The Gratitude Issue
Texas Contemporary™ Monthly: Issue 31
Gratitude at Work
In the dynamic industry of architecture and design, the power of gratitude is a silent yet indispensable force. LEVY DYKEMA understands that expressing gratitude is the foundation on which strong relationships are built, creative energies are sustained, and extraordinary designs are brought to life. We are grateful for our clients, partners, and colleagues who play an important role in helping us to design a better world for our communities.
From helping Fresa's restaurants expand their locations, to creating inspiring spaces at Torre and Rev student housing, to transforming public spaces for entire communities like Labonte and Cole Park in the Coastal Bend Region, we are grateful for the opportunity to do great work.
The design for the newest Fresa's location makes the restaurant easily identifiable as the next evolution of the Fresa’s brand. Each space feels settled and cohesive, with a sense of discovery as you move through the space.
Splashes of deep rouge and muted salmon colors with varied textures, bar tiles from Europe, Moroccan Zellige tile, Terracotta Breeze blocks, and color-rich serape textile on banquets throughout the restaurant elegantly maintains Fresa’s Hispanic colonial aesthetic, while the outdoor deck is a great place to relax and take advantage of the Hill Country views.
This month James Hadden, Director of Operations, shares his thoughts on gratitude.
___
The Power of Gratitude
John F. Kennedy said, “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” I am thrilled to work for a firm that lives its gratitude by regularly giving back to the communities that allow us the opportunities to do what we love.
I was fortunate this year to plant trees along Shoal Creek, work in a garden with my daughter at Urban Roots, and assemble millwork for a house with Habitat for Humanity. I did it all alongside my coworkers and had the chance to learn more about them in a way that wouldn’t be possible during the regular 9-to-5. At the end of each effort, the volunteer leaders took time to thank us and acknowledge our hard work. While the physical results of our labor were evident, their sincere appreciation made the day even more meaningful.
Several recent studies have found that people who express their gratitude are significantly happier and less stressed than those who don’t. They also found that expressing gratitude strengthens the bonds in our relationships and deepens the connections between us. The power of gratitude is amazing. That a heartfelt, ‘Thank You’ can change the course of someone’s day astonishes me every time.
We are lucky to work in an industry that has a direct and immediate impact on people. The buildings we design and the spaces we create affect how people experience the world. It’s easy to forget in the day-to-day, but we do have an awesome job.
To all our clients and consultants, vendors and contractors, my coworkers, and everyone else who makes it possible for us to do what we do, we send our sincerest thanks. We are truly grateful for you.
The LEVY DYKEMA Way, features insights from clients and team members.
This month, we hear from Studio Director - Interiors, Paul Thompson.
A Message from Our President
Big Things. Little Things.
When I pause to think about what I am most grateful for, it boils down to two questions.
What am I most grateful for professionally?
What am I most grateful for personally?
Reflecting on those two questions makes it easier to put aside the little worries that tend to occupy our days and distract us from what truly matters. The answer to these questions is pretty simple for me. Professionally, I’m proud of the team we’ve built and the meaningful relationships we have with our clients. These are the two pillars that allow us to create beautiful spaces that help our clients grow and thrive. Personally, I look back at the great times I’ve had this year with my daughter Birdie and the joy we have in each other’s company. I’m lucky to do what I do both personally and professionally; there is so much to be grateful for.
Stephen V. Levy
