Since its start 95 years ago, TSP, Inc., now a multidisciplinary leader in architecture, engineering, planning, and interior design, has operated with a founding principle to “design it like you own it.”
This collaborative approach, to which the firm attributes much of its long-term success, encourages team members to take full responsibility and pride in their work as if they were creating something for themselves.
While designing the firm’s new office building in Rapid City, team members gained a deeper appreciation of “designing it like you own it” – a core value that took on new meaning as they held the role of both designers and owners.
Built on an elevated site with a scenic view, the 5,600-square-foot facility is on the south side of Rapid City at 1051 Fairmont Blvd.
The design of the new office began in the fall of 2022, construction started in spring of 2024, and the TSP team moved into the new facility in January – just over nine months after the ground was broken.
Scull Construction Service provided general contracting services for the project.
For TSP interior designer Emma Velde, the experience of balancing the roles of both owner and designer for the new Rapid City office is a valuable opportunity to approach future projects with greater empathy and insight.
“We have gained a better understanding of what it feels like to be in the owner’s position – and it’s not always easy,” she said.
“It can be challenging, and the process can feel confusing – and questions come up in terms of changes, expectations, and timelines. I truly believe that being more empathetic to other people’s situations and what people are going through and how somebody else is going to see a situation is always an amazing, valuable learning lesson,” she said.
Regarding other key takeaways that resulted from the office project, Mark Averett, TSP principal and Rapid City office leader, gained a greater understanding of the complexities involved in the permitting process. He also found practical value experiencing construction timelines and potential delays and managing change orders from the owner’s perspective.
“Setting a construction budget with a contingency is one thing,” he said. “But your appreciation for everything that comes up that costs you money or time takes on a completely different meaning – especially when it’s coming directly out of your own pocket.”
Another lesson learned from his role as the project’s designated owner was the importance of staying involved, Averett said – noting that communication can always be improved.
“I don’t think owners can be involved enough in their projects,” he said. “You can’t overemphasize the need for clear and consistent communication between the owner and the design team.”
Setting expectations, reinforcing them through repetition when necessary, and ensuring mutual understanding help to create a solid foundation for a successful design collaboration, Averett said.
In short, the firsthand experience of client challenges encountered during TSP’s own building project will sharpen the firm’s attention to detail and enhance strategic approaches in future projects.
“Every day for us as designers, we might have six or eight projects going on at one time, Averett said. “But when you’re doing something for yourself, you become hyper-focused because it’s your project.”
TSP’s new office was intentionally designed to strengthen the multidisciplinary team’s collaborative work in a space that aligns with operational needs. The facility includes a mezzanine that can be used as an alternate work environment, and it also features ample informal meeting and social spaces.
“As I reflect on everything I’ve learned from our project, it’s not that the concepts were new to me,” said TSP architect and discipline leader Justin Sorensen.
“It’s more about seeing the same issues from an owner’s perspective. Being on the other side of things has probably given me the most valuable insight — understanding potential frustrations from the owner’s point of view.”
As the TSP team continues to settle into its new space and finishing touches are completed, gratitude remains at the forefront, as interior designer Morgan Alt shared.
“Our new office is nothing short of incredible,” she said.
“With views that overlook Rapid City and being able to enjoy gorgeous sunrises each morning, I am thankful for all the team members who participated in this project and made this dream become a reality.”
