What is the name of your business?

Katrin Georgi Design Inc.

Business Website

www.katringeorgidesigninc.com

What kind of work did you do in the past and what inspired you to start your own business?

I am originally from Germany where I studied architecture and worked for several years as an architect in Germany. In 1998 I immigrated to Canada, and over the past 23 years I worked for several architectural offices as an architectural technologist (since I never wrote my architectural exams here in Canada, I can't officially call myself an architect here in this country). While working in Ontario I took several building code courses and wrote the exams to qualify as a Designer with a BCIN number. During my 23 years in Ontario I gained substantial experience in institutional, commercial, industrial and residential projects (new, additions and renovations). I was also in charge of color and material selections and the coordination for all the different projects, which is one of my favorite parts in the entire planning and construction process. In recent years I focused more on the residential side of the business, and enjoy the design of new homes for clients, but as well as renovation projects of existing older homes. When I moved to PEI I started a job with a local architectural design studio, but realized that I want to focus on creating a personal connection with the clients, help them to build their dream home and make the entire design & building process an enjoyable experience.

How long have you owned your business?

one year

What challenges have you overcome?

Being new in the area, being a first time business owner, and getting used to not having an entire team to work with.

What have your successes been?

Meeting very nice and satisfied clients, staying in business for the first year now, and having met many nice trades and creating a network.

What services does your business provide?

KGDesign provides design and drafting services for clients, contractors, building suppliers and developers. This includes design for residential and commercial projects of Part 9 of the National Building Code and as per subsection 25(3) of the PEI Architects Act. The company helps clients to visualize and design their dream home, be it new construction, an addition to, or renovation of an existing building. This includes concept, permit and construction drawings for simple deck designs, garages, cottages, and residential house designs. I also offer color and material consultation and design.

What sets you apart from your competitors?

The depth of my experience (e.g. building code knowledge, etc.), flexibility, creating and maintaining a friendly client - contractor - relationship. Focusing on the clients needs.

What areas do you serve?

Mostly the eastern part of PEI, but I also have clients on the West Side of side of the island. And I also provide services in Ontario

Is there something else we need to know about your business or that you would like to add?

I like to keep a healthy balance between work and my personal life, that I share with my two dogs & two cats. I enjoy spending time outdoors, discover the island and some of those amazing old buildings (my passion is old farmhouses, old schoolhouses, etc. and also renovated a few those in the past 20 years) .