Today we’d like to introduce you to Tricia Tobey.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Inspired by the details and plans on construction documents, I spent hours as a kid looking at drawings for buildings in Portsmouth that a neighbor, who was a developer, had at his house. That interest led to drafting classes in high school (only girl in the class!) and onward to college at Colorado State University for a degree in Interior Design and a minor in Construction Management.
What I learned quickly, was that there are so many aspects to design, and I wanted to know them all. With my CADD (software) experience, I was able to land a job with an Engineering firm, working alongside the engineers at a Plumbing and HVAC company. That experience lead me to the position with JSA Architects, they were just developing an interior design division and I was one of their first employee’s. In the year 2000, I decided to go out on my own, it was the right time to “give it a try”. And am I glad that I did, because, here we are today!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has been a smooth road with loyal clients and consistent projects. Our clients really trust us and that has benefited through the ups and downs, with repeat business and positive word of mouth. Of course, there has been a lot to learn as an entrepreneur, but when questions arose, I was never afraid to ask!
Outlook is great – business is doing well especially in the hospitality and food service sector. Residential construction is booming. We are psyched to be part of it all!
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Tobey Design Group – what should we know?
The objective for my business has always been to stay small enough to provide the personal touch. We work on both commercial and residential projects. We have evolved over the years from working on Banks & Office spaces – to Hospitality Design – into a huge Restaurant design portfolio – and currently fun multifamily units. It’s very important for me to have one on one contact with my clients, as well as contractors, to develop and execute their vision for the design.
What sets us apart is the ability to produce detailed construction documents, floor and ceiling plans, Interior elevation plans calling out all finish locations, extensive millwork details, lighting, and custom tile design so that every aspect of the space is part of the cohesive design. I take all the decisions (and there are a lot of them!) to heart as I know that it’s for our client and their future. Particularly in commercial design, the job that we do can ultimately affect the success of their business.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Have to give a shout out to Lisa DeStefano Architects – she was a big supporter when I first went out on my own and always had a project for me when I needed one. Another shout out to John Tinios owner of Galley Hatch / Popovers / Tinos restaurants. We worked together on all his projects, I learned about all aspects of the restaurant business. He always had kind words and gave my name out to everyone when I first started.
Contact Info:
- Address: 27 Ceres Street
Portsmouth, NH 03801 - Website: www.tobeydesign.com
- Phone: 6034307621
- Email: ttobey@tobeydesign.com
- Instagram: TriciaTobeyIntDesign
- Facebook: Tricia Tobey
Image Credit:
Kim Case Photography
DeveZon Photography
Shearwater Restaurant at Stage Neck Inn
Massimo Restaurant
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