In my practice, there are situations where I choose to decline a project — even when it appears attractive in terms of location, scale, or budget.
I never make this decision impulsively.
For me, saying no is not about эмоtions or "being difficult."
It is about boundaries, respect, and the quality of the final result.
I would like to share one story — without names and without judgment.
Not as an accusation, but as an explanation of my approach to work and life.

A potential client approached me with a property in one of Barcelona’s premium areas.
We had several detailed conversations: discussing goals, shaping the technical brief, and I prepared a commercial proposal.
When we started talking about the budget, doubts and devaluation began to appear in the dialogue:
— "The concept is not that important"
— "This can be done more simply"
— "We only need working drawings"

I explained that the concept is the foundation of any project.
Without it, a garden loses its integrity and becomes just a set of disconnected solutions.
Later, I was asked to show concepts from other projects — I agreed, carefully and without disclosing any client data.
At the same time, I spoke with technical specialists who had recommended this client.
It turned out they had already experienced issues with payments and constant renegotiation of scope.
That was the first signal — but I still remained in dialogue.

We agreed on a meeting.
I was in another city and offered to visit the site if the client was truly ready to move forward.
We traveled a significant distance, analyzed the plot, conducted a drone survey, and began building a 3D model.
This was already полноценная работа — requiring time, focus, and energy.
I reminded them about the advance payment — a standard part of my process.
I was told the payment would be handled later.
After returning home, I sent part of the materials from the work already completed.
Then — silence.
No communication. No payment. No clarity.
When contact resumed, the conversation once again shifted to bargaining and revising the work that had already been done.
At that moment, it became clear: the issue was not the project.
The issue was the absence of respect and trust.
I calmly declined to continue.

I deeply believe that a high-quality garden cannot be created without:
— Trust
— Respect for the work
— Clear agreements
Even the most promising site and a strong budget cannot compensate for toxic communication.
By declining such projects, I:
— Preserve the quality of my work
— Protect my boundaries
— Create space for projects where real dialogue is possible

Over time, I’ve realized that this principle applies to all areas of life.
Recently, I faced a situation of disrespect from someone in my close circle.
I calmly expressed my feelings and boundaries, expecting a dialogue.
The dialogue did not happen.
I simply stepped away.
Without conflict. Without trying to prove anything.
Because for me, respect is not an optional extra.
It is the foundation of any relationship — professional, personal, or human.

I do not work or engage where:
— Work is devalued
— Agreements are not respected
— Respect is absent

I am happy to collaborate with people for whom:
— Dialogue matters
— Clarity is valued
— Responsibility is the norm
For me, saying no is not a loss.
It is an expression of maturity and professional integrity.
And it is precisely these decisions that, over time, lead to the most harmonious and powerful projects.

I am open to new projects and conversations where there is respect, trust, and a shared understanding of the value of space.