"Your Hub for Collaboration and Community Growth"

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Calendar of Events

Save The Date!

Cosentino – Dekton Plant Tour and Hands-On Demonstration

Dinner at Leonardo’s Italian Grille

The Future of Green Building – Joint Panel Discussion with USGBC

Tour of Grosse Pointe Performing Arts

CSI Great Lakes Region Leadership Conference

EVENTS SIGN UP HERE

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Event Review

Event Review: Delegated Design or Design Assist?

On February 11, 2025, the Metro Detroit CSI chapter hosted an engaging panel discussion at the Brown Iron Brewhouse in Royal Oak. The event, moderated by seasoned architect William D. Jensen, tackled the nuances of "Delegated Design" versus "Design Assist"—two critical project delivery methods in the AEC industry.

The evening began with a buffet-style dinner Courtesy of Brown Iron Brew House, providing attendees with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere to socialize before the discussion. The well-prepared meal set the stage for a night of insightful conversation and professional camaraderie.

The panel featured industry veterans from various sectors: Mike Redding of Jaimes Industries, Russell Lacoursiere of Ghafari Associates, Nate Hubert of The Christman Company, and Jeff Maxwell of IF Metalworks. This diverse lineup ensured a well-rounded discussion, with each panelist providing valuable insights based on their extensive experience in construction, architectural design, and specialty contracting.

Throughout the evening, the discussion delved into the core distinctions between Delegated Design and Design Assist, emphasizing their respective impacts on project workflow, risk allocation, and collaboration among stakeholders. Panelists shared real-world examples highlighting how each method has been applied successfully—or, in some cases, led to challenges—in various project types. The audience, consisting of architects, engineers, contractors, and manufacturers, actively engaged with the panel, contributing thoughtful questions that enriched the dialogue.

The event was expertly moderated, ensuring a smooth flow of conversation and equal representation of perspectives. The intimate setting fostered candid discussions, allowing attendees to gain deeper insights into the practical applications of these methodologies.

With a fully booked room, lively discussions, and meaningful networking opportunities, this panel discussion proved to be a valuable experience for all in attendance. It reinforced the importance of strategic collaboration in the design and construction process and provided attendees with actionable knowledge to apply in their professional practices.

Another excellent event in the books. 

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Welcome New Members

New Members:

• Aliyah Gilbert, Engineer, OHM Advisors
• Nathaniel Bellinger, Gensler
• Eric Risch, Deangelis Diamond
• Heather McClure, Brinker Group
• Brad Maurer, Executive VP, Leidal & Hart
• Justin Becker, Director Estimating & Project Management, Liberty Sheet Metal

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Member Anniversaries

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Member Focus

CSI Detroit Member Spotlight: Buthayna Taha

BUTHAYNA TAHA, ASSOCIATE AIA, AHC, CSI
Project Manager, Division 8 – Rayhaven Group, Inc.

The strength of any professional organization lies in its members, and the CSI Detroit Chapter is fortunate to have dedicated professionals like Buthayna Taha. A long-time member and active leader, Buthayna has been with CSI for ten years, contributing her expertise and passion for collaboration to the construction industry.

As an Associate AIA member and an Architectural Hardware Consultant (AHC), Buthayna serves as a Project Manager for Division 8 at Rayhaven Group Inc. in Livonia, Michigan. She is also a valued director on the board of CSI Detroit Chapter. Beyond her work in architectural hardware, she is deeply committed to sustainability and climate advocacy, having been trained by former Vice President Al Gore as a Climate Leader. Through this initiative, she volunteers her time educating the public on climate change, extreme weather, and the importance of building a sustainable future.

Buthayna firmly believes that success in the construction industry is built on strong teamwork and communication among architects, spec writers, contractors, sales representatives, and distributors. She sees CSI as a key platform for fostering these connections, thanks to its robust networking opportunities and unique educational events. Her passion for professional development and knowledge-sharing is evident in her love of writing. She has published a book, written an award-winning article for the Door and Hardware Institute (DHI), and even dabbled in music.

A Journey of Growth and Collaboration Reflecting on her decade-long membership with CSI, Buthayna shares that the most rewarding part of her journey has been collaborating with industry professionals on projects and educational events. She particularly enjoys presenting to architects and values the knowledge exchange that occurs at CSI-hosted tours and events.

When asked about her motivation for joining CSI, she explains, “I wanted to connect with professionals in the construction industry on a continuous basis, and CSI fully fulfilled this for me.” That commitment to professional engagement has not only enriched her career but has also helped shape the industry through education and innovation.

Overcoming Challenges Through Education Leadership in any industry comes with challenges, and for Buthayna, one of the biggest hurdles has been overcoming resistance to change. “The hardest thing was witnessing some professionals stick to the old ways of doing things and resist changes that could benefit both them and the industry,” she says. However, she remains committed to advancing the field through continuous education, panel discussions, and tours of new projects, believing that exposure to new ideas is the key to progress. “CSI is a pioneer in that frontier,” she adds.

A Personal Connection For many members, CSI is more than just a professional organization—it’s a community. On a personal note, Buthayna was the very first person to welcome me at my first CSI event, a holiday gathering two years ago. She took the time to introduce me to other members, making me feel at home in the chapter from day one. That moment of kindness and inclusivity speaks volumes about who she is—not just as a professional but as a person who truly embodies the spirit of CSI.

Buthayna Taha’s dedication, leadership, and passion for education continue to make a significant impact on CSI Detroit and the industry as a whole. We are grateful for her contributions and look forward to seeing how she continues to inspire and lead in the years ahead.

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