Practice Disrupted by Practice of Architecture

Evelyn Lee
Practice Disrupted by Practice of Architecture

The evolution of architectural practice has been relatively slow towards change, yet modern shifts in business and design management have prompted today’s leading architects to rethink how they work. On Practice Disrupted, Evelyn Lee, an architect, design strategist, and Senior Experience Designer at Slack, and architecture business strategy consultant, Je’Nen Chastain, set out to illuminate the future of the profession to help architects remain relevant and valuable in a changing world. They will explore how technology, cultural shifts, and emerging best practices are prompting firm owners to assess their business models and make adjustments in their studios. Each episode features an industry leader, and together our hosts will explore the new frontier of architectural practice.

  1. قبل يومين

    180: Architectette takes on Practice Disrupted

    How Can Architects Redefine Leadership and Success in a Changing Profession? In this episode of Practice Disrupted, Evelyn Lee takes the guest chair as Caitlin Brady, AIA, flips the script for a reflective and thought-provoking season finale. Caitlin, a Project Architect, inclusion advocate, and host of the podcast Architectette, leads this candid discussion about the evolution of career paths in architecture. Together, they explore lessons in leadership, generational dynamics in the workplace, and balancing personal and professional identities. The conversation begins with Evelyn’s reflections on pivotal career moments, including her transition out of traditional practice and into tech, and her current journey as an entrepreneur. Caitlin and Evelyn discuss how architecture professionals can adapt to generational shifts, navigate hybrid work models, and challenge traditional definitions of success. They also delve into the value architects bring to their clients beyond design and explore how innovation can redefine the profession’s future. "We have to rethink how architects approach their clients’ needs, not just for new buildings but in the spaces in between." – Evelyn Lee The episode wraps with Evelyn’s outlook on 2025, including her hopes for architects to embrace flexibility, mentorship, and entrepreneurship as tools for success in an evolving industry. Guest: Caitlin Brady, AIA, LEED BD+C Caitlin Brady is a Project Architect and Associate at Ayers Saint Gross, where she specializes in higher education architecture. With over a decade of experience, she champions inclusion in the profession as an ACE Mentor, AIA volunteer, and host of Architectette, a podcast amplifying women’s voices in AEC. In 2023, Caitlin received the AIA|DC Emerging Architect Award for her contributions to the industry. 📍 Show Links:   Connect with Caitlin Brady on LinkedIn Listen to the Architectette Podcast: Architectette Follow Architectette on Instagram: @Architectette Connect with Architectette on LinkedIn 📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Pinterest | Twitter Check out our past episodes  Be a part of our community — join the conversation

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  2. ١١ جمادى الآخرة

    179: Cove.Tool, A New Era of Architectural Consulting

    How Can Architects Use Data and Technology to Build Sustainably? In this episode of Practice Disrupted, we sit down with Sandeep Ahuja, Co-Founder & CEO of CoveTool and co-author of Build Like It’s the End of the World. Known for her innovative contributions to the architecture and sustainability space, Sandeep shares her journey from licensed architect to tech entrepreneur. Together, we explore how data, AI, and a shift in business models are reshaping the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. We begin by diving into Sandeep’s newly released book, Build Like It’s the End of the World. She discusses the inspiration behind the book, which provides a comprehensive guide to building sustainably in today’s climate. From financial implications to actionable strategies, the book is designed to empower everyone in the AEC industry—from students to seasoned professionals. Next, we discuss CoveTool’s evolution from Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) to Value-as-a-Service (VAS), a shift that reflects the growing complexity of architecture projects. By combining AI-powered tools with consulting services, CoveTool enables firms to tackle challenges ranging from early-stage design to compliance and beyond. Sandeep also shares her vision for how architects can reclaim their role as design leaders, leveraging technology to focus on creativity and problem-solving rather than repetitive tasks. Her insights underscore the importance of collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and embracing innovation to drive meaningful change in the industry. If we want to solve climate change, we need to make data accessible, easy to understand, and actionable. That’s how architects, owners, and the planet win. – Sandeep Ahuja To conclude, Sandeep reflects on her journey as a CEO and shares advice for the next generation of architects. Her story is a testament to the power of passion and resilience in driving innovation and positive impact. Guest: Sandeep Ahuja Sandeep Ahuja is the Co-Founder and CEO of CoveTool, an award-winning software platform that helps architects and engineers optimize their designs for sustainability. She is also the co-author of Build Like It’s the End of the World, a comprehensive guide to sustainable building practices. With a background in architecture, Sandeep is a passionate advocate for climate action and innovation in the built environment. 📍 Show Links:   Connect with Sandeep on LinkedIn Learn more about CoveTool Build Like It’s the End of the World 📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Pinterest | Twitter Check out our past episodes  Be a part of our community — join the conversation

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  3. ٤ جمادى الآخرة

    178: Architecture, And: UX Strategist

    How can architects use their skills to pivot into tech design and UX strategy successfully? On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we chat with Emily Privot McNamara, a design strategist and researcher at Amazon’s Device Design Group. From designing buildings to designing tech products at Amazon, Emily demonstrates how architects can successfully transition into non-traditional roles. In our conversation, she shares how her architectural background has shaped her approach to the tech world and her vision for the evolving relationship between architecture and technology. First, Emily discusses her path into architecture, her pivot to tech product design, and how the principles of architectural thinking translate to UX strategy. She also highlights her passion for health tech, where her work impacts millions globally. Then, Emily offers a look at working for Amazon, including how she developed her portfolio and balances business goals with customer needs in such a large company. She highlights the value of architectural problem-solving skills and relationship management in tech, offering insights for professionals thinking about similar career moves. The advice is really just to have that confidence and don't be intimidated by these artificial barriers of noncommon denominators. You think that if you are transitioning from architecture to product design, it's a whole new world. And yes, there are different terms and jargon, but ultimately, you are able to apply skills to solve other people's problems. You are able to address the needs of a company through the skills and tools you already have in your toolbox. - Emily Privot McNamara To wrap up the conversation, Emily shares advice for architects looking to pivot to tech or other non-traditional roles. She also touches on architecture's intersection with technology and reflects on how this convergence will continue to shape the future of both industries. Tune in next week for an episode with one of the Cove Tool founders to discuss new business models and a new book.  Guest: Emily Privot McNamara Emily moved from DC to San Francisco in the early aughts to join the budding community of sustainable architects and began her career as an architectural designer working on a range of projects from high-end retail environments to local non-profit urban streetscape improvements.  After some years in architecture, she pivoted into design strategy to create different things on different timelines. She has worked in Bay Area consultancies and in-house as both a (UX/ID) researcher and design strategist and remains inordinately passionate about biology, only now through a lens of health tech, specifically for women. In a future chapter of her career, she hopes to serve as a death doula for end-of-life caregiving. 📍 Show Links:   Connect with Emily on LinkedIn 📚Continue Learning: Eames Design Diagram 📚 Past Episodes Referenced: PD #29: Taking the Leap from Architecture into Tech 📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | a...

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  4. ١٩ جمادى الأولى

    177: Designing a Successful Hybrid Practice

    How can architecture firms successfully transition to a hybrid work model that balances flexibility, connection, and structure? In this episode of Practice Disrupted, we explore hybrid work models in architecture firms, using the firm Shepley Bulfinch as an example. We’re joined by three leaders from Shepley Bulfinch: Jenn Zagarella, Vice President of Administration; Jim Martin, Vice President and CIO; and Jim Chambers, Vice President of Practice Management. Together, they discuss how architecture firms can navigate the challenges of staying connected in today’s evolving workplace through hybrid models. First, the panel provides an overview of Shepley’s pre-pandemic work environment, focusing on the strong foundations the firm established and how these prepared them for a smooth transition to hybrid work. Jenn, Jim, and Jim share the strategies, tools, and technologies Shepley uses to build a cohesive, flexible work environment. Then, we explore how Shepley’s hybrid model supports effective communication, continuous learning, location-based needs, and a sense of community. They also discuss the tech required to support their model and highlight the importance of defining what hybrid work means for your specific firm. Our hybrid model has helped to really reinforce, and in some ways, formally articulate the flexibility and the trust that we place into our people. It's helped us to be able to hire people that don't happen to be close to one of our studios. It's actually, in a few cases, allowed us to bring people back that we were sad to lose. Now that we're capable and comfortable working in a different manner, we can, we can bring them back. - Jim Chamber  To wrap up the conversation, the group reflects on the impact of hybrid work on Shepley’s culture, trust, and connections. They also address common questions and concerns leaders may have when implementing a hybrid model in their practice. Tune in next week for a conversation with an architect turned UX Strategist.  Guests: Jenn Zagarella, Vice President, Administration Leads a diverse administrative team focused on efficiency, innovation, and inclusion. She facilitates collaboration and empowers creativity across departments. Since 2014, Jenn has contributed to continuous improvement efforts, process mapping, and building empathy and consensus firmwide Jim Martin, Vice President, CIO Drawing on over 30 years of Information Technology experience, Jim leads the development of strategies for technology tools that support and advance design, delivery, and collaboration at Shepley Bulfinch. He focuses on new technologies and how they affect the design process. Jim is a Six Sigma Green Belt and holds a Bachelor's degree in Architecture from Roger Williams University. Jim Chambers, Vice President, Practice Management As the Vice President of Practice Management, Jim provides leadership for the overall performance of the design organization. In partnership with the business operations, Jim develops and directs processes and standards that improve all aspects of the design practice with a focus on the management and delivery of our product. He holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Carnegie Mellon University. 📍 Show Links:   Connect with Jenn on LinkedIn Connect with Jim Martin on LinkedIn Connect with Jim Chambers on LinkedIn Learn more about Shepley...

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  5. ١٢ جمادى الأولى

    176: Community-Impact Consulting

    How can architects maximize their impact on communities through the built environment by leveraging valuable relationships, evolving technology, and sustainability?  On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we sit down with Joshua A. Foster, an award-winning community builder, designer, educator, and speaker. As the Founder and CEO of JAF Creative Solutions – a consulting firm dedicated to maximizing community impact in the AEC and real estate industries – Joshua shares his insights on aligning with architecture firms to integrate community impact into the built environment and practice.  First, Joshua explains what motivated him to create JAF Creative Solutions. He also discusses how he nurtures strong relationships with clients, industry connections, and community leaders, working together to create meaningful and lasting change. Then, Joshua dives into his approach to defining success and value for his firm with a look at his development strategies. We also explore the challenges of building community engagement services, and Joshua explains how JAF incorporates community feedback into projects while maintaining a sustainable business model.  Architecture, for me, has always been surprisingly so traditional, even though all of the people that I've met in it are really innovative... I think that, as a whole for the world, we're in a good place. As for the profession and people that are running architecture practices, I think we're pretty behind because we're not figuring out how to maximize on all these amazing talents, thoughts, and ideas. People in the industry feel like they have to completely leave it to be able to be innovative. As a profession, it's important for us to figure out – how do we capture these ideas and innovations into the traditional practice so that we don’t necessarily have to start a whole new company? – Joshua A. Foster To wrap up the conversation, Joshua shares his thoughts on how technology is reshaping community engagement and highlights his vision for the future of architecture along with his personal goals.  Tune in next week for an episode about designing a successful hybrid practice.  Guest: Joshua A. Foster  Joshua A. Foster is an award-winning community builder, architectural designer, educator, and speaker. He is the Founder and CEO of JAF — a community-impact-focused consulting firm empowering the AEC and real estate industry with the tools to maximize impact in the built environment. Joshua also serves on multiple local and national non-profit boards including, the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA), the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture (ACSA), the Long Beach Community Design Center, Architecture + Advocacy, and the USC Architectural Guild. A native of the Philadelphia area, Joshua is a graduate of both Columbia University and the University of Southern California. 📍 Show Links:   Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn Check out JAF Creative Solutions Follow JAF Creative Solutions on Instagram 📚Continue Learning: OGL Virtual Museum  ThinkWatts Foundation 📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social: Facebook | a...

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  6. ٥ جمادى الأولى

    175: Architecture, And: Affordable Housing and Community Development

    How can architects utilize their diverse skill sets outside of the practice to create meaningful, lasting social impact within communities and the built environment?  On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we welcome Wayne Mortensen, a leader whose career spans architecture, urban design, and social work. As Vice President of Excel Development Group and founder of Public Square Development Services, Wayne brings an interdisciplinary perspective to community development. In our conversation, we discuss Wayne’s passion for affordable housing and his commitment to creating lasting social impact through design. First, he shares his journey, beginning with his academic pursuits in architecture, urban design, and social work. We touch on his transition from traditional consulting to social work to address the intersection between design and community needs. Then, Wayne highlights his time as a Rose Fellow in Cleveland and the importance of trust-based relationships in community development. He talks about founding Public Square Development Services, his leadership role at Excel Development Group, his position at the University of Nebraska, and why working in multiple roles can increase social impact. There's all sorts of ways that skills can be utilized in both conventional architectural practice and non-traditional practice. I want architecture school to be a lot more like my social work experience, where we are an accelerator and not a gatekeeper. Because if there's somebody that is an architecture school, it's because they have a passion and a fundamental belief in the built environment and its importance, and there's absolutely no reason that we can't find a role for them. - Wayne Mortensen To wrap up the conversation, Wayne offers advice to emerging professionals, encouraging them to view architecture education as a tool for diverse career paths. He advocates for a more inclusive and collaborative approach to education as a means to drive meaningful change.  Tune in next week for an episode about community-impact consulting Guest: Wayne Mortensen, AIA, NASW Wayne Mortensen is a developer, planner, and architect in Lincoln, Nebraska where he serves as Vice President of Excel Development Group and runs a nonprofit affordable housing consultancy, Public Square Development Services. After preparing for a traditional career in architecture at the University of Nebraska, his academic interests shifted to the emerging field of public interest design–a journey that took him to DC, St Louis, and Cleveland before returning home in 2020 to explore affordable housing solutions that transcend the urban/rural divide. In DC, Wayne oversaw the launch of a national service initiative called Freedom by Design while serving as the 2003 President of the American Institute of Architecture Students. In 2010, he was awarded an Enterprise Rose Architectural Fellowship, which took him to Cleveland, Ohio. For nearly a decade, he helped facilitate citywide planning, housing, and redevelopment strategies as a pro bono consultant within Cleveland’s expansive community development ecosystem. This work culminated in 2020, the same year that Wayne was the recipient of an AIA Young Architect Award. 📍 Show Links:   Connect with Wayne on LinkedIn Check out Excel Development Group a...

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  7. ٢٨ ربيع الآخر

    174: Starting Modellus Novus

    How can architecture firms develop strong and innovative company values, foster a supportive workplace culture, and continue to grow while making an impact?  On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we sit down with the founding team of Modellus Novus – Jonathan Garnett, Creative Director; Preeti Sriratana, Managing Director; and Steven Harper, Operating Director. In our conversation, they discuss the inspiration behind their firm, what sets them apart from others in the industry, and how they're actively challenging the status quo of the practice of architecture.  First, the team explains their shared vision for Modellus Novus, their leadership dynamic, and their commitment to building an innovative architecture firm that stays true to values. They provide examples of how their workplace culture and policies prioritize employees, reflecting the mission to create a team-first business. Then, we dive into their approach to collaboration and the strategies the firm uses to continuously improve their work environment. The founders also discuss their response following the pandemic, their diverse project portfolio, and how they choose which clients to work with. I'll share one of our admin values, which is – the team, the team, the team. Put your people first. They're the ones who are actually going to design and build the architecture. Support them and they'll deliver something incredible. And in turn, you will find clients that value that. - Jonathan Garnett To wrap up the conversation, Jonathan, Preeti, and Steven share their exciting plans for growth while maintaining quality, culture, and impact. They offer valuable advice to young architects who want to make a difference in their communities and the world through the practice.  Tune in next week for an episode about affordable housing and community development.  Guest: Jonathan Garnett  Jonathan Garnett is Creative Director and a founding partner at Modellus Novus, where he oversees creative direction for a range of the firm's architecture and design projects, as well as its external and internal initiatives. He is responsible for establishing, evolving, and tailoring the firm's design processes, priorities, and principles in coordination with business development, financial, and organizational strategies. Jonathan was fundamentally shaped by summers working with a non-profit design firm in Detroit that provided design-build services to underrepresented communities and community organizations invested in improving the quality of life in that city. A native of Oakland, California of Black and Japanese descent, he received his Bachelor of Arts (Magna Cum Laude) with Concentrations in Industrial Design and Graphic Design from the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, studied at the Technical University at Delft in the Netherlands, and received his Master of Architecture from the Southern California Institute of Architecture in Los Angeles. Previously he worked at Detroit Collaborative Design Center in Detroit, George Yu Architects in Los Angeles, and Open Office in New York. After spending years overseeing the construction of projects he designed, while also making furnishings and objects with his hands, Jonathan learned what kind of creative leader he wanted to be. He imbues those values in his daily work with the project teams at MN.  Preeti Sriratana Preeti Sriratana is Managing Director and a founding partner at Modellus Novus, where he provides strategic direction and manages growth. He is committed to shaping communities and creating access, from non-profit work to MN’s efforts to create spaces for the many in all of their projects. Beyond MN, he is board chair for Apex for Youth (for which he received an Official Commendation from the City of New York); co-founder and board member of national renovation marketplace

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  8. ٢١ ربيع الآخر

    173: Future of Knowledge Management in AEC Firms

    How can firms effectively leverage knowledge management to stay ahead of the evolving industry? In this episode of Practice Disrupted, we explore the evolution of knowledge management in the AEC industry with Christopher Parsons, founder and CEO of Knowledge Architecture. Christopher’s work centers on developing ways to manage and share knowledge within AEC firms. Together, we discuss the future of knowledge management and how firms can stay ahead of industry shifts. First, Christopher defines knowledge management as integrating people, processes, and technology to maximize a firm’s expertise. He breaks down the benefits for firms of all sizes and outlines the three key eras of knowledge management: tacit knowledge, social media, and AI. Then, we discuss why Christopher believes AI will drive the next major shift in knowledge management. He touches on effectively leveraging AI to optimize its potential, the challenges and opportunities of implementing AI in AEC, and generational critical knowledge transfer. I think there's this idea that our industry right now is in a permanent state of change that's only picking up speed… Part of knowledge management is learning what to unlearn… don't be too attached to the way we've done things or the knowledge that we've acquired, and be willing to continue to upgrade yourself and your company in terms of what you know and how you work – knowing that the half-life of knowledge is shrinking every year more and more. - Christopher Parsons To wrap up the conversation, we highlight how knowledge management supports the development of soft skills and strong leadership within firms. Christopher shares practical tips for starting to integrate knowledge management into firms and personal routines. He also shares his perspective on the future trends for knowledge management. Tune in next week for an episode about starting Modellus Novus. Guest: Christopher Parsons As Founder and CEO of Knowledge Architecture, Christopher is responsible for product development, marketing, and organizational health. Christopher has been a technology leader in the AEC industry since 2002, including serving as the Chief Information Officer for Steinberg Architects and the Information Technology Director for SMWM (now Perkins+Will). Christopher has a degree in History from Wake Forest University. He’s an avid reader, trail runner, birdwatcher, and cook. 📍 Show Links:   Connect with Christopher on LinkedIn Check out Knowledge Architecture  📚Continue Learning: AEC Knowledge Management 101 Synthesis Overview Synthesis AI Roadmap Critical Knowledge Transfer Series at KA Connect KA Connect Talk Archive Deep Smarts by Dorothy Leonard and Walter C. Swap  Critical Knowledge Transfer by Dorothy...

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The evolution of architectural practice has been relatively slow towards change, yet modern shifts in business and design management have prompted today’s leading architects to rethink how they work. On Practice Disrupted, Evelyn Lee, an architect, design strategist, and Senior Experience Designer at Slack, and architecture business strategy consultant, Je’Nen Chastain, set out to illuminate the future of the profession to help architects remain relevant and valuable in a changing world. They will explore how technology, cultural shifts, and emerging best practices are prompting firm owners to assess their business models and make adjustments in their studios. Each episode features an industry leader, and together our hosts will explore the new frontier of architectural practice.

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