From Overworked Projects to 40% Revenue Growth in 18 Months at Studio Carney

Studio Carney Architecture had built a strong reputation for design excellence, but behind the scenes, the studio was stretched thin. Projects were underpriced, the workload was overwhelming, and growth had plateaued.We helped reposition the brand, streamline their client process, and elevate their digital presence. Through clearer messaging, strategic client targeting, and a confident pricing strategy, Studio Carney transformed from overworked to overbooked, growing revenue by 40% in just 18 months.

+40%

Revenue growth

Average project value

80%

Less time spent on proposals

The company

The studio transforming architectural vision into lasting value

Studio Carney Architecture is a Chicago-based practice led by architect Michael Carney, specializing in custom residential, multi-family, and commercial projects. With over 20 years of experience, Michael brings an artistic yet practical approach to every project, combining design excellence, collaboration, and technical precision. The studio’s philosophy is simple: architecture should not only look beautiful but improve how people live and work.

Type of projects

The challenge

From a small studio to the search for bigger opportunities

From overworked and undercharging to selective, profitable, and confident.

When we met Michael, his studio had incredible potential, but it wasn’t reflected in the business results.

Despite a strong portfolio and stellar reputation, he was stuck in the same cycle many small studios face:

Too many small projects → saying yes to everything to keep the pipeline full.

Undercharging → great work wasn’t matched by sustainable fees.

Lack of focus → no clear strategy for attracting higher-value clients or scaling the studio.
Michael wanted to move from constant hustle to steady, intentional growth, building a business that reflected the quality of his work.

STEP 1

Defined his vision and business model

We began by mapping out Michael’s 18-month vision, identifying the types of projects that aligned with his expertise and revenue goals. This clarity helped shift the focus from taking every job to strategically selecting clients that fit the studio’s long-term plan.

STEP 2

Rebuilt the sales process

Michael went from spending 1 to 2 hours creating custom proposals to having a clean, elegant sales presentation that does the talking for him. Now, he closes projects faster, with more confidence, and typically spends just 15–30 minutes to prepare a proposal. It feels natural and professional, not pushy.

STEP 3

Refined his pricing and positioning

By repositioning his studio and clarifying his value, Michael was able to confidently double his fees. He no longer feels the pressure to accept every opportunity. Instead, he focuses on the big, exciting projects that align with his long-term vision.

STEP 4

Clarified his ideal clients

We helped Michael get clear on his ideal customer profiles: developers, design-savvy homeowners, and small commercial clients. This gave him the clarity to build messaging that resonates, filter the wrong leads, and finally feel in control of who he works with.

STEP 5

Elevated the brand and digital presence

Michael already had an incredible portfolio, but the images on his website didn’t reflect the quality of his work. We helped him update the visuals, improve the storytelling, and ensure everything aligned with the high-end experience he delivers.

STEP 6

Expanded visibility and partnerships

We supported Michael in expanding beyond referrals by introducing him to brokerages and helping him co-host webinars with industry leaders. This opened doors to more developer-led projects and began building authority in new circles.

“For years I was overworked and stretched thin. Now, I have clarity, confidence, and a business that reflects the value of my work. I’m saying no to the wrong projects and yes to the ones that truly excite me.”

Michael Carney

Studio Carney Architecture

The results

From sporadic work to high-end developments

From overwhelmed to in control: a studio built to scale

In just 18 months, Studio Carney achieved measurable growth not by working more, but by working smarter.

What our work provided

Clarity and confidence → a clear sales process and pricing structure that reflects real value.

Focused marketing → messaging and strategy aligned with ideal clients.

Professional brand presence → elevated website, refined visuals, and long-term SEO foundation.

Business impact

+40% revenue growth → achieved within 18 months.

2× average project value → driven by improved positioning and fees.

Fewer but better clients → sustainable workload and stronger partnerships.

While we created the business development framework, the real transformation came from Michael’s commitment to applying it consistently, week after week refining his process, elevating his positioning, and showing up with the clarity and confidence his ideal clients were looking for.

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If you have any problem contact me at estefano@uncommonarchitects.com