SOPHISTICATED GENTLEMAN: GARY NANCE

Carmel-based Gary Nance is a nationally recognized architect whose work has been featured in Midwest Living, Traditional Home, and Better Homes & Gardens magazines.

What are the biggest challenges of your job?

Staying on top of new features to keep designs fresh and exciting for my clients without giving into trends of the moment.

Do you have a signature style (in your design)?

I am known for my lake cottages, but over the years I have evolved into contemporary homes with flat roofs and glass features.

If you wrote a book about your career so far, what would you title it?

Finally.

How would you describe yourself in one word?

Different.

If you weren’t in this line of work, what career would you want to pursue? Entertainment.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

What I am doing now. I have always known.

What advice would you give yourself at age 15?

Pay attention to your surroundings and always listen to your instincts.

What’s the very first job you had and what did you learn from it?

Construction. How to put in a hard day’s work without complaining, and learning things I thought I already knew.

What advice would you give to your former boss?

I told you so.

What’s the riskiest decision you’ve made in your career?

To go out on my own.

What’s the biggest 180 you’ve made in your career?

Putting my health first.

Who is the love of your life and how did you meet?

My wife Nancy. I was working construction, working on a project for her father. She showed up one day at the job site and I knew instantly I was going to marry her.

What was the happiest time of your life?

When my children were born.

If you were an animal, what would you be?

A silverback gorilla. They are strong, confident…seem intimidating, but are gentle giants and are extremely loyal and protective to their family.

If you had only one day left to live, how would you spend it?

With my family.

Who was the most influential person in your life?

Everyone I meet.

What do you value most?

Integrity in all individuals.

What superpower would you choose for yourself?

I have enough already.

For more information, visit garynancedesign.com