2024 Ones to Watch - Industry Leaders: Stefano Basso, AIA, SV Design

Three skills that you use every day in your position:

Being responsive no matter what excuse there might be; to clients, contractors, employees, consultants and vendors alike. Patience; the process is always forward, never straight! Imagination is the fun one. Visualizing exteriors, spatial configurations, MEP coordination, the more challenging the better.

Best book, podcast, or app for aspiring leaders:

Getting to Yes is a great quick read on achieving alignment. Everything is a negotiation to some extent and understanding others’ perspectives is key to finding common ground and advancing goals.

Best advice for new leaders in 10 words or less:

Invest in yourself, your people and your relationships.

What recent project, transaction or accomplishment are you most proud of? 

SV Design recently completed the adaptive reuse of the Briscoe School in Beverly with Harborlight Homes, Beacon Communities and Keith Construction. Now called Beverly Village for Living & the Arts, it offers 85 affordable senior apartments and 6 artist live/work studios. It was a long process and complex task working with the 100-year-old building including historic tax credits and attaining LEED Silver Certification. Pretty cool that folks will be able to age in place where they went to high school!

What makes this nominee an Industry Leader? 

“Stefano Basso, AIA, of SV Design, has helped lead the design of The Cabot’s stunning, decade-long transformation with vision and expertise. His work honors our theater’s historic character while greatly enhancing its functionality and appeal. Stefano’s talent, attention to detail, and dedication have made The Cabot a landmark our community cherishes and celebrates.” - Casey Soward, current president & CEO, Boch Center. 

What was one of your biggest challenges as a leader and how did you overcome it? 

Transitioning from summer intern to Partner over the past 15 years means that about half of the staff is older than I am. For any leader there is a balance to strike between confidence and humility. Emphasizing the team nature of our firm and working together has been successful. One built-in advantage is that I’ve done it all and am not afraid to roll up my sleeves and jump back into the trenches.