Isn’t it fun to meet the people behind the magic? This is your chance to get a peek behind-the-scenes at Houseplay! Each month we’ll interview a different team member for a window into how we make your home renovation magic happen. Check out our other profiles: Veronika Bamfield, Niall Templeman and Tamara Templeman.
John Kucsma
Today we’re talking with John Kucsma, Project Manager.
What does your day-to-day work look like?
At the start of every project, Niall and I meet with the homeowners and I walk them through the full schedule – every milestone, when we plan to meet it and what they can expect.
Then I create subcontractor schedules – so for a particular project, week 1 might be demo, week 2 might be plumbing, week 3 might be electric, and so on. At the start of each week I review and update all the schedules based on what’s happening in real time. I adjust them if need be, coordinate subcontractors, and update the homeowner so they know exactly what’s happening.
Throughout the week I’m always checking in with each trade on each project, making sure we’re on target, adjusting if necessary. Today, for example, I’m onsite at a current job (check out the project in process post here) making sure that the carpenters have everything they need.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
As much as I love schedules and spreadsheets (and I love them more than most!), it’s not that. I really love working with the team members at Houseplay and I love getting to meet and interact with the homeowners we serve.
In your opinion, what sets Houseplay apart from other contractors in the industry?
I think the fact that we have a small dedicated team sets us apart. It’s a big enough team to manage big projects, but small enough to know people well and have a close touch with our clients.
We truly see each project as if it were our own home. We’re onsite often, we’re there for the homeowners at every step of the way, so it truly feels like we’re friends at the end of a project.
Our clients also appreciate our communication. From day 1, they know exactly what to expect and we keep them in the loop every step of the way. Every single detail is taken care of.
What’s a favorite moment you’ve had on the job?
I love seeing nontraditional project elements completed – it’s such a great feeling of accomplishment.
A few that stand out —
I loved seeing the largest window I’ve ever seen anywhere get installed. (Check out that project in process post here.)
Another example is putting in the HVAC for our Top to Bottom Transformation project, which required a crane. I coordinated the crane, getting the police on board to close the street in Jersey City, setting up the No Parking signs, and managing all the pieces. It felt great in the end to be able to accomplish something out of the ordinary.
Are you ready to take on your next renovation project? Apply to work with us today!
