Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in construction but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Shauna Dinsart, Founder of Dinsart Design, located in Madison, WI, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Dinsart Design is a residential design and build firm. We have focused on the design and construction of home renovations and additions, however we’ve recently pivoted toward a new direction.
We’re diving into the Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) market, more commonly known as tiny homes in the backyard. The use of ADUs is broad, however the reason we have decided to enter this market is because our city is experiencing an affordable housing crisis, and we believe this can be one solution, while also providing new investment opportunities for homeowners.
During our planning process, we assess the rental market for our client’s neighborhood, and help guide them toward the best investment for their circumstances. This is evaluated from a cost-to-build and prospective renter perspective.
We prioritize sustainability in the architectural and interior design of each project we work on. We believe that there is a bigger picture of sustainability that is underrepresented in the media, which is the longevity of the materials we purchase. If we begin to focus on the quality of the materials and the workmanship involved in building new homes, we will lower the level of consumption. This is something we value—building structures that last.
Tell us about yourself
I have extensive experience in the Aerospace industry, which I left to pursue a new career working for myself.
While I couldn't have predicted this, I am now the owner of a construction business. I did not have any experience in the construction industry when I decided it was where I wanted to be.
I had recently purchased a brand new home, and within a few months, I had to make costly repairs due to the low quality materials and poor workmanship. I researched everything I could about the industry, and discovered that my experience was not uncommon for new home buyers.
I began listening to construction technology podcasts, connecting with people who had adopted these technologies, and decided I was going to become one of them.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I recently concluded my first year in business, and was profitable in an industry I had no prior experience in. This showed me that I did my homework prior to opening my business, marketed correctly, and provided the services I promised.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
It was hard for me to determine the right time to hire new team members and start handing over responsibilities. I needed an Administrative Assistant, as I knew that my time was needed in other areas of the business. It was hard for me to press pause long enough to assess my responsibilities and reorganize my operations in preparation of hiring someone. I spent too many hours on tasks I could have hired someone to help with, and it would have kept me from working seventy hour work-weeks.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Learn what you’re good at, what you’re not good at, and own both. Hire someone to do the things you’re not good at. I believe in continuous improvement, but I don’t believe that starting a new business is the time to work on skills you’ve always struggled with.
- Before starting your business, don’t skip the market research. Is there a market for what you are wanting to provide? If not, where will your customers come from? Are you creating a new market? Make sure people are willing to pay for what you’re selling, and if they’re not, be confident in your ability to change that.
- Meet other business owners. I don’t think you need a giant network, but when facing one of the decisions that feels like a make or break for your company, you’ll want someone who understands the stakes to talk through any of the inevitable challenges you’ll face.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://dinsartdesign.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaunadinsart/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaunadinsart/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.