Ozarks Profile: Brent M. Stevens, AIA

Tell us about your company.

H Design Group is a small, young and ambitious architectural/animation firm. The company was formed in July 2000 by my partner, Rob Haik, and we currently have a staff of eight talented and energetic members. Architecturally, we provide services to several blue ribbon clients such as Silver Dollar City, Dickerson Park Zoo, Bass Pro Shops and CoxHealth. Our firm seeks a strong balance between design excellence and the fundamental needs of our clients. We perceive ourselves as problem solvers, sensitive to the functional requirements as well as time and budget constraints. Our animation studio uses advanced state-of-the-art technology to create dynamic animations for a variety of clients including attorneys, fundraising organizations and theme parks.

Specifically, what do you do?

The partnership between Rob and I was formed to take advantage of our offsetting strengths: his being mainly marketing and design, whereas my strengths include more technical aspects of the profession. My primary role in the company is general management of the architecture department in which my day-to-day activities/responsibilities include scheduling, personnel, design, production and overall quality control.

How did you choose your career?

Early in high school, I began searching for a career that complemented my artistic talent as well as my love for construction. Architecture was the natural fit, and at that point, I began focusing on developing my education and experience with drafting, art, math and construction classes.

What's most challenging about your work?

Creating a balance between supply and demand can be extremely challenging. We are fortunate to have developed a strong list of repeat clientele. The workload tends to fluctuate in this market, and we strive to ensure that every client receives the professional and personal attention needed on each and every project that we take on.

What do you like best about your job?

Probably the best feeling in this profession is to actually see your designs and ideas coming to life during the construction process. At that moment, all of your hard work materializes into a permanent element in the community that many people will experience and hopefully enjoy.

Tell us about your family.

My wonderful wife, Paula, is currently the store manager for Limited Too at Battlefield Mall. She is an extremely supportive spouse and mother. We are both originally from Quincy, Ill., and lived in Fayetteville, Ark., while I studied for my architecture degree from the University of Arkansas. (Go Hogs!) We moved to the Springfield area about seven years ago and have enjoyed the area ever since. We are blessed with two children Sadie, 9, and Ty, 4.