Interview with Local Architect Elizabeth Bougart-Sharkov

Summary

My name is Elizabeth Bougart-Sharkov. I am an architect and I established my Architecture Firm “sDs – Sharkov Design Studio” in September of 1990 in Los Angeles.
Prior to my emigration to the US in 1987, I have been an architect for 14 years in Europe (Bulgaria).

Describe your business

“sDs – Sharkov Design Studio” is a small scale architecture design firm focused on Custom Residential, Light Commercial Design and Interiors.
I am a sole proprietor and I work with various longtime associates based on a given job needs. I have a part time CAD drafter (a young architect), that gives me the opportunity to outsource some laborious functions and devote my efforts to focusing on the design process and work closely with my clients.

What made you decide to open this business?

The independence to establish and follow my own business policies, which gives me an opportunity to serve my clients to the best of my ability.

   

What was it like when you first started?

I was in an uncharted territory, but I was determined! Learning the basics of being a business owner. I came from a world where people used to work for the government only! There was no private practice for architects at that time in Bulgaria. At the beginning of my life in the US/ Los Angeles, I worked for 2 years as an in-house architect for a General Contractors company in Glendale and was the one who designed all their projects. It was a good training to start with.

What has surprised you most when owning a business?

I wouldn’t say surprise, but rather what was the biggest obstacle. It was finding the client! Doing the job was easy. Marketing is a key component in running a business and I had no training or any experience in it, what so ever…

 

What would your customers say they love most about your business?

What wins me commissions is that I offer services that handle all aspects within the project - from start to the very finish of construction phase.
It includes:
• Extensive interviews with the prospective client to establish a realistic budget and realistic expectations
• Close collaboration with the client during the design phase
• Navigating the project through all City agencies for obtaining the necessary clearances and permits
• Selecting contractors, suppliers and additional trades involved in the construction phase
• Regular and close supervision of the construction and installation phase (until the Certificate of Occupancy is issued by the City)

  

What’s the most memorable experience you’ve had working with a customer?

When I have the good luck of having a client who is open to suggestions and trusts my professional advice. It is very satisfactory as a professional, but most importantly, I leave a happy client!
It brings perfect finally executed project that I can be proud of, and provides my clients with the quality of life they have been looking for.

  

Do you have any exciting plans for the future that you want customers to know about?

My ultimate goal is to serve all my clients efficiently and effectively by showing them opportunities that they have never expected before my involvement. There is no better reward than to hear from the client that I have really changed their life for the better. It makes me feel accomplished!

What is something most people don't know about the business?

My clients can rely on my professional help and be their designer, as well as their advisor, their advocate. I will hold very closely their own interest in navigating the project through the City. My 9 years as a Silver Lake Neighborhood Council Board Member and the Founder and Chair of the Urban Design & Preservation Committee gave me the opportunity to act as a community advocate and to learn the nuts and bolts of the dealing with the City agencies to the community’s satisfaction. This experience enables me in handling my jobs as an architect.

Who are some of your business idols and role models? And why?

Leaders who value the team work!
In my profession I work with design consultants, various contractors, suppliers, construction workers, and City authority people. The final result for a given project depends on the cooperative efforts of everyone working together.

What do you like most about being an entrepreneur?

Being my own boss. As I mentioned above, I treasure the opportunity to follow my own policies that enable me to provide the best possible service to my client.

Do you have any advice that you want to share with other entrepreneurs?

Make your client’s/ customer’s interest as your own. It will reward you multiple folds in the long run.

What do you love most about the neighborhood?

The richness of people diversity! Beautiful architectural heritage fabric to blend in. The human scale of buildings.

Where are your favorite places to go in the neighborhood?

Walking in the neighborhood and around the Silver Lake Reservoir. The restaurants along Sunset Boulevard (my favorite is Cliff’s Edge). The Farmers Market.

 

What are your favorite things to do in the neighborhood?

Walking and meeting with friends and neighbors. Seeing the ongoing changes enhancing the pedestrian street lifestyle.

Why do you think it's important for people to shop local?

It supports the local entrepreneurs and creates a sense of community. It defines us as who we are.