Architecture Social

Join us on the Architecture Social show as we explore the state of the architecture industry in 2025 with Alberto, head of the Department of Architecture at Ravensbourne University in London. In this episode, we discuss the challenges and opportunities in the field of architecture, the evolution of education and industry practices, and the critical role of bridging academia with commercial firms. Alberto shares insights on innovative teaching methods, the impact of newer universities, the importance of industry connections, and how he is navigating regulatory changes to benefit students. Don’t miss this insightful conversation filled with practical advice and visionary ideas for future architects.

Join us for a special episode as we sit down with Greg Blaquiere, founder of Eagle Planning and Development. Discover Greg's fascinating journey in the world of planning consultancy, from his beginnings in local government to launching his own planning business. We explore the roles and responsibilities of a planning consultant, the dynamics of public vs. private sector planning, and the importance of relationship-building with architects. Greg shares insights from his first year in business, the impact of technology and AI in planning, and offers invaluable advice for aspiring planners and business owners. Don't miss this engaging discussion packed with practical wisdom and industry expertise!

Join us for a fascinating discussion on architecture's role in healthcare with Kim Kennedy, Principal at Parkin Architects. Based in Ottawa, Kim delves into her journey in healthcare architecture, exploring the design and impact of mental health facilities. Learn about the evolving field of healthcare architecture, challenges, and innovations, and get insights on what it takes to excel in this specialty. Whether you're an aspiring architect or an experienced professional, Kim's insights are invaluable. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation!

Join us on the Architecture Social Show as host Stephen meets Carlo Magni, an Architect and Associate Director at EPR Architects, to explore the intricacies of architectural leadership and career progression. They discuss the transition from technical roles to leadership positions, the importance of soft skills, and the challenges introverts face in leadership. Carlo also shares his personal journey, including his relocation from Italy to the UK, his passion for continuous learning, and his experiences with public speaking. Whether you're an aspiring architect or a seasoned professional, this episode offers invaluable insights into mastering both hard and soft skills in the architectural industry.

Join us on the Architecture Social show as we dive into the world of historic building conversions and modern design with Simon Vernon-Harcourt, the Design Director at City and Country. Simon shares his journey from studying architecture to working in various renowned architectural practices, and ultimately transitioning to a developer role. We discuss the intricacies and challenges of restoring Victorian buildings, the impact of new technologies, and the evolving landscape of architecture. Simon also offers valuable advice for aspiring architects and those looking to work with developers. Don't miss this insightful episode packed with expertise and inspiration!

In this episode, Jon takes us on a trip down memory lane to the days before BIM was even a thing, sharing his journey from traditional architecture to becoming a leader in BIM implementation. He opens up about the challenges he faced along the way, how he embraced tech to revolutionize his practice, and eventually launched his consultancy, Adeptus Digital. Along the way, John dives into his thoughts on AI in construction and offers some solid advice for the next wave of young professionals looking to make their mark in the field.

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

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

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 Richards 00:09 🎄 Christmas Live Stream Kickoff 00:41 👷‍♂️ From Architecture to Development: Ben's Journey 01:29 💼 Building and Managing Multiple Businesses 03:49 🛠️ The Challenges of Hiring and Team Building 13:17 🏢 Transitioning from Architecture to Real Estate 18:02 🏘️ The Realities of Property Development 24:35 📈 Opportunities and Challenges in the Housing Market 29:58 🏠 Social Housing and Affordable Development 32:40 The Planning Process: Challenges and Changes 33:48 Social Housing and Property Conversions 34:30 Trends in Retail and Industrial Sectors 38:30 The Role of AI in Architecture and Business 47:35 Exciting Prospects for 2025 52:56 Business Strategies and Community Building 59:05 Podcast and Final Thoughts

Top 5 Mistakes in Architecture Marketing with Ayo Abbas In 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 Scene 00:27 Meet Ayo Abbas: Marketing Expert 02:54 Defining Marketing and Its Importance 04:01 Common Marketing Mistakes in Architecture 05:27 The Role of Visuals in Marketing 10:23 Strategic Marketing vs. The Coloring Department 14:43 Keeping Up with Social Media Innovations 25:29 Defining Community in the Digital Age 26:45 Top Marketing Mistakes: Giving Up Too Soon 28:19 The Importance of Consistency in Marketing 35:00 The Myth of the Marketing Unicorn 39:10 Career Insights: From Construction PR to Marketing 40:50 Client Relationships and Personal Branding 47:31 Marketing Consultant Services and Podcasting 50:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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

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. ____ 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

Ever wondered what the day to the professional life of an Architect working on restorative projects or the renovation of heritage and conservation buildings?

Join us in a fascinating discussion with Holly Welsh, Associate Director at DMFK Architects, as she delves into her journey in architecture, starting from her studies in Northumbria University to her current role. Explore how DMFK has adapted to the changing landscape of commercial office spaces, from traditional designs to innovative, user-centric workspaces. Learn about key projects, sustainability in design, and the future direction of workplace environments post-pandemic. If you're curious about evolving office design trends and the impact of AI in architecture, this episode is a must-watch! 00:00 Welcome to the Virtual Studio 00:12 Meet Holly Welsh from DMFK 01:18 Holly's Journey into Architecture 04:40 First Steps in Commercial Projects 05:01 Adapting Office Designs Post-Pandemic 05:15 Innovative Office Spaces with TOG 08:35 The Evolution of Office Amenities 18:14 Sustainability in Modern Office Design 23:55 The Challenges of Remote Work 25:10 Attracting and Retaining Office Staff 26:20 DMFK: A Great Place to Work 28:59 Tips for Aspiring Architects 31:33 The Impact of AI in Architecture 35:14 A Question for the Host 39:01 Concluding 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

How is BIM shaping the future of landscape architecture? Join us for a conversation with Alejandro Gatica, Principal BIM Manager at Gillespies, as he shares his journey from architect to BIM expert. We’ll explore how tools like Dynamo and Grasshopper are transforming workflows and how BIM is unlocking new possibilities in the industry. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your skills, Alejandro’s insights will give you a fresh perspective on BIM’s role in design.

What’s it like to balance cutting-edge technology with groundbreaking design? Alfonso Monedero, Head of BIM at Heatherwick Studio, shares his journey from struggling architect to spearheading design innovation through BIM and coding. From tackling "impossible" geometry to building an in-house AI assistant for Revit, Alfonso breaks down the intersection of creativity, tech, and teamwork. A candid conversation packed with insights for anyone navigating—or contemplating—a career at the crossroads of architecture and technology.

Ste Taylor’s career path is anything but traditional—starting in architecture, navigating difficult times and redundancies before ultimately rising to Head of Design at Turley. In this episode, we dive into his unexpected journey, from falling out of love with architecture to mastering design and planning on the client side. We’ll also get into the nitty-gritty of design codes, their role in shaping better housing, and why they’re more critical now than ever. With the UK at a crossroads in urban development, Ste shares how design codes can help avoid past mistakes and deliver a new era of beautiful, high-quality homes.

Ever feel like you're stuck on the traditional architect path? Enrique Soler from Willmott Dixon Interiors is here to show you why playing it safe might be holding you back. We’ll get into the nuts and bolts of working within a contractor in the role of a designer, how interior design can open up whole new avenues for architects, and why sticking to one speciality is riskier than you think.

What happens when budget constraints don’t exist? Join Victor LG, Design Director at HBA/Hirsch Bedner Associates, for an eye-opening look at what it means to design for the ultra-rich. We’ll dig into the unique challenges, boundless opportunities, and creative freedom that comes with working at the highest end of luxury. Discover how navigating these projects can fast-track a creative career, the essential skills that separate good designers from great ones, and the hard-earned lessons Victor has learned over more than a decade in the industry. This is where creativity meets ambition, and output transforms into impact.

Aqeel Sourjah joins us to chat about his journey from architecture to managing major ESG-driven office developments at Quadrant, including YY London in Canary Wharf and OSMO in Battersea. With a background in architecture and an MSc in Real Estate Development, Aqeel brings fresh insights into the intersection of design, development, and sustainability. We'll also explore how his experience is shaping some of London’s most exciting new workspaces.