is keen to learn and isn't afraid of challenges. I feel he rather enjoys the challenge! He enjoys building relationships with the people he works with, and is a respectful individual. His easy going manner, patience, intelligence, wit and humour made this project a rewarding and positive experience for everyone. I wouldn't hesitate to work with Lavern again if the opportunity arose.“
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