“Be it a private family dwelling, a significant commercial structure, or a custom-designed dream space, Logan Design Group is achieving your ultimate vision” vaunts Dietrich T. Logan on his social media summary. An architect by trade, his company, Logan Design Group International, specializes in high-end residential design, project management, construction administration, commercial infill, and project consultation. And it’s not just nationally. In 2013, LDGI announced their global expansion.
“It’s an exciting series of developments that include some excellent sustainable ideas,” says Logan about being contracted to consult multiple projects, including aviation hangars, fire stations, and infrastructure design projects on the continent of Africa. “We’re pleased to have a seat at the table for what should prove to be model commercial and residential projects in several countries.”
Here, Logan talks innovation and design.
What inspires you to show up to work every day?
My Heavenly Father and my family inspire me every day to do my best work.
How did you determine your career path?
From a child drawing all sorts of objects as well as visiting the Biltmore Estate often.
What other industries connect to your career choice?
Civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineers as well as developer-builders.
Describe the future skill sets that are essential to future business leaders and innovators?
It is essential to know the ever-changing market driven by new consumers as well as practicing the current methods of design to provide innovative and efficient concepts.
Define innovation methods you apply to your business and life?
Logan Design Group International applies the newest software to produce architectural documents and visual imagery.
Describe goal setting methods you use and how you evaluate your success?
I set goals differently for each project depending on its complexity and context. I evaluate my success by the responses from the end consumer as well as new opportunities.
Who do you consider your peers in your field and a few that are great examples from whom you can get support and best practices? Unfortunately there are very few African Americans in my specific field of high-end, single and multifamily residences. However, some great examples would be firms such as Harrison Design Associates, William T. Baker and Assoc., and many others.
What information and increased skill methods do you use?
Such skill methods would be the use of Auto CAD and Construction Administration.
Name you favorite role models for success in two industries?
I have many, but my current two would be William Preston in the field of finance and accounting. The other would be Harvey Jackson in the auto industry.
Names three books that changed how you saw life and you recommend to others?
1. The Holy Bible (Book of Proverbs)
2.Telling Yourself The Truth
3. Visioneering
Describe why life long learning is important to you?
It is important in order to keep your brain active and ready to respond at any age to the ever-changing society that we now live in.
Describe the voice of success that you hear in your head?
Through prayer, I am constantly hearing what would and would not be wise. Therefore, my success has been largely based on being obedient to that voice.
Community success based on what you do in the community means what to you?
Community success is one of the large drivers in most lives of architects because what we do affect the community in micro and macro levels. That success is also what helps keep you in business.
Technology plays what role in your daily life?
Technology has exponentially increased the efficiency in communication and designing multiple projects in multiple locations at the same time no matter the location.
What software and tools of technology, apps included, have made the biggest difference in you life?
My iPad along with apps such as AutoCAD 360, Notability, and Skype has made a major difference in how I function as an architect, especially in mobility.
What role does music and culture play in defining your self-identity?
Music and culture have defined the artistic side of my self-identity from the aspect of imagination, artistic creation, and moral responsibility.
Define your personal culture?
My personal culture would be defined through my spirituality and family. I feel that it is important to give thanks for life every day. It is important that the needs of my family are met, but also that I try my best to be a blessing to all others.
Describe your favorite vacation spot?
My favorite vacation spot would be anywhere that [offers] some historic or cultural value.
If you could change one thing about the world what would it be?
The perception of one’s given talents and gifts based upon their exterior facade.
If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?
If I could change one thing about myself, it would have been the length of time it took me to totally trust God.
