Graham founded Project Works Design in 1995 and has been the principle designer for 15 years. 

His work has spanned all types of projects – both residential and commercial – and has a portfolio of clients covering all building types with particular expertise in aged care, childcare, multi unit developments, places of public assembly and housing.  

Graham was the lead designer on the award winning Zenith Building in the Tuggerah Business Park. 

He is a Chartered Member of the Building Designers Association and is accredited with the Building Consultants Accreditation P/L. 

Prior to going into business for himself, Graham had accumulated 15 years of experience in the field and then made the decision to go out on his own.  

Graham explains, “My goal was to become self employed and to be able to determine my own career path.” 

“My current focus is to grow the business by leveraging our reputation further as a recognised expert in the areas of architectural design that we have carved a niche for, being aged care, childcare, multi unit developments, places of public assembly.” 

Graham is involved in multiple projects across the Central Coast, “We are currently in the construction phase of a 20 bed aged care facility on the Central Coast, which has had a lengthy planning and approvals stage, so it is great to see construction finally commence.” 

In the next 12 months, Graham sees more projects on the horizon for the Central Coast, “I believe the next 12 months will see a significant increase in the number of developments on the coast, which we are well placed to help drive, as cautious optimism begins to build.” 

However, it hasn’t always been easy. Like most small businesses, Graham was faced with challenges along the way, “Managing cashflow is always a concern and writing fee proposals that hit the mark which are accepted.” 

Graham used the expertise of 10X Business Coaching to provide strategies to deal with these issues as well as support and guidance. Graham explains, “The team has been very supportive and flexible in dealing with the challenges.”

“The best thing about 10X is getting training that I haven’t previously had access to, having a mentor to discuss issues and problems with, getting to know other business operators and realising there are others with similar problems to me.” 

“10X has become an invaluable source of information and support.”

The biggest learning for Graham over the past 12 months is that you need to be more than just a good building designer to make a business out of it, “Technical expertise is not enough, you need good management skills and a good marketing strategy in place to make a business a success.” 

The future for Graham is simple, “My goal is to work smarter, delegate more and enjoy the creative aspect of the business.” 

If you would like to talk to Graham about his journey in small business or to discuss an upcoming design or project that you have click here to get in contact with him.