Cascade Bank helps Dykeman Architects Draw Up blueprints for Success

Most of the time, many of us don't really notice a lot about our surroundings. We go to work or school, maybe to the library or grocery store — and keep so busy with the business of the day that we don't pay much attention to what our surroundings look like. But sometimes, when we least expect it, we notice an archway, or a roof line, or maybe the shape of a hallway, and it strikes us just how beautiful or interesting it really is. We suddenly are aware that buildings can be more than a roof and four walls. And when that happens, there is an architect somewhere, smiling.

"Inspiring Everyday Spaces" is the motto for Dykeman Architects who explain on their website that they "have a passion for creating the spaces people experience every day." For the last 37 years they have been creating such spaces — designing retail stores, libraries, high schools and other places you might visit any given day. Some of their projects include Bothell High School, the Everett and Evergreen public libraries and the Ballard Safeway store.

"Our goal, besides providing a good living for those who work at the firm, is to have fun," explained John Jones, one of the company's principals. "I've always enjoyed building and designing. My grandfather was a master carpenter and my father was a meatcutter, but he designed my family home and built it with my grandfather. I always knew this is what I wanted to do."

To accomplish that, Dykeman focuses on its core strengths, architecture and interior design. "We don't want to be a bank," joked John. "We use our business banker as a sounding board. For instance, we just sat down in the last couple of weeks with our banker and our accountant to talk about our financial goals for this year. We look to them to let us know if we're off-base in any area. We've also discussed how best to do things such as profit sharing and they've been really good about giving us advice."

Cascade likes providing help and advice to our clients. We learn more about them and are able to provide a service that many of the big banks just don't make time for. Service is what Cascade is all about. Dykeman came to Cascade several years ago, following their business banker from another bank. When that banker moved on, they decided to keep their accounts at Cascade.

"At our firm," John said, "service means listening to your client, finding out what their needs are, and then performing to meet their needs in the best way possible." Cascade Bank business bankers are in full agreement and strive to bring that same approach to all the businesses we serve.

If you're looking for help drawing up your blueprint for success, contact a business banker at Cascade Bank.