Today we’d like to introduce you to Ross Vogel.
Ross , we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My love for residential design dates back to childhood. I found myself sketching homes from the free real estate magazines found at our local grocery store and building Lego houses based on the homes I admired. Honestly, before I studied Architecture, I had an image of what this industry would be like; selecting the type of discipline to grow and build an identity with, which for me was residential design. What I would learn later in life is how challenging it is to earn your spot in the residential design industry, because it is so limited.
I graduated from UNC Charlotte with a Bachelor of Architecture in 2011. I remember that year all too well. It was the heart of the recession, following the 2008 crash. We, the graduating class, were competing for five intern spots; and to find a residential firm that was hiring, practically impossible. It took 9 months to find a part-time job designing dialysis clinics for a major healthcare provider. I moved to Atlanta to accept this position because there were no other prospects. My lucky break came 18 months later when a small firm of four took a chance and hired me to design their spec homes and townhomes for local developers. I had very little experience, but when someone offers you a position that could redirect your career path, you gain that experience quickly by asking questions when you simply don’t know the answer. You discover that it’s more efficient for the firm to answer your questions from the start than correct your work later because you were afraid to ask.
To get to where I am today, it’s an overtold truth, but a truth, nonetheless. You follow your instinct, know your worth, and take a giant leap in turning the page to the next chapter. Every decision comes with a risk, but every decision also comes with a reward. I worked with four firms before starting my own practice, and I set personal goals for myself at each firm that would prosper that growth. Knowing when it was time to turn that page was crucial.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
No, and to be honest, I don’t even know if the word “road” best fits the challenges I faced. It’s been more of an unmarked trail, that draws curiosity and intrigue, but is filled with an array of rigorous paths, one after the other.
One of the main struggles I’ve faced time and time again is prioritizing my mental health in an industry filled with toxicity and egos. You always hope that the firm you work for is a safe environment, because this is your second home where you invest most of your time, daily. While I’ve built great professional relationships and strong networks within the industry, I’ve also encountered instances where reporting my own truth has been used against me. If the one thing a reader can take away from this interview, it’s to not accept a firm’s excuse for normalizing an issue that may be impacting your quality of life or job performance. These moments, no matter how big or small, can make you question if you chose the right industry. What I would tell your readers is to never question yourself. And above all, listen to yourself.
Did I expect to start my practice before the age of 40? Absolutely not. When I started my career, I saw myself leading a studio within an established firm. However, once you start adding years to your resume and develop your own sense of style as a designer, you begin to explore options you once thought were unobtainable; but the only thing obtainable is the doubt you set for yourself. In 2024, I was faced with that very decision. After being laid off, and told I was too qualified for available positions at other firms, I took that giant leap and turned the page with the launch of my residential firm, Porch & Rose.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Porch and Rose ?
Porch & Rose is a residential firm that provides a highly immersive, client-centered approach to custom home design. We specialize in delivering a unique 3D experience that allows our clients to visualize their homes while staying true to their needs, lifestyle, and expectations. Our process begins with advanced modeling software that allows our clients to explore multiple design options and perspectives simultaneously, empowering informed decisions early in the design process. The experience culminates into an optional field trip to physically walk their floor plans in real-time before construction begins, bringing clarity and confidence long before the first shovel hits the ground.
With over 14 years of professional experience, we create tailored solutions for new construction and renovation projects. Our work reflects a commitment to timeless design, thoughtful detail, and a deep respect for how our clients live. We collaborate with a trusted team of engineers and builders to ensure every project meets the highest standards of craftsmanship and execution.
At Porch & Rose, this is not our home. This is yours. And we design with intention.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
Feel free to call or email us. Support starts with a conversation. We want to make sure we’re the right fit for our clients and their project needs. We keep our social media accounts current for those that follow us but may not be ready to move forward with a project just yet.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.porchandrose.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/porch_and_rose
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/porchandrose
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/porch-and-rose
Image Credits
Raven Shutley Studios
