The Anti-Architect

Christian Giordano

Welcome to The Anti-Architect Podcast. I’m your host Christian Giordano. As the president and owner of design firm Mancini Duffy, I’m driven by a quest for learning and radically changing the industry through tech-first innovation. With this podcast, I’m hoping to improve the industry that I’m so passionate about by taking a critical look at how architects work with their clients and, in turn, how our clients view us. It’s my goal to showcase all of these experiences - good and bad. Was it the architect or the client - or somewhere in between? I aim to bring my audience new voices from our industry, interesting people with diverse backgrounds. Through shared experiences, stories, and projects my hope is that we can improve our profession. www.theantiarchitect.com

  1. EP 82: Peter Bronsnick of Cushman & Wakefield

    JAN 27

    EP 82: Peter Bronsnick of Cushman & Wakefield

    In this episode, Christian is joined by Peter Bronsnick, Executive Regional Director at Cushman & Wakefield, overseeing operations across New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. Peter's career story of evolution from hands-on developer and deal maker at SJP Properties to leading one of the most powerful real estate advisory platforms in the country of Cushman & Wakefield. Over his two plus decades in the industry, he has touched on every side of the business, site selection, planning, entitlements, construction, leasing, acquisition, capital markets and marketing. Christian and Peter discuss how a developer’s mindset can sharpen leadership within an advisory powerhouse, what defines successful placemaking today, and his role in some of the region's most transformative projects, including M station in Morristown. https://www.cushmanwakefield.com https://theantiarchitect.com/ 0:00 – Christian introduces Peter Bronsnick and his role at Cushman Wakefield 1:29 – Why developers need to better understand architecture and design 2:49 – Lessons Peter learned working under Steve Pozycki at SJP Properties 4:37 – The importance of discipline, preparation, and internal expertise 5:47 – What frustrates Peter about how architects approach projects 7:07 – Why the architectural vision doesn’t always translate to real-world use 8:29 – How client collaboration has evolved in architecture and development 9:48 – The dangers of overdesign and ignoring budget realities 11:03 – Finding the balance between creative vision and financial feasibility 12:07 – Getting all stakeholders at the table from the start 13:47 – What a perfect architect developer partnership should look like 15:01 – Why architects need to be comfortable pushing back 16:11 – How to help architects better understand developer risk and mindset 18:02 – Why studying failed developments teaches more than studying success 20:05 – The red flags Peter looks for early in developer relationships 21:00 – Why architects are overworked and underpaid and how that starts 23:00 – How the urgency of capital impacts every part of the development process 24:06 – Peter reflects on his biggest lessons from a decade at SJP Properties 26:22 – The importance of sequencing and process in complex development 27:57 – Why SJP was more than just a developer and how that shaped Peter 28:58 – What inspired Peter’s leap to Cushman and Wakefield 30:07 – Building and scaling a business inside Cushman Wakefield 31:52 – Coordinating brokerage, capital markets, and internal teams 33:15 – How New Jersey real estate culture differs from New York 34:57 – Peter’s origin story and how he accidentally got into real estate 36:43 – The story of getting fired by his dad and finding a new path 38:11 – Why Peter pursued real estate at NYU after Michigan State 39:12 – Deep dive into M Station and what made it a successful placemaking case study 42:31 – The future of real estate development in downtown markets 44:01 – Why speed, innovation, and hospitality models are here to stay 46:02 – The mental health impact of placemaking and returning to the office 47:37 – The rise of AI and Cushman Wakefield’s approach to adoption 49:15 – Why future leaders will need to be AI literate 50:06 – Peter’s final thoughts on the future of cities and the importance of results 52:27 – Closing thoughts and how to connect with Peter Bronsnick

    53 min
  2. Episode 81: Antonio Scalise of Parallel Architectural Group

    JAN 6

    Episode 81: Antonio Scalise of Parallel Architectural Group

    In this episode, Christian sits down with Antonio Scalise, Principal Architect and Founder of Parallel Architectural Group. Growing up in a multi-generational family of masons from Italy, Antonio's path took him from swinging a sledgehammer in New York to leading a full-service architecture firm in New Jersey. Antonio and Christian dive into why every architect should spend at least a year in the field, how Hurricane Sandy became a turning point for his firm, and how lessons from his father’s business still guide the way he leads today. Antonio also explains why being a “yes” firm - even on the $1,000 project - can open doors to lasting relationships and unexpected opportunities. https://parallelgrp.com/ https://theantiarchitect.com/ 0:05 – Christian introduces the Anti-Architect Podcast and guest Antonio Scalise, founder of Parallel Architectural Group 1:05 – How growing up in a multi-generational masonry family shaped Antonio's work ethic 2:15 – Early jobsite memories and the hands-on lessons learned from working alongside his father 3:43 – Why field experience from a young age gave Antonio a deeper appreciation for the trades 4:59 – Antonio's father encouraged education over labor and how that led him to architecture 6:17 – The one thing that frustrates Antonio most about other architects 7:15 – Why architecture education should require at least a year of fieldwork 8:28 – The importance of building physical models and staying connected to tactile design 9:49 – Drawing by hand vs digital shortcuts and what that does to architectural thinking 11:00 – Field precision vs architectural theory and the danger of over-specifying 12:01 – How fee competition is hurting the profession and what clients often misunderstand 13:08 – Why educating clients is part of an architect’s job and how scope comparison reveals the truth 14:01 – Lessons from Antonio's dad about doing the job right, even if it takes longer 15:05 – Builders recommend architects who prevent rework and get zoning right the first time 16:25 – If not an architect, what part of the industry would Antonio be in? 17:34 – How Hurricane Sandy led to explosive growth and a rebirth of his firm 22:24 – Balancing high-end projects with smaller ones and why he never says no 24:03 – Solving problems across many project types and how versatility has been an asset 25:17 – Building trust by learning from mistakes and turning one project into 50 28:23 – What culture looks like at Parallel: humor, hard work, and setting the tone from the top 30:00 – How Antonio encourages accountability and leadership among his team 32:11 – The myth that no one will care as much as the founder, and why it’s wrong 33:04 – Antonio's origin story: from Long Island to California to New Jersey 35:04 – Starting at Brookdale and moving on to NJIT to pursue architecture 36:09 – Why Antonio considers himself a design chameleon instead of having one style 37:03 – His proudest project: a senior center that became a point of civic pride 39:01 – Residential projects that showcase adaptive design and asymmetry 42:02 – Reusing warehouse bones to create a vibrant headquarters for Partner Engineering 43:23 – Why light, proportion, and spatial feel matter more than people realize 45:19 – Thoughts on AI, concrete printers, and why human touch will always matter 48:15 – Concerns about shrinking fees, rising expectations, and retaining architectural value 50:04 – The pros and cons of remote work in a highly collaborative and creative field 51:22 – Why craftsmanship, mentorship, and presence still matter more than ever 52:17 – Antonio's advice to young architects: learn business as much as design

    55 min
  3. Episode 80: Eric Gatti of G William Group

    12/16/2025

    Episode 80: Eric Gatti of G William Group

    In this episode, Eric Gatti, President and Managing Partner of G William Group, shares how he rose from college intern to leading a full buyout of the firm and how that journey shaped his views on leadership, culture, and trust. Eric and Christian discuss why true leadership means being at the "back of the pack" making sure no one gets left behind. Eric reveals how betting on friends with zero AEC experience built his strongest team, why ego has no place in company culture, and how empowering people to make hires, run accounts, and own outcomes has fueled G William Group's growth and success. https://www.gwgllc.com/ https://theantiarchitect.com/ 0:05 - Christian introduces Eric Gatti, President of G. Williams Group  1:03 - Eric shares how he rose from college intern to company owner  2:38 - The story of taking over a delayed Wonder project and earning trust  4:12 - What happened when design had to take a back seat to delivery  5:23 - How Eric and Christian first met and why that project mattered  6:28 - What annoys Eric about working with some architects  8:03 - Why design isn’t "yours" it's the client’s vision brought to life  9:01 - How GWG approaches design-build differently than traditional CM firms  10:13 - Why early collaboration on pricing, programming, and priorities matters  13:01 - The problem with product reps and value engineering after the fact  14:47 - How BIM and live data could close the gap between design and cost  16:48 - Why architects need more hands-on field experience  18:08 - Debunking the myth that contractors make money from change orders  21:09 - Eric’s origin story from rugby to repurposing industrial space  24:30 - Lessons from his first project and the importance of being a sponge  28:03 - How on-site trades taught Eric more than any classroom ever did  33:04 - Becoming a partner at 23 and why he almost said yes too early  36:00 - The hard part of succession managing ego during a buyout  37:55 - Why building a strong team meant taking risks on friends with no experience  41:13 - How GWG keeps culture alive by hiring for grit not just credentials  45:13 - Eric shares how GWG is using OpenSpace Procore and AI carefully  47:03 - Why speed and polish from AI can’t replace critical thinking and context  49:02 - Christian and Eric commit to a staff exchange on a future joint project

    51 min
  4. Episode 79: Sarah Vaccaro, Leah Alissa Bayer & Kate Conley of Architects FORA

    11/25/2025

    Episode 79: Sarah Vaccaro, Leah Alissa Bayer & Kate Conley of Architects FORA

    In this episode, Christian sits down with Leah, Kate, and Sarah - the team behind Architects FORA, a 100% women-owned, fully virtual practice redefining what an architecture firm can be. Their path to creating FORA grew out of a shared desire for a healthier, more transparent way of working as the foundation of the firm. They dive into how they built a practice centered on equity and trust, why affordable housing became their focus, and how projects reflect a community-driven approach. The conversation also touches on how they’re embracing AI and emerging technology to stay nimble, relevant, and impactful as the industry evolves. It’s a candid look at three architects reimagining the profession - and proving there’s more than one way to build a thriving firm. https://architectsfora.com/ https://theantiarchitect.com/  0:00 – Intro0:42 – Meet the three leaders behind Architects FORA1:16 – A new model for architectural leadership2:06 – How their mission was sparked by a retreat3:30 – Discovering affordable housing as a calling4:14 – The moment they realized design could do more5:28 – The shift from prestigious buildings to purpose-driven work6:13 – A deep dive into housing and homelessness7:09 – How their remote collaboration began8:43 – Rethinking the value of work and space9:41 – Advice for young architects on choosing meaningful projects10:14 – Why purpose matters more to younger generations11:08 – What frustrates them most about traditional architecture culture13:26 – The danger of treating architecture as precious and untouchable14:39 – How rigidity threatens the future of the profession16:00 – Finding new areas of influence beyond traditional architecture17:20 – Why architects are overworked and underpaid18:50 – A better way to structure tasks and reduce burnout20:12 – Redundancy and team structure to protect work-life balance22:40 – Breaking generational mindsets in architectural leadership24:14 – How they use asynchronous, flexible scheduling25:17 – Can you work from anywhere, even Guam?27:04 – How they handle site visits as a remote firm28:52 – Why travel is worth the tradeoff for team happiness31:06 – How schedule flexibility supports parenting and caregiving33:28 – Intentional culture-building without being in person34:58 – Their secret to authentic team bonding remotely36:14 – What happens if someone goes over their 40 hours38:00 – How transparency prevents unrealistic deadlines39:05 – Why overwork is a leadership failure, not a badge of honor41:00 – How they designed a clear, equitable salary system43:00 – Their transparent leadership tiers and performance scoring45:00 – What “Architects FORA” actually means46:03 – Solera Apartments: Trauma-informed design in action49:27 – El Camino: Sustainability and community feedback51:59 – Lee Avenue: Senior housing with a real sense of place55:32 – Launching paid post-occupancy evaluations57:01 – Why AI is a tool, not a threat59:10 – A call to reimagine what your firm could look like1:00:44 – Final thoughts and how to learn more about Architects FORA

    1h 2m
  5. Episode 78: Jay Stasi of The Hampshire Companies

    11/04/2025

    Episode 78: Jay Stasi of The Hampshire Companies

    In this episode, Christian sits down with Jay Stasi, Vice President of Development at The Hampshire Companies, to unpack what really matters when he’s choosing architects and partners: from technical expertise in structural systems to the all-important “grab a beer test.” Jay breaks down the enduring demand for self-storage and multifamily housing, the challenges of rising construction costs, and why “checking the bagel”- his signature phrase for creative due diligence - is essential for successful projects. He also reflects on lessons learned from his family’s tile business, his path through construction and development, and why, no matter how demanding the industry gets, family always comes first. https://www.hampshirere.com/ https://theantiarchitect.com/  0:05 - Christian introduces Jay Stasi and sets the stage for the conversation  1:01 - Jay explains what matters most when selecting architects and partners  3:46 - The biggest frustrations developers have with architects  5:09 - Why architects often miss the mark on budgeting and communication  6:52 - Coordination challenges and the importance of complete drawing sets  8:11 - A candid story about deadline pressure and the value of honest conversations  10:00 - Why direct communication beats email in fast-moving projects  11:07 - How architects can be more helpful beyond RFPs  12:28 - Early-stage massing and feasibility feedback as a differentiator  13:36 - The architect as a potential source of real estate opportunities  14:21 - What Jay looks for when hiring an architect and why price is not the priority  16:09 - The “grab a beer” test and why personality fit matters  17:39 - Innovation in industrial and self-storage projects and what architects should bring to the table  19:02 - How to work with communities and navigate NIMBY resistance  21:22 - Overview of The Hampshire Companies and what sets them apart  23:02 - Jay shares why self-storage continues to thrive across the U.S.  25:45 - Trends in multifamily housing and how Hampshire finds new opportunities  27:04 - Evolving amenities in residential buildings and how architects can lead the way  29:45 - Thoughts on low-income housing integration and design equity  31:31 - Navigating rising construction costs and market uncertainty  34:00 - What Jay’s day-to-day role as VP of Development looks like  36:50 - Jay’s background in construction, teaching, and learning from mistakes  41:12 - The “check the bagel” rule and why small details matter  42:06 - How Jay balances career growth with being present for family  44:22 - The role of technology and AI in the future of development  46:01 - Final thoughts on why real estate development is a constantly evolving career  47:06 - A personal reflection on family and what really comes first for Jay

    49 min
  6. Episode 77: David Hart of Steinberg Hart

    10/14/2025

    Episode 77: David Hart of Steinberg Hart

    In this episode, Christian is joined by David Hart, President & CEO of Steinberg Hart to discuss how architecture is evolving: from work culture to technology to firm leadership. David shares why he welcomes the new generation’s pushback on 60-hour workweeks, how the industry’s “seller-doer” model complicates ownership transitions, and why thoughtful decision-making is essential in an era of instant answers. David also takes listeners inside Steinberg Hart’s work on Cal Poly’s new modular student housing-  the largest modular construction project in the U.S. - and explains how AI is already reshaping the firm’s creative process and client collaboration. https://www.steinberghart.com/ https://theantiarchitect.com/ 0:00 - Intro2:23 – Christian introduces David Hart and highlights the values-first culture at Steinberg Hart 5:05 – David explains why “values” became the foundation of the firm’s design philosophy 6:50 – Why architecture should focus on inventing the future, not solving the past 7:54 – The common mistake architects make during presentations and how to fix it 9:03 – Why listening and extracting insights are more important than just sharing ideas 10:26 – How David coaches his team in real-time during client meetings 12:20 – A candid take on why the profession is overworked and underpaid 13:09 – The industry’s failure to teach the business of architecture 14:56 – Generational shifts in work-life balance and what technology changed 17:01 – Reflections on burnout, long hours, and what David would do differently 20:03 – How Steinberg Hart embeds values like design, relationships, and change in daily work 22:20 – David shares how long-term relationships and “boomerangs” strengthen culture 24:19 – Why continuous change is essential to a 70-year-old architecture firm 26:06 – How the firm approaches leadership transition with an evolving ownership model 30:59 – The challenge of the seller-doer model and its impact on succession 35:15 – Behind the scenes of Cal Poly’s modular housing project with FullStack Modular 40:14 – Why immediate design-to-fabrication workflows are the future 46:00 – David explains why decision-making, not just design is the modern superpower 57:08 – How mid-sized firms can stay relevant with AI and integrated culture

    1h 2m
  7. Episode 76: Christina Magrans of Studio Lourdes

    09/23/2025

    Episode 76: Christina Magrans of Studio Lourdes

    In this episode, Christian sits down with Christina Magrans, Founder and Managing Director of Studio Lourdes. With her firm, Christina set out to build the kind of environment she never found in the corporate world - one that prioritizes people as much as projects. Together, she and Christian unpack how she’s redefining work/life harmony, balancing client demands with culture, and shaping iconic retail spaces for brands like Bape, Marc Jacobs, Longchamp, Dries Van Noten, and Aesop.https://www.studiolourdes.com/ https://theantiarchitect.com/ 0:05 – Christian introduces Christina Magrans, founder of Studio Lourdes1:32 – Christina reflects on her early career at TSC Design and how it shaped her3:10 – How a fast promotion at Tiffany led her to manage global projects5:01 – Lessons from 9/11 and the 2008 recession that built resilience6:10 – Christina explains her personal definition of a growth mindset6:50 – Studio Lourdes uses Ivy Learning to support continuous team development7:48 – How Christina screens for cultural fit and curiosity during hiring9:20 – Why values alignment is the first step in taking on new clients10:39 – How Studio Lourdes balances passion and business when selecting projects11:36 – The growing overlap between retail, hospitality, and workplace design12:45 – Christina brings brand discovery practices into workplace projects13:36 – Why she founded Studio Lourdes to prioritize employee experience14:30 – Teaching business fundamentals to architects across all levels16:40 – Transparent goal-setting and revenue discussions as a leadership tool18:15 – Timesheets as data, not pressure—rethinking accountability in design firms19:22 – Making client service personal while keeping the team happy20:40 – What Christina learned at Harvard and IMD executive leadership programs21:47 – How Studio Lourdes builds culture through values-based retreats and rituals23:10 – Empowering staff to lead, speak up, and evaluate client relationships25:00 – Redefining work-life balance through flexibility and communication norms27:30 – Christina and Christian reflect on happiness, ambition, and evolving goals30:00 – Why Studio Lourdes pushes back on unpaid design work32:45 – The case for teaching the business of architecture early in one’s career34:00 – Christina's top advice for emerging architects and designers35:00 – The origin of the name “Studio Lourdes” and what it means to her legacy36:00 – A global design portfolio: Bape, Marc Jacobs, Longchamp, Aesop, and more.

    53 min
  8. Episode 75: Robin Reigi of Robin Reigi Inc

    09/02/2025

    Episode 75: Robin Reigi of Robin Reigi Inc

    In this episode, Christian is joined by materials expert, educator, and design changemaker Robin Reigi. As the founder of Robin Reigi Inc., Robin has spent over two decades introducing innovative materials to the architecture and design world. From collaborating on landmark projects like TSX Broadway to serving as a presenter on America ByDesign, she brings a unique blend of creativity, pragmatism, and deep industry knowledge. Robin shares her path from sculptor to business owner, her thoughts on sustainability, and why materials matter more than ever in today’s built environment. She also discusses her recent work in AI education, her leadership with IIDA NY, and what she sees as the future of design innovation. Whether you’re a designer, educator, or just curious about how materials shape space, this episode is full of insight and energy. https://www.robinreigi.com/ https://theantiarchitect.com/ 0:00 – Christian introduces Robin Reigi and her journey in material innovation. 3:47 – Robin breaks down the TSX Broadway project and its moving theater lift. 6:26 – How Robin brought her network into America by Design. 8:04 – Why the show became a standout in the By Design series. 10:21 – Robin shares how she connected with the owner of Boca Ria. 13:30 – What home projects taught Robin about real-world material use. 16:38 – Robin talks about the shift toward sustainability in design. 18:04 – A quick story about a sample that doubled as a fidget toy. 21:22 – How Robin moved from niche materials to commercial-ready products. 23:01 – Looking back at design trends before 9/11 changed the code. 26:42 – Why LEED isn't top of mind like it used to be. 29:50 – Robin shares how she went from freelancer to business owner. 31:29 – A Gensler story that marked a turning point in her career. 32:56 – The moment Robin knew she’d found her path. 36:13 – What American firms can learn from European design culture. 37:42 – Wood trends and finishes that are gaining popularity. 40:21 – How Robin spots materials that are hard to copy. 42:22 – A podcast idea that started with a casual conversation. 45:58 – How being available helped Robin land major projects. 47:59 – Why prompt designers will be vital in the age of AI. 49:57 – How schools are approaching AI with students. 51:22 – Robin’s view on why AI isn’t going away in education. 53:26 – A shoutout to a colleague who helped reshape IIDA NY. 55:10 – From not knowing the term “dealer” to mastering the process. 57:28 – Robin closes with thoughts on storytelling and impact.

    1h 3m
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About

Welcome to The Anti-Architect Podcast. I’m your host Christian Giordano. As the president and owner of design firm Mancini Duffy, I’m driven by a quest for learning and radically changing the industry through tech-first innovation. With this podcast, I’m hoping to improve the industry that I’m so passionate about by taking a critical look at how architects work with their clients and, in turn, how our clients view us. It’s my goal to showcase all of these experiences - good and bad. Was it the architect or the client - or somewhere in between? I aim to bring my audience new voices from our industry, interesting people with diverse backgrounds. Through shared experiences, stories, and projects my hope is that we can improve our profession. www.theantiarchitect.com

Information

  • Creator
    Christian Giordano
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    83
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved
  • Show Website
    The Anti-Architect

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