15 years in: building towards the future
Co-founders Tim Burt (CEO) and Wojciech Wisniowski (chief engineer) joined us to discuss their business journey and look ahead to what the future might hold for Independent Design House, following their recent reflections on the first 15 years.
What do you think has helped IDH build long‑standing client relationships over the last 15 years?
TB: Reliability. We do what we say we’re going to do, and if we can’t, we update people. We never like to surprise our customers in the wrong way!
WW: Absolutely – our long-standing client relationships have been built on trust, reliability and consistently delivering high-quality work. Clients know they can depend on us to provide the solutions they need.
A recent IDH project
How have the temporary works and construction industries changed since launch, and how has IDH adapted to meet those changes?
WW: In many ways, the industry has remained quite consistent. The core project requirements have not changed significantly, and clients are often asking for the same types of solutions they were asking for 15 years ago.
TB: I agree – it hasn’t changed in any significant way, but I would like to see more meaningful change around health and safety. The costs of designs are insignificant compared to the consequences of a poorly planned job.
How do you want the business to evolve in the next five years?
WW: I would like to see the business establish a stronger presence in the Polish market and play a role in supporting the reconstruction of Ukraine. These are both significant opportunities and would mean us making a meaningful contribution.
TB: It’s tempting to say “bigger and better”. But actually, I’m keenly aware we are responsible for people’s livelihoods. Seeing some of our early staff grow with us, get married, have children, become senior team members and help run the company is priceless. It might sound cheesy – but it feels like a family.
The IDH team in Poland
What interests you most about the next chapter?
WW: After 15 years, I’ve learned that the most interesting opportunities are usually the ones we didn’t plan for. I’m looking forward to seeing what those will be!
TB: The potential. We know who we are and what we can do. We operate in a great sector and the potential for the business is huge if we get it right. We’ve got some great expansion plans and are only held back by ourselves. Maybe it’s time to throw caution to the wind!
You can read more about the first 15 years of IDH.
