Architecture Business Club with Jon Clayton

Jon Clayton

Architecture Business Club is the weekly podcast to help solo and small firm architecture business owners build a profitable, future-proof architecture practice that both you and your clients love! It’s an inclusive place (for ALL architecture business owners). So whether you’re an Architect, Architectural Technologist, or Architectural Designer…If you sell architectural services and want to improve the way you do things…This is THE podcast for you. I’m Jon Clayton, your show host, and a Chartered Architectural Technologist based in the UK. I’ve been in architecture for over two decades and running my own (solo) practice for 10 years+. Each week you’ll hear from inspiring people from the world of architecture and business who share actionable tips to help you improve how you work, save time, or make more money. I’ll also share my own experiences running an architecture business in occasional solo episodes. We cover everything from mindset, money, business strategy, sales & marketing, productivity, systems & workflows, client experience, outsourcing, software, technology, and much more. Episodes are kept as short as possible by cutting out the fluff and getting straight to the point. So expect interview episodes of around 30 minutes or less, and solo episodes of 5 to 15 minutes. New episodes are released every Thursday at 6am GMT / 2am EST. Welcome to the Club!

  1. Why Architects Should Build Project-Based Teams with Kevin Kennon | 102

    -6 J

    Why Architects Should Build Project-Based Teams with Kevin Kennon | 102

    Jon welcomes internationally renowned architect Kevin Kennon, the founder and CEO of Beyond Zero DDC, to discuss his journey and innovative approach to sustainable design. Kevin shares his experiences, including his involvement in the World Trade Center design competition, and the concept of distributed practice. He explains how this model can help studios access the best talent while remaining competitive and nimble. Kevin also touches on the advantages of working with remote teams, the importance of harnessing new technologies like AI, and the future direction of the architecture profession. The episode provides valuable insights for architects on balancing tradition with innovation in the architecture industry. Today’s Guest Kevin Kennon is an internationally renowned architect with over 40 years’ experience in sustainable and innovative design. He’s the founder and CEO of Beyond Zero DDC, leading the creation of zero-carbon luxury eco-resorts around the world. His portfolio includes major projects such as the Barclays North American Headquarters, the Rodin Museum in Seoul, and award-winning Bloomingdale’s stores. A finalist in the World Trade Center design competition, Kevin has received over 40 international design awards and has work in MoMA’s permanent collection. He also lectures at top universities and contributes widely to discussions on urban development and climate change. — Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction 00:45 Meet Kevin Kennon 04:10 Understanding Distributed Practice 10:19 Challenges and Misconceptions of Remote Teams 16:49 Success Stories of Distributed Practice 22:24 Kevin's Career Journey 25:20 9/11, Ground Zero, and the World Trade Centre Design Competition 27:56 Advantages of Running Your Own Practice 30:46 The Future of Architecture and AI 39:08 Advice for Younger Practices 43:55 Main Takeaways 45:32 Favourite Travel Destination 46:42 Final Thoughts — Key Takeaways You can achieve more by building teams for each project and working with people from different places. This helps you find the right skills and makes your work stronger. You should be open to new ideas and ways of working. Using technology and working with others online can help you keep up with changes in your field. You will grow if you keep learning and share your knowledge with others. Every project is a chance to learn something new, and working together makes your work better. — Liked our guest? Click here to connect with them 🤝 Click here to learn more about Kevin’s work 🖥️ Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧 Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝 — 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. — Next Episode Next time, Jon chats with David Drazil to explore whether design professionals still need sketching skills.

    49 min
  2. How To Stop Undervaluing Your Expertise with William Ringsdorf | 101

    2 OCT.

    How To Stop Undervaluing Your Expertise with William Ringsdorf | 101

    Jon welcomes William Ringsdorf, founder of William Ringsdorf Consulting, who shares insights on how architecture firms can master profitability and process. William explains that most pricing issues stem from a failure to clearly communicate value and set proper boundaries. He discusses the systemic problem of undervaluing expertise in the field, highlights the importance of knowing one's numbers, and suggests implementing tiered service proposals to offer clear value to clients. William also offers practical steps for architects to increase their fees and improve profitability while reducing scope creep and burnout. He stresses the need for tracking data and continuous improvement in business practices. — Today’s Guest William Ringsdorf is the founder of William Ringsdorf Consulting. He helps architecture firms master profitability, process, and purpose, turning chaos into clarity so you can design with freedom and confidence. Drawing on three decades of UK and German project experience, his coaching blends practical systems with architectural insight. This work is part of Into The Nest, an award-winning sustainable practice, giving his guidance credibility and a live design context. — Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction 00:28 Meet William Ringsdorf 03:08 The Issue of Undervaluing Expertise 05:52 Understanding the Systemic Problem 12:22 5 Steps to Fix Undervaluing Your Expertise 19:59 Success Stories and Practical Examples 23:33 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways 27:35 Closing Remarks and Contact Information — Key Takeaways Do a Value Audit and Communicate Your Worth Clearly Start by taking a close look at all the ways you help your clients. This means thinking about how you reduce risks, save time and money, and create certainty for them. Once you understand your value, make sure you talk about it openly with your clients. Don’t just focus on the hours you work or the tasks you do - explain the real benefits and outcomes you deliver. When clients see the value you bring, they are less likely to argue about price. Know Your Numbers and Set Boundaries It’s important to know exactly what you need to charge to cover your costs, pay yourself fairly, and make a profit. Work out your effective hourly rate based on real projects, including all your overheads. Then, set clear boundaries in your proposals. Offer different service tiers (like basic, standard, and premium) so clients can choose what suits them, but always be clear about what is included in each option. This helps avoid “scope creep” where you end up doing extra work for free. Be Confident - Raise Your Fees and Practise Sales Conversations Don’t be afraid to increase your fees. Try adding 10–15% (or even 20%) to your next proposal. Most clients will accept this if you have explained your value well. Practise having fee conversations and handling objections, even if it feels uncomfortable at first. The more you practise, the more confident you will become. Remember, you are worth it, and charging what you deserve helps you run a better, more sustainable business. — Liked our guest? Click here to learn more about them 🤝 Click here to grab a free copy of William’s e-book 🖥️ Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧 a href="https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist"...

    30 min
  3. Celebrating 100 Episodes with Guests, Listeners & Friends of the Show | 100

    25 SEPT.

    Celebrating 100 Episodes with Guests, Listeners & Friends of the Show | 100

    Jon celebrates the major milestone of 100 episodes by featuring reflections, tips, and good wishes from past guests and listeners. This special 100th edition features messages from diverse voices, including architects, entrepreneurs, and business experts, who discuss the impact of the podcast on their personal and professional lives. The episode highlights the show's commitment to providing valuable insights and practical advice for running a successful architecture business. Tune in for heartfelt congratulations and essential business tips from notable guests as Jon marks this significant achievement. — Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction 00:58 Guest Congratulations 02:15 Reflections from Past Guests 11:32 Messages From Listeners 13:03 Tips on Content, Consistency, and Marketing 17:16 Advice on Positioning Your Services and Making Sure Clients Are Ready 19:36 Tips on Implementation, Getting Visible, and Thought Leadership 25:11 Guidance on Running The Business and Knowing Your Numbers 29:04 The Human Side of Architecture and Business 31:55 Ideas For Future Episodes 34:55 Final Messages from a Guest and a Listener 37:22 Wrap Up — Contributors Ange Lyons, Anna Lundberg, Ann Vanner, Antoinette Chappell, Aya Shlachter, Beatrice Ronchetti, Bob Gentle, Bryon McCartney, Catherine Turner, Chris Ducker, Chris Simmons, Colin Gray, Derek Timms, Doug Hodgson, Ellie Senior, Fabio Zammit, Hayley Watts, Helen Nurse, Helen Tebay, Jackie Goddard, James Talman, Janine Coombes, Joe Wright, Laura Pearman, Lee Smith, a href="https://www.zinginteriorarchitecture.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    39 min
  4. Tips for Tough Times in Business and Life | 099

    18 SEPT.

    Tips for Tough Times in Business and Life | 099

    Jon shares practical advice on how to manage when life throws unexpected challenges your way. He discusses the importance of prioritising essential tasks, surrounding yourself with positive people, celebrating small wins, and the value of taking a break when needed. Throughout the episode, Jon draws on his recent personal experiences and offers tips on how to maintain balance and well-being during difficult times. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out, these insights will help you navigate tough seasons and continue to find success and fulfilment in your architecture business. Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction 00:43 Personal Challenges and Coping Strategies 01:27 Pause Non-Essentials 02:57 Low-Energy Tasks 04:18 Spending Time with Lifter Uppers 05:51 Finding the Good Stuff 06:40 Celebrate Small Wins 07:46 Taking Time Off 08:33 Be Kind to Yourself 09:29 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser Key Takeaways Prioritise Essentials and Allow Yourself to Pause When facing tough times, focus on what is truly essential in your business and life. It is perfectly acceptable to pause or drop non-essential tasks, lightening your load until you feel ready to pick them up again. Seek Support and Celebrate Small Wins Spend time with supportive people - your “lifter uppers” - who can help boost your spirits. Also, remember to celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, as these moments of progress are important for maintaining motivation. Be Kind to Yourself and Take Breaks When Needed Practise self-compassion and look after your own wellbeing. If you need to take time off, do so without guilt. Tough seasons don’t last forever, and it’s important to take care of yourself to get through them. Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧 Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. Next Episode Next time, it’s our 100th episode - so I’ve put together something special, with a little help from some friends of the show.

    11 min
  5. How One Bold Move Transformed My Architecture Practice with Carl Turner | 098

    11 SEPT.

    How One Bold Move Transformed My Architecture Practice with Carl Turner | 098

    From Award-Winning Homes to Transformative Community Projects - Jon continues his chat with Carl Turner about his journey from traditional residential projects to pioneering public and community-focused developments. Carl shares the pivotal moment of selling his award-winning home to fund Pop Brixton, a transformative community workspace made from shipping containers. This bold move opened new opportunities for Carl's practice, leading to more impactful projects like Peckham Levels and Hackney Bridge. Carl highlights the importance of taking risks, embracing failure, and self-initiating projects to create meaningful architectural work. The discussion also explores the evolving nature of Turner.Works, their future ambitions, and the significance of designing spaces that people can adapt and thrive in. — Today’s Guest Carl Turner is the founder of Turner Works, an architecture and urban design studio specialising in the early activation of sites and the meanwhile use of buildings. Carl has founded and set up several meanwhile projects, including Pop Brixton, Peckham Levels and Ashford Coachworks. The building of his own Brixton home was filmed by Grand Designs, and Carl has gone on to feature on Channel 4's 'Ugly House To Lovely House' as an expert in low-cost, high-impact design. — Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction 01:12 The Pop Brixton Project 07:58 Expanding Horizons: Peckham Levels and Hackney Bridge 09:44 Transforming Turner.Works 13:57 Future Aspirations and Stability 23:20 Embracing Failure and DIY Ethos 29:27 Travel Tales and Final Thoughts — Key Takeaways Taking risks and learning from failure can lead to new opportunities and growth. If you try new things, even if you fail, you will learn and move forward. Working with others and building a strong team helps you achieve more than working alone. You do better when you share ideas and support each other. Creating spaces and projects that people can use and enjoy is more important than just making something look perfect. When you focus on real needs, your work has a bigger impact. — Click here to connect with Carl on LinkedIn 🤝 Click here to learn more about Turner.Works 🖥️ Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧 Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝 Want more freedom? Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝 — 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

    35 min
  6. Hands-On Construction To House of the Year with Carl Turner | 097

    4 SEPT.

    Hands-On Construction To House of the Year with Carl Turner | 097

    Jon chats with award-winning architect Carl Turner, founder of Turner.Works. Carl shares the first part of his career journey. From his beginnings as a mature student to building an amazing reputation for residential projects. He won a string of prestigious awards along the way. Several of Carl’s projects have featured on TV shows like George Clarke's Ugly House To Lovely House & Grand Designs. In 2013, Carl’s own home, Slip House, won the RIBA Manser Medal, and in 2021, Hove House won Grand Designs House of The Year. Carl talks about the benefits of hands-on construction for building designers, the importance of teamwork, and his itch to make a larger impact through public architecture. Plus the ups and downs of running his own firm straight out of university and the valuable lessons learned along the way. Today’s Guest Carl Turner is the founder of Turner Works, an architecture and urban design studio specialising in the early activation of sites and the meanwhile use of buildings. Carl has founded and set up several meanwhile projects, including Pop Brixton, Peckham Levels and Ashford Coachworks. The building of his own Brixton home was filmed by Grand Designs, and Carl has gone on to feature on Channel 4's 'Ugly House To Lovely House' as an expert in low-cost, high-impact design. Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction 01:07 Meet Carl Turner 03:53 The Importance of Taking Breaks 06:36 Carl's Early Career and Starting Turner.Works 11:14 Hands-On Construction Experience 26:01 Building a Reputation and Winning Awards 29:47 The Desire for Public Projects 31:25 Transition to Community Development 31:50 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser Key Takeaways Get Involved and Learn by Doing You learn a lot when you get your hands dirty. If you help build things yourself, you understand how buildings really work. This makes you a better designer because you know what is possible and what is hard to do. Take Breaks and Make Plans You need to take breaks and step back sometimes. When you do this, you can see things more clearly and make better choices. If you just keep working without stopping, you might miss out on good ideas or make mistakes. Work Together and Help Others You do better when you work as a team. If you help other people and listen to their ideas, you can finish projects more easily. It is not just about you; it is about everyone working together to make something great. Click here to connect with Carl on LinkedIn 🤝 Click here to learn more about Turner.Works 🖥️ Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧 Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝 Want more freedom? Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an...

    33 min
  7. Why You Need Better Systems (Not More Tools!) with Layla Pomper | 096

    28 AOÛT

    Why You Need Better Systems (Not More Tools!) with Layla Pomper | 096

    Only 17% of small teams write down what they do. Most just try to remember everything, which leads to stress and feeling overwhelmed. Layla Pomper, CEO of ProcessDriven and a systems expert, talks about how to build strong systems in your business. She shares her own journey from running a carpentry business with her husband to helping over 2,100 clients and 119,000+ YouTube followers. Layla explains the difference between good tools and good systems, and why writing down what you do is so important. She also discusses common mistakes teams make, like relying too much on software. This episode of Architecture Business Club will help you understand why better systems are key, not more tools. Today’s Guest Layla Pomper is the CEO of ProcessDriven® and the go-to expert on systemizing small team operations. Since 2018, Layla has been using software, process documentation, and storytelling to guide over 2,100+ clients and 119k YouTube subscribers to “enjoy the process” so they can delegate, grow, or simply relax. Creator of the Systemization Snapshot™— an operations audit and report that has benchmarked the operations of hundreds of teams—Layla’s mission is to turn “build your business systems” into a game that small teams can win in any industry. Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction 00:50 Meet Layla Pomper: CEO of ProcessDriven 02:25 Layla's Journey from Carpentry to Systems 04:26 The Importance of Documenting Business Systems 05:48 Why Systems Matter More Than Tools 07:17 The Pitfalls of Relying on Software 12:52 Learning from Other Industries 14:30 Defining Good Systems vs. Good Tools 21:32 The Benefits of Writing Down Processes 27:07 Tool Switching: Does It Solve Real Issues? 29:27 Practical Steps to Improve Your Systems 30:54 Final Thoughts and Takeaways 34:50 Layla's Favourite Place and Closing Remarks Key Takeaways Write Things Down You should not try to remember everything in your head. When you write down what you do at work, it helps you and your team know what needs to be done. This makes your job less stressful and stops you from forgetting important steps. Don’t Let Software Decide How You Work It’s easy to think that new tools or apps will fix your problems. But you should first decide how you want to work, then pick tools that fit your way. If you let the software choose for you, you might end up working in a way that does not suit you. Learn from Others You can learn good ideas from people in your own job and from other jobs too. Ask others how they do things and share what works for you. Sometimes, a simple trick from another business can help you do your work better. Connect with Layla on LinkedIn 🤝 Click here to get your Free Operations Audit and Identify Your Team's Biggest Bottleneck in Minutes - take your Systemization Snapshot today. 🖥️ Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧 Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝 Want more freedom? Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/"...

    38 min
  8. How to Declutter Your Busy Brain with Bullet Journalling | 095

    21 AOÛT

    How to Declutter Your Busy Brain with Bullet Journalling | 095

    Declutter Your Mind with Bullet Journaling! Jon shares how bullet journalling can help you reduce mental clutter and focus on what’s important. John, who has been using the bullet journal method for over a year, explains how it works and debunks common myths about it needing to be artistic. He highlights the ease and flexibility of this analogue method, making it a better alternative to digital tools that can be distracting. Jon provides simple instructions on getting started and the benefits of incorporating bullet journalling into your daily routine. 00:00 Introduction 01:18 Exploring Bullet Journaling 02:32 Debunking Bullet Journaling Myths 05:27 Jon's Bullet Journaling Journey 13:38 Getting Started with Bullet Journaling 18:33 Bullet Journaling Tips and Tricks 20:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts — Key Takeaways You can use bullet journaling to clear your mind. Writing things down helps you stop worrying about forgetting ideas and lets you focus on what matters. You do not need to be artistic or make your journal look perfect. Bullet journaling is for everyone, and you can keep it as simple as you like. You can use your journal to plan, keep track of your tasks, and look back at what you have done. This helps you see your progress and remember your small wins. — Visit the BuJo (Bullet Journal) Website Liked our guest? Click here to connect with them 🤝 Click here to learn more about [our guest’s services] 🖥️ Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧 Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝 Want more freedom? Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. Next Episode Next time, Jon is joined by Layla Pomper to uncover why you need better systems, not more tools.

    23 min

À propos

Architecture Business Club is the weekly podcast to help solo and small firm architecture business owners build a profitable, future-proof architecture practice that both you and your clients love! It’s an inclusive place (for ALL architecture business owners). So whether you’re an Architect, Architectural Technologist, or Architectural Designer…If you sell architectural services and want to improve the way you do things…This is THE podcast for you. I’m Jon Clayton, your show host, and a Chartered Architectural Technologist based in the UK. I’ve been in architecture for over two decades and running my own (solo) practice for 10 years+. Each week you’ll hear from inspiring people from the world of architecture and business who share actionable tips to help you improve how you work, save time, or make more money. I’ll also share my own experiences running an architecture business in occasional solo episodes. We cover everything from mindset, money, business strategy, sales & marketing, productivity, systems & workflows, client experience, outsourcing, software, technology, and much more. Episodes are kept as short as possible by cutting out the fluff and getting straight to the point. So expect interview episodes of around 30 minutes or less, and solo episodes of 5 to 15 minutes. New episodes are released every Thursday at 6am GMT / 2am EST. Welcome to the Club!

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