Have you ever wondered who captures our client testimonials, develops the designs behind our projects, or works directly with vendors to secure premium materials for each build? If so, this brand-new blog post series is made just for you! As part of our Get to Know Us series, we want to offer new and existing clients an inside look at the talented individuals behind our organization, all of whom bring a massive amount of passion, dedication, and expertise to their roles.
In this first-ever employee feature, we’re spotlighting one of our long-standing team members and a driving force behind our exceptional design work: DC Lead Designer Casey Rogness. Over the years, Casey’s contributions have helped advance our company in countless ways and inspired those around him. Continue reading below to learn more about Casey’s experience, his favorite aspects of DC, and the advice he would give new clients just beginning the design process!
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Salem, Oregon.
Where are you currently located?
My family and I are currently living in Minot, North Dakota. It’s been about two years since we moved here from Sisters, Oregon, where we lived for about three years.
How long have you been with DC?
I’ve been with DC officially for over nine years, but before then, I spent a year freelancing in design for them and working on the framing crew.
How did you get started in this field?
After high school, I took a drafting class to fill some credits at the local community college and ended up really loving it. So after that course, I enrolled in their Computer Aided Drafting Program and graduated with a two-year degree in drafting. From there, I transferred to Oregon State University to complete my bachelor’s in interior design with a focus on housing studies, and once I graduated is when I started working for DC.
What are your favorite types of projects to work on?
My favorite projects to work on are typically homes or places that act as a home base for clients and their families. Adding a little modern timber look is always a plus too.
What is your favorite kit in the DCS collection?
The Thielsen Timber Home Kit is my favorite building package by far. The upcoming modern cabins with garages are also on my list.
In your opinion, what is the key to ensuring the success of a design?
I would say the key to success within design is working as a team, which includes first and foremost the owner, but also the contractor, any consultants, and the designer. Having everyone involved from the beginning tends to make projects go more smoothly, considering different people can provide their input and feedback early in the design process. It may take a few extra coordination meetings, but in the long run, it aids in creating a much easier and streamlined construction environment.
What are some aspects of our process that you believe set us apart from similar companies?
Well, there are a couple of aspects that set us apart. The first is utilizing design software that allows us to build 3D models in real time with our clients. We can make changes and adjustments live during meetings with them and provide a visualization tool to help make quick decisions. This process gives clients a first-hand look at how their structure will look and feel by the end and allows them to modify it as much as they want to fit their visions.
The second aspect is the sheer customization abilities of our baseline models for clients. We provide designs and material packages to clients across the country, and everyone lives in various climate types and has differing site development and family needs. Our ability to customize each model to fit their specific site characteristics, location requirements, and lifestyle needs makes it so that each client is really getting something unique, even if they’re starting with a standard kit.
What advice would you give to new clients just beginning the design process?
Hire a contractor early in the process who can be involved and give input on design, construction methods, and building department requirements. Doing so makes everything easier and gives you more peace of mind knowing your core team is working together from the jump.
And lastly, what’s something we wouldn’t know about you?
My wife and I have four boys. I love teaching the boys different sports, like golf and basketball, and fishing with them.
I also have a fish aquarium full of cichlids. I love taking care of them and having a unique setup!
Interested in joining Casey’s team or being a part of our growing organization? Be sure to check out our LinkedIn page for all open positions through DC Structures!
