Rio Consulting LLC

Why We Declined the Project The client first reached out on April 22, 2025, regarding a proposed basement bathroom buildout. We promptly scheduled a site visit, during which we gathered all necessary details. Following that, we prepared architectural renderings, floor plans, and a detailed preliminary budget. We also coordinated with our plumber to begin scoping underground work. After multiple revisions to the design, including relatively minor adjustments such as outlet placement, the client requested a formal contract. Only at that point did he disclose that the property was, in fact, owned by his father, who would need to review and approve everything. This was a disappointing and misleading omission. Once the father became involved, it became clear that his interest was primarily focused on understanding every aspect of the construction process. His questions, while often reasonable, were extensive and granular. It reached a point where nearly every step required a full technical breakdown. Rather than moving the project forward, we found ourselves repeatedly having to explain and justify routine aspects of our work. It was apparent that this would not be a smooth or efficient process. What added further concern was the dynamic between the son and his father. In every exchange we witnessed, the son was impatient, dismissive, and often rude. He regularly spoke over his father, appeared annoyed by his questions, and generally treated him as if his input were an inconvenience. There was a constant air of urgency and irritation in his tone, as if only his time had value and everyone else should simply keep pace. This behavior created a tense atmosphere and raised immediate concerns about what collaboration would look like as the project progressed. Shortly thereafter, the scope shifted entirely. The focus moved away from the basement to a bathroom renovation in the attic. This change effectively nullified all the renderings, layouts, and coordination work we had done over the prior month, none of which had been compensated. We accommodated the pivot and prepared a new estimate based on the revised scope. It was dismissed as too high, citing comparisons to other contractors. This was followed by a fresh wave of objections regarding materials, equipment, and construction techniques. Despite being told the work was time-sensitive due to short-term rental needs, we were unable to properly access the space for evaluation, as the property was still occupied. At this stage, we received yet another lengthy email challenging our waterproofing approach and misinterpreting standard line items such as allowances. At that point, I made the decision to formally withdraw. I sent a courteous note thanking them for the opportunity and explained that we would not be moving forward. While we make every effort to accommodate a range of client preferences and questions, the shifting scope, lack of transparency, excessive scrutiny, and difficult interpersonal dynamics made it clear this was not the right fit. We hold ourselves to a high standard of professionalism and collaboration, and unfortunately, that standard was not being met in this case.