🏡 From Software Projects to a Home in Thailand: Leadership, Culture, and a Legacy Built Together
When you’ve spent years managing complex software projects, you think you’ve seen it all — deadlines, budgets, surprises, and stakeholders with strong opinions.
But nothing prepared me for managing a house renovation in Thailand.
🌴 The Project
My mom and I own a small rental house in Thailand. For years, it was rented long-term to a local teacher. But as we both started living here, we saw a new opportunity — to transform it into a short-stay rental for tourists.
The vision: turn a simple home into a modern, loft-style space — clean lines, concrete finishes, industrial details, and a minimal aesthetic.
Something stylish, practical, and inviting for travelers looking for a more local experience.
🧱 The Challenge
With my background in software project management, I naturally stepped in to lead the renovation. I approached it like any other project — defining scope, setting milestones, tracking progress.
But I soon realized that managing Thai construction teams is a completely different world.
Timelines were flexible. Communication was more relational than procedural. Quality wasn’t documented — it was felt.
At first, I tried to bring my structured European approach. But over time, I learned to adapt instead of control.
"In the West, we say “time is money.” In Thailand, trust is money."
Kitar
Chanwan
🇹🇭 Lesson 1: Patience Is a Superpower
In Europe, we chase efficiency. In Thailand, things move with a rhythm of their own.
I learned to slow down, observe, and build trust — to understand before insisting.
Once I started working with the flow instead of against it, progress came naturally.
Leadership isn’t about forcing systems — it’s about aligning people with purpose.
🛠️ Lesson 2: Visuals Speak Louder Than Words
Language was a barrier, but visuals became our shared language.
Drawings, sketches, and reference photos communicated far more effectively than words.
It reminded me of product design — clarity beats complexity, every single time.
Whether in software or construction, a clear vision unites a team.
💬 Lesson 3: Relationships Over Deadlines
In the West, we say “time is money.”
In Thailand, trust is money.
When I stopped focusing on speed and started focusing on relationships — sharing food, showing respect, listening — the atmosphere changed.
The workers cared more. They took pride in the outcome.
That’s when I truly understood: people don’t follow processes; they follow purpose.
❤️ Lesson 4: Building with My Mom — A Different Kind of Project
Delivering projects in the past was always about serving customers — delivering outcomes, creating value.
But this project was different. It was personal.
Working alongside my mom made every decision feel meaningful. Every paint color, every design choice — we did it together.
It wasn’t just about creating a space to rent; it was about building something that carries our shared story.
Standing in the finished home, seeing her smile, I felt a kind of pride no professional success has ever given me.
We built something tangible — a legacy, not just a deliverable.
And that’s worth more than any software project I’ll ever deliver.
"The frustrations, the delays, the long days — it was all worth it."
Kitar
Chanwan
🔧 The Reality Check
Of course, it wasn’t all smooth.
We exceeded the deadline, went over budget, and the contractors made huge mistakes that forced us to redo entire sections.
There were unexpected leaks, maintenance issues, and countless surprises along the way.
But every setback became a lesson — in patience, adaptability, and persistence.
And looking back now, I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything.
The frustrations, the delays, the long days — it was all worth it.
🧩 The Result
What was once a basic rental home is now a modern loft-style space — industrial yet warm, simple yet sophisticated.
It’s designed for travelers who value comfort, style, and authenticity.
We’ve already received our first 5-star reviews, which gave my mom a huge boost of happiness.
She’s now the host — greeting our guests, sharing local tips, and taking pride in every visitor who walks through the door.
Seeing her enjoy this new role is the most rewarding outcome of all.
This project wasn’t just about creating a rental — it was about creating joy and purpose.
💡 Closing Thought
Whether you’re building software or a home, every project is about creating something that lasts.
And sometimes, the most meaningful results aren’t measured in performance metrics —
but in the shared moments, the lessons learned, and the legacy you build together.
Newly Renovated Loft in Chom Thong on the way to Doi Inthanon
Unwind in this stylish, minimal loft—perfect for couples or friends. Just renovated with comfort in mind, the house features 2 cozy bedrooms with Queen size beds, a refreshing rainshower, and private parking. Nestled in a peaceful area, it’s the ideal stop to relax before or after exploring Doi Inthanon.
The space
Just renovated with comfort in mind, the house features 2 cozy bedrooms, a refreshing rainshower, and private parking. Nestled in a peaceful area, it’s the ideal stop to relax before or after exploring Doi Inthanon.
The house accommodates 2 Queen beds!
For more information & Booking:
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1348588253510197093?guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=45531feb-298b-4f04-9cc2-95d3461ebe47
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