Jim Ray

When Jim isn’t drafting homeowner’s dreams into detailed realities on the computer, you may find him on the softball field or at the bowling alley. He is an active guy and avid sports fan who is always there to put a smile on your face.Jim has been designing homes and buildings since childhood and has worked hard to turn this lifelong passion into a profession. Jim has brought new energy and a positive outlook to COCOON. When you bring your vision for your new home to Jim, you’ll be amazed to see how he can bring it to life.

How did you arrive at COCOON, what path brought you here?

As a young boy I was always playing with legos and blocks building homes. During the holidays, I would draw up front elevations of homes and decorate them, I have always wanted to design and build my own home. I took a couple classes in high school, hand drafting and computer-aided drafting (CAD), and that’s really what sparked my interest in the construction industry. I went to Pennsylvania Institute of Technology in Media PA and got an associates degree in Architectural/Civil Engineering.

Who have you worked with in the past? And what have you done for them?

For my first job out of college, I worked for F.N. MacCord Architects in Secane PA. 3 person firm (small). Worked as a draftsman. Moved onto Gardner/Fox Associates in Bryn Mawr PA. One of the top mainline design-build companies in the tri-state area. Worked as a draftsman/junior architect.

How long have you been doing what you do?

Been working in the construction industry for the past 12 years.

What are you known for professionally, what do you have a knack for?

Known for being a great draftsman on the computer and can put a really nice set of clean drawings together. Very careful to put all the details on the drawings.

What are you most passionate about professionally? What most excites you about your work & the contribution you can make?

I love being able to turn a homeowner’s dream and vision into a reality. When you think about it, they are putting their trust in you to make a big change to their home and their lives. Also, it’s a space that they will be using for the rest of their time in the house or even for the rest of their lives, so you want to make as perfect as you can for them.

What are you passionate about personally? What do you really enjoy? What can’t you stop talking about?

I am a sports fanatic. I am into all the major Philly teams. Favorite sport is baseball. Love going to citizens bank park to catch a game whenever I can.

Where can we find you when you’re not working? What’s your favorite way to spend a weekend or a Sunday afternoon?

When not working, you can find me outside playing softball during the spring and summer. During the winter months, I am in a bowling league. I also enjoy watching movies and drafting on the computer at home. When the weather is nice, I like to go into the city, sit outside and have a few drinks listening to live music.

Where did you grow up and why aren’t you there now?

During my toddler years, I lived in Anchorage, Alaska. My father was in the service and we lived there for 3 years. Came back to southeastern Delaware county to be near family. As a young adult, I moved around a lot, mostly Delaware county. Lived in northern liberties for a year before I moved to King of Prussia, where I purchased my first home and currently reside (6 plus years now).

In the end, how do you want to be remembered?

I want to be remembered as a person that was there to help out when he could, make you laugh when you needed to be brightened up and be there for you when you’re going through some bad times. I am a very compassionate and loving person that puts people before himself.

Making the move to COCOON has been a blessing. I have such a better outlook on life. I have been given the chance to spread my wings professionally and grow as a person and a designer. Life has been great and I am very excited for what the future will bring.

Any volunteer activities you’re crazy about?

My favorite charity would have to be Habitat for Humanity. Again, being in the construction industry, it feels great to be able to help people out with their homes. Back in 2008, I went to New Orleans to help out with Katrina victims. I spent a week remodeling a home for a family of 5. It felt really awesome to be able to help them get back to their normal lives before disaster struck.