Good company, good projects but management is problem - Designer SOG Design Employee Review

The company has strong projects, reputable clients, and a team that cares about producing quality work. Employees are given real responsibility, which makes it a valuable place to learn and grow, especially for people who want direct exposure to architectural and design practice. The work culture is professional and project-driven. Standards are high, and expectations can be demanding, but I personally see that as part of working in a serious design environment. There is a lot to learn from the senior team, and the projects provide meaningful experience that can help employees develop quickly. I also find the salary and benefits to be fair. The company gives people the opportunity to work on good projects rather than just routine tasks, and that is something I value. No workplace is perfect, and different people may have different experiences, but my own experience has been that SOG Design is a respectful, hardworking, and growth-oriented company.

The pace can be fast, and deadlines can create pressure. Better communication and planning during peak periods would help the team work even more smoothly.

Competitive benefits and salary. Fairly prestigious projects & well renowned client pool.

Imagine working in an environment where almost everyone — except perhaps three people in upper management — is constantly miserable, exhausted, and stressed. There are no smiles, no casual conversations, no sense of camaraderie; only a constant atmosphere of dread. Many staff struggle with anxiety and sleep deprivation, not only because of the relentless overtime, but because of the psychological stress created by the workplace itself. Some employees have even sought therapy as a result. The causes are numerous, and many are classic signs of a toxic work culture: blame-shifting, fear-driven management, lack of support, and an absence of accountability from leadership. What makes it worse is that upper management remains deeply in denial despite repeated feedback and warnings from senior staff over the years. The reality is simple: they know there is a problem, but they refuse to change.