Architecture Social

Architecture Social, Stephen Drew
Architecture Social

Curated content, insights and opportunities designed to elevate careers and strengthen teams in Architecture and Design.

  1. Small Practice, Big Impact: Claire Nash on Cash Flow, Clients and Confidence

    26 MAY

    Small Practice, Big Impact: Claire Nash on Cash Flow, Clients and Confidence

    Charging 50% upfront. Blogging to get work. Teaching part-time and even working as a dinner lady in the early days.  From just herself to a team of six. Refusing to play the “starving artist” trope. Claire Nash isn’t just running an architecture practice - she’s rewriting the manual. In this honest, funny and practical conversation, Claire breaks down what it’s really like running a small architecture studio in the UK. From cash flow crunches to the mindset shift needed to chase overdue invoices, how she carved out a niche in barn conversions, scaled the team, and wrote two books along the way.  If you’re dreaming of starting your own practice or just want to make yours a little less chaotic, this one’s for you. 00:00 Welcome to the Architecture Social Show 01:17 Introducing Claire Nash: Author and Architect 01:50 Starting an Architecture Practice: Claire's Journey 03:34 Challenges of Running a Small Architecture Practice 05:58 Managing Cash Flow and Client Payments 20:25 Marketing Strategies for Architects 24:41 Public Speaking and Networking Tips 28:56 Navigating Social Media Platforms 30:18 The Power of Real-Life Networking 32:57 The Importance of Niches in Business 39:39 Balancing Business and Personal Life 42:30 Writing and Publishing Books 49:24 The Role of AI in Architecture 54:16 Conclusion and Contact Information ____ 📐 The Architecture Social is an online platform packed with content to help you find new jobs, stand out from the crowd and take your career in Architecture to the next level 💻 Find out more at https://www.architecturesocial.com

    56 min
  2. Writing, Curating, Strategising: Lucy Bullivant’s Urbanist Toolkit

    19 MAY

    Writing, Curating, Strategising: Lucy Bullivant’s Urbanist Toolkit

    Award-winning author, strategist and curator Lucy Bullivant joins us to spill the tea on what it really takes to shape cities that work – and why good urbanism needs more than just good design.  We dive into her journey from writing "Masterplanning Futures" to curating edutainment exhibitions, chairing design review panels and working hands-on with communities from Oslo to Enfield. It’s all about retrofitting, storytelling, publishing, people and place.  Lucy’s lived it – and she’s not holding back.  00:00 0236 - Lucy Bullivant 00:08 Welcome to the Architecture Social Show 00:35 Meet Lucy: Curator, Mentor, and Strategist 01:45 Lucy's Background and Influences 02:52 Global Projects and Collaborations 04:06 Passion for Architecture and Urban Design 04:36 Temple Bar Trust and Diverse Voices 05:50 Master Planning Futures: A Book Journey 12:00 Writing and Research Process 19:13 The Role of AI in Writing 23:28 Collaborative Writing and Curation 25:44 Exploring the World of Edutainment and Exhibitions 26:26 Curating Exhibitions: From Concept to Execution 28:32 Innovative Exhibition Projects and Collaborations 31:06 The Importance of Retrofitting and Sustainable Design 35:11 Consultancy Work and Urban Design 43:02 Temple Bar Trust: Promoting Architecture and Education 44:52 Upcoming Talks and Events at Temple Bar Trust 48:24 Final Thoughts and How to Connect with Lucy ____ 📐 The Architecture Social is an online platform packed with content to help you find new jobs, stand out from the crowd and take your career in Architecture to the next level 💻 Find out more at https://www.architecturesocial.com

    50 min
  3. Why Most Architects Shouldn’t Be Developers (But Some Should) ft. Ben Richards

    15 MAY

    Why Most Architects Shouldn’t Be Developers (But Some Should) ft. Ben Richards

    Ben Richards gave up the drawing board for the developer’s desk and now he’s got four businesses, millions in property deals, and a lot of stories from the front lines.  In this episode, we dig into the nitty-gritty of going from architect to real estate entrepreneur - what actually happens when you swap the studio for the site, the hard truths about making money in property, and how Ben’s managed to build (and survive) a business empire.  It’s not all doom and gloom though - we get into opportunities in social housing, what tech like AI and LIDAR might mean for the industry, and how to spot the trends that matter in 2025. Brutally honest, useful, and oddly motivating. Ben is the founder of Aura Architecture & Interiors, XP Property, and XP Surveys. 00:00 Ben Richards00:09  Christmas Live Stream Kickoff00:41 From Architecture to Development: Ben's Journey01:29  Building and Managing Multiple Businesses03:49  The Challenges of Hiring and Team Building13:17  Transitioning from Architecture to Real Estate18:02  The Realities of Property Development24:35  Opportunities and Challenges in the Housing Market29:58 Social Housing and Affordable Development32:40 The Planning Process: Challenges and Changes33:48 Social Housing and Property Conversions34:30 Trends in Retail and Industrial Sectors38:30 The Role of AI in Architecture and Business47:35 Exciting Prospects for 202552:56 Business Strategies and Community Building59:05 Podcast and Final Thoughts ____ 📐 The Architecture Social is an online platform packed with content to help you find new jobs, stand out from the crowd and take your career in Architecture to the next level 💻 Find out more at https://www.architecturesocial.com

    58 min
  4. Oops! Did I Do That? Ayo Abbas Spills the Tea on the Top 5 Architecture Marketing Mistakes

    18 MAR

    Oops! Did I Do That? Ayo Abbas Spills the Tea on the Top 5 Architecture Marketing Mistakes

    Top 5 Mistakes in Architecture Marketing with Ayo AbbasIn this episode, the host welcomes Ayo Abbas of Abbas Marketing to delve into the common mistakes made in architecture marketing. They discuss the top five errors, including misconceptions about marketing's role, underestimating the importance of storytelling, and the need to keep up with social media innovations.  Ayo shares her career journey from construction PR to becoming an award-winning marketing consultant. The conversation also touches on the value of client relationships and the importance of sticking with marketing strategies for the long haul. Ayo offers advice for those looking to enter the field and emphasizes the necessity of treating marketing as a strategic business function rather than a task for a single 'marketing unicorn.' 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene00:27 Meet Ayo Abbas: Marketing Expert02:54 Defining Marketing and Its Importance04:01 Common Marketing Mistakes in Architecture05:27 The Role of Visuals in Marketing10:23 Strategic Marketing vs. The Coloring Department14:43 Keeping Up with Social Media Innovations25:29 Defining Community in the Digital Age26:45 Top Marketing Mistakes: Giving Up Too Soon28:19 The Importance of Consistency in Marketing35:00 The Myth of the Marketing Unicorn39:10 Career Insights: From Construction PR to Marketing40:50 Client Relationships and Personal Branding47:31 Marketing Consultant Services and Podcasting50:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts ____ 📐 The Architecture Social is an online platform packed with content to help you find new jobs, stand out from the crowd and take your career in Architecture to the next level 💻 Find out more at https://www.architecturesocial.com

    48 min
  5. Exploring Architecture and Town Planning with UPP - Journey, Challenges, and Collaboration

    12 MAR

    Exploring Architecture and Town Planning with UPP - Journey, Challenges, and Collaboration

    Exploring Architecture and Town Planning with UPP - Journey, Challenges, and Collaboration In this episode, join us as we dive into the fascinating world of Architecture and Town Planning with the unique practice, UPP. We meet Enrique, Motti, and James, who share their journey from a cozy basement startup to a thriving interdisciplinary firm. Learn about the firm's collaborative approach, combining town planning and architecture under one roof, and how they leverage AI to enhance their workflows.  The team also discusses the importance of adaptability, the impact of the pandemic on their operations, and future plans for UPP, including international expansion and a new office space. Whether you're an aspiring architect or planner, or simply interested in the built environment, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:49 Meet the Team: UPP's Founders 03:18 James' Journey into Town Planning 04:36 Understanding Town Planning vs. Architecture 06:58 The Collaborative Process at UPP 19:20 Adapting to the Pandemic 26:58 The Importance of Face-to-Face Meetings 28:26 What Makes a Standout Portfolio 32:35 Transitioning Careers and Finding Fulfillment 40:10 The Role of AI in Modern Architecture 43:23 Future Prospects and Optimism in the Industry 45:17 Final Thoughts and Reflections ____ 📐 Architecture Social is an online platform packed with content to help you find new jobs, stand out from the crowd and take your career in Architecture to the next level 💻 Find out more at https://www.architecturesocial.com

    55 min
  6. The Business of Architecture: Risks, Rewards, and Real Talk with Hakan Agca at Cross Works

    3 FEB

    The Business of Architecture: Risks, Rewards, and Real Talk with Hakan Agca at Cross Works

    What does it take to build a thriving architecture business from scratch? Hakan Agca, founder of CrossWorks, joins the show to share his journey from working in top firms to running his own practice.  We’re diving into the nuts and bolts of the business of architecture: taking risks, building networks, hiring as well as firing, scaling sustainably, our biggest mistakes and staying ahead with technology like AI and BIM. It’s real talk about the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship in the built environment, all wrapped up in a lively and our most brutally honest chat yet. 00:00 Introduction and Studio Tour 00:40 Moving to Camden 00:58 Starting the Business 01:19 The Business of Architecture 02:09 Essential Skills for Architects 02:39 Challenges of Running a Business 04:37 Networking and Client Relationships 06:33 Scaling Up the Practice 09:00 Innovations in Architecture 10:31 Hiring and Team Building 15:06 Work Environment and Culture 24:16 Debating Work Efficiency 25:00 Flexibility in the Workplace 26:19 Office Dynamics and Technology 27:44 The Importance of Office Presence 29:09 Challenges in Architecture Careers 31:12 Forecasting and Business Strategy 34:23 The Role of Technology in Architecture 40:26 Recruitment and Culture Change 48:26 Final Thoughts and Contact Information ____ Curated content, insights and opportunities to accelerate your career in Architecture, Design, Development and Real Estate to the next level. 💻 Find more content at https://www.architecturesocial.com 📐 #Architecture #ArchitectureStudent #Architect #ArchitecturePodcast

    51 min
  7. What is Heritage and Conservation, Ft. Jonathan Goode at Le Lay Architects

    27 JAN

    What is Heritage and Conservation, Ft. Jonathan Goode at Le Lay Architects

    Old Meets New: A Deep Dive into Heritage and Conservation Architecture In this engaging livestream, join host Stephen Drew and special guest Jonathan Goode from Lillet Architects as they explore the world of heritage and conservation architecture. Jonathan shares insights from his 20-year career in London, focusing on maintaining the essence of historical buildings while adapting them for modern use.  They discuss the challenges and surprises of working on various projects, including residential homes, schools, and churches. Jonathan also provides valuable advice for aspiring architects interested in heritage projects and emphasizes the importance of sensitivity and understanding in this field.  Whether you're an architecture enthusiast or a professional, this conversation will offer a fascinating look into the balance of preserving history while embracing the future. 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:52 Welcome to the Live Stream 01:32 Meet Jonathan Goode 02:09 Jonathan's Background and Passion for Heritage 02:54 Exploring Jonathan's Projects 07:32 Challenges in Heritage Projects 14:24 Working with Churches 16:25 Advice for Aspiring Heritage Architects 18:14 Starting a Heritage Architecture Practice 19:58 The Importance of a Physical Office 20:31 Local Projects and Hands-On Heritage Work 22:15 Navigating Challenges in Architecture 23:32 The Role of AI in Heritage Architecture 25:30 The Importance of Hand Drawing and Physical Models 27:33 Hiring Tips for Heritage and Conservation Roles 31:55 Excitement and Optimism for 2024 33:52 Reflecting on Heritage Projects 37:54 Closing Remarks and Contact Information ____ 📐 The Architecture Social is an online platform packed with content to help you find new jobs, stand out from the crowd and take your career in Architecture to the next level 💻 Find out more at https://www.architecturesocial.com

    39 min

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Curated content, insights and opportunities designed to elevate careers and strengthen teams in Architecture and Design.

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