Kathy Rice, Senior Project Designer
For Senior Project Designer Kathy, the Construction Administration (CA) phase isn’t just about final walkthroughs and punch lists — it’s the heartbeat of turning a vision into reality. With years of experience guiding projects from the early design stages to the final built environment, Kathy has developed a deep appreciation for the nuances, surprises, and collaborative spirit that define this critical phase.
Collaboration is Everything
When asked about her mindset heading into CA, Kathy doesn’t hesitate: “Work together as a team.” To her, success hinges on communication across all trades. “Each trade plays a big part in the final outcome of the design, so we all need to communicate and work together to complete the job.”
Her approach is rooted in flexibility. No two projects — or teams — are the same. “I’ve learned to adjust to the different styles of contractors, architects, and clients. You can’t take a one-size-fits-all approach.”
Kathy on-site for Phase 1 installation at Maizon in Durham, NC
Inevitable Changes
If there’s one thing Kathy wishes she had known earlier in her career, it’s how fluid construction can be. “Things are always changing during construction. What you might have designed or put on the drawings does not always end up being what’s built in the field.”
She’s learned to expect the unexpected — and to embrace it. One of her favorite sayings could easily be: “Flexibility is not optional; it’s essential.”
Kathy on-site for Phase 1 installation at Maizon in Durham, NC
The Power of CA
Designers spend so much time perfecting presentations and early concepts, but Kathy emphasizes that the CA phase is where everything becomes real.
“We spend so much time on early design, but putting effort into submittals and working closely with architects and contractors during CA is a huge part of making the design come to life.”
It’s the stage where details are tested, materials are approved, and problems are solved — sometimes daily.
Communication is the Glue
Kathy credits clear communication as the #1 tool for navigating CA successfully. “When something doesn’t go right in the field, or the design needs to adjust, we have to talk it through — phone calls, site visits, sketches — it’s about keeping open communication with all the team members.”
Conflicts and changes are inevitable. Kathy’s response? “Work together to solve the issue.” It sounds simple, but in the fast-paced, high-stakes environment of construction, that mindset is everything.
Favorite Part: The Reveal
For Kathy, the most rewarding part of CA is the final moment — walking through a space she helped imagine months or even years earlier. “Seeing it all come together in the end — that’s my favorite part.”
She recalls one project in particular that felt especially fulfilling. “It was the first big project I worked on from start to finish — from concept to design presentations to drafting, and finally CA. It was close to home, so I got to visit often and really watch the construction happen. That hands-on involvement made it so rewarding.”
Advice for Beginners
Kathy is generous with her wisdom when it comes to mentoring junior designers. “Take advice from contractors and be open-minded to their opinions. They’re working in the field every day.”
Her practical tip? Stay organized. “Keep CA finishes and submittals separate from your design bins. And check in daily on what’s happening on site or what’s been submitted.” It’s this blend of respect, process, and presence that helps her stay grounded through the inevitable chaos of construction.
Final Thoughts
The Construction Administration phase can feel like a maze of moving parts — but for designers like Kathy, it’s a phase full of possibility. It’s where vision meets craftsmanship, where teamwork turns into transformation.
Her advice to all of us? Stay curious, stay flexible, and above all — keep showing up.
About Kathy
Kathy, a graduate of Philadelphia University, brings over 14 years of experience in developing a wide range of commercial, hospitality, retail, and entertainment projects. Her skillset in managing project deliverables and leading a team are valuable to the interior design field. Kathy creates dynamic interior spaces through careful planning utilizing her knowledge of architectural design standards. Coupled with her aptitude to coordinate architectural details and construction documents, she brings a diverse skillset to the One Line team. Kathy is a leader, a collaborator and brings a fresh perspective and high standard to the design team.
One Line is a full-service interior design firm located in Miami, Florida and Detroit, Michigan. Our Co-Founders bring their collective 35+ years of extensive experience, offering a fresh approach to the evolving landscape of interior design and project management expectations.
We have developed a strong foundation based on the strength of our creative capital, approaching each project through the authenticity of our teams’ collective lens. It is the fusion of these dynamic creative minds that drives our approach to every project we work on, and our firm