As the Principal of RS Mannino Architects + Builders, Rosario S. Mannino has been involved in residential architectural design and construction for over 20 years. His impressive portfolio of custom-built homes and historic renovations led to his winning reputation for elevating luxury spaces in New Jersey’s most desirable neighborhoods and New York’s most upscale enclaves. This award-winning professional shares the lessons he’s learned along the way, his top rule when working with design clients, and the most satisfying aspects of his work.
Gwen Donovan: What’s the most important lesson you learned in your career?
Rosario S. Mannino: Stay true to your design philosophy and don’t be misguided by the trendy, and sometimes outlandish, ideas on social media.
GD: What is your number one rule when working with your design clients?
RM: Have fun, the process should always be enjoyable! One of the most important things we can manage is our client’s expectations. We have a few mottos in the office, and one of them is “You Can’t Manage What You Can’t Measure”, so communication is a key priority to our success. Our design and construction process is much more fluid since we are both the architect and the builder, which makes problem-solving more efficient.
GD: What are the most satisfying parts of your job?
RM: Working with a talented team of interior designers, landscape designers and artisans to create a holistic design that turns a project into a home for family memories. A major part of our design philosophy is to celebrate the craftsmanship of the trades which not only inspires our work, but makes it truly enjoyable.
GD: How has your design approach evolved over the years?
RM: I have become more inquisitive over the years about our clients’ lifestyles and the functionality of their homes. This makes our projects more fun, creative and unexpected. Getting to know our clients on a more personal level, and doing more research before the pen hits the paper, leads to a completed project that is much more personal, unique and intentional.
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