Monica Fenderson, AIA, NCARB, LEED® GA is the CEO and Founder of MOSA Architects, an MWBE, DBE, and WOSB design firm located in Snellville, GA and specializing in multi-market and sustainable architecture, interior design, and real estate throughout the United States and Latin America. Monica established the firm in 2009, and today, MOSA’s portfolio of work includes higher education, assembly/mixed-use spaces, offices, restaurants, industrial, commercial and residential projects.
NOMA Atlanta asked Monica to share some of her insights on finding success as the CEO/Founder of a design firm.
Tell our members a little about yourself…
I was born in Brooklyn, NY, and raised in Long Island. My family immigrated to the United States from Costa Rica and Panama. I attended Tuskegee University, 5-year Architecture program and graduated in 1996 with a Bachelor of Architecture degree. Early in my career, it took some time to figure out how to balance a career and family and it took me a while to pass the ARE exams – but I didn’t give up and passed the exams. Prior to starting MOSA, I worked for The Haskell Company, Turner Associates, Gwinnett County, and AECOM, where I was the Senior Architect of Aviation.
So, what made you start your own firm?
In my 11 years at Gwinnett County doing plan reviews for commercial projects, I observed many challenges that clients had to overcome in managing the disconnect that often happens between architects, realtors, and contractors. Many of these clients had never gone through the building process before and I would do my best to try and help bridge the communication gap to help them get ahead of an impending issue that could derail their project. This really frustrated me and it was the main motivation for me to start my own firm. I wanted to offer these clients one firm that could manage the whole process – from real estate decisions through obtaining the Certificate of Occupancy – helping them to find success in their building project so that they can continue to grow their business.
What is the best part of owning your own business?
The ability to create and shape the vision for our clients and be a partner that will help them to find success in their business. I also love my team and I enjoy helping them succeed in their personal goals and growth. I hope to make my mark on the profession by establishing a business model that can influence how we, as architects, can do great design and collaborate with clients to contribute to their success. But as a business owner, what I love most of all is my quality of life (Pura Vida).
What advice would you give to those out there that are thinking about starting their own design practice? Be patient….this is a profession, not a race. It takes time to create a brand, a team and a strategy for success. Be sure to create processes that help you to streamline your project efforts, which will help you not only be successful but also earn a profit. And don’t be afraid to think outside the box – just because things have always been done a certain way doesn’t mean it’s the only or best way to get it done. Technology is a big game-changer in our profession – embrace it – or be left behind. Finally, your “net worth” is your “network” – you have to invest the time to build it and maintain it.
