Who we are
Founded in 2008 by Dr. Mitchell Newman, he made his clients' interests a cornerstone of his mission. Hundreds of five star ratings across all platforms attest to the success of our approach. Our clients' interests come first, which means we may advise a client not to do a project or to do it differently.
Stratagem is technologically savvy, utilizing project management software and a detailed set of procedures for a organized and collaborative approach. Once an item enters our system, we work on it until it's resolved. It means you won't have to call us to remind us. Nothing is forgotten. Our system also allows everyone in the company to see what's going on and contribute. That means things get done more efficiently with fewer hiccups.
Our bidding and billing system integrate so every charge is accurate and understandable. When working with us, you'll know exactly what you're getting and what it will cost, barring changes. We're going for as few surprises as possible.
We believe precise planning yields smoother projects. This means, for instance, we plan down to the tile pattern, edge detail and grout color. We want everything decided in advance so there is no last minute rushing and no misunderstandings. We also assess jobsites in advance and review plans for designers to avoid as many surprises as possible. Renovation can be chaos, but not with us. With Stratagem, you don’t have to worry. Our quality craftsmanship and the professionalism of our office team will put your mind at ease.
We also offer custom cabinetry from our own workshop. It means we can deliver solutions that go above and beyond with shorter turn-around times and quicker adjustments if needed.
Our relationship with the design community, whether using our sister company Habitar Design or outside designers, allows us to provide end-to-end solutions making design and construction one smooth process.
Ask anyone who worked with us and they'll likely tell you our people are exceptional. That's because we're not only dedicated to our clients, we're dedicate to our people. Our people are the reason we can deliver exceptional quality and customer experiences, and we're dedicated to being one's you can count on and trust.
Our Team
Mitchell Newman
After earning his medical degree from the University of Chicago and becoming a Board-Certified Family Practitioner, Mitch took a different route—one guided by his creative passions. He spent years exploring the world, studying in Germany at the University of Tubingen, living in Egypt, and writing and directing in Chicago where he served as Artistic Director of Chicago’s Thirsty Theater. He took up real estate development in 1999 building a three-flat in Bucktown, the first of many buildings. In 2005 he launched Habitar Design and Stratagem Construction combining his passions for caring for people and construction into a thriving business.
Founder
Kanya Phev
With a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture from the University of California, Davis, Kanya spent her early years managing a design studio in Venice Beach, California. Her love of the cold spurred a spontaneous move to Chicago, which in turn, began her journey at Habitar Design and Stratagem Construction, starting as an assistant project manager to eventually learning the entirety of the business. Now based in NYC, she hopes to continue being able to call a new city home every few years, or maybe even a new country. When she’s not at the computer, you can find her in the kitchen testing new recipes.
Managing Partner
Sebastian Drozd
With over a decade of experience in all areas of construction, Seba brings a wealth of knowledge to the team. He enjoys coordinating efforts with our clients. His professional and friendly approach and clear communication help a great deal to lessen the inherantly stressful conditions of a construction project. He is an attentive leader with a teaching approach, which radiates throughout the rest of the field team. Seba’s dependability is unmatched, putting in long hours to ensure each project is executed to the highest standards. During the moments he is away from his work at Stratagem, Sebastian enjoys soccer, swimming, skiing and enjoying the Chicago lakefront.
Construction SupervisorContact us
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