We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Danilda Polanco a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Danilda , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. The first dollar your business earns is always special and we’d love to hear how your brand made its first dollar of revenue.

Embarking on my architectural journey in Denver, I was determined to prove the skills I honed and learned in NYC and carve my niche. The opportunity to design a space for one of my dearest friends (Kat and Sean Billings) emerged organically, igniting my creativity. Envisioning a project that aligned with their aspirations, I poured heart and soul into the design, crafting a concept that seamlessly fused aesthetics and functionality.

What began as a gesture of friendship morphed into a turning point in my career. Presenting the design to my friend, their enthusiastic reaction was worth more than any paycheck. Word of mouth traveled fast, and soon inquiries flooded in. The design inadvertently became a showcase of my abilities, demonstrating the potential I held as an architect.

This experience taught me profound lessons. It underscored the value of relationships and the ripple effect of genuine passion. The design may have been complimentary, but the rewards were immeasurable: a burgeoning portfolio, the confidence to pursue paid projects, and an unwavering bond with my first client-turned-ambassador. From that moment on, I realized that the best investments in my career weren’t just monetary; they were the connections and the dedication I poured into each endeavor, ultimately shaping the trajectory of my professional odyssey.

Danilda , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

As the proud owner of DOPE Architecture Inc, I’m thrilled to share with you the essence of our residential design/build business nestled in Denver and its surrounding cities. At DOPE Architecture, we’ve cultivated a distinctive emphasis on lifestyle and beauty, coupled with an approach that sets us apart in the industry.

From the inception of our company, I’ve remained deeply involved in every phase of the design and construction process. This hands-on approach ensures that each project is a true reflection of the client’s vision, and it’s a value I hold dear. With a dedication to excellence, we create living spaces that resonate on both functional and emotional levels.

Nature’s allure plays a vital role in our designs. Embracing Denver’s stunning landscapes, we seamlessly weave natural beauty into our creations, fostering a connection between indoor and outdoor realms. Sustainability lies at the core of our ethos, with an unwavering commitment to environmentally conscious practices.

My team and I are passionate about redefining the residential landscape, one project at a time. Our journey isn’t just about constructing houses; it’s about crafting homes that encapsulate the dreams and aspirations of our clients. I invite you to witness the manifestation of this philosophy, where each step is guided by the pursuit of aesthetic excellence and a genuine dedication to fulfilling the desires of those we serve.

Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?

As an architect and builder, my approach to team management revolves around fostering a culture of extreme respect and collaborative innovation. I firmly believe that a team’s success is rooted in the strength of their cohesion and the value each individual brings to the table. My leadership philosophy places high emphasis on acknowledging the expertise and ideas of every team member.

Through open communication and active listening, I ensure that each worker’s input is not only heard but genuinely considered. This collaborative approach not only bolsters morale but also cultivates an environment where creativity thrives. I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformational power of merging diverse perspectives; it results in solutions that are more ingenious and well-rounded.

Extreme respect forms the cornerstone of our interactions. I encourage an atmosphere where every contribution, regardless of its magnitude, is recognized and valued. This inclusive environment not only uplifts the team’s spirit but also fuels a collective passion for our projects.

The high morale we cultivate isn’t just a byproduct; it’s a strategic advantage. Our projects benefit from a multidimensional lens that only a harmonious team can provide. By honoring individual expertise and nurturing collaboration, I ensure that my team remains motivated, empowered, and united in the pursuit of architectural excellence and innovative construction.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

One of the significant construction lessons I had to unlearn from my previous job was the tendency to solely rely on contractors who appeared responsible on paper, while dismissing my intuition. Initially, I believed that a contractor’s professional reputation and credentials were all that mattered. However, I quickly discovered that these indicators didn’t always guarantee a smooth collaboration or quality work. My experience taught me that trusting my instincts and paying attention to subtle cues was equally crucial.

There were instances when my intuition raised concerns about a contractor’s approach or communication style, even though their credentials seemed impeccable. Ignoring those signals led to hiccups in the project, missed deadlines, and avoidable disputes. I realized that cultivating a balance between objective assessment and intuitive understanding was vital in building successful partnerships.

Unlearning the notion that credentials outweighed intuition was transformative. I began to approach contractor selection with a more holistic perspective, considering both their track record and how well our values aligned. This shift led to more productive collaborations, improved project outcomes, and a heightened sense of trust between team members. This lesson underscored the value of a multidimensional evaluation approach in construction, ultimately contributing to smoother workflows and stronger professional relationships.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @dope.arch
• Other: Give me a call at 646.220.8804

Image Credits
Sierra Ann Photography