Couldn't agree more about explaining the 'why' behind design decisions—it's saved me a few headaches too. Had a similar situation recently with tile layout in a bathroom remodel. The tiler was dead set on standard subway tile layout since that's what he's used to, and I wanted a vertical stack bond to make the ceilings feel higher. At first he thought I was just being picky (maybe I was, ha), but once I explained the visual effect and showed him some examples online, he warmed up to it pretty quickly. You're right though—subs often lean toward what's familiar or straightforward, not realizing how much thought we've already put into these choices. A quick chat can really bridge the gap between practicality and design intent... plus, it usually makes things smoother when unexpected issues pop up later.
Had something similar happen when I wanted to recess the shower niche—my tile guy thought it was unnecessary fuss until I sketched out how it streamlined the look. Once he saw the logic behind it, he got onboard pretty quick... communication really is key.
Had a similar issue recently—my electrician was skeptical about hiding outlets under cabinets. I broke it down step-by-step, showed him some reference pics, and explained how it'd declutter the backsplash. Once he visualized it clearly, resistance faded pretty quick... clarity usually wins out.
Good call breaking it down visually—sometimes subs just need to see the vision clearly. I've found that resistance often comes from uncertainty or unfamiliarity, not stubbornness. Had a similar moment with my tile guy recently; he wasn't sold on a herringbone pattern until I sketched it out right there on the subfloor. Once he saw the flow, he was all in. Clarity and patience usually do the trick... nice job handling it calmly.
