Margit E. Whitlock founded ACI in 1992, driven by her vision to seamlessly integrate architecture and interior design into a multi-disciplined firm catering to the hospitality industry. Serving as the Principal and Creative Director for Architecture and Interior Design, Margit Whitlock plays a pivotal role in developing comprehensive concepts that drive the design of the best projects, both inside and out.
In her capacity, she oversees the entire process, from coordinating feasibility studies and managing governmental processing, including zoning, development, and construction permits, to master planning and architectural design. Margit’s extensive experience with consultant coordination on large-scale projects has proven invaluable in helping clients understand the full scope of their building projects. She has also showcased her expertise as a speaker at multiple ARDA conventions and HD Boutique shows and is a frequent contributor to various magazines, including Developments, Resort Trades, Hotel Business, Hiatus, Vacation Industry Review, and Resort Management and Operations.
Margit Whitlock’s project portfolio spans across diverse sectors, including hospitality, retail, restaurant, commercial, cannabis, civic, and multi-family/senior housing. Notable projects completed by her firm include the award-winning Cibola Vista Resort and Spa, Sheraton Harbor Island Spa, Lawrence Welk Resort Villas, Golden Door Spa, and Westin Mission Hills Conference Center and Spa.
Margit holds a Bachelor of Architecture degree from the University of Oregon, where she demonstrated academic strengths in urban planning and design. She also pursued extended studies in art history and architecture at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark. As a registered architect in California, Arizona, Texas, Pennsylvania, Hawaii, Florida, South Carolina and New York, Margit Whitlock also holds her NCARB (National Council of Architectural Registration Boards) certificate.
Below are the highlights of the interview:
Can you please provide a brief overview of your professional background and experience in the industry?
I was educated as an architect at the University of Oregon and am a licensed architect in eight states across the US. Beyond my work as an architect, I have sat on numerous boards of directors for organizations with a focus on design and niche markets. I love art, design, people, places, and the creative process.
What strategies do you employ to ensure that Architectural Concepts, Inc. remains competitive in the market?
Education is the key to staying on top of your business and trends in the industry. At ACI, we value continuing education at all levels. Bringing professional training into the office is one way we do this. More, there is a culture of learning in which we all have something to teach each other’s and learn from one another, regardless of experience in the industry.
How do you foster a culture of innovation and adaptability within your organization, considering the rapidly changing landscape of the business industry?
Our value of continued learning creates an atmosphere that promotes and encourages questions. Asking questions is key to innovation, with regards to design and how we do business in ways that remain relevant. Additionally, Because of our diversity of experience keeps us, we remain nimble as a boutique firm. Being flexible Flexibility remains a top priority for staff and our clients, especially when the inevitable unexpected challenge arises.
What steps do you take to attract and retain top talent in the industry, and how do you encourage professional growth and development within your organization?
Our staff enjoys product updates, project tours, conferences, and sharing information on an on-going basis. And honestly, our size permits everyone gets to play the role of architect or interior designer during the course of a project, regardless of their education. Play is the key word!
How do you address the increasing importance of digitalization and technology in the sector, and how does it influence the company’s operations and customer experience?
For a small firm, we look to outsource complex renderings and animation to those who do it so well. Collaborating with the global talent pool allows us to stay true to our in-studio work. One thing we have learned is to surround ourselves with experts.
As Principal / Creative Director of Architectural Concepts, Inc, what is your overall vision for the company’s future, and how do you plan to achieve it?
As Principal, I am always looking for opportunities to grow the business and put our expertise to work in new industries in need of the hospitality touch. Growth and prosperity come with hard work and vigor. Ideally, with training and strategic planning, I can turn the firm over to the employees to carry our progress forward.
What advice would you give to aspiring leaders or individuals looking to join the industry?
My number one piece of advice would be to get an MBA after your first professional degree, or at the very least take business management courses, and understand that to be successful as a business owner, you will need many hats, from HR to finance to contract management. Remember that you are the “solution maker,” not just a great designer.
Please Visit: https://4designs.com/
