Practice Disrupted by Practice of Architecture

174: Starting Modellus Novus Oct 31, 2024

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 Sweeten; member of the Entrepreneur Board of Venture for America, and the Advisory Board of Asian American Policy Review at the Harvard Kennedy School. He is also co-founder of Central Queens Academy Charter School, the highest-performing public middle school in Queens. Preeti’s career began in Paris working for Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel, and he earned his Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, a Master of Architecture from Columbia University, and a Master in Public Administration from Harvard University. Preeti is a first-generation Asian-American immigrant from central Illinois and the proud product of the public school system.

Steven Harper

Steven Harper is the Operating Director and a founding partner at Modellus Novus, where he oversees the operations and finances of the firm, as well as the execution of strategic priorities. He has extensive experience with a range of complex residential and commercial projects and is focused on providing clear planning and procedural oversight. Steven is also responsible for refining the firm’s professional practice to establish systems and operations to make the long process feel smooth for clients. He is LEED and NCARB certified, licensed in NY, NJ, CT, and FL, and is also on the advisory board of Plus Pool. Steven received his Bachelor of Architecture (Magna Cum Laude) from Virginia Polytechnic and State University (Virginia Tech) and previously worked at Kohn Pederson Fox in New York and Skidmore Owings & Merrill in Chicago. Hailing from rural North Carolina, Steven is the son of professional musicians and has always appreciated that both music and architecture are rooted in math and logic yet still able to elicit powerful emotional reactions.

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Connect with Preeti on LinkedIn

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173: Future of Knowledge Management in AEC Firms Oct 24, 2024

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 Leonard-Barton, Walter C. Swap, and Gavin Barton

The Living Company by Arie De Geus

📚 Past Episodes Referenced:

PD # 24 Christopher Parsons on Managing Knowledge & Data for Continued Improvement

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172: The Unconventional CEO, The Psychologist Turned Firm Leader Oct 17, 2024

How can leaders build and grow successful firms by integrating strong operational support, continuous learning, and adaptability into their leadership approach?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we continue to redefine traditional leadership in a conversation with Ellen Bensky, Principal, CEO, and CFO of Turner Fleischer. Ellen's background from psychology to business to architecture leadership has shaped her innovative approach to running a successful design firm. Under her leadership, Turner Fleischer has not only expanded its technological capabilities but also demonstrated the critical role that operational teams play in the success of any design practice.

First, Ellen shares her unique journey, the path that led her to her current leadership role, and the core values that have guided her career decisions. She explains how she built a financial and organizational foundation at Turner Fleischer and emphasizes embracing confidence and perseverance in achieving career goals.

Then, Ellen discusses the crucial role of an HR team and operational support in driving growth. She explains how she established the TF Academy to foster continuous learning, development, and a sense of community within the studio. We also explore how the pandemic reshaped their workflows and team structures.

We are not going to be successful by telling somebody you have to be 90% billable. We want to allow our studio members to have access to learning programs so they can develop their skills. We want a digital department that is adding operational efficiencies. That, to me, is the way you do it. When you have members of your studio who are learning and growing, excited by the work that they do, and want to be together doing it, they do great work without billable targets.- Ellen Bensky

To wrap up the conversation, Ellen reflects on her leadership journey and the importance of adapting to industry changes. She offers advice to young professionals on integrating her leadership principles into their own career journeys while also creating a meaningful and fulfilling work environment.

Tune in next week for an episode about how Knowledge Management is evolving in Architecture Firms.

Guest:

Ellen Bensky

Ellen Bensky is a transformative leader at Turner Fleischer, guiding the Toronto-based firm’s growth into a dynamic Studio specializing in Architecture, Interior Design, and Experiential Graphic Design. Her unique 34-year journey as a non-architect to becoming Principal, CEO, and CFO is a testament to her exceptional leadership and vision. She has strengthened the Studio’s technological capabilities by developing a Digital Practice team with deep expertise, integrating advanced tools and systems to digitize both the practice and their projects.

She is dedicated to driving social change, embedding a culture of community engagement within the studio. Weaving social impact into the fabric of the studio’s culture, she empowers Studio members to give back to the communities they live and build in, in meaningful ways. Ellen is deeply passionate about education and lifelong learning. She established TF Academy to support continuous growth and development for all studio members. Her unwavering dedication to sharing knowledge and lessons learned inspires her to speak globally and challenge the industry’s status quo.

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Check out Turner Fleischer

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171: 2024 Whitney M. Young Jr. Award Honoree Douglas Ito, FAIA Oct 10, 2024

How can architects use their work and voice to drive social justice, create a positive impact on the community, and inspire the next generation of leaders?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we celebrate Douglas Ito, the 2024 recipient of the AIA Whitney M. Young Jr. Award. As a managing member of SMR Architects in Seattle, Douglas has been a driving force in the creation of over 2,800 affordable housing units, including 1,300 units dedicated to permanent supportive housing.

First, Douglas outlines his journey into architecture as an Asian American and how his career at SMR Architects has allowed him to find his voice and specialize in affordable housing. We explore his passion for social justice and housing advocacy and why receiving the Whitney Award can inspire architects to engage in social justice within and beyond the field.

Then, Douglas discusses the inherently political nature of architecture and highlights SMR Architects' commitment to fostering career growth and leadership development. He offers valuable advice for the next generation of architects who are eager to make a positive social impact.

I think the importance of the Whitney isn't that every architect should necessarily have to go into social justice work or affordable housing. It’s that even if you're doing work that isn't that – you have a voice. If you have a conscience that leads you to social justice, racial justice, or housing justice, you still have a voice and can make that known to people. I want to emphasize that outside of architecture, because it does no good to talk about it to other architects. - Douglas Ito

To wrap up the conversation, Douglas shares his favorite aspects of architecture and his insights for emerging professionals, encouraging them to seek out opportunities and build strong connections within the architecture community.

Tune in next week for an episode about

Guest:

Douglas Ito, FAIA

Douglas Ito, FAIA Is a managing member of SMR Architects in Seattle, Washington. He is the Past President of the AIA Washington Council and has served on numerous committees for both the AIA Washington Council and AIA Seattle. Douglas's commitment to design excellence is reflected in the accolades his projects have received. Honors include the 2020 AIA/HUD Secretary's Housing Accessibility - Alan J. Rothman Award for Plymouth on First Hill, the 2021 Urban Land Institute's Jack Kemp Excellence in Affordable and Workforce Housing Chairman's Award for Arlington Drive Youth Campus

Douglas is a dedicated advocate for affordable housing, working tirelessly at both the local and state levels with a successful history of working on affordable and supportive multi-family housing developments for individuals and families. Throughout his career, he has contributed to the creation of over 2,800 units of affordable housing, including more than 1,300 units specifically dedicated to permanent supportive housing.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Douglas on LinkedIn

Check out SMR Architects

📚Continue Learning:

Whitney M. Young Jr. Award 2024: Douglas Ito, FAIA

AIA24 Whitney M. Young, Jr. Award - Douglas Ito Acceptance Speech

Isan Bellevue

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170: Xover0 Mixing Fashion, Design, and Technology Oct 03, 2024

How can architectural form inspire innovation in the fashion and product design industries?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we dive into the intersection of architecture, fashion, and technology with Duane McLemore and Katherine Voorhies, the creatives behind the jewelry brand Xover0. Duane, an architect passionate about digital fabrication, and Katherine, a self-taught graphic artist and fashion designer, discuss how they've blended their backgrounds to build their unique jewelry line.

First, Duane and Katherine share their design philosophy, foundational approach, and creative process for turning architectural form into beautiful jewelry with the help of machinery and 3D printing. We highlight the success and inspiration behind their Geoheart pendant, which was heavily featured in the Netflix film Uglies.

The Geoheart pendant was inspired by Art Deco architecture, and we designed it for Valentine's Day a few years ago. At that time, there wasn't really much of this geometric style – this kind of non-traditional, heart-shaped pendant. So we thought it was an appropriate creative challenge, and that's what we came up with. - Duane McLemore

Then, they open up about their creative and entrepreneurial challenges and how they overcame these obstacles. Duane and Katherine offer valuable advice for aspiring designers on growing a brand in the digital age, building connections, and pursuing their passions.

To wrap up the conversation, Duane and Katherine share the exciting future for Xover0, from collaborations with TV shows to projects that range from opera masks to car builds.

Tune in next week for an episode with Whitney Young Jr. Award Winner Douglas Ito FAIA.

Guests:

Duane McLemore, AIA

Duane McLemore, AIA is an architect licensed in the state of California. He is also a Professor of Architecture who specializes in the creation of digital tools for the application of sophisticated geometries for advanced fabrication. Among other things, Duane is the author of Horta, a component library for implementing the Space Groups in architectural computation, and Leafcutter, a component library for concrete 3d print pre-processing. He presents his research internationally. Duane is a graduate of the University of Southern California School of Architecture and the Bartlett School of Architecture at University College London.

Katherine Voorhies

Katherine Voorhies is a self-taught graphic designer and a fashion designer by training, working in the fashion industry in Paris prior to moving to Los Angeles. After serving as Director of Production for a high-profile gift and stationery company, Katherine founded Xover0 to explore the jewelry arts. She was educated at le Chambre Syndicale de Haute Couture and Parsons, graduating from their Paris program.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Duane on LinkedIn

Follow Xover0 on Instagram

📚Continue Learning:

Xover0's website

Uglies on Netflix

Scott Westerfeld

Blue Ocean Strategy by W. Chan Kim & Renee Mauborgne

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169: How Knowledge Management Drives Firm Excellence Sep 26, 2024

How can knowledge management promote sustainability, equity, and overall architecture firm excellence?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we welcome Corey Squire, associate principal and sustainability director at Bora Architecture & Interiors, member of AIA's Strategic Council, and leader of the creation of the AIA Framework for Design Excellence. As a national lecturer on sustainability, Corey offers an expert perspective on using knowledge management to elevate a firm's performance and sustainability standards within the built environment.

First, Corey shares his journey into knowledge management and sustainability. He explains the process of implementing a knowledge management system at a firm, highlighting the challenges and benefits of using an intranet platform.

Then, we discuss his approach to building team trust by ensuring the system is valuable to all team members. Corey explains the key principles for effective knowledge management and expands on benefits like gathering information, meeting goals, maintaining equity, diversifying applications, and improving communication within the firm.

I always ask: How are your goals documented? Sometimes it's an external website, which is fine. Sometimes it's on a document in a server somewhere. But a goal is only so great as you have the resources and support to allow any individual in that organization to be empowered to act towards that goal. That's what the interlinking, updated information, and flow paths we're talking about within the internet allow for. - Corey Squire

To wrap up the conversation, Corey acknowledges the dual nature of knowledge management, balancing the initial time investment with long-term benefits. He shares his vision for the future of knowledge management in architecture and emphasizes the potential of a consistent framework throughout the practice.

Tune in next week for an episode about the intersection of fashion, design, and technology in the architecture field.

Guests:

Corey Squire, AIA

Corey Squire, AIA an Associate Principal and Sustainability Director at Bora Architecture & Interior in Portland Oregon, and a member of the AIA's Strategic Council. He lectures nationally on a range of sustainability-related topics and led the creation of the AIA Framework for Design Excellence and associated Toolkit, resources that are actively redefining excellence in the built environment. Corey is the author of the recently published book, People, Planet, Design: A Practical Guide to Realizing Architecture’s Potential.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Corey on LinkedIn

People Planet Design - Discount Code: PPD

📚Continue Learning:

KA Talk on Sustainability Knowledge Management

AIA Framework For Design Excellence

Bora Architecture & Interiors

Guru

Squarespace

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168: Intellectual Property and the Future of Practice Sep 19, 2024

How can architects protect and monetize their creative work with the help of intellectual property (IP) laws?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we’re joined by Ana Juneja, an award-winning intellectual property (IP) attorney and founder of Ana Law® – the first law firm offering flat-fee, 100% guaranteed services for patents, trademarks, and copyrights. In our conversation, Ana explores the essential role of IP in the architecture field.

First, Ana breaks down the four main types of intellectual property: copyrights, trademarks, patents, and trade secrets. She explains how each type applies to architecture and protecting creative works within client relationships and employee contracts.

Then, we dive into the intersection of AI and IP rights. Ana shares advice on protecting your designs, tools, and software created with AI and outlines the steps to securing patents and trademarks for your work.

You're investing in your trademark in order to protect your name, your marketing, and your branding. If you're building up this brand, you're putting in so much time, money, energy, and effort into doing so – you wouldn't really want to lose it…Whereas copyrights and patents are things that, for architects in particular, are incredibly valuable avenues to monetize your brand. It is really protection for your own investments that you're making into your business. - Ana Juneja

To wrap up the conversation, Ana highlights common IP mistakes architects make and offers practical tips to avoid them. She emphasizes the importance of understanding IP laws, using strong contracts and NDAs, and taking proactive steps to safeguard your work.

Tune in next week for an episode about

Guests:

Ana Juneja

As an award-winning intellectual property attorney and the founder of Ana Law®, Ana Juneja helps celebrities, athletes, influencers, start-ups, entrepreneurs, and corporations secure + monetize their brands and ideas in the US and abroad. Ana Law® is the first and only law firm that offers flat-fee, 100% guaranteed patent, trademark, and copyright services. Ana has a 100% success rate and often speaks on important topics such as emerging legal issues surrounding security, AI, and social media.

Additionally, Ana has extensive experience with social media intellectual property infringement issues. Ana’s insider connections with premier media agencies allow her to have direct access to key social media platforms, such as Meta (Facebook/Instagram), TikTok, and Twitter. These essential services are an important component of brand protection strategy for Ana’s celebrity, athlete, & influencer clients.

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167: The Unconventional CEO: From Global Marketer to Insightful Design Leader Sep 12, 2024

How can diverse leadership, perspectives, and ideas drive innovation and meaningful change in the AEC industry?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we have a fascinating conversation with Rolf Provan, the unconventional CEO of Luckett and Farley, an architecture, engineering, and interior design firm. Rolf's unique marketing background in well-known household brands, informs our discussion on innovation, leadership, and opportunities for meaningful change in the AEC industry.

First, we explore Rolf's background and how it shaped his love for design. He shares his journey to becoming CEO at Luckett and Farley and his approach to bridging communication between employees and leadership. We discuss industry challenges, Rolf's strategies to address these issues, and the mindset he's adopted in his role.

Then, Rolf outlines the firm's approach to sustainability and their method for setting environmental change goals. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration and diverse perspectives, and how to effectively cultivate ideas and implement change.

I can't innovate if I'm not willing to look at what somebody in a different profession or with a different background or with different beliefs or a different culture is doing…Celebrating differences and bringing different perspectives from different places, to me, is perhaps the most valuable thing that we can do. Architecture can't get better if we keep using the same tool set against the same thing over and over. - Rolf Provan

To wrap up the conversation, we touch on the self-limiting beliefs in architecture that have held the industry back. Rolf offers advice for those aspiring to enter careers where they have little experience and shares his perspective on ways to make an impact in the future of architecture and design.

Tune in next week for an episode about intellectual property and the future of practice.

Guests:

Rolf Provan

Rolf has driven client-focused innovation and change for some of the worlds biggest brands and businesses, including Shell, Coca-Cola, Volvo, BAT and Anthem. A creative at heart and a "dot-connector," Provan is dialed in with the design community and understands the innovative power of an inter-disciplinary design approach for the clients in each of the market sectors Luckett & Farley serves.

Since he joined Luckett & Farley he has helped define the company's purpose and vision and has advocated for the central role that design must play in our community and in our region. His vision is to leverage Luckett & Farley's inter-disciplinary approach to improve the quality of life, enhance workforce development, and enable the regional economy through impactful design harnessing the power of design for good.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Rolf on LinkedIn

📚Continue Learning:

Hidden Potential by Adam Grant

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166: Architecture, And: Tanooki Labs Product Manager, Liz Fibleuil Sep 05, 2024

How can we leverage a background in architecture with soft skills to successfully transition from architecture to product management?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we chat with Liz Fibleuil, who made an inspiring transition from architecture to product management. With a Master's in Architecture and Sustainable Design and over 10 years of experience, Liz leverages her architectural background with her soft skills to deliver digital solutions at Tanooki Labs. In our conversation, we explore Liz's transition from architecture to tech and her perspective on changing career paths.

First, Liz opens up about her architectural background, why she drifted away from the field, and how she ended up in her current role as a project manager. She offers advice on recognizing when it's time to step away from a career, overcoming fear to make that transition, and positioning yourself in a new industry even without prior experience.

Then, Liz offers strategies for self-teaching tech skills and dives into the details of her role as a product manager at Tanooki Labs. We discuss her current responsibilities, challenges during the transition, and how she learned from each setback.

The moment that you're starting to question if this is the right path for you, whether you are 5 years in or 35, don't ignore that…Why don't I love it? Is it a fundamental reason why I don't love it? Is it a financial reason? Is it because I don't love my boss? What are the real reasons that you are discontent at any stage in your career? Once you define that, then start to analyze if you can find it somewhere else, and really go through that personal exploration. - Liz Fibleuil

To wrap up the conversation, Liz reflects on what she misses most about architecture while emphasizing the importance of empathy in both fields. She expresses her optimism about the future of the tech industry and shares her long-term goals.

Tune in next week for an episode with Rolf Provan, CEO of Luckett & Farley, on how his diverse experiences have shaped his leadership style and where he sees the biggest opportunities for our industry to drive meaningful change.

Guests:

Liz Fibleuil

Liz Fibleuil, a Panama-born architect with over 10 years of experience, has successfully transitioned into a Product Manager role, leveraging her soft skills to excel. With a Masters in Architecture and Sustainable Design, Liz's passion lies in creating user-centric experiences. As a Product Manager, she manages various web and mobile application projects, empathizing with users and stakeholders. Alongside her professional endeavors, Liz finds inspiration in literature as a habit reader and expresses her creativity through painting. With over three years of experience in product management, Liz combines her architectural expertise with her empathetic nature to deliver exceptional digital solutions.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Liz on LinkedIn

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Tanooki Labs

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165: The Future of Housing with the Co-Founders of Higharc Aug 29, 2024

How can AI, automation, and technology democratize custom home design and improve the home building process for both buyers and architects?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we welcome Marc Minor and Michael Bergin, the co-founders of Higharc. With Marc's passion for combining design and technology and Michael's dedication to improving the built environment through design automation, they created Higharc. Higharc provides software tools to make custom home design more accessible, enabling users to design, estimate, sell, and build their ideal homes. Our discussion is focused on their vision for democratizing custom home design.

First, Marc and Michael discuss the origins of Higharc, their relationship as co-founders, and their goal to bring design automation to the industry. They highlight the ways tech can address housing shortages, improve affordability, and enhance the home-building process.

Then, we dive into efficient customization in home design and how Higharc empowers architects to engage with the industry on a larger scale. They share strategies for optimizing the home-buying experience for both buyers and architects, working with the industry's supply and demand, and managing the current housing market.

What really is going to make it so that houses are more affordable is addressing the supply problem. Higharc as a business is also very pointed at this soft cycle supply problem making it faster to build homes so that we have more homes for people to move into. There's an ecosystem here, and if we could take that knowledge and have systems that enable professionals to engage with this process, this industry at greater scale, we all stand to benefit. - Michael Bergin

To wrap up the conversation, Marc and Michael look to the future and share their vision for bridging the gap between architects and buyers, with the goal to create more diverse, automated, and connected communities.

Tune in next week for an episode with Tanooki Labs Product Manager, Liz Fibleuil.

Guests:

Marc Minor:

Marc started Higharc with the goal of making good home design accessible to more people. He’s passionate about pairing design with technology and guiding teams to bring those technologies to market. Prior to starting Higharc, Marc launched two 3D printing companies — Desktop Metal and Carbon3D — out of stealth to become industry leaders, and held management roles for some of the world’s most beloved brands and creative consultancies.

Michael Bergin:

Michael is VP of Product and Co-Founder of Higharc. Throughout his career, he has been dedicated to improving the built environment through design automation. Early in his architecture training, he became dissatisfied with the slow pace and limited accessibility of custom home design. Frustrated, he returned to graduate school and explored the potential to improve these conditions through research into mass-customization of homes. He applied these concepts in practice as a Research Lead at Autodesk, creating a product enabling design automation for the automotive and aerospace industries. His work leading the product design effort culminated in the release of Autodesk Generative Design.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Marc on LinkedIn

Connect with Michael on LinkedIn

Follow Higharc on LinkedIn

📚Continue Learning:

Architechie

Contact Higharc

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164: Architect, And: Construction BD Manager Laura Wake-Ramos Aug 22, 2024

How can architects think broadly about their career options and the various ways they can contribute to and grow within the built environment?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we're joined by Laura Wake-Ramos, a business development manager at Mortenson. As an architect and real estate developer with experience in design-build construction, she brings a unique perspective to the intersection of architecture and construction. In our conversation, Laura shares her journey in the field, insights on alternative career paths outside of traditional practice, and thoughts on the future of architecture.

First, Laura shares her background of getting into architecture and what a business development manager does at Mortenson. She provides insight into business development in architecture, explaining how she balances creativity with construction logistics.

Then, Laura dives into alternative career paths in architecture, emphasizing the importance of building support networks and diversifying your skills. She offers advice on following your curiosity and taking career development risks while highlighting the benefit of continuing education.

In simplest terms, I think of real estate development as a Shark Tank of architecture – where you have this concept, you have this design, you have this idea, and you need to talk about how you're going to get it funded. That's where I think the bridge between architecture and development lies. The development world has connections to private equity and to the debt partners to get buildings funded. - Laura Wake-Ramos

To wrap up the conversation, we discuss gaps in the architecture profession. Laura identifies areas for improvement in architectural education, such as the need for more business knowledge in capital markets and market analytics. She shares her aspirations to elevate alternative career perspectives in architecture and break down barriers between architecture and allied professions.

Tune in next week for an episode about the future of housing with the co-founders of Higharc.

Guests:

Laura Wake-Ramos

Laura is a leader in project delivery through strategy, leading teams, and technology integration. As a Business Development Manager with Mortenson, Laura is responsible for cultivating real estate development opportunities in the Washington DC metro region, leading with the strategy of integrated developer-builder. Laura’s career encompasses construction management, design-build management, and virtual design & construction integration.

One notable project Laura led as the Design Phase Manager was a historic renovation project in Washington DC that won a National Design-Build Award in 2023. Laura serves as the 2023-2024 Chair of the AIA Project Delivery Knowledge Community, and serves as 2024-2026 At-Large Representative for AIA Strategic Council. Laura is passionate about volunteering and giving back her experience to the community. Laura has volunteered with the ACE Mentorship Program of America, Greater Washington Affiliate Board Member, Arquitina, Design-Build Institute of America, Mid-Atlantic Board Secretary, and DBIA student chapter liaison.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Laura on LinkedIn

Mortenson

📚Continue Learning:

ACE Mentor Program of America

Design-Build Institute of America

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163: Practice of Architecture’s New CIO, Larry Fabbroni Aug 15, 2024

How can architecture firms grow alongside the future of the practice by exploring other business models and embracing opportunities for innovation?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we’re excited to introduce Lawrence Fabbroni as our new Chief Innovation Officer at The Practice of Architecture. Larry is an architect with over twenty years of experience and has been involved in many major development projects in the US. Currently, he works as a consultant focusing on strategic pre-development services. Today, Larry talks about his architecture and business career and his plans to enhance innovation within our company.

First, Larry discusses his career background and his role in The AIA Practice Innovation Lab. As an MBA candidate at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, Larry shares key takeaways he learned that can benefit our approach to innovation in architecture.

Then, we dive into the challenges that firms encounter in managing growth and sustainability alongside the evolution of architecture and AI. Larry highlights what we're currently working on and our goals, how our consulting service differs from others in the AEC space, and the exciting opportunities to merge the expertise of Larry's network with The Practice of Architecture network.

In the world of innovation, we separate what we define as invention and innovation. There's multiple types of innovation that can happen, and the most common is to innovate iteratively on what you already do, right? I think architects are really inclined to want to be really creative and kind of develop something brand new all the time. That's how you cause major disruption, maybe, but that's not the majority of innovation that's happening in this other space. - Larry Fabbroni

To wrap up the conversation, we explore the importance of mindset shifts for fostering innovation in the industry's future, the role of mid-sized companies, the potential for creativity, and the influence of workplace culture on driving innovation within firms.

Tune in next week for an episode where we continue our "Architecture, and" series with a guest who’s making a significant impact beyond traditional practice—Laura Wake-Ramos.

Guests:

Lawerence J. Fabbroni, AIA, LEED AP

Larry is an architect with over two decades in practice. He formerly led master planning projects at Ehrenkrantz Eckstut & Kuhn Architects and Strada Architecture. He has worked on some of the largest development projects in the US, and currently works as an consultant focused on strategic pre-development services. Currently, Larry is an MBA candidate at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business where he focuses on entrepreneurship and strategy.

Larry has received the AIA Pennsylvania Emerging Professional of the Year award, as well as the AIA’s national Young Architect Award. He is formerly a national president of the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS), a national Chair of the AIA’s Young Architects’ Forum (YAF), and a national board member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). He has been a leader in many other local and regional organizations.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Larry on LinkedIn

📚Continue Learning:

The Practice of Architecture Website

Practice Innovation Lab

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162: 2025 AIA Firm Award Winner, Quinn Evans Aug 08, 2024

How is Quinn Evans embracing sustainability, historic preservation, and equity in their practice to positively impact the future of architecture, environments, and communities?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we're joined by the next generation of leaders from Quinn Evans, the 2025 AIA Firm of the Year Winner: Julia Siple, Principal and Director of Sustainability, and Senior Associates Nakita Reed and Charles Sparkman. We discuss Quinn Evans' focus on sustainable architecture, their workplace environment, and how this award will shape the firm's future.

First, our guests share their paths to becoming architects, joining Quinn Evans, and what it means to the firm to win the award. Because the award also involves creating a positive work culture, the panel explains how the firm fosters an enjoyable work environment, embraces diversity, and supports employee development through mentorship and engagement groups.

Then, we discuss the firm’s inspired approach to professional and leadership development. They also reflect on ways they’ve continued to collaborate within the hybrid remote work model.

As architects, we should be designing things that we want a preservationist to want to preserve in 50 years. As preservationists, we're not just trying to preserve things in amber. It's about how we sensibly manage change and understand how to see things from multiple viewpoints. The sustainability impacts, the cultural impacts, the neighborhood impacts, and all of the ways that existing places really matter are what we strive for and we thrive in at Quinn Evans. Winning the firm of the year...it's great to finally see preservation, adaptive reuse, sustainability, and stewardship shine. - Nakita Reed

To wrap up the conversation, we touch on Quinn Evans' commitment to learning, curiosity, and industry evolution. They express their hopes for the future of the firm with the role of technology and AI in historic preservation.

Tune in next week for an episode with Practice of Architecture’s New CIO, Larry Fabbroni.

Guests:

Julia Siple, AIA, LEED AP BD+C | Principal, Director of Sustainability

Julia is an architect and advocate for design that positively impacts people, ecosystems, and climate. As Quinn Evans’ director of sustainability, she leads efforts to empower teams and projects to achieve sustainable and high-performing outcomes.

Nakita Reed, AIA, CPHC, LEED AP BD+C, NOMA | Senior Associate

Nakita's career focuses on the intersection of historic preservation, sustainable design, and equity. She is skilled in both restoration and adaptive use of historic buildings and serves on multiple boards, including the Zero Net Carbon Collaboration for Existing and Historic Buildings (ZNCC).

Charles Sparkman, AIA, LEED AP BD+C | Senior Associate

Charles's integrated design approach synthesizes art, building science, and research into architecture that is rich in meaning and beautiful in craft. He is adept in complex historic preservation projects and new construction that elevates campuses and communities.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Julia on LinkedIn

Connect with Nakita on LinkedIn

Connect with Charles on LinkedIn

Connect with Quinn Evans on LinkedIn

Follow Quinn Evans on Facebook

Follow Quinn Evans on Instagram

Julia’s QE Website Profile

Nakita’s QE Website Profile

Charles’ QE Website Profile

Tangible Remnants Podcast

📚Continue Learning:

Quinn Evans Website

Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program

📚 Past Episodes Referenced:

PD #15: Training the Next Generation of Leaders

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161: Season 9, Architect My Business Podcast Aug 01, 2024

How can architects thrive within the future of architecture by embracing the professional business development aspects of the practice?

Welcome to Season 9 of Practice Disrupted! In this episode, we are joined by Aya Shlachter, the CEO and owner of MGS Global Group and the host of the "Architect My Business" podcast, where she provides valuable insights for small businesses in the architecture industry. Today, our conversation is focused on various business-related issues within architecture firms and strategies for addressing these effectively so architects can thrive and develop stronger management practices for the future of architecture.

First, Aya and Evelyn dive into the role of education in the future of architecture and how schools can equip new architects with necessary skills. Evelyn explains why firms should adapt their business models to support the nuanced teachings in schools. We touch on the need for schools to provide more resources to students to support the growing influence of delivering beyond the buildings.

Then, we discuss integrating freelancers into firms and the recent shift to the gig economy within the workforce, expanding on aspects such as healthcare, freelancers versus fractional employees, and how this trend allows for more flexibility within the industry. Evelyn also shares potential solutions for the lack of professional development in business for architects outside of firms.

Architects are aware of their weaknesses in business management. Despite this awareness, there's still a gap in addressing issues effectively. So, for architects to thrive, they need to develop stronger business strategies and management practices. I always say architects were taught how to master their craft but not taught how to run or grow a business. - Aya Shlachter

To wrap up the conversation, Aya and Evelyn address AI's impact on the future of architecture. Evelyn also opens up about her decision to become a full-time business owner and reflects on the growth of the Practice Disrupted community.

Tune in next week for an episode about the future leaders of AIA’s Firm of the Year Award Winner, Quinn Evans.

Guest:

Aya Shlachter

Aya is the CEO and owner of MGS Global Group, a female minority-owned business providing full-service architecture support to the AEC industry. She has impressively expanded the company from a solo operation to a thriving firm with 50 plus employees , serving hundreds of clients, including publicly traded and Fortune 500 companies.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Aya on Linkedin

Architect My Business Podcast

MGS Global Group

Architect My Business on YouTube

📚Continue Learning:

Evelyn Lee’s Linkedin

The AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index (ABI)

MAICON Cleveland 2024 Conference in Ohio

Harvard Business Review: Highly Skilled Professionals Want Your Work But Not Your Job

Almost Technical

Practice Community + Lab

The Ultimate Health Insurance Guide for Self-employed Creators

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Bonus Replay: Addressing Mental Health in Architecture Jul 25, 2024

How do we expand mental health support to professionals across the industry of architecture?

Peter Exley, FAIA, RIBA, NOMA, a former AIA National President, Gregg A. Garmisa, J.D., Principal and General Counsel at Studio Gang, and Korey D. White, AIA, NCARB, Senior Associate at DLR Group and a member of the AIA Strategic Council join us to address the growing concerns related to the mental health and well-being of individuals working in the profession of architecture.

“As the industry continues to transform and grapple with inequities, workforce diversity, labor challenges and climate change, among other current issues, we challenge our colleagues to join in a collective and inclusive commitment to expand mental health support throughout our profession.”

– Peter Exley, Gregg Garmisa, and Korey White, “We Need a Safe Place to Address Our Mental Health,” Chicago Architect, Summer 2022.

In this episode, we’ll discuss the problem we’re facing related to mental health in the profession of architecture and steps we can take to start to address this challenge.

This episode is dedicated to anyone who is currently or has previously struggled with burnout, mental health, addiction, substance abuse, or related mental health challenges. You are not alone. There is a community of allies who seek to destigmatize, raise awareness, build acceptance, and build better overall well-being practices within our profession.

Guests:

Peter Exley’s career is committed to an equitable and inclusive built environment for children, families, and communities.

As co-founder of Architecture Is Fun, he uses the power of design to build places and spaces that reflect the values, ambitions, and purpose of every stakeholder on myriad civic, cultural, private, and not-for-profit agencies.

As a teacher, he is nurturing future architects as the primary and credible resource with the explicit training and qualification to lead the creation of healthy and equitable net-zero place-making.

As the 97th President of the American Institute of Architects, he led AIA’s delegation to COP26 in Glasgow, and advanced the AIA Headquarters renewal project embodying the urgent need for climate action alongside a dramatic transformation for workplace, member, and community experience.

Gregg Garmisa is Principal and General Counsel at Studio Gang, based in the Studio’s Chicago office. Gregg interacts with clients, consultants, and our design teams on all projects to establish and maintain productive and collegial professional relationships.

Immediately prior to joining the Studio, Gregg was Vice President and General Counsel at a national engineering and sustainability consulting firm, where he became one of Studio Gang’s earliest collaborators. Before that, he practiced law and provided public policy guidance to clients in Washington, DC, and Chicago, and served as a legislative advisor to a US senator on Capitol Hill.

Gregg is an invited member of the Society of Illinois Construction Attorneys, a former board member of the American Institute of Architects Chicago, and a former trustee of the Chicago Architecture Center. He is an experienced lecturer on current topics at the intersection of the design profession and the law, which he has delivered at undergraduate- and graduate-level architecture programs as well as conferences across the US and abroad.

In 2019, he accepted an academic appointment as a Lecturer in Architecture at the Harvard Graduate School of Design. Since then, he co-teaches each Fall semester “Foundations of Practice”, a required course for M.Arch I degree candidates that examines models and issues that define the modern architectural profession.

Gregg earned his J.D. from Georgetown University, where he was a law review associate editor and his undergraduate degree from Stanford University.

Korey White is driven by her zest for the built environment, bringing open-mindedness and creativity to her role as an architect and urban planner. She applies her dual master’s degrees in architecture and urban and regional planning to an interdisciplinary approach that creates impactful outcomes for her clients and the community. Korey currently works for DLR Group in the Chicago office, focused primarily on educational facility master planning for K-12 school districts and leading the planning discipline.

Korey is recognized for her leadership within architecture by her recent election the AIA Board of Directors as an At-Large Director for 2023-2025. She has most recently served as the AIA Strategic Council 2022 Moderator and was awarded the 2018 AIA Young Architects Award, the 2017 BD+C 40 under 40 and the 2016 AIA Colorado Leadership Award. She is currently enrolled at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in the iMBA program. She is a Forte Fellow and will graduate with her MBA in Fall 2022.

📍 Show Links:

Peter Exley, Gregg Garmisa, and Korey White, “We Need a Safe Place to Address Our Mental Health,” Chicago Architect, Summer 2022.

Reposted on LinkedIn

Program Referenced: Lawyers’ Assistance Program

📚 Continue Learning:

Katherine Flynn, “The Burnout Problem in Architecture,” Architect magazine, April 01, 2022.

Sean Joyner, “Debunking Architecture’s Mythological Work Culture,” Archinect, April 04, 2022.

Ian Volner, “Paradigm, Interrupted,” Architect magazine, April 14, 2022.

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Bonus Replay: Exploring the Evolution of Computational Design Jul 18, 2024

What should architects understand about the influence of computational design in practice?

Technology has prompted a massive change in the way we practice architecture. This week we’ve invited Andrew Heumann to the show to help us take a deep dive into the world of computational design and coding. This episode aims to bridge the gap between those new to the niche of computational design and those embedded in the community. Andrew will share his perspective on the evolution of the digital tools that help architects create, the role of coding in architectural design, his work at Hypar, and trends in computational design.

Hypar:

Building technology visionaries have spent 70 years telling us we could generate building designs, but instead, the software industry helped us draw walls. It's time for AEC to do what the software industry has done for 40 years — capture and share its expertise to accelerate the improvement of an entire sector, not just individual projects.

With Hypar, anyone can generate, visualize and analyze buildings to make better decisions faster. You can easily add your own processes and expertise so you don’t start from square one with each new project.

Guest:

Andrew Heumann is a software developer at Hypar, with a passion for building the next generation of software tools for designers. He has previously worked as an automation researcher at WeWork, and before that as an architectural designer at Woods Bagot and NBBJ architects. He has written more than 20 plug-ins for 3D modeling software like Rhino and Revit, including the popular "Human" and "Human UI" plugins for Grasshopper. Outside of his professional work, Andrew is a generative artist, working with data, algorithms, geometry, and machines to create rich visual abstractions that engage and challenge the limits and affordances of digital media. Andrew has studied both architecture and computer science and has lectured and taught seminars at Columbia GSAPP, Yale University, Princeton University, and the California College of the Arts. His work has been published in Wallpaper* magazine, the International Journal of Architectural Computing, CLOG journal, and presented at conferences including ACADIA, SIMAUD, Autodesk University, the Design Modelling Symposium, and the AEC Technology Symposium.

📍 Show Links:

Andrew Heumann

Hypar

Andrew on Twitter @andrewheumann

📚 Continue Learning:

<ATN> #26 What's All The Hype About Hypar W/ ANDREW HEUMANN

TRXL 014: 'A DEGREE OF NUCLEAR', WITH ANDREW HEUMANN

💻 Learn about our podcast partners:

👉 Monograph is the cloud-based practice operations solution built for architects by architects. It is easy to use, beautifully designed, and helped firms streamline operations by empowering them to see project and firm-wide financial health in a single tool. Plan your projects with schedules, budgets, roles, and team members. Track a project’s financial health with their unique MoneyGantt which takes timesheet data and makes it simple to see whether you are on track or not. Use firm-wide revenue forecasts to make strategic decisions. With Monograph, you never have to make a decision in the dark again. 👉 Visit Monograph now.

👉 ArchIT:

Tired of dealing with generic IT providers? ArchIT offers Complete IT Solutions for Architecture, Design, and Engineering firms, including helping architects fight back against ransomware and cybersecurity attacks. Visit http://getarchit.com/pd to set up your free 15-min Cyber Security Assessment, or custom solutions for your design firm.

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Bonus Replay: Growing an AEC Startup / The Evolution of a Company Jul 11, 2024

Why is everyone talking about Monograph?

Founded in 2018 by Robert Yuen, Alex Dixon, and Moe Amaya, the initial agency called Dixon & Moe has grown into a 50-person team, now known as Monograph.

In their search to build tools and websites for startups and architecture firms, they noticed a recurring challenge—architects and project managers kept complaining about their existing and non-existent project management software. Even more prevalent, there was a disconnect between how projects were managed, budgets were forecast, and time was tracked. Often they would hear that existing solutions are “cumbersome” or “tedious”. Why wasn’t there a solution that could help architects manage their firms more effectively, with more transparency?

This week we interview Robert Yuen, the CEO and Co-Founder of Monograph to learn about the company’s growth, pursuit in solving the challenges of the industry, and vision for the future. Let’s just say that their plans are much bigger than project management.

Guest:

Robert Yuen, Assoc. AIA, is the CEO and Co-Founder of Monograph, a software company revolutionizing the future in how architectural projects are managed. Having worked as an architectural designer in his hometown Chicago and ultimately setting his roots down in San Francisco, Yuen discovered his passion for designing software solutions for the AEC industry. A serial entrepreneur, a trained architect, and zealously productive, Robert is an active member and avid public speaker within the architecture, design, and engineering industries.

His experience in working with some of the industry’s most renowned firms and designers, including SOM, Holabird & Root, and BluHomes, led him to discover a void for a simple cloud-based project management application that was tailored to the industry. As such, Yuen co-founded Monograph alongside his co-founders Alex Dixon and Moe Amaya, to help architects and engineers oversee projects in an integrated, user-friendly, and ever-evolving interface. Robert graduated with a Masters in Architecture and a Masters in Science in Digital Technologies from the University of Michigan.

📍 Show Links:

Monograph

💻 Learn about our podcast partners:

👉 Monograph is the cloud-based practice operations solution built for architects by architects. It is easy to use, beautifully designed, and helped firms streamline operations by empowering them to see projects and firm-wide financial health in a single tool. Plan your projects with schedules, budgets, roles, and team members. Track a project’s financial health with their unique MoneyGantt which takes timesheet data and makes it simple to see whether you are on track or not. Use firm-wide revenue forecasts to make strategic decisions. With Monograph, you never have to make a decision in the dark again. 👉 Visit Monograph now.

👉 ArchIT:

Tired of dealing with generic IT providers? ArchIT offers Complete IT Solutions for Architecture, Design, and Engineering firms, including helping architects fight back against ransomware and cybersecurity attacks. Visit http://getarchit.com/pd to set up your free 15-min Cyber Security Assessment, or custom solutions for your design firm.

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Bonus Replay: Understanding the Architecture Labor Movement Jul 04, 2024

Who is the Architectural Workers United?

The Architectural Workers United is organizing towards making architecture more equitable, the profession more just, and our built environment more resilient. Join us as we interview Andrew Daley and Jess Myers to learn more about the architectural labor movement, unions, and the history of labor practices in architecture. What are the biggest misconceptions? What is the benefit? What are the most common questions people ask? We’ll discover all of this and more as we discuss why there is a growing group of advocates standing behind AWU.

Guests:

Andrew Daley is an organizer, activist, and licensed architect living and working in Brooklyn. He is currently working with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW) on organizing efforts within the architecture industry. He has 12 years of experience working for a number of offices in multiple states, most recently for 7 years at SHoP Architects as a Project Director working on US embassies worldwide.

Jess Myers is an assistant professor in Rhode Island School for Design’s architecture department. Her podcast Here There Be Dragons offers an in-depth look into the intersection of identity politics and security policy in public space through the eyes of New Yorkers, Parisians and Stockholmers. Her work can be found in The Architect’s Newspaper, The Funambulist Magazine, Failed Architecture, Dwell and l’Architecture d’Aujourd’hui. (Read more about Jess on Madame Architect.)

📍 Show Links:

AWU Contact: architectural.workers.united@gmail.com

📚 Continue Learning:

Labor Resources

DPE Data Sheet

EPI Productivity-Pay Gap

EPI Union Density-Top 10% Income

DOL Employee Rights

NLRB Website

National Labor Relations Act

NYC Central Labor Council

Architecture Labor Resources

The Architecture Lobby Union Pamphlet (downloadable pamphlet)

Architecture and Anti-Trust Article

Why Don’t Architects Have Unions? (by Jess Myers)

Architecture and Labor (review of book by Peggy Deamer)

NCARB Demographics

AIA Bias Report

FAECT Article (by Mardges Bacon)

Press about AWU (selected)

New York Times Article

Curbed Article

New York Review of Architecture Article

Architectural Record Article

Architect’s Newspaper Article

Press about Overwork/Burnout/Stress

Harvard Business Review Article (about long hours)

Salon Article (about 40 hour work week)

Gallup Union Support Poll

CNBC Article (about long hours)

Wall Street Journal Article (about overtime)

World Economic Forum (about employees leaving)

National Bureau of Economic Research (union job satisfaction study)

Recent Professional Unions (Non-Exhaustive, there are 6,000,000 professional union members)

VICE Media Union (est. 2017) - WGA East

VOX Media Union (est. 2018) - WGA East

The New Yorker Union (est. 2018) - News Guild

New York Magazine Union (est. 2018) - News Guild

Wirecutter Union - (est. 2019) - News Guild

New Museum Union - (est. 2019) - UAW

Whitney Museum Union - (est. 2020) - UAW

Guggenheim Union - (est. 2021) - UAW

ACLU Lawyers - (est. 2021) - IFTPE

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160: Practice Disrupted and the Practice of Architecture Jun 27, 2024

Episode 160: Practice Disrupted and the Practice of Architecture

What’s next for Evelyn, Je’Nen & Practice Disrupted?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we welcome Je'Nen M. Chastain back as we wrap up season 8 of the show! If you don’t already know her, Je’Nen is a business strategy consultant, entrepreneur, and podcaster who helps leaders transform their teams and companies. In our conversation, Je'Nen shares what she has been doing during her podcast hiatus while Evelyn opens up about her journey with her various projects, emphasizing the innovation and exploration that come with stepping into a new chapter of a career.

First, Evelyn talks about her journey into architecture, starting in business school, which informed her perspective on the architecture field. She explains why firms should embrace innovation and the necessity for a firm-wide cultural desire for evolution.

Next, Evelyn explains how she managed the shift away from her job at Slack and why this transition gave her the freedom to nurture the Practice Disrupted Community + Lab. She shares her current projects and passions and explains the need for architects to pay attention to market changes and trends to promote evolution. Plus, Evelyn talks about creating her own chatbot and using AI to analyze business operations, marketing, and communication.

I've been on the consulting side of workplace strategy for a very long time…My vision is that in order for the architecture industry to survive, it needs to undergo some systemic change. And I can't do that helping or working one firm at a time. I would rather find like-minded people that are interested in similar things and give them the tools to do it themselves. I just also think that it scales so much better…we continue to scale, and we can continue to make an impact. That’s what I want to be able to do as an entrepreneur, and I don't feel like I could do that as a consultant. - Evelyn Lee

To wrap up the conversation, Je'Nen and Evelyn share the ups and downs of entrepreneurial journeys, touching on the isolation of building a business and the importance of consistent commitments like this podcast. Evelyn highlights why she moved away from consulting and discusses her goals for the future.

You will also hear a sneak peek into what is to come next season!

Guest:

Je’Nen M. Chastain

Je’Nen M. Chastain is a business strategy consultant, entrepreneur, and podcaster who helps leaders transform their teams and companies. Combining her architectural education and training with an MBA in entrepreneurship, Je’Nen built Apostrophe Consulting, a growing business management consulting practice.

📍 Show Links:

Practice Community + Lab

Practice of Architecture

📚Past Related Episodes:

PD #67: Architecture And: The Future of Workplace

PD #92: /slantis, Enabling Technology in Practice

PD #157: The Skills Required for a Technology Driven Future

PD #150: Women Defining AI for Architects

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159: Architecture, And: Senior Product Manager at Higharc Jun 20, 2024

Episode 159: Architecture, And: Senior Product Manager at Higharc

How can technology, software, and product management roles transform and expand the traditional architecture practice?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we sit down with Abe Drechsler, a licensed architect and current product manager at Higharc, to explore the intersection of the architecture practice and evolving technology. Throughout our conversation, Abe explains his role as a product manager, where he leverages digital tools to automate and streamline design processes and compares the traditional architecture practice to one that prioritizes tech.

First, Abe shares why he transitioned from traditional architecture practice to product management and highlights the potential of tech-oriented roles within architectural firms. We touch on the workplace culture at Higharc and the pros and cons of the architecture industry-wide call back to working in person in the office.

Then, Abe discusses the impact of technology on automating tasks, allowing architects to focus on design and other human-centric aspects of the practice. He also notes the differences between architecture and product management, including the physical nature of architecture as opposed to the digital divide and flexibility of tech.

In architecture, there's a clear understanding of what you're trying to build and what the client wants, at the end of the day. It's very obvious that if a client wants a hospital, chances are they're going to expect the hospital four years later. But in tech, there's a whole lot more exploration because you are not really sure what the final solution is going to be when you start off. You have to have the conversations and you can build something wildly different depending on how the initial conversations go. - Abe Drechsler

To wrap up the conversation, Abe offers his advice to recent architectural graduates who are considering non-traditional career paths. He emphasizes the influence of alternative practices on the future of built environments and outlines the opportunities they present in the field.

Tune in next week for an episode where I'm going in the interview seat and we have a special guest back on the podcast.

Guest:

Abe Drechsler, AIA

Abe is a Product Manager and Licensed Architect with a passion for design and digital technologies. As a product manager at Higharc, he develops methods for systematizing and automating the design and documentation of homes. Previously as an Architect at KieranTimberlake and Ballinger he has worked on a variety of project types and scales. Throughout his career he’s focused on expanding the value of architecture and making design more accessible.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Abe on Linkedin

Check out Higharc

Within Formal Cities Trailer

Architechie Slack Workspace

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158: Architecture, And: Director of Product at Intelligent City Jun 13, 2024

Episode 158: Architecture, And: Director of Product at Intelligent City

How can architects leverage the evolution of technology and the role of architects to enhance sustainability and innovation within the built environment?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we are joined by Kristin Slavin, an architect, developer, and product manager who has helped drive national building code changes and an industry-wide shift to more sustainable building practices. Throughout our chat, we focus on the evolving roles of architects in sustainable practices. Kristin currently serves as Director of Product at Intelligent City, a company working to lead a sustainable future using mass timber technology and set new standards in affordable, carbon-neutral, urban living.

First, Kristin shares her background in architecture and her exploration of various career paths, eventually transitioning into production design and management. She also discusses the limitations the founders of Intelligent City saw with traditional architectural methods and how that translated into the company's conception.

Then, Kristin discusses the evolution of Intelligent City, explains the construction technologies they use, and emphasizes the design and quality of their solutions. She also highlights their internal culture and professional development, the benefits of diverse teams and remote work, and the intersection of architecture and construction industries.

I think small teams can be really efficient. Often in the traditional practice of architecture, we may underestimate people's capabilities, and try to hold things more tightly than we need to sometimes. If you can give people the freedom to explore and grow within their role or even outside of their role, people will surprise you. So I think there's a lot of power in that. - Kristin Slavin

To wrap up the conversation, Kristin encourages new architects to seek innovative firms and opportunities, emphasizing confidence, decisiveness, and the acceptance of their mistakes. She also explains her vision for the future, where architects embrace new technologies and materials for sustainable solutions and work with AI companies to create efficient, market-responsive designs.

Tune in next week for an episode about a different take on Product Management.

Guest:

Kristin Slavin

Kristin Slavin is Director of Product/Architect, bringing her expertise and thought leadership in mass timber construction and low carbon building design to the team. Her extensive experience as an architect, developer, and product manager of mass timber buildings and prefabricated building products has helped drive national building code changes and an industry wide shift to more sustainable building practices. Her built work includes Carbon12, the tallest CLT building in the US at completion.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Kristin on Linkedin

Check out Intelligent City

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157: The Skills Required for a Technology Driven Future Jun 06, 2024

Episode 157: The Skills Required for a Technology Driven Future

What skills do architects need to succeed in a technology-driven future?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we've invited Andy Robert and Mercedes Carriquiry back on the show to talk about the skills architects need to succeed in a technology-driven future. Andy and Mercedes are the co-founders of slantis, where they partner with architecture firms to provide services such as architecture & production coordination, high-end visualization, workflow automation, and architecture for the metaverse to support teams and empower them to incorporate smart tech into their projects.

First, Andy and Mercedes discuss slantis' mission and why they felt the need to create this company as licensed architects to transform the industry. They touch on how they've shifted their offerings in the era of AI to align with the significant changes they see within the industry.

Then, we explore the importance of a collaborative culture within architecture firms to foster innovation, highlighting the importance of a strong culture and employees willing to tackle tech-driven challenges. They explain how the offerings at slantis help to solve these issues within firms, keeping them up to date with technological advances, communicating effectively, and enhancing team and client collaboration and interactions.

We've experienced firsthand how technology can really improve the quality of life of architects, impact the buildings we are designing, and the people that are using and operating those buildings. So if we can figure out how technology can speed it up and make architects happier, then I think we kind of checked the box. Technology is a huge game changer and biggest enabler. We want to accomplish a better quality of life for our profession which can translate into designing better buildings in the end - Andy Robert

To wrap up the conversation, Andy and Mercedes share their vision for the future of slantis, advice on connecting with people from various industries to stay ahead of the technology, and tips for young leaders who have the desire for change within their firms.

Tune in next week for an episode about the expanding roles of architects within the built environment.

Guests:

Andy Robert

Andy Robert is a professional architect from ORT University in Uruguay. She lived in Germany and pursued graduate studies in Dessau, where the former Bauhaus was located. Today she is CEO of /slantis, co-founded in 2016 with her lifelong friend Mercedes Carriquiry, and willing to disrupt the way architecture Very energetic, curious, and entrepreneurial, she is actively involved in events that advocate for women as leaders.She’s Beltrán and Jaime’s mum, a vegan and a life-long learner.

Mercedes Carriquiry

Mercedes Carriquiry is a licensed architect and entrepreneur specializing in innovation and technology. She received her degree from the Faculty of Architecture UDELAR in Uruguay and also studied at the ENSAG in Grenoble, France. Additionally, she graduated in digital fabrication from MIT Fabacademy. After working at Jean Nouvel's studio in Paris and leading multiple developments in Montevideo, she co-founded /slantis in 2016 with her lifelong friend Andy, where leads innovation, operations and strategy. When she's not working, she enjoys art, skating, and spending time with her family.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Andy on Linkedin

Connect with Mercedes on Linkedin

Check out slantis

📚Continue Learning:

The Fall of the Human Intellect by A. Parthasarathy

The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel

Jack: Straight from the Gut by Jack Welch

📚Past Related Episodes:

PD #92: /slantis, Enabling Technology in Practice

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156: Architecture, And: The Anti-Racist Hotdog May 30, 2024

Episode 156: Architecture, And: The Anti-Racist Hotdog

How can innovative initiatives in the architecture design field and social entrepreneurship foster racial equity, inclusion, and all-encompassing systemic change?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we chat with Wandile Mthyiyane, an architect known for his work in social entrepreneurship and his innovative initiatives to promote equity, diversity, and inclusive practices that drive meaningful change within the field and beyond. Wandile is an Obama Leader and TEDx Fellow, the founder and CEO of Ubuntu Design Group (UDG), The Anti-Racist Hotdog, and the creator of the new peer-to-peer inclusion rating platform, GrindTea.com.

First, Wandile discusses his architectural design background and his motivation to become an architect. He views the practice as an opportunity to address social issues, challenge the conventional view of architecture, and use it as a tool for a better future for everyone. Wandile also shares an in-depth explanation of his various initiatives rooted in justice and equality.

I didn't choose to be an architect so that I could be a chair or do skyscrapers and stuff, I could care less. I chose to do architecture because I see it as a vehicle to solve a very real problem that I grew up with – the lack of dignified housing because of racial injustice systems. - Wandile Mthiyane

Then, Wandile shares his personal experiences with racism and how those specifically inspired his work. He highlights his passion for food, music, and constructive dialogue and explains how each of these mediums can bridge cultural divides and promote inclusion. Plus, we unpack his perspective on using AI in the architecture space and how these tools can make architecture more accessible to a broader group of people.

To wrap up the conversation, Wandile offers advice and wisdom to young architects who aspire to be voices of change in their workplaces and aim to promote inclusive and equitable practices in a wide array of industries, even beyond architecture.

Tune in next week for an episode about the skills required for a technology-driven future.

Guest:

Wandile Mthiyane

Wandile Mthiyane is an Obama Leader, TedxFellow, architectural designer, social entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of Ubuntu Design Group (UDG) and The Anti-Racist Hotdog. He is proud to introduce The Tea, a peer-to-peer inclusion rating platform.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Wandile on Linkedin

Check out Ubuntu Design Group

Check out grindtea.com

Check out The Anti-racist Hot Dog

📚Continue Learning:

Wandile is the founder of Anti-Racist Hot Dog and GrindTea.com

Reject or Reclaim: Untangling the Tension Between Classical Architecture and Black Identity

Spill The Tea: How Architects Can Transform Workplace Culture and Call Out Toxic Office Environments

📚Past Related Episodes:

PD #151: Built Environment Futures Council

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155: The Evolution of Architecture Education at the Boston Architectural College May 23, 2024

Episode 155: The Evolution of Architecture Education at the Boston Architectural College

How can architectural education evolve to better prepare students and non-licensed professionals for the challenges and opportunities of the profession?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we have an insightful conversation with Beth Lundell Garver, AIA, NOMA Dean and Founding Director of Gateway Office (GO), a community-based design center at the Boston Architectural College (BAC). Today, we discuss the future of architectural education, the need to bridge the gap between academia and the real-world application of architecture, and how BAC is working towards positive change in the field.

First, Beth reflects on balancing work and motherhood and advocates for recognizing women's unique challenges in the profession. She then explains her concept of "architectural advocates," that highlights the crucial role of non-licensed professionals in advancing design and social justice in the architectural field.

Then, we dive into the importance of empowering architectural advocates to broaden the definition of architecture beyond building design and into relationships and community engagement. Beth touches on the landscape of architectural education and emphasizes the need for more hands-on experience and career support for students.

Empower people to support and recommend policies that inform the built environment and acknowledge the critical nature of that. Architecture cannot just be about new construction anymore…really urgently has to start being more about redesigning spaces, taking pieces apart, and reusing them in ways that are different. Architectural advocates can help us a lot with that. - Beth Lundell Garver

To wrap up the conversation, Beth addresses the everyday stresses on young architects, such as design studio culture, the state of helplessness, and the lack of salary data. She shares how we can work towards change in these areas by prioritizing diversity and inclusion and fostering a sense of connection within the field to help pave the way for the future.

Tune in next week for an episode with returning guest Wandlie Mithiyane to learn more about his two most recent endeavors, The Anti-Racist Hotdog and The Tea.

Guest:

Beth Lundell Garver, AIA, NOMA

Bethany Lundell Garver, AIA, NOMA, is Dean and Faculty of Practice and Founding Director of Gateway Office (GO), the community-based design uncenter at the Boston Architectural College. She leads college-wide efforts to connect education with practice through distinguished reflective assessment and experiential learning initiatives. Her research and teaching focus on community engagement, professional practice, construction administration, and urban design.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Beth on Linkedin

📚Continue Learning:

Gateway Office

Boston Architectural College

American Institute of Architecture Students

Higher education linked to greater wellbeing, job fit and societal progress, Lumina-Gallup study finds

Building a High-Development Culture Through Your Employee Engagement Strategy

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154: Being an Archtivist May 16, 2024

Episode 154: Being an Archtivist

How can architects embrace activism, innovation, and collaboration to create more inclusive, sustainable, and empathetic environments?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, Nyasha Harper-Michon, an architect, strategist, and advocate for sustainability and inclusion, joins us to discuss the intersection of architecture, activism, and innovation. Nyasha is an 'Archtivist’. This is a term she created for architects and built environment professionals who lead environmental, social, and economic reform to foster positive societal changes.

First, Nyasha explains the relationship between activism and architecture, which challenges the traditional practice and promotes innovation. She shares her strategies for implementing collaboration and integrated solutions into the practice to work towards more inclusive designs.

Then, Nyasha critiques the ‘Reference Man’ of design, explains why designers need to consider various perspectives and identities in their planning, and shares her advice for fostering a more diverse built environment. Plus, she shares how her nomadic childhood shaped her perspective on empathy and cultural awareness in the architectural practice.

I think one tangible thing that we can all do is to dismantle and challenge the idea of, of ‘Reference Man’ being the center of all that we do. I think if we do that, it will really influence our environmental work, our social work, and all of the work that we do...‘Reference Man’ is very exclusive. It doesn't represent anyone. I think that when we design for this guy, or when we think about this guy, we are creating something that is just not going to be able to address the challenges that we face today. - Nyasha Harper-Michon

To wrap up the conversation, Nyasha reflects on the transformative experience of being a new mother to twins, which deepened her commitment to creating a better future through her practice. She relates her process of training the twins to sleep through the night to how architects can be active participants in built environment issues by changing their mindset and using their agency despite feeling powerless at times.

Tune in next week for an episode about the history and enduring legacy of the Boston Architectural College.

Guest:

Nyasha Harper-Michon

Nyasha Harper-Michon is a purpose-driven architect, built environment expert, business strategist and inclusion & sustainability advocate who thrives at the intersection of cities, design, inclusion, sustainability, and technology. She is a self-proclaimed 'Archtivist'—a term she coined for architecture and built environment professionals and enthusiasts driving environmental, social, and economic reform to foster positive changes in society and within the built environment sector.

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Check out Nyasha’s Website

📚Continue Learning:

Archtivists Essay

Madame Architect Interview

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153: AI and Ethics in Architecture May 09, 2024

Episode 153: AI and Ethics in Architecture

How can architects responsibly use AI image-generation tools in their practice while considering the ethics and concerns?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we discuss all things AI in architecture and explore the responsible use of AI image generation for design. Joining this conversation is Damon Leverett, an architect, artist, and educator at the University of Arizona. His seminar on AI has been accepted as a workshop at the AIA24 National Conference on Architecture in Washington, DC. Today, Damon shares his expert insights on how architects can leverage AI capabilities with the risks that come with it.

First, Damon addresses the common question of whether AI will replace architects or enhance their efficiency. He explains why he believes AI tools will streamline tasks and give architects more time for creativity. Damon also highlights the practical applications of AI for image creation in design as well as its limitations.

Then, we talk about the concerns and anxieties surrounding the use of AI in architecture, daily life, and literature. Damon suggests that architects should actively engage in the development of AI to ensure that their voices are heard and that it serves the field most efficiently.

I think the uniqueness of AI that sets it apart is that AI is an imagination machine. It has, sort of, this infinite potential. So, if you look at a tool, say, for creating database drafting, there are so many limitations that may seem fairly large. But in my view, the limits of AI in the context of designers and architects are infinite. There are so many things that can be created. -Damon Leverett

To wrap up the episode, Damon offers advice to young architects on integrating new tools into their practice and stresses the importance of resilience in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of architecture and technology. He also shares his vision for the future of this technology, where the demands of rapid population growth and the need for more city infrastructure can be met efficiently with the help of AI.

Tune in next week for an episode with Nyasha Harper-Michon about being an archtivist, a term she coined for architecture and built environment professionals and enthusiasts driving environmental, social, and economic reform to foster positive changes in society and within the built environment sector.

Guest:

Damon Leverett, AIA, NOMA

Damon is an architect, artist, and educator based in the southwest region of the United States. He is a former senior lecturer at the School of Architecture and a current adjunct lecturer at the College of Information at the University of Arizona, where he teaches architecture design, building technologies, installation design, and computing in the arts. Damon is also a co-lead for the University of Arizona’s Artificial Intelligence Industry Working Group, which focuses on the university’s interaction in AI education, training, and collaborative activities.

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Leverett Arts

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Artificial Intelligence Presents New Possibilities, Considerations and Challenges for Architecture and Construction

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152: Architecture, And: Using Research to tell the Story of Architecture May 02, 2024

Episode 152: Architecture, And: Using Research to Tell The Story of Architecture

How can architects use research to advance diversity, equity, and cultural competency within the field while articulating its value to the general public?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, Kendall A. Nicholson, a licensed educator, architectural designer, and Senior Director of Research, Equity, and Education at the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture (ACSA), joins us to discuss equity, research, and social justice in architecture. Throughout, he emphasizes the need for diversity and cultural competency in the field and highlights the value of architecture to the world.

First, Kendall opens up about his career journey, which began with studying architecture, then moving on to teaching, real estate development, and eventually back to architecture. He shares his belief that architecture and design should be viewed as a combination of art and science.

Then, he stresses the importance of cultural research and representation in the field. Kendall talks about his "Where My People?'' series, which brings attention to the challenges faced by different racial groups in the architecture industry. We also dive into ACSA's efforts to advance equity in architecture, including fellowship programs and accessible resources.

Social and ecological justice is for the betterment of everyone. When I talk about diversity, cultural competency, or implicit bias, I'm talking about the byproducts of shifting the way we understand and interact as a culture. We often describe architects as world makers or world builders. If we're literally building the world to be a permanent thing, we need to make sure that we've accounted for everyone – the systems that are in play, currently and historically, have not done that. - Kendall A. Nicholson

To wrap up the conversation, we discuss how things like climate change, artificial intelligence, racism, and sexism affect how architects understand and perform their role now and in the future. He also shares his advice for architects looking to further utilize research in their institutions and explains how we can continue to be more inclusive as designers moving forward.

Tune in next week for an episode about AI and ethics in architecture.

Guest:

Kendall A. Nicholson

Kendall A. Nicholson is a licensed educator, trained architectural designer, and an avid researcher. He works as the Senior Director of Research, Equity, and Education at the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture (ACSA). He is a graduate of the School of Architecture at the University of Virginia and the Graduate School of Design at Harvard University, winning the M.Des Publics award for outstanding research. His design work, Critical Architectural Practice is focused on the confluence of race, architecture, and education. He has presented research internationally and his research interests surround plantation landscapes, racialized epistemologies, as well as education and curriculum within the discipline of architecture.

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Connect with Kendall on LinkedIn

Check out ACSA

📚Continue Learning:

ACSA Social Justice Shift

Where Are My People? Black in Architecture

ACSA Faculty Fellowship to Advance Equity in Architecture

Maybe I'll be an Architect by Tenille Bettenhausen

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151: Built Environment Futures Council Apr 25, 2024

Episode 151: The Built Environment Futures Council

How can we thoughtfully integrate AI into the architecture practice and collaboratively shape a sustainable and innovative future for all?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we explore the work of the Built Environment Futures Council (BEFC) and its mission to thoughtfully integrate artificial intelligence into architecture and infrastructure. We are joined by key members of the BEFC – co-founders Randy Deutsch and Matthew Krissel, along with committee member Amanda Nicole Bridges. Today, they discuss the power and potential of AI in architecture, its impact on industry practices, and the ethics of integrating it into the daily workflow.

First, Randy and Matthew share how BEFC started and explain how their vision attracted diverse experts from various backgrounds to form a national council.

Then, the panel discusses how architects can embrace AI as a tool for positive change while learning from past trends and highlights the value of diverse perspectives for the future of architecture and design. We also touch on the ever-evolving role of architects, share advice on efficiently using the extra time freed by AI, and present ways to promote collaboration across industries.

If some of what architects currently do can be done through technology, I don't see that as a full job replacement. To me, it's really exciting to think about more people having access to architects. If we don't have as large of a scope of work on every project, and our role is really specifically targeted towards helping clients ask the right questions, then it actually frees us up to work with more clients. It could lower the bar of entry to something that's more affordable and readily available for more people. I don't see how that is a hindrance. I see that as a great aspect that could lead us to live in a better design world. - Amanda Nicole Bridges

To wrap up the conversation, the group shares what the future holds for BEFC, such as exploring various funding streams and unique engagement strategies. They also encourage you to get further involved with the expansion of AI in the field and explain how you could work with BEFC in the future.

Tune in next week for an episode about using research to tell the story of architecture.

Guests:

Matthew Krissel FAIA

Matthew is a fellow of the American Institute of Architects and founder and director of Creative Lab 3, design-driven architecture practice working to bring exceptional design to more people and places, inspire change, and transform our collective future.

Amanda Nicole Bridges, AIA, NOMA, LEED AP

Amanda N Bridges is a licensed architect and educator in San Francisco. She is currently a Senior Architect at Siol Studios, an integrated architecture, interiors, and landscape design practice, and an Adjunct Lecturer at Stanford University and the University of California Berkeley teaching architecture studio.

Randy Deutsch FAIA

For over thirty years, Randy Deutsch FAIA has been an architect and educator, and in recent years, an author, international keynote speaker, and AI researcher. As a licensed architect, Randy designed over 100 large, complex sustainable projects for which he received the AIA Young Architect Award Chicago.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Matthew on LinkedIn

Connect with Amanda on LinkedIn

Connect with Randy on LinkedIn

Follow BEFC on Linkedin

Built Environment Futures Council

Siol Studios

Creative Lab 3

More about Randy

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Convergence: The Redesign of Design by Randy Deutsch

Think Like An Architect: How to develop critical, creative and collaborative problem-solving skills by Randy Deutsch

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150: Women Defining AI for Architects Apr 18, 2024

Episode 150: Women Defining AI for Architects

How can we bridge the gender technology gap and ensure ethical development of AI while empowering women and non-binary individuals in STEAM fields?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, Evelyn welcomes Helen Lee Kupp and Nichole Sterling, the co-founders of the Women Defining AI community, to the show. Helen and Nichole are dedicated to bridging the gender technology gap and advocating for ethical AI development by merging their tech expertise. They are on a mission to empower women and reshape the narrative around AI to promote an inclusive technological future.

First, we dive into the beginning of Women Defining AI, which sprouted from their shared passion for accessible AI knowledge. They highlight how their work extends beyond online platforms through a successful in-person event emphasizing the importance of fostering community. Helen and Nichole explore the gender tech gap, especially in STEAM industries, and why women need to be involved in the development of AI. They discuss the importance of understanding the language of AI for the workplace and in daily life and experimenting with its applications.

Then, they share tips for optimizing AI models, like asking follow-up questions and training them to perform exactly how you want. They also touch on data privacy concerns behind AI, regulatory protocols, the emergence of new job roles in the future of the AI era, and how to leverage human jobs with AI jobs.

It's important that women stay close to AI. When following the developments, we're starting to see different behaviors from workplaces. More workplaces are looking for AI fluency and AI skills. So, there's already a gender gap, right? Just from a STEM perspective. But if now workforces are and workplaces are looking for AI fluency and their skill sets, women are just going to continue to fall behind. - Nichole Sterling

To wrap up the conversation, Helen and Nichole share their perspective on the often hostile mindset architects have surrounding AI and the undeniable fundamental changes AI has on the industry paradigm. They also emphasize the importance of learning and absorbing the model despite initial resistance.

Tune in next week for a special panel discussion on the Built Environment Futures Council and the integration of artificial intelligence into architecture and construction.

Guests:

Helen Lee Kupp

Helen Lee Kupp is the co-founder and creator of Women Defining AI, a community of female leaders tackling the biggest topics of understanding today’s generative AI widespread adoption through experimentation, support, and community learning. She takes a practical approach towards helping leaders navigate the biggest changes in work — both from AI/technology, and the flexible/hybrid work revolution. She is the co-author of WSJ Bestselling book “How The Future Works: Leading Flexible Teams to Do the Best Work of Their Lives”. She believes in closing the gender technology gap - starting with women at work - to create a future of work that looks and feels fundamentally different for her two kids and the women she mentors. We can & should do better.

Nichole Sterling

Nichole Sterling, co-founder of Women Defining AI, has always been a utility leader blending strategy, marketing, HR, and finance in tech industries. Her impact on company success ranges from returning $4M YOY to field operations teams through corporate learning initiatives, increasing sales pipeline activities by 10 - 30x by establishing a RevOps philosophy, and even driving innovation within local municipal government. Nichole's current focus is on developing AI technologies, leading a stealth company specializing in digital twins and AI agents. A fervent advocate for women in tech, Nichole combines her passion for AI with a commitment to ethical and inclusive technology. Beyond her professional pursuits, Nichole loves growing her vertical gardens, avoiding the moose in her backyard, and hanging out with her three boys and husband.

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Connect with Helen on LinkedIn

Connect with Nichole on LinkedIn

Women Defining AI

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Women Defining AI community perspective papers

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Memberships

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149: Using Data to Create a Better Employee Experience Apr 11, 2024

Episode 149: Using Data to Create a Better Employee Experience

How can organizations use data to enhance the employee experience and drive positive cultural change within their workplace?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, Dr. Serena Huang, a data analytics executive in Fintech, joins us to discuss how organizations can optimize the employee experience by leveraging data and communication strategies in the workplace. As a data analytics executive, Dr. Huang is passionate about leading change, building high-performance teams, and helping business leaders see data as an asset in large organizations.

First, Dr. Huang defines the employee experience as various aspects of work, from physical environments to manager interactions and digital work capabilities. She emphasizes the importance of measuring employee experience beyond physical space and attendance and suggests surveys and feedback tools to gauge workplace culture and gather recommendations.

Then, we explore the challenges and apprehensions that can arise when introducing survey data to the workplace, including concerns about legal action and the fear of uncovering uncomfortable truths. For architects, we address the common fear about not being able to afford an immediate solution for desires such as taking time off. Dr. Huang shares advice for effectively communicating with architecture leaders who are reluctant to engage in surveys due to these fears, yet recognize their need for growth. She believes leadership needs timely action, collaborative problem-solving, and transparency to drive change.

It comes down to communication. Fundamentally, as humans, we all need to be heard, whether at home, in a relationship, or at work. For employees to feel heard, instead of ignoring the elephant in the room, why don't we ask about it and then come up with some solutions? It may not be the perfect solution, but I think the leadership team should come from a place of genuine care, communicate that back to the employees and say, "We heard you." - Dr. Serena Huang

To wrap up the conversation, Dr. Huang shares her perspective on employees and leaders navigating their career alongside their mental health management. She advocates for leadership therapy and coaching sessions to enhance self-awareness and emotional well-being.

Tune in next week for an episode about women defining AI for architects.

Guest:

Dr. Serena Huang

Dr. Serena Huang is an accomplished thought leader and professional keynote speaker with 150+ speaking engagements covering topics including people analytics, AI, future of work, personal branding, and data storytelling. She regularly guest-lectures at top MBA programs including Kellogg, Wharton, and Haas. Dr. Huang's unique ability to speak to audiences of different cultures and backgrounds, along with her experience in both F100 and startups make her an in-demand speaker. Her 2024 focus is helping organizations realize the full potential of AI through creating a new workforce strategy and improving internal talent mobility.

Prior to founding Data With Serena, Dr. Huang led sizable analytics teams at prominent organizations including PayPal, Kraft Heinz, GE, and Koch Industries. She pioneered the applications of machine learning algorithms to predict absenteeism and turnover and led corporate councils for Ethical AI in these global organizations. Dr. Huang holds a Ph.D. in Economics with specializations in Econometrics and Labor Economics.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Dr. Huang on LinkedIn

LinkedIn Learning: The Data Analytics of Diversity, Inclusion, and Well-being

LinkedIn Learning: Building a Data-Driven Skills-First Workforce Strategy

LinkedIn Learning: The Data Science of Using People Analytics

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148: The Future of Tech within AEC Apr 04, 2024

Episode 148: The Future of Tech within AEC

How can technology, innovation, and sustainable practices transform the architecture, engineering, and construction industry?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, I chat with Dave Lemont, the past CEO of Revit and the Executive Chairman of Acelab with over 30 years of experience in high-tech startup companies. In our conversation, Dave shares his invaluable insights on scaling software companies, revolutionizing the architecture industry, and the massive potential in the future of digital tools.

First, Dave discusses how his passion for photography and architecture influenced his career path. He also highlights how his entrepreneurial mindset and desire to innovate the industry immensely helped him grow and lead his companies. Dave's expertise lies in identifying product-market fit and creating solutions that address broader market needs rather than niche segments.

As the executive chairman of Acelab, Dave is dedicated to revolutionizing material management in the AEC space, allowing architects to access sustainable building materials efficiently. He touches on the potential of these digital tools in architecture and explains why architects need to be engaged in the evolution of AI.

Architecture is an opportunity to do something for people in the world. Not all the software that I've managed or sold in my life had that potential impact. How this room feels affects me all day. Where you go to school, the efficiency of that building, and how our museums look or how we feel when we walk in – all of those things affect our lives. It's a privilege to be involved in technology that can make that more efficient. - Dave Lemont

To wrap up the episode, Dave shares his recommendations on building your pipeline and adjusting workflow to keep your business afloat amidst the ever-changing and often confusing landscape architects operate within. Dave also shares his perspective on bridging the gap between traditional architectural practices and digital innovation while advising young architects to use a grassroots approach to incorporate new technology into their companies.

Tune in next week for an episode about using people analytics to improve employee engagement.

Guest:

David Lemont

David Lemont is an accomplished business leader, go-to-market strategist, and advisor with over 30 years of experience in high-tech startup companies. David has extensive experience in SaaS business applications with keen expertise in construction tech. Helped five companies to successful exits to high-tech leaders such as Autodesk, Trimble, HP, Oracle, etc.

He is best known for his role as CEO of Revit; the predominant way buildings are designed in 3D today. Dave is currently the Executive Chairman of Acelab.

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Connect with Dave on LinkedIn

Explore Acelab’s free specification workflow tools

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147: The Power of Copywriting for Architects Mar 28, 2024

Episode 147: The Power of Copywriting for Architects

How can architects use copywriting techniques to communicate their value, connect with their ideal clients, and improve their marketing?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, I'm excited to share my very special conversation with Nikita Morell, an expert copywriter who specializes in working with architects. She is also the founder of Architects WordShop: an online shop dedicated to helping architects with their words. In this episode, Nikita discusses the importance of effectively communicating our ideas and embracing our humanity as architects and shares advice for crafting copy to help you market your value as an architect.

First, Nikita explains the science and art behind copywriting and emphasizes the need for intentional, research-based writing tailored to your ideal client. She also shares tips on making architecture copy more accessible to a broader audience by replacing heavy jargon with conversational words and phrases.

Then, Nikita highlights her approach to copywriting, focusing on tone of voice and audience connection. She also encourages architects to work collaboratively with the copywriting community and learn exactly how to prompt AI tools and use them as a starting point for specific copy.

A good way just to start is to really take a step back and just make your copy a little bit more conversational. Try and remove some of that jargon. A lot of architects, when they don't really know what they're trying to say, sometimes hide behind a little bit of jargon that makes them sound smart. - Nikita Morell

To wrap up the episode, Nikita offers you an opportunity to work with her in person and gives a sneak peek at her proven framework for gathering, utilizing, and optimizing a client testimonial.

Tune in next week for an episode about the future of technology within the architecture, engineering, and construction industry.

Guest:

Nikita Morell

Nikita Morell is a copywriter for only architects. She is also the founder of Architects WordShop: an online shop dedicated to helping architects with their words.

Nikita specializes in making architecture websites sound more human, less robot—so architects can get a steady stream of ridiculously good projects. Nikita analyzed 663 architecture websites, you can see the results on her website.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Nikita on LinkedIn

Learn more about Nikita

Check out Nikita’s Architects WordShop

Check out Nikita’s resources

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Learn more about the 2024 AIA Conference on Architecture and Design in Washington D.C.

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146: Architecture, And: Design Crises, Past and Future Mar 21, 2024

Episode 146: Architecture, And: Design Crises, Past and Future

As architects, how can we adapt to technological advancements like AI and be proactive in the face of disasters and climate change?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, renowned designer, educator, writer, and post-disaster expert Eric J. Cesal discusses being an architecture optimist within the current landscape, how technology is evolving, where the opportunities lie, and what architects need to focus on going forward. Eric is recognized for leading reconstruction efforts after major disasters like the Haiti earthquake and Superstorm Sandy.

First, Eric highlights his journey to becoming a disaster architecture expert. He talks about completing his degrees amidst Hurricane Katrina and the 2008 recession, which deepened his appreciation for design.

Then, we shift the conversation to the impact of automation on architecture and the disruptive potential of AI. Eric shares where he is already seeing the impact of AI and offers perspectives on how we can get proactive in using it. He suggests that architects should be involved with the evolution of AI from the beginning so that our voice is included in the process.

Half of the world's cities are going to be underwater by 2100. We're gonna have to redesign or relocate most of the world's major cities. It’s going to be horrible, but it’s a really exciting design challenge. The more proactively we engage that opportunity, the more architects put themselves out in front, and the better the outcomes for everybody else. I think that it's central to my optimism that behind every crisis is an ability to build something better than what existed before. - Eric J. Cesal

To wrap up the episode, Eric shares advice for young architects looking to design for an AI-first future. He encourages designers to "design themselves," diversify their knowledge, be proactive, and stick to their values.

Tune in next week for an episode about the power of copywriting for architects.

Guest:

Eric J. Cesal

Eric J. Cesal is a renowned designer, educator, writer, and post-disaster expert, recognized for leading reconstruction efforts after major disasters like the Haiti earthquake and Superstorm Sandy. Trained as an architect, he possesses expertise in international development, economics, and design futurism. Cesal, often referred to as “Architecture’s First Responder,” headed Architecture for Humanity’s post-disaster programs (2010-2014) and is a prominent voice in discussions on disaster resilience, having contributed to multiple leading publications.

Cesal has lectured across the world, and has taught at top design schools worldwide, including UC Berkeley and Harvard, focusing on disaster reconstruction, resilience, and sustainable design. Cesal authored “Down Detour Road, An Architect in Search of Practice” and hosted the groundbreaking podcast Social Design Insights for the Curry Stone Foundation. He co-founded Design for Adaptation and is involved in projects at the nexus of design, climate change, and AI. He holds a B.A. in Architectural Studies from Brown University and advanced degrees in Architecture, Construction Management, and an M.B.A. from Washington University in St. Louis.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Eric on LinkedIn

Follow Eric on Twitter/X

Learn more about Eric

Check out Eric’s Substack Life as a Disaster

📚Continue Learning:

Down Detour Road: An Architect in Search of Practice Book

Designing Your Life: How to Build a Well-Lived, Joyful Life Book

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145: The Psychology of Architecture Mar 14, 2024

Episode 145: The Psychology of Architecture

How can we use architecture and design to address loneliness, promote well-being, and foster inclusive and supportive work environments in the field?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, I am joined by Erin Peavey, an architect with a background in psychology, to explore the importance of connection, the power of healing, and the role of mental health in the culture of architecture workspaces. Erin is the Health & Well-being Design Leader at HKS and believes in incorporating research on health, well-being, and community engagement into design initiatives.

First, Erin shares her journey from studying social work to architecture and highlights key takeaways from her HKS report on loneliness, titled “Connecting in Strange Times: The Antidote to Loneliness.” Erin advocates for inclusivity and diversity in the field of architecture and addresses the lack of consideration for diverse perspectives in design while providing practical solutions.

Then, Erin touches on the forgotten aspects of designing for people with disabilities and discusses how to prevent burnout and overwork in the field. Erin shares her hopes for a shift towards prioritizing well-being and support for co-workers over consistent productivity.

I hope that in architecture, we recognize that because we are creating spaces for people outside of the norm, we need to embody those people in the profession. When you think about who is drawn to architecture, there are heavy feelers, sensors, and people with heightened perception. We need all of the variety to bring in those perspectives and that value. - Erin Peavey

To wrap up the episode, Erin suggests that firm leaders need to encourage their teams to create healthy spaces. She also emphasizes the value of giving hype and praise to our co-workers. Plus, Erin invites you always to seek areas for self-improvement while giving grace for imperfection and failure.

Tune in next week for an episode about design crises, past and future.

Guest:

Erin Peavey

Erin Peavey is an Architect and a Health & Well-being Design Leader at HKS. Erin’s passion for

creating environments that support health, happiness, and well-being drives her evidence-based, user-centered approach to design. In her leadership role at HKS, she helps integrate research and practice to advance design for health, combat loneliness, and foster resilience across the globe.

Erin is dedicated to giving back to the design for health community as a Cornell Industry Scholar, an editorial board member of the Health Environments Research and Design Journal, a Fellow with the Centre for Conscious Design, and co-lead of the Foundation for Social Connection’s taskforce on the built environment.

Erin was named Best Under 40 in Architecture for Health by the American Institute for Architects (2015), 40 Under 40 by Building Design and Construction (2020), a Top Young Professional by Engineering News Record (2021), and a Rising Star by Healthcare Design Magazine (2019).

She delights in sharing knowledge and makes insights accessible to a wide audience. Erin uses her platform and network to advance understanding of how to design places and lives that catalyze mental well-being and belonging. Erin’s work focusing on the power of place to help us live happier, healthier, more connected lives is featured on BBC, NBC-Texas Today, Psychology Today, TEDx, SXSW, Metropolis, NPR/KERA, Architect Magazine, Healthline, her own podcast, Shared Space.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Erin on LinkedIn

Learn more about HKS, Inc.

Erin’s Psychology Today Blog

📚Continue Learning:

Shared Space Podcast

Divergent Mind Book

The Good Life Book

Esther Sternberg Books

Connecting in Strange Times: The Antidote to Loneliness Report

Erin’s Rest Checklist

📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:

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144: Power of Podcasting in Architecture Mar 07, 2024

Episode 144: Power of Podcasting in Architecture

How can architects effectively leverage podcasting as a platform for storytelling, personal branding, and connecting with their clients?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, I am excited to share my conversation with Lauren Popish, founder of The Wave Podcasting, Project Manager at Google, and former Design Strategist at Gensler. Today, Lauren shares her valuable insights into the intersection of storytelling, podcasting, and architecture, offering inspiration and practical advice for both new and experienced podcasters.

First, Lauren opens up about her past challenges with public speaking and how podcasting helped her overcome them and build confidence. This inspired her to found The Wave Podcasting to help others find their voice. She also highlights the value of diverse skills and experiences in finding the perfect role for you.

Then, we discuss the importance of storytelling and individuality in podcasting. Lauren emphasizes how podcasting offers a unique opportunity to build personal connections with your audience and guests, especially in the architecture industry, where it can showcase an architect's personality and work process.

A common reason people don't start podcasts is because they believe that it is saturated or that someone is already out there doing the thing they want to be doing…it's not about creating a podcast concept that is totally different from anything else that exists. It's about bringing a perspective that no one else has. You as an individual have lived a life that no one else has lived. - Lauren Popish

To wrap up the episode, Lauren encourages aspiring podcasters to start without waiting for perfect equipment or timing. She suggests focusing on the "why" behind your podcast and embracing your unique perspective. Lauren also shares her expert advice for anyone who wants to grow their podcast and how her company can assist.

Tune in next week for an episode about the psychology of architecture.

Guest:

Lauren Popish

Lauren Popish is the founder of The Wave Podcasting, a company that helps women start and grow podcasts through online educational resources, affordable podcast editing services, and digital community. The Wave launched The Wave Editing, the first podcast editing service for women by women in 2021. The Wave Editing pairs female audio engineers with female podcasters so they can grow their shows by outsourcing the tedious tasks that prevent many podcast hosts from building their audience. Learn more at thewavepodcasting.com.

The Wave is an award-winning podcast company and was founded in 2019 with the goal of helping women share their stories through podcasting. What started as a real estate company providing highly-stylized podcast studio space for women has since become a major online educational hub. The Wave offers free educational resources including over 100 blog posts, YouTube videos, and a weekly newsletter that has amassed a cult following.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn

Learn more about The Wave Podcasting

📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:

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143: Architecture And: AI & Head of Digital Marketing Feb 29, 2024

Episode 143: Architecture And AI & Head of Digital Marketing

How can architecture and design professionals embrace technological advancements such as AI, bridge the gap between physical and digital, and stay relevant in a rapidly changing field?

On this Practice Disrupted episode, I talked with Ricardo J Rodriguez, the chief marketing officer for Master Builder Solutions, to discuss his career journey from traditional architecture practice to embracing AI and education in the industry. His path highlights the importance of a willingness to consistently learn, adapt, and seek unconventional opportunities in the rapidly changing field.

First, Ricardo shares his background in architecture, including various challenges such as layoffs and industry shifts in DC that reflect some of the broader struggles within the field. He highlights the crucial need for digital implementation opportunities.

Then, we also explore Ricardo's initial fascination and commitment to staying at the forefront of industry trends with AI and its visual applications within architecture. He talks about his journey into digital art, particularly in response to personal trauma experienced during Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico. He explains how AI art is part of the evolution of art as a whole, how he gained recognition as a digital artist, and the details of his exhibition, Present Futures.

I decided if I wanted to continue supporting, and speaking with folks in the construction industry about emerging transformation – I should do a deep dive into one of the trends that I knew least about, and take myself to the pieces of learning that I was uncomfortable with. - Ricardo J Rodriguez

To wrap up the episode, we discuss Ricardo's passion for bridging the gap between AI and creativity in his efforts to develop a curriculum for architects and designers on image generation in AI. He shares his advice for emerging architects in an evolving field, his perspective on how AI impacts the future of the practice, and why he believes we should embrace these tech advancements.

Tune in next week for an episode about the power of podcasting in architecture.

Guests:

Ricardo J Rodriguez

Fascinated by the intersection between "bytes & mortar," Ricardo is a versatile leader with 15+ years of experience turning innovative ideas into tangible solutions. Passionate about driving digital transformation, entrepreneurship, and tackling challenges within the construction and real estate industries, Ricardo is adept at securing strategic partnerships and assessing the potential value of opportunities that bridge the gap between physical & digital.

Ricardo has worked with Gensler, NIKA Solutions, and WDG Architecture business leaders. After practicing corporate architecture for 12+ years, managing and designing over 2M sqft of real estate worldwide, Ricardo transitioned to a global enterprise role at BASF. Upon Master Builder Solution's divestiture from BASF, Ricardo's industry expertise served the organization globally. Firstly, working within the Virtual Design & Construction team, managed digital innovation pilots, and sourced con-tech startups as part of the Digital Excellence team. In 2022, Ricardo transitioned into a Global Digital Transformation Evangelist role within the Corporate Development department. In 2023, he was named Global Head of Digital Marketing Excellence.

Given his commitment to the construction industry, he's received AIA | DC's Emerging Architect of the Year award and Young Architect of the Year Award from the DC Council of Engineering and Architectural Societies. Ricardo has been a frequent speaker, presenting at over 40 international events over the past several years. In 2018, he was honored by BuiltWorlds, naming him one of the Nation's Top 50 Adoption Leaders. Ricardo's leadership and advocacy resulted in AIA appointing him to the National Strategic Council as an At-Large Representative in a board advisory role, which developed a framework to accelerate Digital Transformation. Ricardo supported launching a leadership development program in his native Puerto Rico. In June 2023, he was a guest panelist at the BuiltWorlds Summit in Paris, France. In his spare time, he obsesses with AI-generated digital art on @bytesandmortar, launching his first solo show, “Present Futures,” at the District Architecture Center in Washington, DC, which opened in September 2023. His artworks were also chosen by the government of Puerto Rico’s Institute of Culture to be exhibited in 2024 at their “Poli/Gráfica de Puerto Rico: América Latina y el Caribe” (est. 1970). Ricardo is also an educator, mentoring four startups and developing graduate/executive courses on “AI Basics for Architects and Designers” for the University of Pennsylvania’s Weitzman School of Design Center.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Ricardo on LinkedIn

Connect with Master Builders Solutions on LinkedIn

Follow Ricardo/Bytes and Mortar on Instagram

Learn more about Practice Innovation Lab

Learn more about the Present Futures Show

📚Continue Learning:

AI Basics for Architects and Designers Weitzman Course

📚 Past Episodes Referenced:

PD # 140 Season 7 Finale, Behind the Scenes of Practice Disrupted

📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:

Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Pinterest | Twitter

Check out our past episodes

Be a part of our community — join the conversation!

142: Digital Transformation in Practice Feb 22, 2024

Episode 142: Digital Transformation in Practice

How can we change the way we use data and digital tools to help improve our clients' business, internal collaboration, and design development?

In this episode of Practice Disrupted, I sit down with Tim Dufault, Founder and Chief Revenue Officer of ConcertVDC, and Stefnee Trzpuc, the Director of Operations for BWBR to discuss the opportunities of digital transformation in practice, which refers to integrating digital tools and processes for design development and client collaboration.

First, Tim and Stefnee define digital transformation, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning to keep up with industry trends and effectively manage the digital ecosystem. They also discuss how this technology can transform the architect-client relationship and improve overall business performance.

Then, they dive into the challenges architectural firms face, mainly smaller ones, in adopting these new technologies. Plus, Tim shares examples from ConcertVDC that demonstrate the benefits of sharing digital information to reduce misunderstandings between architects and clients. Stefnee also shares examples of BWBR's entire client project process with the specific digital tools, technologies, and strategies they use as well as where they have seen the most success.

There's this ongoing interaction between the building owner and the architect about what's working and what's not. How do we use that building better? How do we make that building effective for 1000 years, not 100 years? I hope that architects are looking at digital transformation as the mechanism to not just simply do something more "wow factor" as a way that we can actually change the world. - Tim Dufault

To wrap up the episode, Tim and Stefnee share their vision of the future, where digital transformation allows architects to create buildings that evolve through ongoing feedback, a focus on community, and an optimized collaboration with clients.

Tune in next week for an episode about architecture and AI.

Guests:

Tim Dufault, FAIA

Tim Dufault is a founder and the Chief Revenue Officer for ConcertVDC, a Blockchain-based platform for registering and sharing digital design information in the AEC industry. Concert solves the problem of data ownership and the secure sharing of digital information during the design and construction process. The company was established in 2019 and attracted investment from major international architecture and engineering firms. Concert is leading the transformation to a true digital ecosystem in architecture and construction. Before joining Concert, Tim served for 15 years as the CEO of Cuningham, an award-winning Minnesota-based architecture and design firm.

Stefnee Trzpuc, CID, EDAC, LEED AP

Stefnee Trzpuc serves as the Director of Operations for BWBR and actively seeks opportunities for complex problem solving by applying strategic systems thinking through a lens of people, processes, and technology. Stefnee leads strategy and teams for technology systems, knowledge management, data, legal and risk management, and administrative services and works closely with all areas of the organization to identify solutions and improvement strategies for an evolving and thriving practice. Current focus areas include studying impacts and opportunities on business and creative processes with hybrid work models, artificial intelligence and automation, data and knowledge strategy, digital transformation, and organizational effectiveness.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Tim on LinkedIn

Connect with ConcertVDC on LinkedIn

Connect with Stefnee on LinkedIn

Learn more about ConcertVDC

Learn more about BWBR

📚Continue Learning:

Redesigning Work: How to Transform You Organization and Make Hybrid Work for Everyone

Working Knowledge

The Art of Gathering

Momentum: Creating Effective, Engaging, and Enjoyable Meetings

📚 Past Episodes Referenced:

PD # 23 Finding a New Value Proposition Through Tech

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Check out our past episodes

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141: Season 8, Coffee Sketch Podcast Feb 15, 2024

Episode 141: Season 8, Coffee Sketch Podcast

How will the architectural profession adapt and evolve to meet the ever-changing demands of the field?

Host Evelyn Lee is back for Season 8 of Practice Disrupted! In this episode, fellow podcasters of the Coffee Sketch Podcast, Kurt Neiswender and Jamie Crawley, join her for a conversation on the current state of architectural practice and their vision for its future. Jamie currently serves as the Design Lead for the Texas Historical Commission, while Kurt is an Assistant Professor of Practice at Lawrence Technological University and owner of Urban Colab Architecture.

First, we reflect on the Young Architects Forum (YAF), where Evelyn and Kurt initially connected, and the significance of organizations like the National Associates Committee (NAC) in fostering professional growth, innovation, and collaboration within the field.

Then, we discuss the evolving role of technology in design, the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration, and Jamie's viewpoint on preserving historical architecture alongside changing landscapes. Kurt also shares his experience of starting his own practice and the impact of diversifying his income.

How many studio projects in a typical architecture curriculum actually start out with the name system building as the prompt? Most schools don't have that. That's a reality that a lot of students moving into practice will have to face. I think it's important for them to be challenged by it to a certain degree. If it means education needs to up its game and teach in a different kind of way – I think it's really important. - Jamie Crawley

To wrap up the episode, Kurt and Jamie share their advice for studying young architects and their thoughts and goals as they move into 2024.

Tune in next week for an episode about digital transformation in practice.

Guests:

Jamie Crawley, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, NCARB

Jamie is a naturalized Texan originally from Montreal, Quebec Canada who currently serves as the Texas Main Street Architect and Design Lead having joined the Texas Historical Commission in 2019. In 2018, he was named one of 18 National Young Architect of the Year honorees by the American Institute of Architects. He is a graduate of Texas A&M University's College of Architecture, a registered Architect in the State of Texas and servant leader in his home through the Austin Soccer Foundation. As an artist, Jamie is cohost of the Coffee Sketch Podcast now in its sixth year and was featured as one of six commissioned installations during Waterloo Greenway (formerly Waller Creek Conservancy) Annual Creek Show in 2017. Most recently his sculpture, “fotan fable redux” was displayed at the UMLAUF Sculpture Garden + Museum in Austin. He has also taught in several Architecture programs, Texas A&M University, University of Texas at Arlington and as a Visiting Assistant Professor at Prairie View A&M University. As a citizen Architect Jamie has served in a variety of capacities to the profession notably serving as Co-Chair to the 2016 AIA Leadership Institute a program of AIA National Center for Civic Leadership as well as the Vice Chair of the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards Experience Advisory Committee in 2017-18. Presently he is a member of the Association of Preservation Technology's Main Street Committee focused on code and development recommendations to the International Code Council (ICC), the National Main Street Disaster Preparedness and Resilience Advisory Committee and the AIA National Historic Resources Committee Preservation Standards Task Force.

Kurt Neiswender, AIA

With Urban Colab Architecture it is "people first, profit second". Kurt provides design services that are focused on low-to-no energy consumption. He also extends this focus to developing the site and landscape design that equally serves to reduce environmental impact. As Assistant Professor of Practice, Kurt focuses on Building Systems, Sustainability, and Energy Modeling in his lecture courses. He aims to broaden the understanding of integrating building systems within architectural design solutions. Kurt is also a founder and cohost of The Coffee Sketch Podcast, an audio and visual podcast about sketching, architecture, and of course, coffee!

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Kurt on LinkedIn

Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn

Follow Kurt on Instagram

Follow Jamie on Instagram

Learn more about Urban Colab Architecture

Learn more about Texas Historical Commission

📚Continue Learning:

Coffee Sketch Podcast

📚 Past Episodes Referenced:

PD # 140 Season 7 Finale, Behind the Scenes of Practice Disrupted

📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:

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Check out our past episodes

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Bonus Replay: Attracting and Retaining Midcareer Women Feb 08, 2024

Episode 108: Attracting and Retaining Midcareer Women

Why are leadership-track women in architecture leaving their firms?

Throughout 100+ episodes of Practice Disrupted, we’ve touched on the missing middle, burnt-out architects, and the challenges in navigating career growth in practice. We wanted to dedicate an entire episode to exploring and understanding why midcareer and even senior-level women are considering leaving their firms. We'll look also discuss the core issues driving retention in the field.

We invited career and executive coach Maya Sharfi on the show to discuss her new whitepaper titled, 'Attracting and Retaining Leadership-Track Women in Architecture & Planning.' Maya has been working extensively with women across practice on training and career development. In this episode, she shares her insight and provides recommendations.

Guest:

Maya Sharfi is a career and executive coach and the founder of Build Yourself. She helps women in design, tech, and innovation advance their careers on their own terms and helps companies grow and promote their rising women leaders through coaching, training, and consulting.

Companies Maya has worked with have seen a 3x increase in the rate of women promoted, and 18% of women are more likely to recommend their companies to other women. They’ve seen more women owning and leading initiatives and setting boundaries that make projects more effective and grow junior staff. Maya's individual clients achieve results like moving into senior director roles, launching new, innovative programs, and achieving $25,000 raises.

Maya has trained national industry groups, like Women in Innovation and the American Institute of Architects, and works with leadership and staff at global design and innovation companies such as Stantec, Gensler, and HOK, and she helps women become principals and partners at their firms.

📍 Show Links:

Learn more about Build Yourself

📚 Continue Learning:

Attracting and Retaining Leadership-Track Women in Architecture & Planning

Apply for Partner & Principal One-on-One Coaching

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Bonus Replay: Season 4 Finale with Madame Architect Feb 01, 2024

Episode 080: Season 4 Finale with Madame Architect

Why is visibility of female leadership important in the profession of architecture?

While the seeming lack of women in architecture has been well-documented, women are, and have been, making waves in all levels of the field. Madame Architect is an online magazine celebrating the extraordinary women that shape our world, a magazine designed to break the architect’s mold and show young women entering the industry the myriad choices they have in crafting a dynamic, meaningful, and interesting career.

In this week’s season 4 finale, we’ve invited senior editor Amy Stone to join us in an interview.

Moderator:

Amy Stone is an architect, a mom of three, and is currently pursuing an MBA at Georgia Tech's Scheller College of Business. Amy is a design manager at Gensler and is dedicated to creating sustainable and equitable environments. Her professional work experience includes a variety of building types, including housing, mixed-use, adaptive-reuse, offices, higher education, and deep-green sustainable projects including the largest Living Building in the Southeast.

Amy is a contributing interviewer and editor and is dedicated to elevating the voice and visibility of women in architecture and design. She studied architecture for her Bachelors's and Masters's at Georgia Tech. She is based in Atlanta. Follow Amy at @_amystone.

Co-Hosts:

Evelyn M. Lee, FAIA, MBA, MPA is a licensed architect in the state of California, with over 15 years of experience working with individuals and companies that are looking to reshape their future. She is the founder of Practice of Architecture, the first-ever Senior Experience Designer at Slack Technologies, and the first female Treasurer to AIA National‘s Board of Directors.

She is widely published, wrote a monthly column for Contract magazine for over 3 years, and now is a frequent contributor to Architect Magazine. Evelyn has received numerous industry awards including the 2016 40 Under 40 award for Building Design + Construction and the 2014 AIA National Young Architects Award. She currently is a candidate for AIA National First VP 23/President 24 and most recently served as the first-ever female Treasurer to the AIA National Board in 2020-2021.

Evelyn has been a featured Keynote Speaker, Invited Guest, Panelist, and Moderator at national design and architecture conferences including AIA National Convention, Dwell on Design, and Women in Green. Her topics focus on developing knowledge leadership, organizational change management, capacity building, stakeholder engagement, and strategic approaches to put design thinking into practice.

Evelyn has nearly 20 years working with individuals, organizations, and companies who are interested in applying design thinking to their decision-making process.

Je’Nen M. Chastain, MBA, Assoc. AIA (prounced Je-NEEN) is the founder of Apostrophe Consulting, a purpose-driven, woman-owned management consulting practice dedicated to helping architects transform their companies.

In addition to consulting with firm leaders on practice management issues, she mentors architects on career development, leadership, and strategy. She specializes in facilitating conversations that engage multi-generational teams and has designed, developed, and presented dozens of training programs that inspire next-gen leaders. She is currently working on several in-house training solutions with award-winning firms that provide support to their teams on leadership development, mentorship, and communication.

Je'Nen earned her MBA and BArch and has trained in architecture. She practiced in a traditional firm setting and has completed her NCARB hours. She has received several awards for her leadership in the profession, including the 2017 AIA Associates Award.

Throughout her career, she's helped advance strategic conversations with firm owners and rising industry leaders. She has facilitated retreat planning and nationally recognized conferences, with expertise in leadership development. She co-created the AIA Leadership Institute and has contributed to dozens of professional development programs that support architects and emerging professionals. Her consulting work blends strategic planning, firm management, marketing, and team development.

📍 Show Links:

Madame Architect

Follow us at @madamearchitect.

📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:

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Bonus Replay: Organizational Design, Process, and Innovation Jan 25, 2024

Episode 010: Organizational Design, Process, and Innovation

How does organizational design support an innovative firm culture?

Guest:

Andrew Cronin, Principal at KieranTimberlake

In over 15 years as an architect, Andrew has focused on a variety of project types including award winning renovations for university clients, an addition and renovation at a local religious institution, a private home in rural Northern California, and an innovative new education center at the Philadelphia Navy Yard. Andrew is currently working on a student residential planning study for a liberal arts college in New England and a precinct planning study for a university in Washington D.C.

Andrew takes a holistic approach to design practice. As a Principal at KieranTimberlake, he remains deeply connected to digital design, prototyping, and systems integration and engages project teams across the office by co-leading KieranTimberlake's BIM Practices group and works to spread lessons across the firm through KT’s regular weekly knowledge sharing forums. Andrew supports KieranTimberlake’s pursuit of the 2030 Challenge in his role in the Beyond 2030 working group and leads KieranTimberlake’s internal mentorship program. He is also a jury critic and adjunct faculty member at the Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts and Design at Drexel University.

Show Links:

https://kierantimberlake.com/

Bonus Replay: A Large Firm Perspective on Innovation & Transformation: CannonDesign Jan 18, 2024

Episode 086: A Large Firm Perspective on Innovation & Transformation: CannonDesign

How do large firms think about innovation and transformation within the industry, and where are they investing next?

Within the last four years, CannonDesign:

grew their consulting practice through the strategic acquisition of Blue Cottage Consulting
brought new software tools to market, and
launched a pre-fab design and fabrication facility in the middle of a pandemic

In turn, growing their market share and the value they continue to deliver to their clients.

In this episode, we sit down with CEO Bradley A Lukanic, AIA, to talk about the evolution of architecture practice, where he believes architects need to be focused, and the opportunities that technology and innovation are playing in decisions that Cannon is making about the growth of their operations and business.

Guest:

With a never-ending drive and passion for design and built experiences, Bradley A. Lukanic, AIA, LEED AP embraces situational change disrupters that transform the industry’s future – and he’s leading CannonDesign’s charge to get there. As CEO, Brad seeks partners that are curious to accelerate, command and propel design’s influences on environments with goals resolving cross-disciplinary thinking and engagement. He leads CannonDesign with a sincere approach of listening to employee and client challenges to guide a discovery of “what if” opportunities, instead of progressing in a silo. Parallel to his practical design experience, Brad’s thought leadership is shared within and beyond architecture audiences.

📍 Show Links:

CannonDesign

📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:

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Bonus Replay: Architecture And: The Future of Workplace Jan 11, 2024

Episode 067: Architecture And: The Future of Workplace

How can technology simplify workflows for both clients and designers?

As CEO of CANOA, Federico Negro is building the first end-to-end platform for designing, procuring, and managing low-carbon, reconfigurable interiors in the workplace. What does that mean in simple terms? Clients and designers can design, purchase, and completely furnish the office space without touching CAD or going through a dealer.

Even though CANOA is a technology platform, they are reimagining the supply chain and procurement process for everything that, “falls out of a building when you turn it upside down.” And did we mention they are doing so in the most climate-friendly way possible?

CANOA is on its way to being certified as a B Corp and is not the first company that Federico Negro founded. We talked with him about everything from building company culture, launching a workplace-focused company just before the pandemic, and building a business from the ground up, having learned from his first successful company, Case (which was acquired by WeWork).

Guest:

Federico Negro is the founder and CEO of CANOA, a new workplace design tool with an embedded marketplace of furniture, prefabricated and modular structures, and more. CANOA’s mission is to decarbonize commercial real estate and they're doing so by reinventing the way businesses shop for the office. Learn more at https://www.canoa.supply

📍 Show Links:

Canoa Supply

Join us @ Section Cut 2022!

💻 Learn about our podcast partner Monograph:

March 8th - 10th, Monograph is hosting Section Cut, a virtual conference and career fair dedicated to firm owners and operation leaders. Hear from leaders at Cottage, Krueck Sexton, Verdant Studio, and more! Register today to reserve a seat by visiting https://sectioncut.com/

💻 Learn about our podcast partner ArchIT:

Tired of dealing with generic IT providers? ArchIT offers Complete IT Solutions for Architecture, Design, and Engineering firms, including helping architects fight back against ransomware and cybersecurity attacks. Visit http://getarchit.com/pd to set up your free 15-min Cyber Security Assessment, or custom solutions for your design firm.

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Bonus Replay: Practice Shifts Jan 04, 2024

Welcome to the launch of Practice Disrupted! Meet hosts Evelyn Lee and Je’Nen Chastain who will begin to discuss the changing nature of architectural practice.

Hosts:

Evelyn Lee, Founder of Practice of Architecture & Senior Experience Designer for Slack Technologies

Je’Nen Chastain, Founder of Apostrophe Consulting

Evelyn M. Lee, AIA, MBA, MPA is a licensed architect in the state of California, with over 15 years of experience working with individuals and companies that are looking to reshape their future. She has been a featured keynote speaker, panelist, and moderator at national conferences and symposiums. Her topics focus on developing knowledge leadership, organizational change management, capacity building, stakeholder engagement, and strategic approaches to put design thinking to work in life and in practice. She also serves on the advisory council to ZeroSixty, an accelerator for the AEC Industry and is the first female Treasurer to AIA National‘s Board of Directors. When not working on the Practice of Architecture, Evelyn works as the first-ever Senior Experience Designer at Slack Technologies.

Je’Nen M. Chastain, MBA, Assoc. AIA is a business strategy consultant trained in architecture and business management with expertise in marketing, communications, and leadership development. She founded Apostrophe Consulting with the goal of helping architecture firms win more work, build a culture of leadership and trust within the design studio, and create a pipeline for emerging leaders to grow in our industry. A recipient of the 2017 AIA Associates Award, Je'Nen holds both a B.Arch. and an MBA. She previously spent nearly a decade in the San Francisco Bay Area, collaborating with award-winning architecture firms on design, marketing, and business development efforts. She has spoken across the country on leadership development, career advancement, emerging professionals, mentorship, and women in architecture.

Show Links:

practicedisrupted.com

http://practiceofarchitecture.com/

https://apostrophe.consulting/

Follow us on social media: @practiceofarch

140: Season 7 Finale, Behind the Scenes of Practice Disrupted Dec 28, 2023

Episode 140: Season 7 Finale, Behind the Scenes of Practice Disrupted

How has Practice Disrupted grown and evolved since launching in 2020?

On the Season 7 Finale of Practice Disrupted, Evelyn and Je’Nen reflect on the podcast’s evolution over the last four years, and share a behind the scenes conversation on the creation of the show. They discuss lessons about the complexities of change within the industry, and some of their favorite conversations along the way. Stay until the end of the episode for a special announcement!

First, Je’Nen shares the intentions behind launching Practice Disrupted and her desire to lean into the narrative-building storytelling element of audio. We hear about changes during the podcast’s four years and how it felt to recognize its growing impact and reach.

From there, Je’Nen and Evelyn reflect on the challenges, successes, and lessons from producing 140 podcast episodes. Je’Nen shares some of her favorite moments as a co-host and interviewer, and they both illustrate how they’ve grown through the podcast and solidified their place within the industry.

“This podcast has been a great exploration of our shared desire to move the profession in a new direction. I hope through the process of having all these conversations, people have discovered new ideas or figured out new solutions that they can integrate into the way they're running their businesses.” - Je’Nen Chastain

To wrap up the episode, Je’Nen shares three takeaways she hopes listeners will gain from the show, and Evelyn drops a few teasers for exciting upcoming conversations.

Tune in early 2024 for Practice Disrupted’s Season 8 kickoff. Happy New Year!

Guests:

Je’Nen Chastain, MBA, Assoc. AIA, is the founder and owner of Apostrophe Consulting, a business management consulting practice dedicated to helping architects and next-gen leaders strengthen their teams and businesses. After studying and practicing architecture and later earning her MBA, Je’Nen launched her business to help AEC leaders across the US. She partners with growth-minded teams who share her desire to transform the practice of architecture and advance industry change. Je’Nen has received several industry leadership awards, including the 2017 AIA Associates Award and Presidential Citations from AIA California & North Carolina. She has 15+ years of leadership experience with the AIA, including writing the business plan for the AIA Leadership Institute. Je’Nen served on the AIA national board of directors in 2010 and is a Upjohn Fellow of the Institute.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Je’Nen on LinkedIn

Learn more about Apostrophe Consulting

Follow Apostrophe Consulting on Instagram

📚Continue Learning:

Architects FORA’s Scholarship + Internship Program

📚Past Related Episodes:

PD #1: Practice Shifts

PD #9: Voices from the Future of the Profession

PD #10: Organizational Design, Process, and Innovation

PD #16: Voices from the Future of the Profession (LGBTQIA+)

PD #62: 2022 AIA Gold Medal Winners: Brooks + Scarpa

PD #68: 2022 AIA Whitney M. Young Jr. Honor Award Winners: RIDING THE VORTEX

PD #69: A Case Study on Leadership: Expanding Established Design Practices to New Locations

PD #80: Season 4 Finale with Madame Architect

PD #85: A Case Study for Practice: Latent Design

PD #89: Entrepreneurship in Practice: Taking Risks To Create Value

PD #95: Voices of Mothers in Practice

PD #113: 2023 AIA Gold Medal Award Winner Carol Ross Barney

PD #118: 2023 AIA Architecture Firm Award Winner, Mithun

PD #122: Entrepreneurship in Architecture, Apostrophe Consulting

PD #125: Building a Feminist Architecture Firm

PD #127: NCARB Scholars of Professional Practice

PD #133: 2023 Whitney M. Young, Jr. Award Honoree Robert L Easter, FAIA, NOMAC

PD #137: MASS Design Group Business Evolution

📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:

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139: Bridging the Gap to Diversify Leadership in the AEC Industry Dec 21, 2023

Episode 139: Bridging the Gap to Diversify Leadership in the AEC Industry

How do you bring accomplished leaders and diverse AEC professionals together to increase the diversity of leadership in the AEC industry?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we sit down with the team at LeaderFlow: Executive Director Janiece Williams, and John Gavan, CEO of KPFF Consulting Engineers, to discuss their leadership development program and the vision they have to bridge the gap between leadership and professionals of color in the AEC industry.

First, John shares how he collaborated with the Southern California Chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects (SoCal NOMA). We learn that Janiece was part of LeaderFlow’s 2021 pilot program and how stepping into her current role as Executive Director was in response to navigating her path in, and then out, and now alongside the architecture industry.

From there, we delve into the details of LeaderFlow’s program, an opportunity for professionals of color to coach and mentor each other about lived and shared experiences. Janiece and John also share how creating connections can help individuals navigate the challenges of growing in a career — which is why LeaderFlow invites industry leaders to facilitate curriculum to underrepresented communities as a way to find empathy and be inspired to future possibilities.

“This isn't about expecting anything from non-people of color to solve humanity's issues. This is about inviting them to the table to be just as vulnerable — if not more — to engage in this conversation, to show up, and to be a part of this experience with them. This is about having human connection and sharing lived experiences and challenges that we all face, and maybe can relate to, in life.” - Janiece Williams

To wrap up the episode, Janiece and John each share how LeaderFlow has impacted their growth from both a leadership and personal development perspective and how firms can become supporters and allies of LeaderFlow’s work.

Tune in next week for Practice Disrupted’s Season 7 Finale!

Guests:

Janiece Williams, Executive Director of LeaderFlow is a trained architectural designer and one of the original cohort participants from the 2021 pilot program. With over 10 years of architecture experience, she developed a strong desire to help developing professionals as they navigate the architecture industry. This passion led her to commit more of her time to justice, diversity, equity, & inclusion-related causes and initiatives. The impact of the pilot program led her to co-launch LeaderFlow to encourage others, especially Professionals of color, to invest time in their own personal growth and development, and empower them to become great leaders.

John Gavan, CEO of KPFF Consulting Engineers is driven by the heightened social unrest in the country and he wanted to find an impactful and tangible way to effect meaningful change in the AEC industry. In 2021, John had the idea to introduce the framework of a leadership development program that he started within KPFF’s organization to the Southern California Chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects (SoCal NOMA). The first annual program was open to SoCal NOMA members at various stages in their careers and consisted of interactive training sessions facilitated by top industry professionals and leaders.

📍 Show Links:

Learn more about LeaderFlow

Connect with LeaderFlow on LinkedIn

📚Continue Learning:

Check out SoCal NOMA

Check out Rooted Consulting Group

📚Past Related Episodes:

PD #138: New Realities: Employee Wellness and Organizational Culture in Design Firms

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138: New Realities: Employee Wellness and Organizational Culture in Design Firms Dec 14, 2023

Episode 138: New Realities: Employee Wellness and Organizational Culture in Design Firms

How do organizational dynamics tie to social and emotional well-being at work?

We sit down with Cameron MacAllister Group thought leaders, Saskia Dennis-van Dijl and Annelise Pitts, who are actively advancing Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) inside of AEC firms and across the industry at large. On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we dive into the results and observations from their co-published report, “New Realities: Employee Wellness and Organizational Culture in Design Firms.”

First, Saskia and Annelise share how the project was born from post-pandemic concerns about employee mental health and productivity. We learn about the research’s Competing Values framework used to understand how organizations define effectiveness across two axis points.. From there, we discuss specific data points within the report around burnout, engagement, well-being, and connection to colleagues — and the specific impact those results have on the industry, resulting in increased stress and more responsibility. Saskia and Annelise also point us to what firms are doing well and ways for managers and leaders to maintain sight of the bigger purpose.

“We think that culture is driven by the work rather than all the other behaviors that happen around doing the work. We have to consider the wellness of the people who work for us at every scale. What are we doing to support individual wellness?” - Saskia Dennis-van Dijl

To wrap up the episode, we discuss how systemic issues hinder workplace wellness. We also talk about the need for creativity when designing and leading AEC practices — to create an action plan that aligns firm and team culture, organizational strategy, and work-life policy and practices.

Tune in next week for an episode about LeaderFlow.

Guests:

Saskia Dennis-van Dijl, Principal Consultant at Cameron MacAllister Group advises clients in the areas of marketing, practice management, leadership development, and strategic planning. She counsels in-house marketing principals and senior marketing staff on best practices, marketing trends, and prospective clients and also leads training workshops for architects, engineers, and related professionals throughout the United States. Saskia was a founding member of the 2014 Equity by Design research project sponsored by AIA San Francisco and now works with companies around the nation on culture and policy development to achieve goals of diversity and inclusion in all aspects.

Annelise Pitts, AIA, Associate at Shepley Bulfinch is a passionate designer, facilitator, and advocate for justice, equity, diversity and inclusion in the built environment. As an architect and associate with Shepley Bulfinch, she works with clients nationally, focused primarily on higher education. In her role as a design strategist with LENS, a design strategy, research, and innovation practice group within Shepley Bulfinch, Annelise offers participatory visioning and planning, change management, and organizational development services, collaborating with clients to develop holistic responses to purpose-aligned issues at the heart of the design experience — sustainability & resilience, health and wellness, and justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.

📍 Show Links:

Learn more about Cameron MacAllister Group

Read Cameron MacAllister Group’s Employee Wellness and Organizational Culture Report

Learn more about Shepley Bulfinch

Learn more about LENS Strategy Consultancy Agency

📚Continue Learning:

Read the AIA Guides for Equitable Practice

Read Diagnosing and Changing Organizational Culture

📚Past Related Episodes:

PD #22: Reimagining Work in the New Digital-First Workplace

PD #91: How the Future Works

PD #136: Redesigning the Future of Work

📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:

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Bonus Episode: Autodesk AI Dec 07, 2023

Bonus Episode: Autodesk AI

How is AI reshaping the way architects design, collaborate, and innovate?

On this bonus episode of Practice Disrupted, we sit down with Amy Bunszel, the Executive Vice President of Architecture, Engineering and Construction Design Solutions at Autodesk, and Ryan McNulty, Principal of MBH Architects, to dive into the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as it relates to architectural practice — including The Phoenix, one of Ryan’s recent projects recently showcased at AU 2023.

First, Amy describes the positive impact of AI and how the technology can help the built world — and its customers — improve the sustainability of projects. She explains the role Autodesk AI plays in delivering more innovative projects to clients in a way that will transform both the industry and individual practice.

AI can help with three things: automation, augmentation, and vast data analysis. The sustainability challenges in the world are also accelerating the need for change. The built environment is responsible for 42% of annual global CO2 emissions. Now is the time to leverage all the great technology we can to drive towards some of these important goals. - Amy Bunszel

From there, Ryan illustrates why and how AI can be useful for architecture from a project standpoint. He shares how AI helps to diminish architectural administrative tasks and focus on architectural decisions — one example being The Phoenix, a West Oakland affordable housing project created in collaboration with Autodesk. We also learn Ryan and Amy’s future plans for integrating AI into different projects and tools in support of the changing profession.

To wrap up the episode, Ryan and Amy provide tips for architecture students integrating AI into their practice and share their individual aspirations for how AI can positively impact and shape their environments.

Tune in next week for an episode about employee wellness and organizational culture in design firms.

Guests:

Amy Bunszel, EVP AEC Design at Autodesk manages product strategy and execution for Autodesk’s 3D design portfolio including the Autodesk Architecture, Engineering and Construction Collection, AutoCAD family, Autodesk Revit, and more. 

With more than 20 years’ of experience innovating software products across the architecture, engineering, and construction, manufacturing and media and entertainment industries, Amy inspires innovative strategy while driving large-scale agile software development around the globe. Amy combines her roots as a start-up co-founder with deep product management knowledge and large-scale product execution expertise to build high performing teams focused on delivering value to their customers. 

Ryan McNulty, Principal MBH Architects has an innate ability to unify project stakeholders to create successful projects with meaning and respect to local context. Ryan is known for his keen thirty-thousand-foot view of projects while closely managing every detail. This holistic design approach informs the decision-making process and allows effective communication at every stage, making him an asset to MBH’s broad array of project types — from workspace and labs, to multi-family and hospitality projects.

Ryan brings deep experience with complex structures, managing client goals, community hearings, and stakeholder coordination. He is currently principal-in-charge of a a large commercial project in Los Angeles, as well as a confidential residential development in New York City.

📍 Show Links:

Learn more about Autodesk AI

Evolve your AEC toolbox with Autodesk AI

📚 Continue Learning:

Check out Autodesk X The Phoenix

Watch Autodesk Forma X Arco – Embracing the promise of data

Learn more about AU

📚 Past Episodes Referenced:

PD #103: Enhancing Workflow with Artificial Intelligence

📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:

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Check out our past episodes

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137: MASS Design Group Business Evolution Nov 30, 2023

Episode 137: MASS Design Group Business Evolution

Why do we need a non-profit architecture business model?

A Model of Architecture for Society (MASS) Design Group was founded in 2008 as a non-profit organization with the mission to research, design, build, and advocate for architecture that promotes justice and human dignity. On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we sit down with Patricia Gruits, AIA, Co-Executive Director and Ashley Marsh, Senior Director to learn about how MASS has experienced and moved towards growth in recent years.

Patricia and Ashley share why MASS is a nonprofit architecture firm and how their specific business model challenges others to think differently.

“Being a nonprofit allows us to challenge policymakers, challenge developers, challenge communities to think more radically, more equitably, more sustainably, about what the potential of the built environment is. That space for failure and learning is something nonprofits are very, very interested in.” - Ashley Marsh

To wrap up the episode, Patricia notes the ways the MASS continues to evolve and adapt through challenges. Plus, Patricia and Ashley share their perspective about the reality and reward of the profession — including the significant impact relationships have on each individual’s experience at work.

Tune in next week for an episode on a new report titled “New Realities: Employee Wellness and Organizational Culture in Design Firms.”

Guests:

Patricia Gruits, AIA, the Co-Executive Director of MASS Design Group believes that design is a tool to envision a better world — one that is just and beautiful for all people and our shared planet. Patricia also supports the strategy, development, operations and design practice across the North America studios. She works in concert with studio principals, lab leaders and designers, to navigate how architecture can address critical issues of Public Memory, Disability Justice, Food Systems, Native Communities, Climate Resilience, and Restorative Justice.

In recognition of her outstanding contributions to architecture, Patricia received the 2020 Flansburgh Young Designer Award by the Boston Society for Architecture. Patricia also frequently speaks at national and local AIA events, including the AIA 2022 National Convention where MASS received the Architecture Firm Award.

Ashley Marsh, RA, is a Senior Director of MASS Design Group and is responsible for securing strategically-aligned partners, supports, and funding to advance the mission and secure the long-term health of the organization. She guides the stewardship of existing relationships as well as the identification, qualification and cultivation of new ones. Ashley serves the North American studios by developing and driving earned income strategy and tactics, and has been with MASS Design Group since 2018.

Ashley’s early career specialized in consulting on the upstream stages of project and owner readiness, advising a spectrum of education, technology, creative and nonprofit organizations in design, strategy and change management capacities. She helped a public school in Oakland, California win a $10 million XQ Super School grant, was named ‘40 under 40’ by the San Francisco Business Times, and was part of the team that wrote The Third Teacher–one of Fast Company’s best design books of 2010. Ashley is a recipient of the Design Futures Council Emerging Leader award and serves on the Advisory Board of the Boston Architectural College.

📍 Show Links:

Learn more about MASS Design Group

Read the 2022 AIA statement honoring MASS Design Group

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136: Redesigning the Future of Work Nov 16, 2023

Episode 136: Redesigning the Future of Work

How do you build a people-first workplace environment that is both innovative and supportive?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we sit down with Brian Elliott, a leading expert on workplace flexibility and co-author of How the Future Works: Leading Flexible Teams to Do the Best Work of Their Lives who spent two decades building companies and leading teams as a startup CEO and leader at Google and Slack. Brian co-founded Future Forum to help decision-makers tackle real-world challenges, including hybrid work and building for diversity, equity, and inclusion.

First, we hear about Future Forum as an extension of and in support of Slack, which changed the way we work together. Since Future Forum has ended, Brian shares where to look for insight and data about the workplace to keep topics top of mind and weighs in on the debate between office and work-from-home culture and the opinions about different generations’ approaches to work. Brian also illustrates the need for intentionality if/when people come together and the effect it specifically has on marginalized communities.

At the end of the day, people are people. And what we're talking about here is actually a really core element, which is, ‘How do you drive engagement of employees in the mission and purpose of your business?’ That engagement is what gets them to go the extra mile to try harder to work harder for your customers. It shows up in things like trust and transparency, and how that actually impacts people's work ethic, much more so than anything else. - Brian Elliott

Then, Brian illustrates the overarching element of a flexible, innovative workplace: emphasizing a people-first approach. We learn of a few companies implementing innovative strategies and tactics to their support teams, and Brian provides recommendations for starting those conversations, including creating boundaries for the communication tools put into place.

To wrap up the episode, Brian gives his perspective on whether architecture should pivot its business model in regard to output, quality, and productivity and gives recommendations for leaders to implement change within their organization. Plus, we learn what the changing economy can mean for the future of workplace culture, and Brian shares how the next steps in his career are still in support of making work life better for people.

Tune in two weeks from now for an episode with MASS Design about how and why structuring an award-winning architecture as a nonprofit maximizes industry reach.

Guests:

Brian Elliott is a leading expert on workplace flexibility. After two decades building companies and leading teams as a startup CEO at Google and Slack, Brian co-founded Future Forum, a leading think-tank on the future of work. He’s also the co-author of “How the Future Works: Leading Flexible Teams to Do the Best Work of Their Lives.” Brian has shared his insights and best practices on how to create more effective, connected, and diverse organizations in various publications and media outlets including Axios, Bloomberg, the Economist, Fast Company, Forbes, Fortune, Harvard Business Review, the New York Times, Time and the Wall Street Journal.

His mission is to build a future of work that's better for everyone and believe that in doing so, we can dramatically improve organizational outcomes. Brian is also a proud father, happy spouse, and frequent dog walker.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Brian on LinkedIn

Learn more about Future Forum

Access Future Forum Pulse

Read How the Future Works

📚 Past Episodes Referenced:

PD #91: How the Future Works

PD #22: Reimaging Work in the New Digital-First Workplace

📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:

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135: Architecture, And: Melodie Yashar, Space Architect Nov 09, 2023

Episode 135: Architecture, And: Melodie Yashar, Space Architect

How can you merge architecture with space robotics to create a new design language?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we sit down with Melodie Yashar, a space architect, technologist, researcher, and Vice President of Building Design and Performance at ICON, a construction technologies company focused on large-scale additive manufacturing. First, Melodie illustrates the niche discipline of space architecture and the types of backgrounds and perspectives that lead people into the field. We learn about Melodie’s serendipitous entrance into space architecture after submitting to a NASA 3D-Printed Habitat Challenge, and why the merge of design and technology is an inspiration for her work.

3D printing was an area that felt like it was advancing my knowledge in technology and taking it beyond the scope of creating an architectural model. Tackling the most challenging scientific and technological problem of space, you merge architecture with a specific idea or opinion of space robotics. That was the thing that really compelled me at the time. And it still does, frankly. - Melodie Yashar

Then, we dive into ICON: The five main areas they contribute to, their different building and design teams, and one of the company’s newer additions, 3D-printing house design. We learn why 3D printing became a solution for challenges space architecture faces, and how ICON’s teams plan for unforeseen events when working with emerging technology like 3D printing. Melodie also details projects ICON’s working on alongside NASA to reimagine aspects of space.

To wrap up the episode, Melodie speaks to the rapid growth of the space architecture field, plus ways to collaborate with ICON and help reimagine 3D printing as a new design language.

Tune in next week for an episode about redesigning the future of work.

Guests:

Melodie Yashar, is a space architect, technologist, and researcher. She is the vice president of building design and performance at ICON, a construction technologies company focused on large-scale additive manufacturing. Melodie oversees the architectural direction of ICON’s built work as well as the performance of ICON’s building systems to deliver optimally performing structures that shift the paradigm of homebuilding on Earth and in space. Melodie is a professor at ArtCenter College of Design. In previous roles, Melodie was a research associate at NASA Ames as well as a co-founder of Space Exploration Architecture, a research group developing human supporting design concepts for space exploration. Her background is in industrial design, architecture, and human-computer interaction with an emphasis in robotics.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Melodie on LinkedIn

Learn more about ICON

Join ICON’s Initiative 99 Competition

Watch Melodie’s TED Talk

📚 Continue Learning:

Learn more about AIA’s Women’s Leadership Summit

Check out NASA’s 3D-Printed Habitat Challenge

Take a peek at House Zero

📚 Past Episodes Referenced:

PD #25: Architecture, And: Tech

PD #66: Architecture, And: Technology

PD # 102: Architecture, And: An Evolving Career in Tech

PD #134: Architecture, And: Growing a Tech Start-up out of an Architecture Firm

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134: Architecture, And: Growing a Tech Start-up out of an Architecture Firm Nov 02, 2023

Episode 134: Architecture, And: Growing a Tech Start-up out of an Architecture Firm

How does architecture support a CEO stepping out and into a specialized tech start-up space?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we sit down with Zach Soflin, AIA, the Founder and CEO of Layer, the first and only flexible and mobile-friendly building management software. First, we learn how the company was created in response to the Nebraska State Capitol Building where Zach and his previous firm, BVH, were looking to connect field data to their designs. Zach built his own solution, which would become the prototype for Layer. Zach shares what he’s learned about being a CEO and how an architecture background (and mindset) shows up in day-to-day operations.

“Critical thinking and skills I learned in architecture have helped immensely in building this business, particularly around designing product and user experience. Those skills have definitely translated and given us an opportunity to provide a different software experience than what architects might be used to working with.” - Zach Soflin

Then, we dive into Layer: its focus on design as an entry point toward its target market, and Zach shares how customers utilize the software to link different parts of their projects together. We also ask Zach about hiring prioritization in a highly technical field and his process for navigating the talent pool outside of Silicon Valley.

To wrap up the episode, Zach shares the biggest obstacle for architecture to overcome, and the role technology plays in shaping the future of the practice. With potential entrepreneurs in mind, he illustrates a step system to understand if creating a product is, in fact, the best solution for a problem at hand.

Tune in next week for another episode in our Architecture, And series with Melodie Yashar, Space Architect.

Guests:

Zach Soflin, AIA, is the Founder and CEO of Layer, where he leads company operations and product development. With a decade of experience practicing and leading computational design and innovation initiatives, Zach’s passion for improving the building lifecycle drives the vision and energy behind Layer — a multi-platform app and Revit add-in that makes it easy for architects and engineers to connect rich building data to BIM. Zach speaks regularly about BIM and complex building data, including at the APT International Conferences, AEC Tech Symposium, AIA National Conference on Architecture and BILT Digital Week.

📍 Show Links:

Learn more about Layer

See what Layer is up to on LinkedIn

Read The Next Normal in Construction McKinsey Report

📚 Past Episodes Referenced:

PD #25: Architecture, And: Tech

PD #29: Taking the Leap from Architecture into Tech

PD #32: Designing a Technology-First Architecture Practice

PD #66: Architecture, And: Technology

PD #102: Architecture, And: An Evolving Career in Tech

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133: 2023 Whitney M. Young, Jr. Award Honoree Robert L Easter, FAIA, NOMAC Oct 26, 2023

Episode 133: 2023 Whitney M. Young, Jr. Award Honoree Robert L. Easter, FAIA, NOMAC

How does a desire to make a difference bring visibility to underserved and marginalized students, and future practitioners?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we’re incredibly honored to be in conversation with Robert L. Easter, FAIA NOMAC, an AIA National Award winner, recipient of the 2023 Whitney M. Young Jr. Award, whose work broadens diversity, equity, and inclusion within the profession. Robert is the founding Principal of Kelso & Easter, Inc. (KEi) Architects, an award-winning full-service architecture firm passionate about the built environment and how it influences the world in which we live.

We begin the conversation by learning about Robert’s hope for the architectural industry. He shares where he believes there’s room for evolution, and the role his parents played in his determination to fight for, support, and uplift diverse communities.

From there, we learn about Robert’s response to winning the 2023 Whitney M. Young Jr. Award, and Robert’s path to becoming the 15th president of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA). He describes his hand in its evolution, particularly in building relationships with students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Robert also describes the difference between “being rewarded” and “being rewarding” and illustrates some of his most meaningful takeaways and moments from his vast portfolio of work.

“Things are starting to change because you get involved in the fight. And you learn that you've got more allies than you think you do. And that there are people who want to help you achieve some of the goals that are important to you. There are a lot of biases I had when I was a young person that have gone away because of this endeavor.” - Robert L. Easter

To wrap up the episode, Robert shares why having empathy and compassion for the “most important social and cultural issues of our time” allow us to become better problem solvers in our personal and professional lives.

Tune in next week for the next episode in our Architecture, And series.

Guests:

Robert L. Easter, FAIA NOMAC is an AIA National Award winner, and the recipient of the 2023 Whitney M. Young Jr. Award. Robert began practicing in Baltimore, Maryland where he served as a Project Architect and designer for Ford & Associates, Inc. In 1992, Robert was elected as the fifteenth president of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA), as a vigorous advocate for increased minority participation in the public and private sector building industry.

In 2017, Robert was invited to participate in the Dean’s Forum of the AIA’s Large Firm Round Table where he helped create partnerships between firms and the seven historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) to advance the hiring and licensing process. In 2020, Robert was elevated to the AIA’s College of Fellows. Robert was also a member of the AIA Virginia Board of Directors and in 2022 was elected as the first African American to serve as the components president.

Robert recently retired as the chair of the Hampton University Department of Architecture after 15 years, where he adopted the Integrated Path to Architectural Licensing program. His work, both civic and professional, has been recognized in national print media, including NOMANews, the New York Times, Metropolitan Magazine, the Richmond Times Dispatch, the Richmond Free Press, Progressive Architecture Magazine, and Inform Magazine.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Robert on LinkedIn

Read AIA’s article about Robert

Learn more about NOMA

See Robert’s work at KEi

📚 Past Episodes Referenced:

PD #09 Voices from the Future of the Profession

PD #68 AIA Whitney M. Young Jr. Honor Award Winners: RIDING THE VORTEX

PD #79 Increasing Black Women in Architecture

📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:

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132: Architecture, And: Ownership, Mergers, and Tech Startups Oct 19, 2023

Episode 132: Architecture, And: Ownership, Mergers, and Tech Startups

How do you utilize technology to make good design efficient and accessible for everyone?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we sit down with Alma Lopez, Head of Creative at CANOA, and Elizabeth (Liz) Wert, Head of Brand at CANOA, an AI-assisted collaborative online tool for designers, to learn about their journey from business owners to company mergers, how a tech startup forces efficiency, and the ways CANOA serves as an inspiration point for both its users and an evolving industry.

First, we hear how Alma and Liz decided to start their business, ADITIONS, together in 2021 from a human-centric approach to leverage community as a way to locally source design pieces. They illustrate how the merger with CANOA gave them an opportunity to use technology to make good design accessible to everyone.

“Do we stay and go the traditional route and scale our studio, and keep working with the 1% that can actually afford our services? Or do we go and build software with an amazing team that actually helps the interior design industry do better through technology? It was kind of like a no-brainer. We got to help everyone.” - Liz Wert

Then, we dive into CANOA: its impact in the design and tech startup world, how it challenges the industry to be more efficient, and why it serves as a reminder that design is never done alone. We ask Alma and Liz to share their specific roles and the ways that their background and skill sets overlap to support each other and the business. Plus, we learn about CANOA’s current user base and the possibility of international reach.

To wrap up the episode, Alma and Liz share why their love for problem-solving is essential for building and growing a startup, and how diversity in the profession will support the future of CANOA (and the architecture and design industry) as a place for discovery, education, building community, and promoting sustainability.

Tune in next week for a conversation with AIA National Award winner and recipient of the 2023 Whitney M. Young Jr. Award, Robert L Easter, FAIA NOMAC.

Guests:

Alma Lopez is Head of Creative at CANOA. Originally hailing from Texas, Alma landed in the Bay Area studying Interior Architecture and Design at Academy of Art University. Alma co-founded experience design studio, ADITIONS, in 2021, which merged with CANOA in 2022. There, she is focused on bringing to market a diverse curation of brands, products, and ready-to-use design templates that bias sustainable solutions and share carbon data. By doing so, she aims to create better access to healthier solutions for people and our planet. Alma’s work has been recognized in Architectural Digest, Wallpaper, The New York Times, Interior Design Magazine, Inc. World’s Coolest Offices, Fast Company, and won the Good Design Award in furniture.

Elizabeth (Liz) Wert is Head of Brand at CANOA. Liz spent 14 years in the interior design industry having a diverse range of roles and commercial interior design and branding and marketing. She has worked with major furniture manufacturers and global furniture dealerships, and co-founded her own design and strategy studio, ADITIONS, with Alma in 2021. At CANOA, Liz focuses on brand design and development and go-to-market strategies to grow CANOA’s interior design user base. Liz has been featured at Milan Design Week, the New York Times Architectural Digest and Sight Unseen, to name a few.

📍 Show Links:

Learn more about CANOA

📚 Past Episodes Referenced:

PD #67: Architecture, And: The Future of Workplace

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131: Five Topics on Mental Health for Architects & Designers Oct 12, 2023

Episode 131: Five Topics on Mental Health for Architects & Designers

What are specific strategies architects and designers can implement to support their mental health?

For this week’s episode, we’ve selected five mental health topics that commonly relate to the practice of architecture: identity, perfectionism, stress + anxiety, burnout, and coping strategies. Allison Grubbs, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, and Certified Clinical Supervisor, joins us to discuss these in-depth. Allison is actively working with the North Carolina State University College of Design to integrate mental health into the curriculum. She’ll share her insight on supporting design students and practitioners alike.

We begin the conversation by addressing the identity of becoming an architect. We learn whether perfectionism is externally or internally motivated (or both!). We also hear Allison’s perspective on why boundaries are the key to leading with vulnerability. We discover the power of explicitly acknowledging big emotions or moments and how stress impacts the mind and body. Allison also illustrates how she defines burnout, and provides differentiation for certain feelings, such as belonging and fitting in, and feeling stressed and overwhelmed.

“We will always have ruptures, we will always have issues that come up. A big piece of parenting, work, partnership, any kind of family work, is about repair. And if leaders can get really good at repair, it really helps the whole culture.” - Allison Grubbs

To wrap up the episode, Allison shares ways leaders can use curiosity and self-awareness to better understand their humanness and perception. Her advice: gestures of curiosity and kindness toward ourselves and others are the gateway to making a big difference in support of what we consider most important, mental health included.

Tune in next week for a conversation with Canoa's Head of Design and Head of Brand, as they talk about a new Firm Ownership, Mergers, and the transition to working in tech.

Guests:

Allison Grubbs is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, Certified Clinical Supervisor, and is Certified in the work of Dr. Brené Brown. She was trained in 2013 by Brené Brown and has been facilitating her work in both clinical and professional settings ever since. She has been practicing as a therapist for about 16 years and maintains a private practice in downtown Raleigh. Allison also works with leaders and organizations to help them practice and grow in emotionally healthy ways. You can connect with Allison on her website.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Allison Online

Thank you to Claire Craven and Matt Fornaro for their contributions to this episode.

📚 Past Episodes Referenced:

PD #96 Addressing Mental Health in Architecture

PD #124 Architecture, And: Mental Health in the Profession

📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:

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130: Designing for Inclusion with Olivia Asuncion Oct 05, 2023

Episode 130: Designing for Inclusion with Olivia Asuncion

How do architectural design decisions create physical symbols that tear down social barriers and inequities?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we sit down with Olivia Asuncion, AIA, a Project Architect at Quattrocchi Kwok Architects and advocate for individuals with disabilities. Even further, as a Fulbright Scholar, Olivia was recently appointed by President Biden to the U.S. architectural and transportation barriers compliance Access Board. We learn about Olivia's disability and how accessibility and inclusive design helped her both find her voice in the field, and navigate barriers and challenges faced along the way. Then, Olivia shares how workplace culture needs to shift in order to accommodate its (in)visibly disabled employees, and provides suggestions for navigating constructive conversations.

“The biggest and most powerful thing that a person in an architecture office can and should learn, is to listen and to believe the needs of the people who are working there. We need to shift our understanding that what's ‘needed to function well at a job’ differs between people.” - Olivia Asuncion

To wrap up the episode, Olivia shares the impact of her appointment to the U.S. Access Board and the types of future opportunities it can lead to in support of the future of accessible and universal, inclusive design.

Tune in next week for an open conversation about mental health with Allison Grubbs, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, and Certified Clinical Supervisor.

Guests:

Olivia Asuncion, AIA Olivia has oriented her career path towards advocating for inclusive design. She received her undergraduate degree in Architecture at the University of California Berkeley, then began her professional career at Equity Community Builders helping non-profit organizations with their construction management needs. This includes assisting in the construction management of the Ed Roberts Campus, a universally-designed building in Berkeley, CA. After receiving her Master of Architecture degree from University of Oregon, she served as an architect at Shah Kawasaki Architects in Oakland, CA, working on public safety buildings and office spaces for public sector clients. Currently, Olivia is a Project Architect at Quattrocchi Kwok Architects, working on K-12 educational facilities.

📍 Show Links:

MeetQKA Firm

Connect with Olivia on LinkedIn

Check out Olivia’s Faculty Bio

Follow Olivia on Instagram

📚 Past Episodes Referenced:

PD #57 Southeast Asian American Architects

📚 Continue Learning:

White House statement appointing Olivia to U.S. Access Board

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129: Architecture, And: Waterfront Design Sep 28, 2023

Episode 129: Architecture, And: Waterfront Design

How do you transform interests into a specialized niche and trailblaze a non-linear path?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we sit down with Dena Prastos AIA, a waterfront architect with a background in civil engineering and Founder and CEO of Indigo River, a women-owned transdisciplinary design firm focused on progressive waterfront architecture, resiliency, and climate adaptation. We learn about Dena’s upbringing in Alaska and how access to nature influenced the trajectory of her professional path. She also shares how her unique education and experience in both engineering and architecture have informed the creation of her company.

“My experience was a unique niche through the engineering lens. Wearing my architecture hat, I saw the opportunity to both be the generalist to gather all the specialists in the room, but also be the specialist that can speak the same language. I leaned into this opportunity to have this larger vision — my relationship with nature, and appreciating both the built fabric as well as what is natural and wild.” - Dena Prastos

We also learn about civil engineering, both in relation to architecture and as an industry of its own, and Dena shares what architects should know about climate adaptation, resiliency, and the waterfront.

To wrap up the episode, Dena shares advice for anyone in search of the impact they can make in the world while building a career within a specialized niche. This episode offers a unique perspective of the non-linear career path, and the power of approaching areas of growth as another relationship to strengthen.

Tune in next week for a conversation with Olivia Asuncion, a Project Architect and advocate for individuals with disabilities.

Guests:

Dena Prastos, AIA, is the first "waterfront architect," trailblazing a new category in the industry. Indigo River is a women-owned transdisciplinary design firm focused on progressive waterfront architecture, resiliency, and climate adaptation. A leading authority in New York Harbor and beyond, the firm specializes in climate adaptation through waterfront solutions that seamlessly transcend boundaries — guiding and executing projects from ideation through final construction and operations. Indigo River is a certified Women-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE) committed to helping society evolve together with our environment.

📍 Show Links:

Indigo River Design Firm

Follow Indigo River on Instagram

Follow Dena on Instagram

Connect with Dena on LinkedIn

Follow Dena on Twitter

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128: CO Architects, Leading the Way Through Change Sep 21, 2023

Episode 128: CO Architects, Leading the Way Through Change

How do you shape the next chapter of an established firm, while leading a “practice into perpetuity”?

Tune in for a conversation with Jenna Knudsen, Managing Principal at CO Architects, who we had the pleasure of connecting with at this year’s American Institute of Architects Conference on Architecture (A’23). In this episode, we learn about Jenna’s transition into the role of Managing Principal, the challenge of stepping into a new role during COVID, and how continual improvement shows up in the 160 person practice.

“Practice into perpetuity. It means that the current partners are really the caretakers of the firm. The goal is to continue to care for this practice for the next generation of leaders. The culture is really about this idea of continual improvement, continually learning and really thinking about growing everyone in the practice.” - Jenna Knudsen

To wrap up the episode, Jenna shares what career transition challenges taught her about herself, and explains why it’s so important that the future of the practice is more diverse.

Tune in next week for a new episode in our Architecture, And series.

Guests:

Jenna Knudsen, the managing principal of CO Architects, has led award-winning, large-scale academic, laboratory and healthcare projects on university and healthcare campuses across the country. Her groundbreaking projects demonstrate innovation in design, sustainability and project delivery — including early use of BIM and integrated delivery, for which she has been nationally recognized. In addition to her leadership role in the wide adoption of BIM, she has continued to push for the use of tools such as computational design, virtual and augmented reality, and custom applications to advance the work. Within both the practice and the profession, Jenna has been a long-time advocate for equal representation, spearheading initiatives to support and encourage women in architecture. Jenna received a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Southern California and a Master of Science in Architecture and Urban Design at Columbia University.

📍 Show Links:

https://coarchitects.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/co-architects/

https://vimeo.com/user73627226

https://www.instagram.com/coarchitects/

https://www.facebook.com/COArchitects

https://twitter.com/COArchitectsLA

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127: NCARB Scholars of Professional Practice Sep 14, 2023

Episode 127: NCARB Scholars of Professional Practice

What is the NCARB Scholars of Professional Practice?

In this episode, we meet some of the individuals who gathered for the fifth annual NCARB Scholars in Professional Practice at Ball State University CAP:INDY. This event is one of the, if not only, places where professors gather to discuss the struggles and opportunities of teaching this course inside the architecture curriculum. We hear participants’ biggest takeaways from the program and explore a range of perspectives from educators, NCARB staff, facilitators, and more.

“My first challenge as a teacher is to give my students confidence about what their professional futures look like. To generate excitement about it, to empower them, to say, ‘All of these topics are part of the equation that creates great design, and don't see these as an outlier to the design process.’ Approach this as another set of muscles that you need to develop in order to be the kind of architect you want to be.” - David Hinson, Associate Dean at Auburn University

Lastly, Evelyn and Je’Nen discuss the “future of practice,” followed by a look at NCARB’s Futures Collaborative. We’ll learn about ways NCARB has started exploring the future of practice — and the role advanced technologies play in benefiting and strengthening the professional model.

Tune in next week for a conversation with Jenna Knudsen, the Managing Principal of CO Architects.

📍 Show Links:

National Council of Architecture Registration Boards

NCARB Scholars in Professional Practice

📚 Continue Learning:

NCARB Scholars: Going Further for Architectural Education

NCARB Article on Trends Shaping the Future of Architecture

ArchPaper Article on Practicing Practice

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126: Redesigning Professional Practice Sep 07, 2023

Episode 126: Redesigning Professional Practice

How are Professional Practice professors redesigning their coursework to support architecture students entering an industry in transition?

Tune in as we kick off a NEW! podcast series centered on Professional Practice. Karen Williams from the University of Oregon School of Architecture & Environment and Nilou Vakil from the University of Kansas School of Architecture and Design join us to discuss their experiences teaching Professional Practice and the potential for this course to evolve and expand.

We’ll introduce the 2022 NCARB Scholars in Professional Practice program — an annual, multi-day professional development intensive dedicated to ensuring that Professional Practice educators have the resources for students to succeed. Karen and Nilou share their thoughts on expanding education to support future architects, illustrate their individual successes in curriculum approach, and detail what questions students should ask of professors to gain further knowledge.

“How can we talk about the ethics of what we do within the framework of cultural competencies? That is what gets us jobs or brings repeated clients back. People start to trust you to design something for them that serves them, instead of being sort of an egoistic process. I think that part of it is missing from the conversation of business and Professional Practice.” - Nilou Vakil

Tune in next week for a recap of the 2023 NCARB Scholars of Professional Practice.

Guests:

Nilou Vakil, AIA, LEED AP BD+C is the principal at in situ DESIGN and an Associate Professor of Architecture at KU School of Architecture and Design. Nilou has a personal connection to community involvement in shaping the built environment — she witnessed neighborhood destruction in the Middle East during an eight-year war. With over two decades of experience in the field, she is an expert in community-based architecture, housing, and urban design. As an associate professor, Nilou leads design studios, Ethics and Leadership in Professional Practice, and research seminars focusing on community-based partnerships and service learning. Her contributions to academia and architecture have earned her recognition as one of the top 25 most admired architecture professors by Design Intelligence in 2018, and she received the Faculty Fellow award in the KU Honors Program in 2020.

Karen Williams, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP is a Project Manager at PIVOT Architecture in Eugene, OR. She is consistently working to educate people about the inner benefits of the architecture community and working toward a more equitable practice. She is a Career Instructor at the University of Oregon where she teaches Professional Practice and Practicum. As a means to be a professional example, Karen reviews architecture programs with NAAB, serves as a member of the Eugene River Guides Board, is a member of the Editorial Committee for ProPEL, and serves as a member of the research and writing team for the AIA Equitable Practice Guides: Justice and Education.

📍 Show Links:

2022 NCARB Scholars in Professional Practice

https://www.acsa-arch.org/resource/propel/

https://arcd.ku.edu/people/nilou-vakil

https://www.isdarchitecture.com/

https://pivotarchitecture.com/

📚 Continue Learning:

Building Design Podcast #14 Diversity and Equity in Architecture feat. Nilou Vakil

💻 Learn about our podcast partner:

👉 This episode is sponsored by the American Institute of Steel Construction

Interested in using your design training to prompt change in our industry? The AISC is looking for creative architects to help shape how our profession approaches structural steel. They’re building a program to bring industry leaders together to harness structural steel innovations. Learn more at aisc.org/architecture.

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125: Building a Feminist Architecture Firm Aug 31, 2023

Episode 125: Building a Feminist Architecture Firm

How do you redefine what a 21st-century architecture firm looks like and how it operates?

This week Leah Alissa Bayer, Sarah Vaccaro, and Kate Conley discuss their practice, Architects FORA, a 100% woman-owned design firm. This episode explores the ownership transition of this 40-year-old practice, how they operate the fully virtual practice, and the values that shape the feminist practice. They detail specific changes they’ve made in their hiring processes to support diversity and inclusion in a remote environment, and how remote working bolsters ongoing communication, collaboration, and 1:1 mentorship.

“If you give people the appropriate space so that they can do their work in the environment that they're comfortable in, and then create this very transparent platform that people can receive communication when they can digest it — or go back if they've forgotten, or if something comes up on a project — that's way more valuable than just a passing conversation that just happened because you're looking over somebody's shoulder. It's intentional, it's documented, it's recorded, it's scalable. It's better in every way.” - Architects FORA

Guests:

Sarah Vaccaro AIA, LEED AP is Principal at Architects FORA. Her passion for design and serving communities drives the commitment to the quality and purpose behind FORA's work. She respects the responsibility of designing places people will call home and is deeply committed to FORA’s collaborative approach and restorative process. In pursuit of a new experience working to address one of the greatest challenges facing the Bay Area, Sarah joined OJK Architecture + Planning (now Architects FORA) to work on affordable multi-family housing. In 2021, Jerry King, founder of OJK, entrusted his firm of 40 years to Sarah, Leah and Kate to continue designing beautiful, resilient, and equitable housing in partnership with their non-profit housing developer partners. Today, Architects FORA is focused on creating vibrant homes for all that empower and enrich our communities.

Leah Alissa Bayer, AIA, NOMA, LEED GA, NCARB, is an award-winning Architect licensed in California, Hawaii, and Washington with an endless curiosity, forward-focus, and passion for improving quality of life. Leah graduated with a Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.), a Minor in Fine Arts, and four years of Structural Engineering (B.S.) from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. She founded EVIA Studio, a highly collaborative, women-led, and virtual architecture practice that in 2021, merged with OJK, and subsequently became Architects FORA.

Kate Conley AIA, NOMA, LEED AP, is a Principal at Architects FORA. She is a licensed architect in California, Colorado, and Washington State. Kate leads Building Excellence initiatives at FORA, employing her strong technical and design expertise gained from a career studded with award-winning built work and from her world-class mentors in architecture and construction. Improving equity and justice in the design and engineering professions and advocating for housing abundance in our communities are areas of emphasis throughout her work.

📍 Show Links:

https://architectsfora.com/

https://architectsfora.com/perspectives/thefeministpractice

📚 Past Episodes Referenced:

PD #52 Managing a Virtual Practice

PD #18 Remote Practice

💻 Learn about our podcast partner:

👉 This episode is sponsored by the American Institute of Steel Construction

Interested in using your design training to prompt change in our industry? The AISC is looking for creative architects to help shape how our profession approaches structural steel. They’re building a program to bring industry leaders together to harness structural steel innovations. Learn more at aisc.org/architecture.

📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:

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124: Architecture, And: Mental Health in the Profession Aug 24, 2023

Episode 124: Architecture, And: Mental Health in the Profession

How can we better support the mental health of architects and designers?

Co-hosts Evelyn Lee and Je’Nen Chastain sit down with the moderator of Practice Disrupted’s Season 7 kickoff, Joann Lui, licensed architect turned-marketer and founder of the Women Architects Collective, to discuss how she transitioned from architecture into marketing for tech startups, and why this decision was in support of her passions and her mental health.

Joann shares her newest project, the Mental Health Summit, which she created in response to a statistic stating that 97% of architects experience burnout. Joann curated the entire run of show to help attendees find and apply real, actionable strategies to managing their mental health and burnout. Session topics include people-pleasing, journaling, and building a practice that promotes mental health.

“I was so unhealthy. I was constantly getting sick and not taking care of my own health. And I just want a profession where while we're building great buildings, and designing for other people, that we take care of ourselves, and we can be happier and just healthier individuals in general.”

Joann further discusses her work as an entrepreneur and illustrates how she has helped architects build their personal digital brands during the pandemic and, in turn, was inspired to create multiple businesses as a way to support the community — ranging from coaching to an online matcha shop.

Tune in next week to hear a conversation with Evelyn and Je’Nen with Architects FORA discussing the Feminist Practice Model.

Guest:

Joann Lui, AIA is an architect, speaker, and the Founder of Women Architects Collective, a digital space where she provides community, conferences and coaching for 4,700+ members. To spread the voice of the community, she hosts annual events such as the Women Architects Festival and the Mental Health in Architecture Summit. Joann developed her professional experience at Gensler NY and transitioned into a Content Marketer role at AEC tech startups such as Monograph and TestFit. You can find her on her website, watch her YouTube channel, and follow her on Instagram or LinkedIn.

📍 Show Links:

https://www.joannlui.com

Women Architects Collective

Sign up for the MentalHealthSummit.co

📚 Past Episodes Referenced:

PD #96 Addressing Mental Health in Architecture

Leah Bayer:

PD #52 Managing a Virtual Practice

PD #18 Remote Practice

Ben Kasdan:

PD #115 Leading a Culture of Mentorship

Jennifer Matthews:

PD #95 Voices of Mothers in Practice

📚 Continue Learning:

Burnout in Architecture 2021 Survey

💻 Learn about our podcast partner:

👉 This episode is sponsored by the American Institute of Steel Construction

Interested in using your design training to prompt change in our industry? The AISC is looking for creative architects to help shape how our profession approaches structural steel. They’re building a program to bring industry leaders together to harness structural steel innovations. Learn more at aisc.org/architecture.

📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:

Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Pinterest | Twitter

Check out our past episodes

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123: Architectural Education: Evolving Curriculum & Alternative Paths Aug 17, 2023

Episode 123: Architectural Education: Evolving Curriculum & Alternative Paths

How has the MIT School of Architecture and Planning driven innovation and influenced alternative career paths for students in the field?

In response to their listeners’ curiosity on bridging pathways into alternative careers, co-hosts Evelyn Lee and Je’Nen Chastain interview Nicholas de Monchaux, Professor and Head of Architecture at MIT, to discuss the evolution of curriculum at the oldest architecture program in the US. They’ll discuss potential career paths students can take and how Nick created a career that blends architecture, teaching, writing — and even installation work.

Learn about the history of MIT and how its architectural program is immersed in both research and entrepreneurial culture, as well as how the history and culture of MIT has influenced graduating students’ ideas of architecture in the world. In this conversation, Nick illustrates how MIT enhances its students’ experience, the types of students MIT attracts, and how moving through unexpected spaces allowed Nick to redefine the possibilities of his career and carve a path of his own.

To wrap up the episode, Nick shares advice to students about fusing curiosity and passion into new career pathways as faculty strive to expand the profession, its impact, and who has access to it — all in an effort to find other ways to speak with and to the world.

“The architecture of our world is much bigger than bricks, although bricks are very, very important. I'm interested in that largest meaning of architecture, both as a sense of what we describe architecture as being — which extends far beyond buildings both bigger than them and much smaller than them — and also extends far beyond the traditional notion of practice as well.”

Tune in next week to hear a conversation with Evelyn and Je’Nen as they discuss the upcoming Mental Health in Architecture Summit.

Guest:

Nicholas de Monchaux is Professor and Head of Architecture at MIT, as well as a partner in the architecture practice modem. He is the author of Spacesuit: Fashioning Apollo (MIT Press, 2011), an architectural and urban history of the Apollo Spacesuit, winner of the Eugene Emme award from the American Astronautical Society and shortlisted for the Art Book Prize, as well as Local Code: 3,659 Proposals about Data, Design, and the Nature of Cities (Princeton Architectural Press, Fall 2016). His design work has been exhibited widely, including at the Biennial of the Americas, the Venice Architecture Biennale, The Lisbon Architecture Triennial, SFMOMA, the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, the Storefront for Art and Architecture and the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago. He is a Fellow of the American Academy in Rome. Until 2019, he was Craigslist Distinguished Professor of New Media and Professor of Architecture and Urban Design at UC Berkeley.

📍 Show Links:

MIT School of Architecture + Planning

MIT Department of Architecture

📚 Continue Learning:

modem

Local Code

Spacesuit

💻 Learn about our podcast partner:

👉 This episode is sponsored by the American Institute of Steel Construction

Interested in using your design training to prompt change in our industry? The AISC is looking for creative architects to help shape how our profession approaches structural steel. They’re building a program to bring industry leaders together to harness structural steel innovations. Learn more at aisc.org/architecture.

📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:

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122: Entrepreneurship in Architecture, Apostrophe Consulting Aug 10, 2023

Episode 122: Entrepreneurship in Architecture, Apostrophe Consulting

What does it take to build a purpose-driven architecture management consulting business?

Co-hosts Evelyn Lee and Je’Nen Chastain are back on the mic — except this time, Evelyn is guiding the conversation and interviewing Je’Nen! On this episode of Practice Disrupted, Evelyn and Je’Nen share how they first connected in the architectural design world, and Je’Nen talks about how her entrepreneurial spirit and non-linear career path gave her a unique perspective in her business, Apostrophe Consulting.

Apostrophe Consulting is a purpose-driven, woman-owned management consulting practice dedicated to helping architects transform their companies. With expertise in talent development, change management, and business strategy, Je’Nen helps her clients navigate growth in a changing world.

To wrap up the episode, Evelyn asks Je’Nen what her hope and vision is for the future of both the field of architecture and Apostrophe Consulting. Stay until the end to hear what Je’Nen has to say, as well as her advice for anyone looking to step into entrepreneurship.

“The number one is finance. And the number two is mental health. Those are the two things that I think most entrepreneurs need to be ready to navigate. I don't think you have to have it all figured out at the start — you can transition into this and still be successful. And there's nothing wrong with that.”

Tune in next week to hear a conversation with Evelyn and Je’Nen about the MIT School of Architecture and Planning and how the program has driven innovation.

Guest:

Je’Nen Chastain, MBA, Assoc. AIA is the Founder of Apostrophe Consulting, a practice focused on helping architects and next-gen leaders strengthen their teams and businesses. In addition to consulting with firm leaders on practice management issues, she co-hosts Practice Disrupted, a podcast with a growing audience of over 30k unique listeners. She earned her MBA from Mills College and BArch from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She has received several industry leadership awards, including the 2017 AIA Associates Award and Presidential Citations from AIA California & North Carolina. She wrote the business plan for the AIA Leadership Institute 2015-2020 and served on the AIA national board of directors in 2010.

📍 Show Links:

Apostrophe Consulting

📚 Related Past Episodes:

PD #119 Architecture, And: YouTube, Entrepreneurship, & Architecture

PD #89 Entrepreneurship in Practice: Taking Risks to Create Value

PD #75 Growing an AEC Startup, The Evolution of a Company

PD #56 Leading with Finance & Entrepreneurship

PD #26 Climate Action Through Entrepreneurship

💻 Learn about our podcast partner:

👉 This episode is sponsored by the American Institute of Steel Construction

Interested in using your design training to prompt change in our industry? The AISC is looking for creative architects to help shape how our profession approaches structural steel. They’re building a program to bring industry leaders together to harness structural steel innovations. Learn more at aisc.org/architecture.

📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:

Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Pinterest | Twitter

Check out our past episodes

Be a part of our community — join the conversation!

121: Season 7 Launch, AMA with the Women Architects Collective Aug 03, 2023

Episode 121: Season 7 Launch, AMA with the Women Architects Collective

What questions do the Women Architects Collective have for Practice Disrupted?

Co-hosts Evelyn Lee and Je’Nen Chastain celebrate Season 7 (happy 3rd birthday, Practice Disrupted!) with an AMA, Ask Me Anything. The conversation is guided by Joann Lui, a friend to the podcast, licensed architect-turned marketer, and founder of the Women Architects Collective.

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, Evelyn and Je’Nen answer questions relating to the podcast and their careers. Topics include: Evelyn and Je’Nen’s paths to earn an MBA, how to get involved with the American Institute of Architects (AIA), what architects can learn from other industries, and advice to Evelyn and Je’Nen’s younger selves.

To wrap up the episode, Evelyn and Je’Nen share how Disrupted Practice has evolved over seven seasons. They also explain why their approach to the podcast has shifted, and how their favorite types of podcasts serve as inspiration for future episodes.

“Intention is important to us. People are really looking for substantial content, so in Season 7 our hope is to bring on interesting people who can deliver on that energy to help us answer how we can really change and evolve practice going forward.”

Tune in next week to hear a conversation with Evelyn and Je’Nen about change in the profession, and the work Je’Nen is doing through her company Apostrophe Consulting to support architects with adopting change in their practices.

Special Guest:

Joann Lui, AIA is an architect, speaker, and the Founder of Women Architects Collective, a digital space where she provides community, conferences and coaching for 4,700+ members. To spread the voice of the community, she hosts annual events such as the Women Architects Festival and the Mental Health in Architecture Summit. Joann developed her professional experience at Gensler NY and transitioned into a Content Marketer role at AEC tech startups such as Monograph and TestFit. You can find her on her website, watch her YouTube channel, and follow her on Instagram or LinkedIn.

Co-Hosts:

Evelyn Lee, FAIA, NOMA is the Global Head of Workplace Strategy and Innovation at Slack Technologies, and Founder of the Practice of Architecture. She integrates her business and architecture background with a qualitative and quantitative focus to build better experiences for the organization’s employees, clients, and guests. She is widely published, wrote a monthly column for Contract magazine for over three years, and is now a frequent contributor to Architect Magazine. Evelyn has received numerous industry awards, including 2016 40 Under 40 award for Building Design + Construction and the 2014 AIA National Young Architects Award. She served as the first-ever female Treasurer to the AIA National Board in 2020-2021 and will serve as the 101st AIA National President in 2025.

Je’Nen Chastain, MBA, Assoc. AIA is the Founder of Apostrophe Consulting, a practice focused on helping architects and next-gen leaders strengthen their teams and businesses. In addition to consulting with firm leaders on practice management issues, she co-hosts Practice Disrupted, a podcast with a growing audience of over 30k unique listeners. She earned her MBA from Mills College and BArch from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She has received several industry leadership awards, including the 2017 AIA Associates Award and Presidential Citations from AIA California & North Carolina. She wrote the business plan for the AIA Leadership Institute 2015-2020 and served on the AIA national board of directors in 2010.

📍 Show Links:

https://www.joannlui.com

Women Architects Collective

MentalHealthSummit.co

📚 Past Episodes Referenced:

PD #90 Madame Architect: Work, Family, and Everything In Between (featuring Amy Stone)

PD #80 Season 4 Finale with Madame Architect (featuring Amy Stone)

PD #55 Architecture, And: MBA

📚 Continue Learning:

Harvard Business Review

The Anxious Achiever podcast

Adam Grant’s podcasts

Brene Brown’s podcasts: Unlocking Us and Dare to Lead

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Check out our past episodes

Be a part of our community — join the conversation!

Bonus Replay: Voices of Mothers in Practice Jul 27, 2023

Replay: Voices of Mothers in Practice

What can architecture firms do to support mothers who are working in practice?

Leaders of the profession share diverse perspectives on their identity between practice and motherhood. This discussion aims to explore the experiences of working mothers in diverse career stages who are raising children of different ages.

Practice Disrupted is committed to elevating conversations on justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion to teach, empower, and build greater awareness across the industry.

Guests:

Christina Cho Yoo, AIA, PE, LEED AP BD+C is co-founder of Atelier Cho Thompson. She received a BS & MS in civil & structural engineering and construction management at Stanford University and received a masters in architecture at the Harvard Graduate School of Design. She was a structural engineer at the international engineering company Arup, where she was the Structural Sustainability Champion for the Americas & worked on projects such as the LEED-Double Platinum California Academy of Sciences, Contemporary Jewish Museum, Kaiser hospitals, Schroder Overcrossing, and various other projects. She went onto work at architecture firms internationally including Kao Design Group on Richard Branson's Eco-Island, SHoP Architects on the Google HQ, Neri & Hu in Shanghai, Mass Studies in Seoul, and Bohlin Cywinski Jackson on Apple stores, the Apple iAd office, and the Square HQ. Christina is a licensed architect and engineer in California and has been LEED accredited since 2003.

Her work has spanned typologies from single-family to multifamily residences, hospitals, labs, museums, innovative workplaces, hospitality and food service, to retail, exhibits, furniture, and graphics for various organizations. Before architecture school, she staged at Tartine Bakery while taking courses at the California Culinary Academy. She has lectured on Green R&D at Harvard and served as a critic at Parsons, Stanford, Harvard, & the California College of the Arts (CCA). She is an Adjunct Professor at the CCA, having taught advanced urban studio on the Post-Retail City and Integrated Building Systems. She served as Design & Innovation Chair of the Stanford Club of SF and currently is on the Board of Directors at Pacific Primary School.

Jennifer T. Matthews, Associate AIA, is a full-time remote Architectural Designer at SS&A Design Collective based in Montgomery, Alabama. With eight years of healthcare design experience, Jennifer has worked on architectural projects for multiple healthcare providers and national government entities across the United States. She was awarded the 2018 Healthcare Design Magazine's Educator Honor Award for creating an annual event that introduces architecture students to healthcare design and careers within. Her recent outreach efforts include professional practice seminars and managing her professional development platform, Creative's XP.

In 2013, Jennifer graduated from Tuskegee University with a Bachelor of Architecture. In 2020, she acquired a Master of Arts degree in Business Design and Arts Leadership from The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). Jennifer served as the 2013-2014 National Vice President of the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS).

📍 Show Links:

Atelier Cho Thompson

Creative's XP

Practice Disrupted Diversity Series:

Episode 009: Voices from the Future of the Profession (Black Architects)

Episode 016: Voices from the Future of the Profession (LGBTQIA+ Architects)

Episode 035: Asian American Architects

Episode 048: Architecture, Identity, & Culture

Episode 053: Immigrant Architects

Episode 054: Architecture, And: EDI+J

Episode 057: Southeast Asian American Architects

Episode 059: Building the Pipeline Through K-12 Education

Episode 068: 2022 AIA Whitney M. Young Jr. Honor Award Winners: RIDING THE VORTEX

Episode 070: She Builds Crossover in Three Acts

Episode 079: Increasing Black Women in Architecture

Episode 088: Latina Voices in Practice

Episode 090: Madame Architect: Work, Family, and Everything in Between

Stay tuned for upcoming episodes in this series!

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Bonus Replay: Latina Voices in Practice Jul 20, 2023

Replay: Latina Voices in Practice

“Why is it that the largest community of color within the US still makes up such a small percentage of the profession?” ~ACSA Hispanic & Latinx in Architecture

Four leaders in the profession share their diverse perspectives on race, equity, and architecture.

Practice Disrupted is committed to elevating conversations on justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion to teach, empower, and build greater awareness across the industry. Building from prior diversity conversations, this week we learn about Hispanic & Latinx in Architecture.

Guest:

Venesa Alicea-Chuqui, AIA, NOMA, LEED AP BD+C, WELL AP, an Architect, Educator and Advocate, is Founding Principal of NYVARCH Architecture, a NYC based collaborative Architectural Practice focused on building community and equity through design. With over 15 years of experience designing multi-family sustainable affordable, and supportive housing developments and civic projects, she is committed to working with local communities to develop good design, both sustainable and socially conscious. She’s the Vice Chair of Outreach to the AIA Small Firm Exchange and President of the Architecture Alumni Group of the Alumni Association of the City College of New York, her alma mater (B.Arch ‘05), where she has also taught the Coop Internship and Professional Practice classes. Committed to design justice in the built environment, she’s an active contributor to Dark Matter University, Design as Protest, and a former co-chair to the AIANY Diversity & Inclusion and Emerging New York Architects committees. She is past chair of the AIANY Puerto Rico Resiliency task force, an active member of the AIANY Planning and Urban Design Committee, and a 2019 Fellow of the Association for Community Design.

Siboney Diaz-Sánchez is an affordable housing advocate and the community engagement administrator for the City of San Antonio's Neighborhood and Housing Services Department. She serves as a NOMA Empowerment Committee Co-Chair, organizes with Design As Protest Planning and Policy Committee, and is proud to teach Community Practice at The Boston Architectural College. In 2021 she joined the Association for Community Design board of directors. Prior to returning to San Antonio Siboney was an Enterprise Rose Fellow and project/design manager at Opportunities Communities in the Boston area working for two non-profit community development corporations, The Neighborhood Developers and Nuestra Comunidad. While in Boston she developed design standards for affordable housing, helped secure funding for a low income housing tax credit housing development, led a community engagement process for a public arts park and served on the Boston Society of Architects board of directors. Siboney insists creative fields are viable vehicles for social change and believes in just redistribution of systemic power through design. She is committed to prioritizing community voices in design processes.

She is a licensed architect in the state of Texas and holds her Bachelor of Architecture from Cornell University.

Vanessa Smith Torres is a Puerto Rican born Architect based in Miami, FL. Vanessa received a Bachelors from Northeastern University and a Master of Architecture from Tulane University. She has worked on award winning projects in various market sectors - from Hospitality to Education. Vanessa is a Project Architect at Perkins&Will and Adjunct Instructor at Florida Atlantic University. Committed to building a more equitable profession, Vanessa has served on the National Organization of Minority Architects Chapter boards in South Florida (SoFloNOMA) and Louisiana (NOMALA). She is the Immediate Past President of SoFloNOMA and currently serves as Chapter Director of AIA Miami and co-chair of the Women in Architecture Committee.

Alicia Ponce is the Founder and Principal of APMonarch, a Chicago based Female and Latina owned Architecture firm.

Under Alicia’s direction, the firm provides architectural services, community engagement and sustainability consulting for projects throughout the Midwest and Mexico. Her expertise and passion to design healthy buildings and equitable communities support many clients in creating architecture that is ambitious, thoughtful and healthy. APMonarch provides these services to a diverse group of sectors that includes Commercial, Higher-Education, Civic, Healthcare, and Non-Profits.

Alicia refers to APMonarch as the pollinator of the built environment designing healthy environments that look good, feel good and perform great. The firm’s promise is to build zero carbon architecture. Demonstrating that promise is Alicia’s recent architecture commission to design Centro Amazing, a civic youth center located in Aguascalientes, Mexico which is to be constructed from rammed earth.

A registered architect in Illinois and Wisconsin, Alicia has over 20 years of architecture and sustainability experience. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign and studied at the Ecole d’Architecture in Versailles, France.

Alicia currently serves on the Chicago Landmarks Commission and the United Way Metro Chicago Executive Board. Creator of the award-winning book Latinas in Architecture – raising the 1% one Latina a time, she is the founder and chair of Arquitina, a national non-profit organization with a mission to raise the number of licensed Latina architects in the U.S.

📍 Show Links:

AIA Miami

AIA New York Diversity and Inclusion

AIA New York Emerging Architects

AIA Small Firm Exchange

APMonarch

Arquitina

Association for Community Design

Boston Society of Architects

Chicago Landmarks Commission

City College of New York

Cornell AAP

Dark Matter University

Design as Protest

Florida Atlantic University

The Neighborhood Developers

NOMA

NOMA Louisiana

NOMA South Florida

Northeastern University

Nuestra Comunidad

NYARCH Architecture

Opportunities Communities

Perkins&Will

Tulane University

United Way Metro Chicago

📚 Continue Learning:

Latinas in Architecture: Stories of raising the 1% one Latina at a time

Where are my People? Hispanic & Latinx in Architecture

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Bonus Replay: 2022 AIA Whitney M Young Jul 13, 2023

Replay: 2022 AIA Whitney M. Young Jr. Honor Award

RIDING THE VORTEX

What lessons on architecture, practice, and change can we learn from AIA Whitney M. Young Jr. Honor Award Recipients Kathryn Prigmore, Kathy Dixon, Katherine Williams, and Melissa Daniel?

Named for civil rights leader Whitney M. Young Jr., the AIA Whitney M. Young Jr. Honor Award distinguishes an architect or architectural organization that embodies social responsibility and actively addresses a relevant issue, such as affordable housing, inclusiveness, or universal access. Architects and design leaders Kathryn Tyler Prigmore, FAIA; Kathy Denise Dixon, FAIA; Katherine Williams, AIA; and Melissa R. Daniel, Assoc. AIA are the winners of this year’s award for their leadership in advancing educational programming to support and increase the number of people of color licensed to practice architecture in the U.S.

According to the American Institute of Architects, “The number of practicing African-American architects had been a stagnant 2% in recent decades. In the early 1990s, there were just 1,800 licensed African-American architects in the country, and only 30 of them were women. As of the summer of 2021, those numbers have grown to 2,435 and 533, respectively, and VORTEX has been a major catalyst in the 254% growth in African-American women architects.”

This episode includes the stories of the VORTEX collaborators, as well as a candid discussion about their careers, what inspires them, and their work to build this program.

Guests:

Kathryn Prigmore, FAIA, NOMAC, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C, CDT is an architect, educator, and design practice leader with an inimitable understanding of the dynamics that impact the management of firms from the perspective of an architect, academic, and regulator. She has over 40 years of design and management experience for award-winning architectural projects of a wide range of sizes, types and delivery methods executed for private and public clients within diverse practice environments. Her academic leadership includes teaching experience in sustainable design. As an award-winning strategic thinker and planner, she is also a leader in regulatory issues and professional ethics. Kathryn is skilled at growing staff into leaders.

Kathy Denise Dixon was born in Baltimore and grew up in Harford County, Maryland. She is a graduate of Howard University School of Architecture and attended UCLA matriculating with a Master's degree in Urban Planning in 1993. Kathy has been a licensed architect since 1998 and started the firm K Dixon Architecture, PLLC in 2003. She acquired legacy firm Walton Madden Cooper Robinson Poness in 2016. Kathy is a past president of the National Organization of Minority Architects and was elevated to Fellow in the American Institute of Architects in 2017. She is also the co-author of the book titled “The Business of Architecture: Your Guide to a Financially Successful Firm” published in December 2017.

Katherine Williams, AIA, NOMA, LEED AP is a licensed architect in Northern Virginia and currently a Senior Project Manager at a DC university. Her career path includes work in traditional architecture firms, community development, and managing commercial construction for a general contractor. Katherine has written extensively about the architecture profession, diversity in the industry, and community development. She has served as editor for multiple publications and was the NOMA magazine editor from 2009-2014. She writes at katherinerw.com and is publisher/editor for archstories.com.

Melissa R. Daniel is an architectural designer in Maryland, and the creator and host of the Architecture is Political, a podcast where Black and Brown folks have a conversation about architecture. She served as executive co-chair of the 2017 AIA Women’s Leadership Summit, and was a recipient of a 2018 AIA Associates Award.

📍 Show Links:

RIDING THE VORTEX - AIA
Black Women in Architecture Network (Show your support through a financial contribution that will help support their initiatives!)
Kathryn Prigmore
K Dixon Architecture
Katherine Williams
Melissa R Daniel
Follow Melissa on Twitter

📚 Continue Learning:

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Bonus Replay: Southeast Asian American Architects Jul 06, 2023

Replay: Southeast Asian American Architects

Leaders of the profession share diverse perspectives on race, equity, and architecture.

Practice Disrupted is committed to elevating conversations on justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion to teach, empower, and build greater awareness across the industry. Building from prior diversity conversations, this week we learn about Southeast Asian Architects.

Guests:

Meghana Joshi, AIA, NOMA is a strong proponent of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Justice in the architecture profession. At SoCal NOMA, she is a Director of Outreach and Recruitment for Project Pipeline and works towards increasing minority representation in architecture through summer camps for middle and high school students. She founded AIA Orange County’s Women in Architecture Committee in 2015 to give a platform for Orange County firms to meaningfully contribute towards the improvement of professional conditions for women in architecture. She joined AIA Orange County’s Board of Directors in 2019 and founded EDI+J Committee to increase minority representation through mentorship in leadership. She founded “Project Amplify” to amplify voices and works of minority architects in the AEC industry. She is an active member of ULI-OC/IE’s Office and Commercial Product Council. She is currently engaged in bringing ULI’s Urban Plan program to educate underrepresented demographics and communities. She is also an active member and advocate for “Belong at Little” – Little’s Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Task Force.

Suyama Bodhinayake, Assoc. AIA diverse experience in architecture spans three continents, shaping his commitment to design excellence, sustainability and service. He currently resides and works in Southern California.

Throughout his career, Suyama appreciates the opportunities to contribute to international and national award-winning projects, as well as the opportunities to serve the profession through a variety of leadership roles within the AIA. Since 2018, he has been a member of the AIA Orange County (AIA OC) Committee on the Environment (COTE) and a founding member of the COTE Southern California Coalition in 2019. In 2020, he joined the AIA OC’s Board of Directors and has since served as the chapter’s Director of Sustainability and the Chair of COTE, leading a multi-faceted approach to promoting sustainability. As a member of the AIA California COTE Advocacy Task Force, he advocates for building decarbonization policies at a local and state level. Suyama is committed to sustainability as part of design excellence. As a member of AIA OC’s Design Awards committee, he guided the process of how every AIA OC design awards submission must now comply with the AIA’s Framework for Design Excellence. Additionally, Suyama advocates for architects to be recognized as stewards of the built environment. He was nominated, and currently serves as AIA Orange County’s first Director of Advocacy. He has advanced AIA’s role as a leader in sustainability within communities around Orange County, California. He has been supporting education in architecture since 2016, serving on the Advisory Board for the Architectural Technology Program at Orange Coast College.

As a champion of causes that impact our future, Suyama firmly believe in the Native American saying, “we do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.”

Farah Naz Ahmad is an Architect and LEED Accredited Professional based in New York City, specializing in building sustainability and green building standards. Her public sector experience in city government agencies includes sustainable design review of projects, assessment and development of technical standards and energy code compliance. Additionally, Farah is engaged in green building journalism, spreading awareness on environmental policy and current events. Farah also shares her experience in sustainability through social media, documenting eco-travel and lifestyle, as well as best practices on energy efficiency. Farah previously served as a building energy code official at the New York City Department of Buildings and is now working on green school projects for The City of New York.

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Bonus Replay: Architecture, And EDI+J Jun 29, 2023

Replay: Architecture, And: EDI+J

What is the role of a firm leader focused on equity, diversity, inclusion, and justice?

As we continue to expand our exploration of diversity in practice, we’ve invited Yiselle Santos Rivera back to the podcast so she can share what she’s learned after two years of serving HKS as their Director of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, & Justice.

What does it mean to position someone in a firmwide leadership role dedicated to increasing diversity within an architecture studio? What lessons can firms learn from the adoption of a leadership position of this scale? And what are some of the challenges in driving change in this capacity? Yiselle will help us explore this conversation in depth with personal stories from her leadership experience, as well as lessons learned along the way.

Guest:

Yiselle Santos Rivera, AIA, NOMA, LLSSYB, LEED AP BD+C, WELL AP is a medical planner and Global Director of Justice, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion at HKS. With national and international experience on a broad range of healthcare, sports, residential, institutional, and commercial/mixed-use projects, she thrives on designing for inclusive communities, building belonging through equitable practices, and empowering the next generation of leaders in the architecture, design, and construction industry.

Yiselle is a published author, national speaker, has been featured on various podcasts, and is the founder of “We Inspiring Emerging Leaders in Design” (WIELD), recipient of the 2019 AIA Diversity Program Recognition Award. She is a storyteller, a 2015 Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program Scholar, and a recipient of the 2018 AIA Associate Award.

Show Links:

📍 HKS

📍 AIADC WIELD

📚 Continue Learning:

AIA Guides for Equitable Practice

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120: Season 6 Finale, a Moment for Change Jun 22, 2023

Episode 120: Season 6 Finale, a Moment for Change

What does it mean to be elected the 101st President of AIA National, the largest design organization globally?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, co-host Je’Nen Chastain interviews fellow co-host Evelyn Lee in her first interview after being elected the 2024 First Vice President / 2025 President-elect of the AIA, and why they see this election as a moment of change within the profession.

Evelyn answers all the questions that individuals asked during the campaign, opens up about what it takes to run a campaign for AIA National, and talks about what she hopes to accomplish during her one-year term.

While it is the end of a race, it is just the beginning of the work that the industry has ahead of it, and it will take a community to continue the momentum that this election has started.

Co-Hosts:

Evelyn Lee is the Global Head of Workplace Strategy and Innovation at Slack Technologies, and Founder of the Practice of Architecture. She integrates her business and architecture background with a qualitative and quantitative focus to build better experiences for the organization’s employees, clients, and guests. She is widely published, wrote a monthly column for Contract magazine for over three years, and is now a frequent contributor to Architect Magazine. Evelyn has received numerous industry awards, including 2016 40 Under 40 award for Building Design + Construction and the 2014 AIA National Young Architects Award. She served as the first-ever female Treasurer to the AIA National Board in 2020-2021.

Je’Nen Chastain, is the founder of Apostrophe Consulting, a practice focused on helping architects and next-gen leaders strengthen their teams and businesses. In addition to consulting with firm leaders on practice management issues, she mentors architects on career development, leadership, and strategy. She specializes in facilitating conversations that engage multi-generational teams and has designed, developed, and presented dozens of training programs that inspire next-gen leaders. Je’Nen received the 2017 AIA National Associates Award, an Associates Award from AIA California in 2012, and an Emerging Professionals Award from AIA San Francisco in 2017. She served on the AIA National Board in 2010.

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119: Architecture, And: YouTube, Entrepreneurship, & Architecture Jun 15, 2023

Episode 119: Architecture, And: YouTube, Entrepreneurship, & Architecture

What is the role of visual storytelling in architecture, and how can it help architects gain clients?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we interview Dami Lee, a multi-hyphenate architect that launched her firm off of the success of her self-titled YouTube Channel.

We talk about the next generation of architects, how they seek more meaning in their work, and finding different outlets of content creation to tell the stories they are most interested in.

We also center on Dami’s journey from freelance photographer to YouTube sensation and have an honest conversation about how the channel enables her to do architecture and how her architecture practice creates content for the channel. The conversation looks at the lack of scalability within the traditional business model and the importance of scalability when it comes to growing a business and enjoying life while doing so.

Overall, the episode offers a fascinating look into the architecture industry's unique challenges and the innovative ways that young architects are creating new paths for themselves.

Guests:

Dami Lee is a successful YouTube entrepreneur with over 765,000 subscribers and the founder of Nolli Studio. A licensed Architect in Vancouver, BC, Dami has led various small projects and renovations, typically working with tight budgets, fast timelines, and complex existing conditions. Her desire to explore different typologies and work on larger projects led her to Faulknerbrowns Architects before starting her firm.

She is inspired by students and others in the field and believes the current environment is ripe for a happier, healthier, and more connected generation of architects.

📍 Show Links:

https://damilee.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@DamiLeeArch

https://nollimedia.com/

https://www.instagram.com/damileearch/

https://www.instagram.com/nollistudio/

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118: 2023 AIA Architecture Firm Award Winner, Mithun Jun 08, 2023

Episode 118: 2023 AIA Architecture Firm Award Winner, Mithun

What can we learn from the 2022 AIA Architecture Firm Awards Winner, Mithun?

Mithun is an integrated design firm dedicated to creating positive change in people’s lives. The firm’s team of architects, landscape architects, interior designers, urban designers and planners work in a wide range of typologies and scales — with a focus on urban environments and places where people live, work and learn. Mithun is an internationally recognized leader in sustainability, combining exemplary design with a focus on building and site performance, human health and social equity.

Guests:

Greg Catron is an Architect and Senior Associate who has been with Mithun for almost 9 years. He has a passion for complex technically challenging design with diverse experience in residential highrise, mixed use development, educational facilities, cultural centers, and office design. He is a member of Mithun’s sustainability committee with expertise in healthy materials research and implementation. Greg also balances his career in architecture with his practice as a felt textile artist.

Katie Stege, AIA, is a Senior Associate at Mithun who is passionate about pursuing interdisciplinary solutions to complex land use challenges. Katie co-leads Mithun’s R+D efforts, supports strategic climate resilience initiatives, and works on design teams at the district, neighborhood, and building scale. Her dual architectural and environmental background lend a data-driven approach to designs that address rural conservation, outdoor education, and resilient and equitable planning. She co-chairs AIA Seattle’s Adaptation and Resilience committee, nerds out about linking GIS tools to visualization workflows, and appreciates multi-day mountain adventures in any season.

Michael Bryant, AIA, LEED AP BD+C is an Architect and Senior Associate at Mithun. He has a passion for exploring the intersection of design and Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI). He works toward finding synergies in JEDI and design through professional work experience on multi-family residential, education, and master planning projects. In addition to professional work, Michael is also part of the JEDI Committee at Mithun and past board member of National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) Northwest Chapter, where he was a key contributor and co-chair facilitator of the Call-to-Action pledge.

📍 Show Links:

https://mithun.com/

Press Release: https://www.aia.org/press-releases/6574742-mithun-receives-2023-aia-architecture-firm

Award Summary: https://www.aia.org/showcases/6572178-mithun

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117: Towards an Equitable and Inclusive Future: LGBTQIA+ Architects Jun 01, 2023

Episode 117: Towards an Equitable and Inclusive Future: LGBTQIA+ Architects

What would an equitable future for LGBTQIA+ people look like? What’s the role of architecture in designing an equitable future?

Expanding our equity, diversity, and inclusion series, episode 117 explores the perspectives of LGBTQIA+ architects and designers working to create a more equitable future for all. One of the earliest episodes in this series, “Voices from the Future of the Profession,” episode 016, was recorded in 2020. Since that recording date, a number of anti-LGBTQIA+ bills and legislation have been passed across the United States - risking protections against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. As architects and designers, we believe there is much more we can do to create safe and inclusive policies and spaces in the built environment and within our communities. We’ve invited leaders to share their stories and discuss what matters most in this moment of change.

Guest Moderator:

Dedicated to advancing equity, diversity, inclusion, and visibility of LGBTQIA+ architects, architecture adjacent, and design professionals, Sarah Nelson-Woynicz, AIA, is the Founder of Pride by Design. As a Project Architect with HKS, Inc in Atlanta, Georgia, Sarah’s professional practice focuses on commercial, mixed-use, and multi-family markets, while also amplifying and engaging in HKS’ justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion work. Sarah has served on the AIA Atlanta Board of Directors and currently serves at the AIA Young Architects Forum Advisory Committee, Community Director.

Guests:

Rajas Karnik is a Project Architect with over 20 years of varied project experience in urban design, transportation, commercial and residential buildings.

Raj grew up in India, where he was surrounded by a family of artists. As a child, he spent many days in his father's architecture office and felt it was his destiny to follow in his footsteps. He attended the Academy of Architecture in Mumbai, his father's alma mater, before moving to the United States to pursue his Master of Architecture at Texas A&M University. Raj believes a strong team drives a successful project. It's a combination of personality and communication, but mostly it's about respect. Architecture is one of the few professions where you are literally learning new every day—from different building parameters, to changing client needs and goals, and new consultant teams. He feels that you have to form personal relationships and learn from everyone, so treating everyone equally and with respect is most important.

Rajas is also the co-founder and Past President of Build Out Alliance, a non-profit organization that promotes and advocates for the LGBTQ+ community within the building design and construction industry. Through this group he helps create visibility for Out LGBTQ professionals and create a safe environment for them to celebrate who they are.

Beau Frail is a poet, artist, and architect. Beau is passionate about community-engaged design and advancing equity and justice, including within the LGBTQIA+ community. Beau has served on the Texas Society of Architects (TxA) Board of Directors, where he helped launch the EDI Committee, and on the AIA National Associates Committee. He helped start LGBTQIA+ Alliances at AIA Austin and AIA New York. Beau was honored with the 2020 TxA Presidential Citation and the 2018 AIA Austin Honor Award for Community Service. Beau was selected as a Next City Vanguard, an AIA Design Justice Fellow, and an Association for Community Design Fellow. While his poetry manuscript has been rejected by publishers many times, he remains steadfast and had the honor of being one of Rupi Kaur’s opening acts last year during her poetry world tour. He is a Project Architect at Fox Fox Studio and has his own consulting firm, Activate Architecture. He currently lives/works between Brooklyn, NY and Austin, TX.

K Kaczmarek is an interior designer who designs spaces by first considering the people who will interact with and use them. K works collaboratively with architects and built environment teams to create beautiful, barrier-free, inclusive spaces. As a member of the transgender and disabled communities, K is passionate about equitable design. They have a unique perspective on why spaces work well and which spaces could be improved to serve all potential users. K is particularly inspired by bold, vibrant interiors that promote thinking outside the box. Their recent project work has centered around designing with neurodiverse communities for inclusive workplaces, and conducting research about belongingness at work. Their proudest work is found in their research project, Designing Beyond the Binary, a critical study on the relationship between gender and the built environment. K works at Mithun, located in Seattle, WA.

📍 Learn more about the programs these leaders support:

Pride by Design

Build Out Alliance

AIA Austin's LGBTQIA Alliance

Designing Beyond the Binary

📚 Continue Learning:

Practice Disrupted Episode 016: Voices from the Future of the Profession

Related Links:

📍 Follow our Guests on Social:

Beau on Instagram

Sarah on Instagram

Designing Beyond the Binary

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116: Visualizing the Future: Mission 2130 May 25, 2023

Episode 116: Visualizing the Future: Mission 2130

What will the world look like in 100 years, and what is the architect's role within it?

On August 25 to 27, 2022, the American Institute of Architects invited 50 architects, designers, and affiliated professionals to YAF Summit 30: Mission 2130, the 30th-anniversary summit of the Young Architects Forum (YAF). These individuals were asked to imagine the world 100 years into the future and to develop a roadmap to a better society. The goal was to orient attendees beyond the immediately accessible into a truly future-forward mindset.

We sit down with the Past Chair, Current Chair, and Vice Chair of the Young Architects Forum to talk about the event and how they used its findings to shape the strategic plan for the next five years of the committee’s work.

Finally, we explore:

What’s the role of the next generation of architects in the industry's future?
What are the greatest challenges and opportunities that the industry faces? AND
How can you get involved with the Young Architects Forum?

Guests:

Jessica O’Donnell, AIA is a Project Architect in Collingswood, New Jersey, specializing in multifamily and affordable housing. She was the 2022 Chair of the Young Architects Forum, recognized as a BD+C Networks 40 under 40 honoree, and is a 2022 AIA Young Architects Award recipient.

Matt Toddy, AIA is a Partner at Astra Studios in Columbus, Ohio. Toddy is the 2023 Chair of the AIA Young Architects Forum, the 2022 President of AIA Columbus, and a 2021 recipient of the AIA Young Architect Award.

Jason Takeuchi, AIA, NCARB, NOMA is a project architect at Ferraro Choi And Associates in Honolulu, HI. Recognized with the 2018 AIA Associates Award and 2023 AIA Young Architect Architect Award, Jason is currently the Vice Chair of the AIA Young Architects Forum and will chair the committee in 2024.

📍 Show Links:

YAF Summit 30: Mission 2130

Mission 2130 Post-Event Report

📚 Continue Learning:

AIA YAF Connection 21.01 - Mission 2130

Lakisha Woods’ welcome remarks for AIA’s Mission 2130 Code Red Charrettes

Mission 2130 Code Red Charrette Toolkit

Volunteer at the AIA: Get Involved

💻 Learn about our podcast partner:

👉 This episode is sponsored by Autodesk.

Autodesk has been part of the design conversation since 1982, providing the tools that help architects around the globe imagine and create beautifully designed, memorable buildings that people love and admire.

Autodesk is honored to support the work of Practice Disrupted, bringing the architecture community together, sparking curiosity, and leading vibrant and necessary conversations with the industry’s visionaries and thought leaders.

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115: Leading a Culture of Mentorship May 18, 2023

Episode 115: Leading a Culture of Mentorship

How do you apply mentorship in project work and team collaboration?

Mentorship is a term frequently used in the field of architecture. But what exactly is mentorship? Many architects struggle to mentor because they’re unsure what mentorship looks like and when to apply it. To help retain, attract, and develop the next generation of architects, the concept of mentorship is a necessary leadership tool needed inside the architecture firm to support a healthy culture of feedback and guidance. By considering mentorship as an integral part of a talent development strategy, architects can introduce mentorship conversations at the project level of their day-to-day operations. To help us discuss applied mentorship within project settings and teams, we’ve invited Ben Kasdan to join us. Ben is a Principal and Design Leader at KTGY in Washington, DC. He’ll share some of the ways he’s thought about mentorship in the context of managing his projects and people.

Guest:

Ben Kasdan, AIA, is a Principal and Design Leader at KTGY in Washington, DC. He is a frequent speaker and published writer about the value of design, mentorship, advocacy, sustainable architecture, resilience, student housing, multifamily housing, and mixed-use communities. He has held leadership positions with AIAS at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, AIA Orange County, AIA California, and AIA National, including serving as the 2019 President of AIA California.

📍 Show Links:

Learn more bout KTGY

Read the book "Multipliers"

📚 Continue Learning:

Listen to PD 051 Designing a Culture of Mentorship

💻 Learn about our podcast partner:

👉 This episode is sponsored by Autodesk.

Autodesk has been part of the design conversation since 1982, providing the tools that help architects around the globe imagine and create beautifully designed, memorable buildings that people love and admire.

Autodesk is honored to support the work of Practice Disrupted, bringing the architecture community together, sparking curiosity, and leading vibrant and necessary conversations with the industry’s visionaries and thought leaders.

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114: The Architecture of Motherhood May 11, 2023

Episode 114: The Architecture of Motherhood

What lessons can you learn from an immigrant architect about starting a firm in the US while becoming a mother?

In celebration of Mother's Day this weekend, we welcome back Gloria Kloter, the founder and CEO of Glow Architects and a best-selling author. Less than a year ago, she released her book, "The Architecture of Motherhood," which shares her journey to building a business while becoming a new mom. In this episode, we revisit Kloter's story and book to see what additional lessons she has learned since its publication. Now a mom of two little ones, Kloter shares how motherhood has continued to shape her perspective on architecture and design.

Through "The Architecture of Motherhood," Kloter offers a unique perspective on both motherhood and architecture. Her book is a testament to the power of personal experience and how it can shape one's professional life. Join us as we dive deeper into Kloter's story and learn more about her journey as an immigrant architect, business owner, and mother.

Guest:

Gloria Kloter, AIA, NCARB, CODIA, is an award-winning architect, founder and CEO of Glow Architects, a keynote speaker, and a bestselling author. Gloria has been a practicing architect both in her home country (Dominican Republic) and in the United States since 2004. She is an advocate for immigrant architects, women in architecture, and motherhood.

In her book, The Architecture of Motherhood, she shares her incredible journey to becoming a worldwide renowned architect and business owner while being a new mom. Through this book, the reader can learn how women in any industry can find a balance between their professional life and motherhood without having to compromise either role. Gloria is also a co-author of the bestselling book “City Shapers: Stories of Immigrant Designers”, a compilation of the journey of 24 successful professionals from all over the world who are making a positive impact and paving the way in the USA as architects and leaders in our industry.

Kloter has dedicated a huge chunk of her career to helping other young architects grow. As a leader in the architecture community, she is the founder of the Foreign Architects, a private online community where she mentors young and aspiring immigrant architects on how to obtain their architect license in the United States.

As a testament to her influence and impact, Gloria Kloter currently serves as the Architect Licensing Advisor of the State of Florida through AIA Florida. She is a part of the Board of Directors of the AIA Tampa Bay where she is the founder and chairperson of the Women in Architecture (WIA) committee.

Among her awards and recognitions, Gloria is a recipient of the Outstanding Leadership Award 2022 by Realty 2.0 and the AIA Tampa Bay 2020 Kelley Emerging Professional Award, She was also honored with the 2019 Sho-Ping Ching Women’s Leadership Summit Scholarship, a recognition to mid-career women architects who are advancing toward leadership roles and are making a positive impact within their communities.

Gloria has been a keynote speaker and panelist on several occasions at the Young Architect conference, YASS, YAWS, NCARB's Architect Licensing Advisor Summit, AIA National Conference on Architecture, Women Architects Festival, World Creativity and Innovation Conference, AIA Western Mountain Region Vision 2020, and Realty 2.0, among other events.

Gloria Kloter and Glow Architects have been featured by major architectural and global publications like Architizer, Young Architect Podcast, Context & Clarity Podcast, Practice Disrupted Podcast, EntreArchitect, Arquitexto, NCARB, YAF Connection, South Tampa Magazine, Thrive Global, Tech Times, Influencive, and others, regarding her experience in the field of Architecture, Interior Design and her journey as a foreign architect in the USA.

📍 Show Links:

Immigrant Architects

📚 Continue Learning:

The Architecture of Motherhood

City Shapers: Stories of Immigrant Designers

💻 Learn about our podcast partner:

👉 This episode is sponsored by Autodesk.

Autodesk has been part of the design conversation since 1982, providing the tools that help architects around the globe imagine and create beautifully designed, memorable buildings that people love and admire.

Autodesk is honored to support the work of Practice Disrupted, bringing the architecture community together, sparking curiosity, and leading vibrant and necessary conversations with the industry’s visionaries and thought leaders.

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113: 2023 AIA Gold Medal Award Winner Carol Ross Barney May 04, 2023

Episode 113: 2023 AIA Gold Medal Award Winner Carol Ross Barney

What can we learn from 2023 AIA Gold Medal Award Winner Carol Ross Barney?

Join us this week as we speak with Carol Ross Barney, the 2023 AIA Gold Medal winner. Ryan Gann, a former employee of Carol's and one of her students, will be our facilitator. Get ready to be inspired by a unique conversation that only happens between two individuals who have a great deal of respect for each other and have worked together for many years.

Ryan and Carol's conversation is a fascinating exploration of the intersection between architecture and social justice. They discuss the importance of Equity + Representation in architecture, and how Carol has been a trailblazer in this area throughout her career. She shares stories about the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated field, and how she overcame them with the help of other women who inspired and supported her along the way.

The conversation also touches on Purpose Driven Architecture, which is an approach that prioritizes the needs of people and communities over aesthetics or ego. Carol explains how this philosophy has guided her work, particularly in projects that serve marginalized communities. Finally, Ryan and Carol go beyond architecture to discuss how design can be used as a tool for social change.

They talk about the role of architects in addressing issues like climate change, affordable housing, and racial inequality, and how Carol's work has been driven by a desire to impact society positively. Overall, this conversation is a powerful reminder of the potential for architecture to be a force for good in the world, and of the importance of diversity and inclusion in the field.

It was a great privilege to sit back and listen to these two individuals. We hope that you will enjoy the change-up in the format of this episode and find it as insightful as we did.

Guests:

Carol Ross Barney, FAIA, HASLA has been in the vanguard of civic space design since founding Ross Barney Architects in 1981. With a career that spans nearly 50 years, Carol has made significant contributions to the built environment, the profession, and architectural education. From the early days in the United States Peace Corps planning National Parks in Costa Rica to recent collaborations with City Governments, Carol has relentlessly advocated that excellent design is a right, not a privilege. At the forefront for equity in the architectural profession, Carol has long sought to move beyond her gender as a contributing factor or hindrance to success. But it’s not enough just to blaze the trail, Carol continually teaches, mentors, and empowers young architects to contribute their ideas and designs to progress the profession.

Ryan Gann, AIA, NOMA an Architect and Design Strategist; helps clients become better versions of themselves through design, culture, and prosperity. This work expands beyond architecture and often sits at the intersection of engagement and facilitation, elevating community-centered voices through the built environment. Ryan is the recipient of the AIA Associates Award, Schiff Foundation Fellowship from the Art Institute of Chicago, was the inaugural Architect-in-Residence at the Hyde Park Art Center, and recently co-curated an exhibition with Carol at the Chicago Architecture Center titled ReCovered: Chicago's Urban Tree Canopy."

📍 Show Links:

Learn more about Ross Barney Architects

Meet Ryan Gann

📚 Continue Learning:

Learn about AIA Gold Medal Winner Carol Ross Barney

💻 Learn about our podcast partner:

👉 This episode is sponsored by Autodesk.

Autodesk has been part of the design conversation since 1982, providing the tools that help architects around the globe imagine and create beautifully designed, memorable buildings that people love and admire.

Autodesk is honored to support the work of Practice Disrupted, bringing the architecture community together, sparking curiosity, and leading vibrant and necessary conversations with the industry’s visionaries and thought leaders.

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112: Leading Climate Action Through Adaptation & Mitigation Apr 27, 2023

Episode 112: Leading Climate Action Through Adaptation & Mitigation

How can architects support their communities before a disaster happens?

This week we speak with Illya Azaroff, an internationally recognized leader in disaster mitigation, adaption, regenerative design and resilient planning strategies. Following Superstorm Sandy, Illya was a frequent consultant to New York City and other public entities on issues of resilience, policy and sustainability. His work has continued to expand beyond New York into wide-reaching US and international communities. Illya is using his training in architecture to help the communities he partners with access funding and implement climate-focused solutions. We discuss some of the projects he supports, strategies he recommends architects can take action on, and the difference between adaptation and mitigation. Illya further explains why architects must become global leaders in climate action.

Guest:

Illya Azaroff, FAIA, is an Architect, Geographer, and professor at New York City College of Technology (CUNY). He is the founding director of +LAB Architect, whose mission is to build resilient capacity and advance goals for a sustainable, regenerative future while giving underserved communities greater voice and visibility. Illya serves on the AIA National Board (2023-25). He served as a COP-27 delegate and is leading the COP-28 delegation for the AIA this year. Currently, Illya serves as a technical expert on the New York Climate Impact Assessment.

📍 Show Links:

https://www.pluslabglobal.com/

https://illyaazaroff.com/

📚 Continue Learning:

Listen to PD Episode 004 - Purpose Driven Practice

COP

https://www.aia.org/articles/6571631-aia-delegates-at-cop27-provide-key-takeawa

https://www.aia.org/resources/6077668-framework-for-design-excellence

Adaption

https://www.undrr.org/publication/sendai-framework-disaster-risk-reduction-2015-2030

https://climatechampions.unfccc.int/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/SeS-Adaptation-Agenda_Complete-Report-COP27_FINAL-1.pdf

Performance Based Codes

http://media.iccsafe.org/downloads/CodesPlus/Performance-Based-Building-Design-Concepts-Chapter2.pdf

2030 Commitment

https://www.aia.org/pages/6464938-the-aia-2030-commitment

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111: Practice with Purpose - A Guide to Mission Driven Design Apr 20, 2023

Episode 111: Practice with Purpose - A Guide to Mission Driven Design

How can architects address some of society’s most urgent challenges?

Written by LEDDY MAYTUM STACY Architects, “Practice with Purpose: A Guide to Mission Driven Design” is about designing buildings beyond their property lines to address some of society’s most urgent challenges: the climate emergency, racial and ethnic injustice, chronic homelessness, educational crises, and the preservation of the embodied carbon and culture of existing buildings. These are not discrete phenomena - they are inextricably linked in an ecological and societal emergency that demands creative, integrated design responses. Architects and designers have a historic opportunity to help lead our communities toward an equitable, climate-positive future for all.

This week we sit down with Founding Principal William Leddy and Senior Associate Gwen Fuertes of LMSA to learn more about the firm’s model for practice, their new book, their projects, and net zero carbon architecture.

Guests:

William Leddy, FAIA, is a Founding Principal of San Francisco-based LEDDY MAYTUM STACY Architects, the 2017 recipient of the AIA Firm Award. For over 30 years, he has been a national leader in the design of environments that celebrate our place in the natural world. LMSA has received more than 175 design awards and is one of only three firms to have received eleven or more national AIA Committee on the Environment Top Ten Green Project awards. A past chair of the national AIA COTE, he currently serves as the AIA California Vice President for Climate Action, helping to advance the rapid decarbonization of the built environment in California and beyond. He is the co-author of his firm’s new book – “Practice with Purpose: A Guide to Mission Driven Design”, published in late 2022.

Gwen Fuertes, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, has two decades of work in design, research, and analysis of high-performing buildings. She began her career at the US Green Building Council in Washington, DC. She then worked at the Center for the Built Environment (CBE) as a graduate student researcher, acquiring a depth of expertise in building science and post-occupancy analysis. Gwen has worked at LEDDY MAYTUM STACY Architects for over nine years, designing low-carbon, mission-driven projects in Northern California.

Gwen was a member and former co-chair of the AIA 2030 Commitment working group, most recently leading the pivot of the program towards a carbon-focused metric. She was also a member of the LEED Technical Committee. She has taught at California College of the Arts and UC Berkeley as an adjunct lecturer, focusing on energy efficiency, resilience and resource cycles, and considers teaching a passion. She has spoken at numerous national conferences on integrating low-carbon design in practice.

📍 Show Links:

Learn more about LEDDY MAYTUM STACY Architects
Purchase Practice with Purpose: A Guide to Mission Driven Design

📚 Continue Learning:

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110: Architecture, And: Ceramics Apr 13, 2023

Episode 110: Architecture, And: Ceramics

How do you balance a career in architecture while exploring a passion for art?

This week we’re joined by Betty Chung, a registered architect, designer and ceramic artist, currently working as an architect by day and as a ceramic artist by night. Her ceramic work is a synthesis of art and architecture, exploring forms by their materiality and texture through 2 & 3 dimensions expressing form and the creation of sculptural yet usable objects. In this interview we explore how Betty has successfully built parallel careers in architecture and an artist. She has continued to practice while also building her ceramic business from the ground up. She discusses her work in the built environment, in clay, and raising her new daughter.

Guest:

Betty Chung began her interest in ceramic in 2008 through involvement at the Auckland Potters Studio, working alongside with some world-class Ceramic Artists. From this early work she recognised the importance of expressing her Asian heritage, fused with her up-bringing within Western culture. It is from this bi-cultural aspect that characterises her ceramic and architectural work.

Betty has exhibited her work both in Australia and New Zealand. Betty’s work are now found about the world from a unique commission for an exclusive dinner set for a 60m luxury super yacht, Athos, to commission in restaurants, to sales at the Te Uru Gallery, Tauranga Gallery and other local retails, cafes and restaurants.

📍 Show Links:

Learn more about Betty Chung Ceramics

Learn more about Isthmus Group

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109: Architecture is Political Crossover Apr 06, 2023

Episode 109: Architecture is Political Crossover

How is architecture political?

This week we are joined by Melissa R. Daniel, a fellow podcaster and creator of Architecture is Political, a podcast where Black and Brown folks have a conversation about architecture. In launching and developing her podcast, Melissa shares her story of growing up in Tyler House, a low-income housing development in Washington, DC. Her experience inspired her to pursue a career in architecture. Through the creation of her podcast, Melissa is exploring her identity and the role architects can take in political activism and design. We'll discuss why architecture is political and how architects can stay engaged through their work.

Guest:

Melissa R. Daniel is a Facilities Project Manager in Maryland and is the creator/ host of the Architecture is Political (AIP) podcast, where Black and Brown folks discuss architecture. She received the 2022 AIA Whitney M Young Award and the 2018 American Institute of Architects (AIA) Associates Award. Melissa serves as Chair for AIA Housing and Community Development Knowledge Community and as a Steering Committee Member to the DC Legacy Project Barry Farm-Hillsdale.

📍 Show Links:

Listen to Architecture is Political
Follow @archispolly on Instagram

🎤 Related Podcast Episodes:

📍 Episode correction:

26:30, it’s Rev. Earl Tyler, not Earl Grey

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108: Attracting and Retaining Midcareer Women Mar 30, 2023

Episode 108: Attracting and Retaining Midcareer Women

Why are leadership-track women in architecture leaving their firms?

Throughout 100+ episodes of Practice Disrupted, we’ve touched on the missing middle, burnt-out architects, and the challenges in navigating career growth in practice. We wanted to dedicate an entire episode to exploring and understanding why midcareer and even senior-level women are considering leaving their firms. We'll look also discuss the core issues driving retention in the field.

We invited career and executive coach Maya Sharfi on the show to discuss her new whitepaper titled, 'Attracting and Retaining Leadership-Track Women in Architecture & Planning.' Maya has been working extensively with women across practice on training and career development. In this episode, she shares her insight and provides recommendations.

Guest:

Maya Sharfi is a career and executive coach and the founder of Build Yourself. She helps women in design, tech, and innovation advance their careers on their own terms and helps companies grow and promote their rising women leaders through coaching, training, and consulting.

Companies Maya has worked with have seen a 3x increase in the rate of women promoted, and 18% of women are more likely to recommend their companies to other women. They’ve seen more women owning and leading initiatives and setting boundaries that make projects more effective and grow junior staff. Maya's individual clients achieve results like moving into senior director roles, launching new, innovative programs, and achieving $25,000 raises.

Maya has trained national industry groups, like Women in Innovation and the American Institute of Architects, and works with leadership and staff at global design and innovation companies such as Stantec, Gensler, and HOK, and she helps women become principals and partners at their firms.

📍 Show Links:

Learn more about Build Yourself

📚 Continue Learning:

Attracting and Retaining Leadership-Track Women in Architecture & Planning

Apply for Partner & Principal One-on-One Coaching

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107: Architecture, And: Business Development Mar 23, 2023

Episode 107: Architecture, And: Business Development

How do architects leverage their skillset to become better at sales?

This week on Practice Disrupted, we follow the career path of an architect turned architechie who landed in the business development side of a tech company, Monograph. If you are interested in learning more about other roles that architects can have in tech, this one is for you!

We take a deep dive with our guest, Tyler Suomala, on all things in architecture, the realities of burnout running your own practice, entrepreneurship, the search for an architecturally adjacent career, parenthood, and more.

The conversation also goes into different roles in sales, identifying the difference between sales development and account executive roles, how sales differ from his new role in marketing, how important ongoing talent development support has been for his career, and Monograph’s famous 4-day work week.

We also talk about his growth as a content creator on LinkedIn and how he has grown an audience of over 15,000 followers.

Guest:

Tyler Suomala is an architechie and business development professional at Monograph. He helps architects better communicate their unique value through his fun and popular weekly newsletter, Tyler Tactics.

📍 Show Links:

Join Tyler Tactics

Tyler on LinkedIn

Monograph

Other Episodes with individuals from Monograph:

075 - Growing an AEC Startup, The Evolution of a Company

034 - Investing in What’s Next, The Spatial Syndicate

013 - Architecture, And: Entrepreneurship

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106: Open Architecture Collaborative Pathways to Equity Mar 16, 2023

Episode 106: Open Architecture Collaborative Pathways to Equity

How are designers centering equity and racial justice in architecture and design practices?

Open Architecture Collaborative is a global learning community mobilizing architects, designers, and a diverse range of professionals who shape the built environment with technical skills to build capacity with communities experiencing systemic racism and marginalization.

Pathways to Equity is a design leadership experience for social equity. The program aims to create transformative learning experiences, shifting the field towards anti-racism and equitable outcomes. P2E introduces designers to methods for equity in practice, historical and systemic racism within the buit environment, self-reflective and community building practices, and strategies for community engagement.

Consider enrolling in Pathways to Equity for 2023! P2E Virtual is a 10-week online introductory course happening April 11th-June 13th, 2023. Community members, firm principals, and individual volunteers are encouraged to apply.

Guests:

Shalini Agrawal is trained in architecture and is founder of Public Design for Equity. She is director for Pathways to Equity, a leadership program of Open Architecture Collaborative that trains architects and designers in racial justice workshops. She works with interdisciplinary practitioners, firms and organizations to address equity in the workplace and community engagement. She is Associate Professor in Critical Ethnic Studies at California College of the Arts, teaching curricula that aims to decolonize design and architecture practices.

📍 Show Links:

Apply to Pathways to Equity

📚 Continue Learning:

Learn more about the Open Architecture Collaborative

Public Design for Equity

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105: Podcast Live: AIA|LA People, Processes, and Practice: Technology + The Business of Design Mar 09, 2023

Episode 105: Podcast Live: AIA|LA People, Processes, and Practice: Technology + The Business of Design

How can technology elevate the business of design?

AIA Los Angeles invited Practice Disrupted Co-Hosts Evelyn Lee and Je’Nen Chastain to present the opening keynote at their annual technology conference in February.

More about the conference:

Digital transformation is revolutionizing the AECO industry, offering new ways to develop and construct the built environment. The use of cloud, data, and artificial intelligence is maximizing the creative potential of architects and engineers by augmenting their ability to rapidly create, analyze, and optimize designs while streamlining processes and revealing actionable project insights. However, this rapid advancement of technological trends sometimes creates more questions than answers.

How can we better engage with clients using technology? How can we best manage practices? How can we build better and more efficiently? This conference gathers the AECO community to discuss how technology is reshaping the industry and provides a platform for designers, architects, and built environment professionals to embrace the new possibilities of digital and explore innovative solutions for their clients.

A special thank you to: Brian Skowvron, Assoc. AIA, Nicole Buhles, Assoc. AIA, Lauren Coles, AIA, Will Wright, Hon. AIA|LA, & Carlo Caccavale, Hon. AIA|LA

Co-Hosts:

Evelyn Lee is the Global Head of Workplace Strategy and Innovation at Slack Technologies, and Founder of the Practice of Architecture. She integrates her business and architecture background with a qualitative and quantitative focus to build better experiences for the organization’s employees, clients, and guests. She is widely published, wrote a monthly column for Contract magazine for over three years, and is now a frequent contributor to Architect Magazine. Evelyn has received numerous industry awards, including 2016 40 Under 40 award for Building Design + Construction and the 2014 AIA National Young Architects Award. She recently served as the first-ever female Treasurer to the AIA National Board in 2020-2021.

Je’Nen Chastain is the founder of Apostrophe Consulting, a practice focused on helping architects and next-gen leaders strengthen their teams and businesses. In addition to consulting with firm leaders on practice management issues, she mentors architects on career development, leadership, and strategy. She specializes in facilitating conversations that engage multi-generational teams and has designed, developed, and presented dozens of training programs that inspire next-gen leaders. Je’Nen received the 2017 AIA National Associates Award, an Associates Award from AIA California in 2012, and an Emerging Professionals Award from AIA San Francisco in 2017. She served on the AIA National Board in 2010.

📍 Show Links:

More about the conference

PD Technology Playlist

📚 Continue Learning:

Future Forum

AIA Los Angeles

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104: Empowering Student Voices, Ideas, & Actions Mar 02, 2023

Episode 104: Empowering Student Voices, Ideas, & Actions

What is the AIAS, and how are they advancing leadership, design, and service among architecture students?

The American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) is an independent, nonprofit, student-run organization dedicated to providing unmatched progressive programs, information, and resources on issues critical to architecture and the experience of education. This week we speak with the 2022-2023 National President and Vice President of the AIAS to learn more about their work and what is top mind for their members.

Guests:

Cooper Moore, AIAS, Assoc. AIA, NOMA, GRP, is the 66th President of the American Institute of Architecture Students. A graduate of Kent State University, Cooper previously served as the AIAS Midwest Quadrant Director and is currently the Student Representative on the AIA Board of Directors. Raised on the Great Lakes and an avid naturalist, he is passionate about sustainable design, and is a certified Green Roof Professional. Cooper lives and works in Washington, DC.

Nicole Bass is the 2022-2023 National Vice President of the American Institute of Architecture Students. She holds a Bachelor's degree in architecture from City College of New York. Born and raised in New York City, Nicole had an interest in the built environment inspired by traveling to different neighborhoods to visit family in her youth. In high school and college, she pursued internships and programming related to architecture, art, policy, and advocacy. At the Bernard and Ann Spitzer School of Architecture, Nicole held leadership positions in AIAS, NOMAS, FAME, and Student Government to better understand the world of academia, host impactful events, and advocate for the architecture student voice. She looks forward to continuing the good work of make the profession a better place.

📍 Show Links:

https://www.aias.org/

📚 Continue Learning:

March 2023 Quad Conferences

Sponsor an AIAS Member

Chapter Takeover

In Studio Blog

Chapter Leader of the Month

Freedom By Design

Ask An Architect

Model Learning Teaching Culture Policy

Partner with the AIAS

For intrested or questions on career expos, please email president@aias.org or vicepresident@aias.org

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103: Enhancing Workflow with Artificial Intelligence Feb 23, 2023

Episode 103: Enhancing Workflow with Artificial Intelligence

How can artificial intelligence help architects improve their productivity?

AI has recently emerged as a powerful tool for creating written text that is both accurate and informative. From automated news reports to automated customer support chatbots and beyond, AI has enabled the production of content that was unthinkable only a few years ago. This document is a direct example of this trend, as it has been created entirely by AI-powered text generation software. It is our hope that today’s episode will demonstrate the potential of AI and inspire listeners to explore the possibilities this technology presents.

This week we’ve invited Jason Kuperberg on the show to discuss AI, ChatGPT, and a powerful AI writing tool his company created called HyperWrite. Hyperwrite uses a combination of AI-driven analysis and human editing to create content that is both efficient and accurate. Hyperwrite's algorithms are able to quickly analyze a user's writing style and suggest edits that improve the overall clarity of the text.

Guest:

Jason Kuperberg is the co-founder of OthersideAI, an applied AI company that specializes in building writing and communication tools using advanced AI systems such as GPT-3. The company's flagship product, HyperWrite, is one of the first generative AI writing platforms and a leading Chrome extension known for its innovative use of AI technology and focus on user experience and interface.

📍 Show Links:

Try HyperWrite for free

Get the HyperWrite Chrome Extension

Use the discount code TRYHYPERWRITE to get 50% off your first month.

Connect with Jason on LinkedIn

102: Architecture, And: An Evolving Career in Tech Feb 16, 2023

Episode 102: Architecture, And: An Evolving Career in Tech

How are individuals using their training in architecture to explore diverse career paths?

Our ongoing series “Architecture, And:” follows the careers of professionals using their education and training in architecture to expand their current role in practice or apply their skills in an entirely new field. These interviews help us understand how an architectural education prepares people for diverse career opportunities.

Past interviews include:

[073] - Architecture, And: Civic Leadership

[067] - Architecture, And: The Future of Workplace

[066] - Architecture, And: Technology

[055] – Architecture, And: MBA

[054] – Architecture, And: EDI+J

[045] – Architecture, And: Publishing

[043] – Architecture, And: Nonprofit Design Education

[039] – Architecture, And: Customer Success

[036] – Architecture, And: Robotics

[025] – Architecture, And: Tech

[019] – Architecture, And: Film

[015] – Architecture, And: Social Impact

[013] – Architecture, And: Entrepreneurship

Special Guest:

Nick Caravella, AIA, NCARB, NOMA is a registered architect who has transitioned from traditional practice to a focus on working on and with industry technology solutions that help improve the way we work and deliver better outcomes. Nick started his career in technology as he started to wonder how he could make a bigger impact on the profession by helping firms rather than within one. Since starting this journey, Nick has worked in a variety of Sales, Marketing, and Product roles that enabled him to leverage his experience as an architect paired with his training as one to create value for the profession. Today Nick works at Avicado Construction Technology Services and helps Owners with the creative technology solutions they need to better manage their program. In his off hours, you’ll find him contributing to Method Group as an Operations Specialist contributing to rethinking the way we deliver projects using the processes he’s picked up on while working in tech.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Nick on LinkedIn

Learn more about Avicado

📚 Continue Learning:

The Lean Startup by Eric Ries

Business Model Generation by Alexander Osterwalder and Yves Pigneur

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101: Season 6 Launch with Getting Back Into Place Feb 09, 2023

Episode 101: Season 6 Launch with Getting Back Into Place

Welcome back to season 6 of Practice Disrupted!

Co-hosts Evelyn Lee and Je’Nen Chastain sit down with writer and fellow podcaster Sean Joyner of Getting Back Into Place to kick off the first episode of 2023. The discussion includes highlights on what’s ahead for season 6, how the market dip has impacted the tech sector, recommendations for how individuals and firms can prepare for a Recession, and more. Sean shares more about his career path from architecture into writing, and his latest project in podcasting. We discuss his article published on Archinect in 2022, “Debunking Architecture’s Mythological Work Culture.”

Special Guest:

Sean Joyner is a writer and essayist based in Los Angeles. He formerly worked as a full-time Editor and Staff Writer at Archinect. His essays and articles typically explore themes spanning history, pop culture, and philosophy and how they connect to architectural discourse and the experience of architecture.

📍 Show Links:

Listen to Getting Back Into Place, Hosted by Sean Joyner

📚 Continue Learning:

“Debunking Architecture’s Mythological Work Culture” by Sean Joyner, Archinect

AIAU 2023 Economic Update 1

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Replay: Immigrant Architects Jan 26, 2023

Replay: Immigrant Architects

Leaders of the profession share diverse perspectives on equity and architecture.

Expanding our diversity series, this week we learn about the lived experiences of individuals who immigrated to the United States.

Guests:

Originally from Colombia, Graciela Carrillo, AIA, LEED AP, immigrated to the United States in 2003. She recently joined Nassau BOCES Facilities Services as a Senior Manager where she is managing school operational and capital projects. Graciela has committed a decade of volunteer leadership service to the AIA. Currently she is serving as the President 2020-2021 as well as the Chapter’s Women In Architecture Co-Founder and Co-Chair. Graciela was the past 2017-2018 NY Regional Director (YARD) for the Young Architects Forum (YAF). She is also the Co-Founder of the Immigrant Architects Coalition, a group committed to helping and providing resources for immigrant architects to achieve a prosperous career in the US. In 2019, Graciela was the recipient of the AIA NYS Young Architect Award.

Gloria Kloter, AIA, NCARB, CODIA, is founder and CEO of Glow Architects. A practicing architect both in her home country of the Dominican Republic and in the US, she has dedicated her career to helping other young architects grow. She is the founder of the Foreign Architects, a private community in Facebook where she mentors young and aspiring immigrant architects on how to obtain their architect license in the United States. Gloria also serves as the Architect Licensing Advisor of the State of Florida through AIA Florida. She is a part of the Board of Directors of the AIA Tampa Bay where she is the chairperson of the Women in Architecture committee. She was also honored for the 2019 Sho-Ping Ching Women’s Leadership Summit Scholarship, a recognition to mid-career women architects who are advancing toward leadership roles and are making a positive impact within their communities.

Shahad Sadeq, Assoc. AIA is an Iraqi immigrant architectural designer at Smithgroup. She is an active member of the AIA in her local chapter in Dallas, Texas. Shahad is passionate about amplifying diverse voices in the profession and developing sustainable workplace culture. She currently is co-leading the immigrant architect coalition and sits on the J.E.D.I. committee board of Smithgroup. She previously helped found an Equity in Architecture effort through the AIA Kansas City Chapter.

Yu-Ngok Lo, FAIA, CDT, LEED AP is the founding principal of YNL Architects, Inc. His work received numerous design awards such as the NAHB Best of American Living Awards, Gold Nugget Awards, Aurora Awards, American Residential Design Awards, and various AIA Design Awards. The projects of his firm have been published in ArchDaily, Hinge Magazine, CONDE, CommArch Magazine, and Hospitality-Interiors Magazine. Yu-Ngok is a past recipient of the AIBD Designer of the Year, AIA Presidential Citation, AIA National Young Architects Award, BD+C 40 Under 40, 2015 ENR 20 Under 40, and the AIACC Young Architect Award. He was elevated to the AIA College of Fellows in 2020.

Show Links:

📍 Immigrant Architects Coalition

📍 Foreign Architects

📍 Glow Architects

📍 Smithgroup

📍 YNL Architects, Inc.

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Replay: Architecture, Identity, & Culture Jan 19, 2023

Replay: Architecture, Identity, & Culture

How are architects exploring identity and culture through practice?

An architect at Vines Architecture, Vershaé has dedicated her career to the exploration of culture in the built environment. A rising design leader in the southeast, Vershaé has contributed to major cultural projects including the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the Motown Museum Renovation and Addition in Detroit, the Martin Luther King Jr. Central Branch Public Library in Washington, DC, the Gregg Museum of Art and Design Expansion at North Carolina State University, and leads both the Emily Krzyzewski Center Expansion in Durham, NC and Henrietta Lacks Building in Baltimore, MD.

Vershaé helps her clients navigate and design in response to cultural narrative. Through research, storytelling, service, and advocacy she is raising the visibility and representation of historically underrepresented voices. In addition to her project leadership, she contributes to advancing the profession through volunteer service with AIA and NOMA.

Guest:

Vershaé Hite, AIA, NOMA is a licensed architect and Associate at Vines Architecture. Since 2004, Vershaé’s academic and professional career have exposed her to a range of unique experiences throughout the United States, China, Israel and Palestine that have carefully constructed her crafted, compassionate perspectives on the relationship between design and the human condition. Her role as an architect and project leader is founded on her theoretical interests regarding the interconnectedness of culture, community, and art to architecture. For Vershaé, this emerges from a unique framework that she developed while obtaining her master's degree in London. The deeply rooted meanings in her work are extensions of well-crafted, honest stories - are a direct result of both her sensitivity to diverse social and cultural landscapes and an investigative process that looks to film, literature, and experimental art.

As such, her professional portfolio is characterized by complex cultural projects, historic renovations, libraries and higher education projects. As an Architect with award-winning firms like The Freelon Group, Perkins+Will, Andre Johnson Architect, and Vines Architecture, she is well versed in working with complex cultural matters through architectural design and execution.

Show Links:

Vines Architecture

National Museum of African American History & Culture

SAY IT LOUD - North Carolina

Beyond Black

Emily K Center

NCNOMA

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Replay: Asian American Architects Jan 12, 2023

Replay: Asian American Architects

Leaders of the profession share diverse perspectives on race, equity, and architecture.

Against the backdrop of recent acts of hate and violence towards the Asian American community, we are amplifying five stories of Asian American Architects who are actively leading the profession of architecture forward. Practice Disrupted is committed to elevating conversations on justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion to teach, empower, and build greater awareness across the industry.

Guests:

Evelyn M. Lee, FAIA, MBA, MPA is a licensed architect in the state of California, with over 15 years of experience working with individuals and companies that are looking to reshape their future. She is the founder of Practice of Architecture, a co-host on this podcast, Practice Disrupted, the first-ever Senior Experience Designer at Slack Technologies, and the first female Treasurer to AIA National‘s Board of Directors.

📍Follow Evelyn: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Pinterest | Twitter

Susan Chin, FAIA, Hon. ASLA is a principal of DesignConnects and an accomplished architect, urbanist, and civic leader. She formed an independent consultancy on art, architecture, landscape, and urban design in 2020 and provides leadership and advises government, developers and non-profits on design, planning, and policy. Until 2019, she led the Design Trust for Public Space.

📍Follow Susan: LinkedIn

Annie Chu, FAIA, IIDA is an architect, interior designer, and educator with over 30 years of experience at a dozen architectural and design schools across the country and abroad. As a founding principal of Chu+Gooding Architects, Annie has worked extensively with world-renowned museums, cultural facilities, and arts-related institutions.

📍Follow Annie: Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter

Ming Thompson, AIA, NOMA is co-founder of Atelier Cho Thompson, a New Haven- and San Francisco-based multidisciplinary practice working between architecture, interiors, graphics, and strategy. Ming was a recipient of the AIA Young Architect Award in 2020. Her firm has been the recipient of numerous national and regional design honors, including the IIDA Foundation Visionary Award.

📍Follow Ming: Instagram | LinkedIn

Alvin Huang, AIA, NOMA is an award-winning architect, designer, and educator who explores the intersections between technology and culture to produce innovative design work that challenges convention and expresses universal values. He is the founder and principal of Synthesis Design + Architecture and an Associate Professor at the University of Southern California, where he is also the Director of Graduate and Post-professional Architecture.

📍Follow Alvin: Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter

Show Links:

Anti-Asian Violence Resources

Asian American Artists, Now Activists, Push Back Against Hate

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Replay: Voices from the Future of the Profession Jan 05, 2023

Replay: Voices from the Future of the Profession

Future leaders of the profession share diverse perspectives on architecture and the LGBTIQ+ community.

Guests:

Ryan Gann, Designer at Ross Barney Architects

A.L. Hu, Design Initiatives Manager at Ascendant Neighborhood Development

Lora Teagarden, Architect at RATIO

Yiselle Santos Rivera, Firmwide Director of Justice, Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion at HKS

Amy Rosen, Sociospatial Designer at PLASTARC

Ryan Gann, Assoc. AIA

Ryan Gann has blazed a trail founded on service, leadership, and design. From his time as an engaged student leader to his expanding contributions to the built environment, Ryan has managed to stay ambitious while having fun along the way.

As a designer at Ross Barney Architects he has worked on some of the studio’s most ambitious civic projects. These architectural and urban design investigations have allowed him to collaborate with communities across Chicago and the world, expressing the role public space plays in everyday life.

Ryan is the recipient of the 2018 AIA Associates Award, Schiff Foundation Fellowship from the Art Institute of Chicago, and was the inaugural Architect-in-Residence at the Hyde Park Art Center. Ryan previously served on the national boards of the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS), National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), and the American Institute of Architects (AIA).

A.L. Hu, Assoc. AIA

A.L. Hu is a queer, trans, nonbinary Taiwanese-American architect, organizer, and facilitator who lives and works in New York City. Their practice synthesizes organizing for racial, class, and gender justice with world-building and design; rethinks the architect’s role in facilitating accessible spaces; and manifests in design, visual media, and collaborative cultural work. They are a 2019-2021 Enterprise Rose Architectural Fellow and Design Initiatives Manager at Ascendant Neighborhood Development in East Harlem. They shared their experiences on a panel of queer architects at the AIA National Conference on Architecture in 2019; was a Thought Leader at the AIASF Equity by Design Symposium in 2018; and received the 2018 AIANY Emerging New York Architects ARE Scholarship. They received a Master of Architecture from Columbia University GSAPP in 2017, and a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture with a minor in Sustainable Design from UC Berkeley in 2012.

Lora Teagarden, AIA, LEED AP BD+C

Lora is an Architect at RATIO, headquartered in Indianapolis, and the founder of L² Design, LLC. A published author and creator of #AREsketches, her passion for the profession drives her to mentor young professionals and volunteer in her community. She is a 2017 Young Architect Award winner, the 2019 Chair of the Young Architects Forum, 2020 AIA Indianapolis President, and was recently elected as an At-Large Representative on the AIA National Strategic Council. Her website and blog offer unique insights into professional practice, together with inspiration and tips for young architects.

Yiselle Santos Rivera, AIA, NOMA, LSSYB, WELL AP, LEED AP

Yiselle Santos Rivera is a medical planner and the Firmwide Director of Justice, Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion at HKS, Inc. With national and international experience on a broad range of healthcare, institutional, and commercial/mixed-use projects, she thrives on building belonging and designing for inclusion.

Seeking to empower the next generation of leaders, she co-founded the Latin American Interior Designers, Engineers, and Architects (LA.IDEA) DC Committee and founded the “Women Inspiring Emerging Leaders in Design” (WIELD) event, recipient of the 2019 AIA Diversity Program Recognition Award.

Mrs. Santos currently serves on the AIA National Board, the AIA DC Chapter Board, and is Advisor to the DC NOMA Board. She is a member of the AIA Equity and the Future of Architecture Board Committee, the New Urban Agenda Taskforce, and the AIA COVID-19 Health Impact Taskforce.

Yiselle is an author, storyteller, and recipient of the 2018 AIA Associate Award.

Amy Rosen

Amelia ("Amy") Rosen recently served as the 2018-2019 National President of the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) and the 2019 Student Director on the American Institute of Architects (AIA) 2019 National Board of Directors.

Amy is currently working as a Sociospatial Designer at PLASTARC in New York City and is a 2020-2021 At-Large Representative on the AIA Strategic Council, where they serve as a co-convener for the Mental Health and Architecture Incubator. They were born and raised in Los Angeles, and moved to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in 2012, where they received a Bachelor of Architecture and a Master of Science in Sustainable Design from Carnegie Mellon University.

Amy applies integrated design methodologies to everything they do - seeking opportunities to tie architecture into systematic and fluid urban networks. Amy is an advocate for the power of design - to inspire, to unify, and to heal - and is especially passionate about queer space theory, efficient urban water management strategies, and innovative ways to blur the boundaries between the private and public realms. Using their architectural education as a backbone, Amy incorporates equity and social sustainability into their design process. Amy further leverages a passion for data, research, difference, and experimentation in order to unveil innovative design strategies that empower users and ensure a more resilient future.

Show Links:

http://www.r-barc.com/

https://www.enterprisecommunity.org/solutions-and-innovation/rose-fellowship

https://ascendant.nyc/

https://www.l-2-design.com/

https://www.ratiodesign.com/

https://www.hksinc.com/

https://www.aiadc.com/committee/laidea

https://www.aiadc.com/event/wield-women-inspiring-emerging-leaders-design

https://plastarc.com/

Replay: Voices from the Future of the Profession Dec 29, 2022

Replay: Voices from the Future of the Profession

Future leaders of the profession share diverse perspectives on race, equity, and architecture.

Guests:

Leslie Epps, NOMA Student Representative, AIAS & NOMAS Leader at The City College of New York

Sarah Curry, AIAS, Assoc. AIA, NOMA

Beresford Pratt, AIA, NOMA

Melanie Ray, AIA, NOMA, LEED Green Associate, NCARB, Fitwel Amb.

Kendall A. Nicholson, Ed.D, Assoc. AIA, NOMA, LEED GA

Leslie Epps, NOMA Student Representative, AIAS & NOMAS Leader at The City College of New York

Leslie Epps is an accomplished rising fifth year architecture student at the Bernard and Anne Spitzer School of Architecture. She has been passionate about architecture for half of her life and is eager to learn more and enact change moving forward in her career. Awarded NOMA Student Member of the Year 2019, Leslie Epps founded the CCNY NOMAS Chapter in 2018 and served as President until early 2020. Epps also received the title of NOMA Student Representative and serves on the NOMA Board of Directors for the role. In the future she aspires to combine architecture with urban planning in an effort to address social issues and ultimately better society.

Sarah Curry, AIAS, Assoc. AIA, NOMA

Sarah Curry just finished an exhilarating year of living and working in Washington, DC as the 2019-2020 President of the American Institute of Architecture Students. No matter what her next chapter of life holds, she intends to explore and practice her passions for evidence-based and equitable design while pursuing licensure. None of that work would feel fulfilling though, if she is unable to continue advocating for the underserved and supporting design students and others who are interested in designing responsibly for those who need it the most. Originally from outside of Atlanta, Sarah earned her B.Arch in 2018 from Auburn University and completed her Thesis Design-Build Project at Rural Studio the following year. Her very flexible life plans include going to graduate school, teaching, and eventually enjoying nontraditional practice in the vast field of architecture.

Beresford Pratt, AIA, NOMA

Beresford Pratt is a licensed architect and Associate at Ayers Saint Gross in Baltimore, MD where he has worked on a multitude of education/institutional projects. He is passionate about active learning environments and pipeline initiatives, and he enjoys this cross pollination with his professional work. He is currently serving his second year in the AIA as the Mid Atlantic Young Architects Regional Director in the Young Architects Forum (YAF), and he is currently an editor for the YAF’s publication Connection. Beresford is also a co-founder of Baltimore’s local chapter of The National Organization of Minority Architects (Bmore NOMA). Beresford sits on the board and is the Communications Chair/Director. Outside of the industry, if he is not playing soccer, he enjoys volunteering his time with the United Way Central Maryland, and he currently sits on the Emerging Leaders United Council.

Melanie Ray, AIA, NOMA, LEED Green Associate, NCARB, Fitwel Amb.

Melanie Ray is a licensed architect and Associate in the Housing/Mixed-Use studio at Hord Coplan Macht in Baltimore, MD. Since graduating from Penn State’s architecture program in 2015, she has worked on various mixed-use and affordable housing projects, as well as community development projects in Baltimore city and beyond. She is the 424th living black woman licensed in the US to practice architecture and seeks to be an active mentor to promote the goal of doubling the number of licensed black architects by 2030. She currently serves as the Vice President of the Baltimore Chapter of NOMA, Bmore NOMA, and the Northeast University Liaison for NOMA National. In addition to her work at HCM, Melanie is a regular volunteer for pro bono design projects through such organizations as The Neighborhood Design Center and Habitat for Humanity.

Kendall A. Nicholson, Ed.D, Assoc. AIA, NOMA, LEED GA

Kendall Nicholson is a licensed educator, trained architectural designer, and an avid researcher. He works as the Director of Research and Information at the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture (ACSA). With degrees in architecture, real estate and education, his research explores the discipline of architecture through the lens of a social scientist. He has presented research internationally and his research interests surround equity, education, and curriculum within the discipline of architecture.

Nationally, his passion for equity and race relations manifests in his role as the lead researcher for the 2016 and 2018 Equity in Architecture Survey sponsored by AIA San Francisco and Equity by Design (EQxD). He also volunteers as a member of the AIA’s Equity and the Future of Architecture board committee and as an at-large director for the AIA National Associate Committee leading a work group on Mentorship and Equity.

Show Links:

https://www.noma.net/

https://ssa.ccny.cuny.edu/

http://www.aias.org/

https://asg-architects.com/

https://www.hcm2.com/

https://www.acsa-arch.org/

http://eqxdesign.com/equity-in-architecture-survey-2018

Sponsored Episode: NCARB and the Future of Practice Dec 22, 2022

Episode 100: Best of Practice Disrupted

How has Practice Disrupted grown and evolved over 100 episodes?

Co-hosts Evelyn Lee and Je’Nen Chastain celebrate the 100th episode of Practice Disrupted by revisiting their favorite past episodes, some of the most popular episodes, and listener favorites. On this “best of” mixed tape, we’ll revisit re-occurring themes from the series related to: architectural practice, studio culture, technology, EDI+J, career pivots, and entrepreneurship.

While this episode won’t capture every single one of our favorite quotes across 100 episodes, we hope it captures what has made this series so special. For those who want to dive deeper into conversations featured in this episode, we pulled clips from the following episodes:

Practice

Episode 010: Organizational Design, Process, and Innovation

Episode 062: 2022 AIA Gold Medal Winners: Brooks + Scarpa

Episode 086: A Large Firm Perspective on Innovation & Transformation

Episode 087: Designing New Workplace Policies

Culture

Episode 042: Building a Great Place to Work

Episode 047: Talent Development in Practice

Episode 091: How the Future Works

Technology

Episode 018: Remote Practice

Episode 074: Exploring the Evolution of Computational Design

EDI+J

Episode 009: Voices from the Future of the Profession (Black Architects)

Episode 095: Voices of Mothers in Practice

Career Pivots

Episode 007: [Re] Creating Your Career in Architecture

Episode 080: Season 4 Finale with Madame Architect

Episode 029: Taking the Leap from Architecture to Tech

Episode 019: Architecture, And: Film

Entrepreneurship

Episode 067: Architecture And: The Future of Workplace

Episode 075: Growing an AEC Startup / The Evolution of a Company

If you’ve enjoyed the show please leave us a comment and review on your favorite podcasting platform. While we are on winter break, be sure to tune in for a special bonus episode 101, replays of some of our favorite past episodes. A brand new season is ahead in 2023! (PS, we are looking for sponsors!)

Visit our full Practice Disrupted archive over at: https://practiceofarchitecture.com/podcast/.

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099: Critiquing Architecture School Dec 08, 2022

Episode 099: Critiquing Architecture School

What is the present-day student perspective of architecture school?

In his docuseries, Critiquing Architecture School, Alvin Zhu captures what it's like being in architecture school one semester at a time. Along the way, he is also collecting the voices and experiences of his classmates who are all attending the University of New South Wales. Ultimately the series is about creating greater transparency around the educational system and the resulting culture that architecture studio creates.

In this episode, we interview Alvin and one of his producers Sana Tabbsum. Sana joined us on a previous episode and is based in London. She completed her Master's at the University of Greenwich. In the conversation, all four of us found shared experiences of what was happening in studio culture globally, and we collectively reflected on - what we would change about architecture education and what we would keep the same.

Guests:

Alvin Zhu is an aspiring filmmaker pursuing a Master of Architecture at the University of New South Wales. Shortly after graduating from undergrad in 2018, he founded a social media network for architecture students & graduates called “ProjectsbyPeople,” connecting a global community without being bound by physical limitations.

Alvin began volunteering for the Australian Institute of Architects, SONA student body, and created 2 video series catered towards helping the next generation of students.

In 2021, he was awarded the “Student Prize for the Advancement of Architecture” by the Australian Institute of Architects in recognition of his dedication to serving the wider community. This year, he also undertook the role of SONA Vice-President.

Sana Tabassum is a social entrepreneur, content creator, and final year MArch student at the University of Greenwich. She founded :scale (to-scale) in 2019, an architecture blog and platform for students and young designers, to create an inclusive and collaborative archi-community that champions a balance between well-being and productivity.

Since beginning her content-creating journey, Sana has led a team to self-publish an architecture magazine, curated the world’s first virtual architecture convention, and developed a cohort-based course to help architecture students build their skills during the summer.

📍 Show Links:

Critiquing Architecture School

Episode 1 - Getting Started | Critiquing Architecture School

Episode 2 - Transparency from the University? | Critiquing Architecture School

Critiquing Architecture School on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/critiquingarchischool

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098: The Next RIBA President and the Future of Architecture Dec 01, 2022

What is the next RIBA President’s view on the future of architecture?

When Muyiwa Oki steps into the RIBA presidency, he will be the first black architect to hold the position and the youngest. The path to his election is unique and a result of a careful and considered campaign with a clear vision for the future and a call to change how things have been done for a long time.

We speak to him to learn more about his vision for the RIBA and the impact he hopes to have on the architectural community.

Guest:

Muyiwa Oki, RIBA, The Millennial RIBA president-elect (president 2023-2025).

Elected on a campaign to speak up for the future. With the responsibility and privilege of raising the profile of the architect in the UK and globally, his ambitions are to advocate for his campaign priorities of equity, transparency, and innovation in architecture.

As an Architect at Mace Group, he focuses on technology and innovation, working on Modern Means of Construction projects.

During his time at Grimshaw Architects, he was the founder and Chair of the MEGA (Multi-Ethnic Group and Allies) network that drove global cultural change for colleagues.

Muyiwa is an ambassador, speaker and mentor for aspiring architects in programmes such as Mayor of London Design Challenge, Scale Rule, and the Grimshaw Foundation, which exists to encourage greater social mobility within the industry.

📍 Show Links:

‘Architect worker’ Muyiwa Oki wins RIBA presidential election, Architects’ Journal

Muyiwa Oki elected as the next president of RIBA, The Architect’s Newspaper

Muyiwa Oki elected first Black president of the RIBA, dezeen

Muyiwa Oki Elected as RIBA President, archdaily

📚 Continue Learning:

Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)

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097: EntreArchitect Annual Meeting Recap Nov 17, 2022

Episode 097: EntreArchitect Annual Meeting Recap

What topics are important to small firm owners?

In November 2022, the EntreArchitect Community came together for the very first time in Austin, Texas. This active and growing online community launched in 2012, bringing together a global community of small firm entrepreneur architects. On any given day, you can jump into the EntreArchitect Community Facebook group and see small firm owners sharing real-world advice, mentorship, and collaborating across time zones to support one another.

In this episode, we’ll document our experience participating in this first-of-its-kind event.

Featured guests:

Bolanle Williams-Olley, Mancini Duffy

Katelyn Parker, Bungalow Roots

Jennifer Kretschmer, J. Kretschmer Architect

Randy Wilburn, Zweig Group

Robert Yuen, Monograph

Mark R. LePage, EntreArchitect

A special thank you to the EntreArchitect musicians featured in this episode:

Dave Lockhart - Lead Guitar/Vocals

Teigen Eilertsen - Guitar/Vocals

Jennifer Kretschmer - Ukelele/Vocals

James Polk - Mandolin/Vocals (of Rough Draft Hattiesburg)

📍 Show Links:

The EntreArchitect Community Annual Meeting

Join the EntreArchitect Community on Facebook

📚 Continue Learning:

Participate in daily learning conversations with Context & Clarity

Practice Disrupted Episode 056: Leading with Finance & Entrepreneurship featuring Bolanle Williams-Olley

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096: Addressing Mental Health in Architecture Nov 10, 2022

Episode 096: Addressing Mental Health in Architecture

How do we expand mental health support to professionals across the industry of architecture?

Peter Exley, FAIA, RIBA, NOMA, a former AIA National President, Gregg A. Garmisa, J.D., Principal and General Counsel at Studio Gang, and Korey D. White, AIA, NCARB, Senior Associate at DLR Group and a member of the AIA Strategic Council join us to address the growing concerns related to the mental health and well-being of individuals working in the profession of architecture.

“As the industry continues to transform and grapple with inequities, workforce diversity, labor challenges and climate change, among other current issues, we challenge our colleagues to join in a collective and inclusive commitment to expand mental health support throughout our profession.”

– Peter Exley, Gregg Garmisa, and Korey White, “We Need a Safe Place to Address Our Mental Health,” Chicago Architect, Summer 2022.

In this episode, we’ll discuss the problem we’re facing related to mental health in the profession of architecture and steps we can take to start to address this challenge.

This episode is dedicated to anyone who is currently or has previously struggled with burnout, mental health, addiction, substance abuse, or related mental health challenges. You are not alone. There is a community of allies who seek to destigmatize, raise awareness, build acceptance, and build better overall well-being practices within our profession.

Guests:

Peter Exley’s career is committed to an equitable and inclusive built environment for children, families, and communities.

As co-founder of Architecture Is Fun, he uses the power of design to build places and spaces that reflect the values, ambitions, and purpose of every stakeholder on myriad civic, cultural, private, and not-for-profit agencies.

As a teacher, he is nurturing future architects as the primary and credible resource with the explicit training and qualification to lead the creation of healthy and equitable net-zero place-making.

As the 97th President of the American Institute of Architects, he led AIA’s delegation to COP26 in Glasgow, and advanced the AIA Headquarters renewal project embodying the urgent need for climate action alongside a dramatic transformation for workplace, member, and community experience.

Gregg Garmisa is Principal and General Counsel at Studio Gang, based in the Studio’s Chicago office. Gregg interacts with clients, consultants, and our design teams on all projects to establish and maintain productive and collegial professional relationships.

Immediately prior to joining the Studio, Gregg was Vice President and General Counsel at a national engineering and sustainability consulting firm, where he became one of Studio Gang’s earliest collaborators. Before that, he practiced law and provided public policy guidance to clients in Washington, DC, and Chicago, and served as a legislative advisor to a US senator on Capitol Hill.

Gregg is an invited member of the Society of Illinois Construction Attorneys, a former board member of the American Institute of Architects Chicago, and a former trustee of the Chicago Architecture Center. He is an experienced lecturer on current topics at the intersection of the design profession and the law, which he has delivered at undergraduate- and graduate-level architecture programs as well as conferences across the US and abroad.

In 2019, he accepted an academic appointment as a Lecturer in Architecture at the Harvard Graduate School of Design. Since then, he co-teaches each Fall semester “Foundations of Practice”, a required course for M.Arch I degree candidates that examines models and issues that define the modern architectural profession.

Gregg earned his J.D. from Georgetown University, where he was a law review associate editor and his undergraduate degree from Stanford University.

Korey White is driven by her zest for the built environment, bringing open-mindedness and creativity to her role as an architect and urban planner. She applies her dual master’s degrees in architecture and urban and regional planning to an interdisciplinary approach that creates impactful outcomes for her clients and the community. Korey currently works for DLR Group in the Chicago office, focused primarily on educational facility master planning for K-12 school districts and leading the planning discipline.

Korey is recognized for her leadership within architecture by her recent election the AIA Board of Directors as an At-Large Director for 2023-2025. She has most recently served as the AIA Strategic Council 2022 Moderator and was awarded the 2018 AIA Young Architects Award, the 2017 BD+C 40 under 40 and the 2016 AIA Colorado Leadership Award. She is currently enrolled at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in the iMBA program. She is a Forte Fellow and will graduate with her MBA in Fall 2022.

📍 Show Links:

Peter Exley, Gregg Garmisa, and Korey White, “We Need a Safe Place to Address Our Mental Health,” Chicago Architect, Summer 2022.

Reposted on LinkedIn

Program Referenced: Lawyers’ Assistance Program

📚 Continue Learning:

Katherine Flynn, “The Burnout Problem in Architecture,” Architect magazine, April 01, 2022.

Sean Joyner, “Debunking Architecture’s Mythological Work Culture,” Archinect, April 04, 2022.

Ian Volner, “Paradigm, Interrupted,” Architect magazine, April 14, 2022.

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095: Voices of Mothers in Practice Nov 03, 2022

Episode 095: Voices of Mothers in Practice

What can architecture firms do to support mothers who are working in practice?

Leaders of the profession share diverse perspectives on their identity between practice and motherhood. This discussion aims to explore the experiences of working mothers in diverse career stages who are raising children of different ages.

Practice Disrupted is committed to elevating conversations on justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion to teach, empower, and build greater awareness across the industry.

Guests:

Christina Cho Yoo, AIA, PE, LEED AP BD+C is co-founder of Atelier Cho Thompson. She received a BS & MS in civil & structural engineering and construction management at Stanford University and received a masters in architecture at the Harvard Graduate School of Design. She was a structural engineer at the international engineering company Arup, where she was the Structural Sustainability Champion for the Americas & worked on projects such as the LEED-Double Platinum California Academy of Sciences, Contemporary Jewish Museum, Kaiser hospitals, Schroder Overcrossing, and various other projects. She went onto work at architecture firms internationally including Kao Design Group on Richard Branson's Eco-Island, SHoP Architects on the Google HQ, Neri & Hu in Shanghai, Mass Studies in Seoul, and Bohlin Cywinski Jackson on Apple stores, the Apple iAd office, and the Square HQ. Christina is a licensed architect and engineer in California and has been LEED accredited since 2003.

Her work has spanned typologies from single-family to multifamily residences, hospitals, labs, museums, innovative workplaces, hospitality and food service, to retail, exhibits, furniture, and graphics for various organizations. Before architecture school, she staged at Tartine Bakery while taking courses at the California Culinary Academy. She has lectured on Green R&D at Harvard and served as a critic at Parsons, Stanford, Harvard, & the California College of the Arts (CCA). She is an Adjunct Professor at the CCA, having taught advanced urban studio on the Post-Retail City and Integrated Building Systems. She served as Design & Innovation Chair of the Stanford Club of SF and currently is on the Board of Directors at Pacific Primary School.

Jennifer T. Matthews, Associate AIA, is a full-time remote Architectural Designer at SS&A Design Collective based in Montgomery, Alabama. With eight years of healthcare design experience, Jennifer has worked on architectural projects for multiple healthcare providers and national government entities across the United States. She was awarded the 2018 Healthcare Design Magazine's Educator Honor Award for creating an annual event that introduces architecture students to healthcare design and careers within. Her recent outreach efforts include professional practice seminars and managing her professional development platform, Creative's XP.

In 2013, Jennifer graduated from Tuskegee University with a Bachelor of Architecture. In 2020, she acquired a Master of Arts degree in Business Design and Arts Leadership from The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). Jennifer served as the 2013-2014 National Vice President of the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS).

📍 Show Links:

Atelier Cho Thompson

Creative's XP

Practice Disrupted Diversity Series:

Episode 009: Voices from the Future of the Profession (Black Architects)

Episode 016: Voices from the Future of the Profession (LGBTQIA+ Architects)

Episode 035: Asian American Architects

Episode 048: Architecture, Identity, & Culture

Episode 053: Immigrant Architects

Episode 054: Architecture, And: EDI+J

Episode 057: Southeast Asian American Architects

Episode 059: Building the Pipeline Through K-12 Education

Episode 068: 2022 AIA Whitney M. Young Jr. Honor Award Winners: RIDING THE VORTEX

Episode 070: She Builds Crossover in Three Acts

Episode 079: Increasing Black Women in Architecture

Episode 088: Latina Voices in Practice

Episode 090: Madame Architect: Work, Family, and Everything in Between

Stay tuned for upcoming episodes in this series!

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094: The Design for Freedom Movement Oct 27, 2022

Episode 094: The Design for Freedom Movement

How can architects eliminate forced labor in building material supply chains to create a more equitable future?

“Over the past few decades, substantive strides have been compounding to sustainably design and construct with less harm to nature; yet there is a startling blind spot in terms of the entropic brutality forced upon the workers who are critical to the production of the very materials we source. Their suffering should not be built into our construction”

– Sharon Prince, CEO and Founder of Grace Farms Foundation

The $12 trillion construction industry is the #1 industrial sector at risk of forced labor. Sharon joins us to discuss the new Design for Freedom Toolkit and her work to help implement ethical, forced labor-free material sourcing strategies across the AEC industry.

Guest:

Sharon Prince is the CEO and Founder of Grace Farms Foundation and commissioned SANAA to design Grace Farms in New Canaan, Connecticut. The Foundation’s interdisciplinary humanitarian mission is to pursue peace through nature, arts, justice, community, faith, and Design for Freedom, a new movement to eliminate forced labor from the building materials supply chain. The open, porous architecture of the River building at Grace Farms is embedded into 80 acres of natural landscape. The building, designed to break down barriers between people and sectors, invites all to pause and reflect, while also encouraging engagement with its initiatives, creating new outcomes.

📍 Show Links:

https://gracefarms.org/

📚 Continue Learning:

Learn about the comprehensive resources for design and construction professionals to help ensure ethical material sourcing strategies: https://www.designforfreedom.org/

https://www.fastcompany.com/90762815/sharon-prince-grace-farms-most-creative-people-2022

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093: Design Technology Management & Training Oct 20, 2022

With enhanced dependency on technology, what is an architecture firm’s responsibility in educating staff on various digital skills?

Jeames Hanley and Christina Diego join us from Gray Puksand to discuss how their growing team of 140+ is scaling their technology strategy. As the National Design Technology Manager at Gray Puksand, Jeames works across multiple locations, including Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, and Sydney to ensure his team can deliver the best possible outcomes for their clients and projects alike.

Through this discussion, we’ll learn best practices for bridging conversations on technology, mentorship, and project delivery in support of a people-first culture. We'll do our best to address how to effectively design and support the technology demands of a busy architecture firm.

Guests:

As a Digital technologist and strategist in the AEC industry, Jeames Hanley leads digital transformation and champions cultural change within architectural practices in the face of a technological shift. He converts strategy into front-line behavior by supporting people first in an ever-changing technology-centric environment.

Implementing workflows centered around automation, algorithm-based design, and data literacy Jeames also educates designers that these technologies and a tech-first mindset present huge opportunities and not threats to the design industry.

Graduating in the middle of COVID, Christina Diego is a recent graduate of Billy Blue College of Design, where she earned her Bachelor of Interior Design. Christina joined the interior design team of Gray Puksand in October 2021 and has since been part of commercial, workplace, and education projects. She has a real interest in learning the technical side of design but also learning about the ever evolving side of design and sustainability.

📍 Show Links:

Gray Puksand

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092: /slantis, Enabling Technology in Practice Oct 13, 2022

Episode 092: /slantis, Enabling Technology in Practice

How do you find time to implement the latest technology tools in your practice while still providing your clients with an amazing experience?

No matter what size firm you are running, unless you have an in-house technology department (and sometimes even when you do), staying ahead of the technology curve becomes increasingly tricky. That’s where /slantis comes in as a partner to help your firm with everything from Architecture & Production Coordination, BIM Consulting, High-end Visualisation, and even bigger innovations, including workflow automation and architecture for the metaverse. They create offerings unique to your firm that support all project delivery phases.

We sit down /slantis’ two incredibly passionate female founders, Andy Robert and Mercedes Carriquiry, to talk about their backgrounds in architecture, what drives them as entrepreneurs, and why Uruguay is not an unusual place to build out a technology-forward company.

Guests:

Andy Robert is a professional architect from ORT University in Uruguay. She lived in Germany and studied architecture in Dessau, where the former Bauhaus was located. Today she is CEO of /slantis, co-founded in 2016 with her life-long friend Mercedes Carriquiry.

Very energetic, curious, and entrepreneurial, she is actively involved in events that advocate for women as leaders. She became an expert in management, marketing, and sales. Andy is also vegan and Beltran and Jaime's mum.

Mercedes Carriquiry is a licensed Architect and entrepreneur specializing in innovation and technology. She holds a degree from the Faculty of Architecture UDELAR, Uruguay; and studied in the ENSAG of Grenoble, France. She also graduated in digital fabrication from MIT Fabacademy.

After working at Jean Nouvel's studio in Paris and leading multiple developments in Montevideo, she co-founded /slantis in 2016 with her life-long friend Andy.

Outside the rat race, she’s into art, skating, and above all spending time with her family.

📍 Show Links:

/slantis

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091: How the Future Works Oct 06, 2022

Episode 091: How the Future Works

How do you attract and retain the best talent?

We bring back leaders from the Future Forum to talk about tactics they are sharing with executives from organizations of all sizes and industries to win the battle for talent by building a future of work that is flexible, inclusive, and connected.

The Future Forum is a consortium focused on building new ways of working that are flexible, inclusive, and connected. They research and convene executives to design a people-centered and digital-first workplace. In June 2020, Future Forum began surveying thousands of workers and managers globally quarterly, asking them questions about productivity, sense of belonging, and preferred ways of working.

The Forum's new book, How the Future Works: Leading Flexible Teams to Do the Best Work of Their Lives, is a Wall Street Journal Bestseller and provides readers with a blueprint for empowering teams with the flexibility and choice they need to do their best work.

Guest:

Helen Kupp is Senior Director and co-founder of Future Forum. She has led many of Slack's largest cross-functional and growth initiatives, and is the creator of many of Future Forum's playbooks, tapping Future Forum's research and networks along with her experiences at Slack, Bain & Company, startups, and her MBA from Harvard Business School. She is also co-author of How The Future Works: Leading Flexible Teams to Do the Best Work of Their Lives. Helen is the lucky mom of two wonderful children.

Chrissie Arnold is the Director of Advisory Services for the Future Forum, where she is focused on designing and leading executive workshops about the Future of Work. Chrissie provides Fortune 100 company executives with a blueprint to build high-functioning, engaged teams in the digital-first era. Prior to this role, Chrissie spent seven years at Slack in roles across Customer Experience, Customer Success, and Product, with a common thread of helping customers get more value out of Slack by driving transformation in their organizations. Before Slack, Chrissie worked in non-profit leadership and academia. Her work included women's legal advocacy, human rights education and transitional justice in post-war environments, and leading recreational therapy programs for children with cancer and HIV around the world. Chrissie has a BA in Human Geography and an MA in Educational Studies, both from the University of British Columbia. She's a Mom to a couple of feisty toddlers who keep her humble, and loves any excuse to get out in the mountains!

📍 Show Links:

Future Forum

Twitter: @FutureForum

YouTube: Future Forum by Slack

📚 Continue Learning:

How the Future Works

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090: Madame Architect: Work, Family, and Everything In Between Sep 29, 2022

Episode 090: Madame Architect: Work, Family, and Everything In Between

Who are the leaders behind Madame Architect?

In our season 4 finale, we invited senior editor Amy Stone to join us in an interview. This week we invite Amy back to learn more about her career, her MBA studies, and her work at Madame Architect.

While the seeming lack of women in architecture has been well-documented, women are, and have been, making waves in all levels of the field. Madame Architect is an online magazine celebrating the extraordinary women that shape our world, a magazine designed to break the architect’s mold and show young women entering the industry the myriad choices they have in crafting a dynamic, meaningful, and interesting career.

Guest:

Amy Stone is an architect, a mom of three, and is currently pursuing an MBA at Georgia Tech's Scheller College of Business. Amy is a design manager at Gensler and is dedicated to creating sustainable and equitable environments. Her professional work experience includes a variety of building types, including housing, mixed-use, adaptive-reuse, offices, higher education, and deep-green sustainable projects including the largest Living Building in the Southeast.

Amy is a contributing interviewer and editor and is dedicated to elevating the voice and visibility of women in architecture and design. She studied architecture for her Bachelors's and Masters's at Georgia Tech. She is based in Atlanta.

📍 Show Links:

Follow Amy at @_amystone

📚 Continue Learning:

Madame Architect

Follow us at @madamearchitect

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089: Entrepreneurship in Practice: Taking Risks to Create Value Sep 22, 2022

Episode 089: Entrepreneurship in Practice: Taking Risks to Create Value

What does it take to launch, build, and grow an architecture firm?

This week we interview the founding principal of brick. Rob Zirkle and the managing director of business management, Lynn Chock. Founded in 2010, brick. has been on a trajectory of growth since its inception. A nimble team grounded in the belief that design, technology, and service are indelibly linked, we discuss the company’s growth from launch to the present day.

“Friendly, unconventional, can-do architects”, Bricksters are guided by their mission to:

outsmart convention.
create value.
design like you mean it.

Learn more about how they are redesigning the business model of architecture.

Guests:

Rob Zirkle founding principal at brick brings a strong record of successful and recognized design excellence to a wide variety of project types in both architecture, interiors, and urban design. Rob brings a sensitivity to the details of design that make memorable architecture transcend the everyday, but he is also laser focused on creating value for clients, the cities where he works and for the many stakeholders whose experiences are shaped by the firm’s designs.

As managing director of business management, Lynn Chock knows that quality + efficiency + happiness = an awesome bottom line. She leverages her extensive experience in HR, accounting, and business management to help brick and its talented staff thrive. For Lynn, a successful firm maximizes value for its clients and the people who live, work, and learn in the buildings they design. Over the last nine years Lynn has worked with brick behind the scenes, constantly improving financial performance and business workflows; finding ways to increase overall productivity and boost the happiness quotient for brick’s most valuable asset: its people.

📍 Show Links:

brick.

👉 Follow brick. on social:

IG: @brick.inc

LinkedIn: brick.

Twitter: @brick_arch

📚 Continue Learning:

PD 069: A Case Study on Leadership: Expanding Established Design Practices to New Locations

brick: Redesigning The Studio Through Communication (w/ Lynn Chock, Je'Nen Chastain)

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088: Latina Voices in Practice Sep 15, 2022

Episode 088: Latina Voices in Practice

“Why is it that the largest community of color within the US still makes up such a small percentage of the profession?” ~ACSA Hispanic & Latinx in Architecture

Four leaders in the profession share their diverse perspectives on race, equity, and architecture.

Practice Disrupted is committed to elevating conversations on justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion to teach, empower, and build greater awareness across the industry. Building from prior diversity conversations, this week we learn about Hispanic & Latinx in Architecture.

Guest:

Venesa Alicea-Chuqui, AIA, NOMA, LEED AP BD+C, WELL AP, an Architect, Educator and Advocate, is Founding Principal of NYVARCH Architecture, a NYC based collaborative Architectural Practice focused on building community and equity through design. With over 15 years of experience designing multi-family sustainable affordable, and supportive housing developments and civic projects, she is committed to working with local communities to develop good design, both sustainable and socially conscious. She’s the Vice Chair of Outreach to the AIA Small Firm Exchange and President of the Architecture Alumni Group of the Alumni Association of the City College of New York, her alma mater (B.Arch ‘05), where she has also taught the Coop Internship and Professional Practice classes. Committed to design justice in the built environment, she’s an active contributor to Dark Matter University, Design as Protest, and a former co-chair to the AIANY Diversity & Inclusion and Emerging New York Architects committees. She is past chair of the AIANY Puerto Rico Resiliency task force, an active member of the AIANY Planning and Urban Design Committee, and a 2019 Fellow of the Association for Community Design.

Siboney Diaz-Sánchez is an affordable housing advocate and the community engagement administrator for the City of San Antonio's Neighborhood and Housing Services Department. She serves as a NOMA Empowerment Committee Co-Chair, organizes with Design As Protest Planning and Policy Committee, and is proud to teach Community Practice at The Boston Architectural College. In 2021 she joined the Association for Community Design board of directors. Prior to returning to San Antonio Siboney was an Enterprise Rose Fellow and project/design manager at Opportunities Communities in the Boston area working for two non-profit community development corporations,The Neighborhood Developers and Nuestra Comunidad. While in Boston she developed design standards for affordable housing, helped secure funding for a low income housing tax credit housing development, led a community engagement process for a public arts park and served on the Boston Society of Architects board of directors. Siboney insists creative fields are viable vehicles for social change and believes in just redistribution of systemic power through design. She is committed to prioritizing community voices in design processes.

She is a licensed architect in the state of Texas and holds her Bachelor of Architecture from Cornell University.

Vanessa Smith Torres is a Puerto Rican born Architect based in Miami, FL. Vanessa received a Bachelors from Northeastern University and a Master of Architecture from Tulane University. She has worked on award winning projects in various market sectors - from Hospitality to Education. Vanessa is a Project Architect at Perkins&Willand Adjunct Instructor at Florida Atlantic University. Committed to building a more equitable profession, Vanessa has served on the National Organization of Minority Architects Chapter boards in South Florida (SoFloNOMA) and Louisiana (NOMALA). She is the Immediate Past President of SoFloNOMA and currently serves as Chapter Director of AIA Miami and co-chair of the Women in Architecture Committee.

Alicia Ponce is the Founder and Principal of APMonarch, a Chicago based Female and Latina owned Architecture firm.

Under Alicia’s direction, the firm provides architectural services, community engagement and sustainability consulting for projects throughout the Midwest and Mexico. Her expertise and passion to design healthy buildings and equitable communities support many clients in creating architecture that is ambitious, thoughtful and healthy. APMonarch provides these services to a diverse group of sectors that includes Commercial, Higher-Education, Civic, Healthcare, and Non-Profits.

Alicia refers to APMonarch as the pollinator of the built environment designing healthy environments that look good, feel good and perform great. The firm’s promise is to build zero carbon architecture. Demonstrating that promise is Alicia’s recent architecture commission to design Centro Amazing, a civic youth center located in Aguascalientes, Mexico which is to be constructed from rammed earth.

A registered architect in Illinois and Wisconsin, Alicia has over 20 years of architecture and sustainability experience. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign and studied at the Ecole d’Architecture in Versailles, France.

Alicia currently serves on the Chicago Landmarks Commission and the United Way Metro Chicago Executive Board. Creator of the award-winning book Latinas in Architecture – raising the 1% one Latina a time, she is the founder and chair of Arquitina, a national non-profit organization with a mission to raise the number of licensed Latina architects in the U.S.

📍 Show Links:

AIA Miami

AIA New York Diversity and Inclusion

AIA New York Emerging Architects

AIA Small Firm Exchange

APMonarch

Arquitina

Association for Community Design

Boston Society of Architects

Chicago Landmarks Commission

City College of New York

Cornell AAP

Dark Matter University

Design as Protest

Florida Atlantic University

The Neighborhood Developers

NOMA

NOMA Louisiana

NOMA South Florida

Northeastern University

Nuestra Comunidad

NYARCH Architecture

Opportunities Communities

Perkins&Will

Tulane University

United Way Metro Chicago

📚 Continue Learning:

Latinas in Architecture: Stories of raising the 1% one Latina at a time

Where are my People? Hispanic & Latinx in Architecture

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087: Designing New Workplace Policies Sep 08, 2022

Episode 087: Designing New Workplace Policies

If you launched an architecture firm with the goal of designing workplace policies above and beyond the baseline, what would those policies look like?

This week we discover how the desire to lead with better policies informed the creation of Saam Architecture, a mid-size practice based in Boston. President and CEO Diana Nicklaus has led with the goal of reimagining what is possible. The proof is in the numbers. Her practice is a place women want to work because the policies in place support their needs.

The Saam studio is a place where collaboration is celebrated. Whether it is sitting together in their Boston office or working remotely, they maintain a high level of communication and trust, empowering their team to operate in spaces and places that improve the quality of service to their clients and the quality of their team’s lives. They are cyclists, sailors, runners, gardeners, singers, kayakers, hikers, yogis, and musicians. But above all, they are a team dedicated to a common goal: to enjoy delivering value to their clients.

Guest:

With over 20 years of experience, Diana Nicklaus has practiced architecture in both the United States and Italy, with projects throughout the continental U.S. and Europe. Her portfolio includes high-profile, large-scale institutional projects, including those in the higher education, healthcare, cultural arts, and K-12 education sectors.

As an advocate for women’s leadership and equitable practice, she has shared Saam’s strategies in numerous presentations and interviews, including Equity by Design and the AIA Women’s Leadership Summit. Diana was a founding co-chair of the Massachusetts Building Congress Women’s Network, the Founding President of Boston Professional Women in Construction, and is currently serving as the Secretary of the Board for the Boston Society of Architecture.

📍 Show Links:

Saam Architecture

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086: A Large Firm Perspective on Innovation & Transformation: CannonDesign Sep 01, 2022

Episode 086: A Large Firm Perspective on Innovation & Transformation: CannonDesign

How do large firms think about innovation and transformation within the industry, and where are they investing next?

Within the last four years, CannonDesign:

grew their consulting practice through the strategic acquisition of Blue Cottage Consulting
brought new software tools to market, and
launched a pre-fab design and fabrication facility in the middle of a pandemic

In turn, growing their market share and the value they continue to deliver to their clients.

In this episode, we sit down with CEO Bradley A Lukanic, AIA, to talk about the evolution of architecture practice, where he believes architects need to be focused, and the opportunities that technology and innovation are playing in decisions that Cannon is making about the growth of their operations and business.

Guest:

With a never-ending drive and passion for design and built experiences, Bradley A. Lukanic, AIA, LEED AP embraces situational change disrupters that transform the industry’s future – and he’s leading CannonDesign’s charge to get there. As CEO, Brad seeks partners that are curious to accelerate, command and propel design’s influences on environments with goals resolving cross-disciplinary thinking and engagement. He leads CannonDesign with a sincere approach of listening to employee and client challenges to guide a discovery of “what if” opportunities, instead of progressing in a silo. Parallel to his practical design experience, Brad’s thought leadership is shared within and beyond architecture audiences.

📍 Show Links:

CannonDesign

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085: A Case Study for Practice: Latent Design Aug 25, 2022

Episode 085: A Case Study for Practice: Latent Design

How do you build an architecture practice that reaches beyond projects to further impact policy, culture, and community?

Latent Design is a progressive Chicago-based architecture firm working at the intersection of design and community development to create social, economic and environmental impact. They define the context surrounding a project before they design the content of architecture. They offer innovative design solutions to those in resource and budget limited environments through a participatory approach that leverages local assets to directly generate project opportunities. Their collaborations range from small-scale tactical interventions, new construction community buildings, adaptive reuse, neighborhood master plans, and design speculations.

In this episode, we’ll learn from architect, founder, and entrepreneur Katherine Darnstadt. Darnstadt has been building her business from the ground up since 2010. In celebration of 12+ years of growth, she’s expanded her work to help launch the Design Trust Chicago.

Guest:

Katherine Darnstadt, AIA, NOMA, LEED AP is the founder of Latent Design, a progressive architecture and urbanism firm leveraging civic innovation and social impact to design more equitable spaces and systems. Since founding her practice in 2010, Katherine and her firm have prototyped new urban design systems to advance urban agriculture with Fresh Moves, support small business through Boombox, created spaces for youth makers, and developed public space frameworks through Design Trust Chicago. She and the firm have been published, exhibited, and featured widely, most notably at the International Venice Architecture Biennial, Architizer A+ Awards, Chicago Ideas Week, NPR, American Institute of Architects Young Architects Honor Award winner and Crain’s Chicago 40 Under 40. She previously taught at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago and Northwestern University.

📍 Show Links:

Latent Design

Design Trust Chicago

📚 Continue Learning:

Mapped!

Boombox Chicago Innovation Award video

Boombox SXSW Place by Design Award video

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084: Understanding the Architecture Labor Movement Aug 18, 2022

Episode 084: Understanding the Architecture Labor Movement

Who is the Architectural Workers United?

The Architectural Workers United is organizing towards making architecture more equitable, the profession more just, and our built environment more resilient. Join us as we interview Andrew Daley and Jess Myers to learn more about the architectural labor movement, unions, and the history of labor practices in architecture. What are the biggest misconceptions? What is the benefit? What are the most common questions people ask? We’ll discover all of this and more as we discuss why there is a growing group of advocates standing behind AWU.

Guests:

Andrew Daley is an organizer, activist, and licensed architect living and working in Brooklyn. He is currently working with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW) on organizing efforts within the architecture industry. He has 12 years of experience working for a number of offices in multiple states, most recently for 7 years at SHoP Architects as a Project Director working on US embassies worldwide.

Jess Myers is an assistant professor in Rhode Island School for Design’s architecture department. Her podcast Here There Be Dragons offers an in-depth look into the intersection of identity politics and security policy in public space through the eyes of New Yorkers, Parisians and Stockholmers. Her work can be found in The Architect’s Newspaper, The Funambulist Magazine, Failed Architecture, Dwell and l’Architecture d’Aujourd’hui. (Read more about Jess on Madame Architect.)

📍 Show Links:

AWU Contact: architectural.workers.united@gmail.com

📚 Continue Learning:

Labor Resources

DPE Data Sheet

EPI Productivity-Pay Gap

EPI Union Density-Top 10% Income

DOL Employee Rights

NLRB Website

National Labor Relations Act

NYC Central Labor Council

Architecture Labor Resources

The Architecture Lobby Union Pamphlet (downloadable pamphlet)

Architecture and Anti-Trust Article

Why Don’t Architects Have Unions? (by Jess Myers)

Architecture and Labor (review of book by Peggy Deamer)

NCARB Demographics

AIA Bias Report

FAECT Article (by Mardges Bacon)

Press about AWU (selected)

New York Times Article

Curbed Article

New York Review of Architecture Article

Architectural Record Article

Architect’s Newspaper Article

Press about Overwork/Burnout/Stress

Harvard Business Review Article (about long hours)

Salon Article (about 40 hour work week)

Gallup Union Support Poll

CNBC Article (about long hours)

Wall Street Journal Article (about overtime)

World Economic Forum (about employees leaving)

National Bureau of Economic Research (union job satisfaction study)

Recent Professional Unions (Non-Exhaustive, there are 6,000,000 professional union members)

VICE Media Union (est. 2017) - WGA East

VOX Media Union (est. 2018) - WGA East

The New Yorker Union (est. 2018) - News Guild

New York Magazine Union (est. 2018) - News Guild

Wirecutter Union - (est. 2019) - News Guild

New Museum Union - (est. 2019) - UAW

Whitney Museum Union - (est. 2020) - UAW

Guggenheim Union - (est. 2021) - UAW

ACLU Lawyers - (est. 2021) - IFTPE

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083: Lessons from Practice Disrupted on Navigating Change Aug 11, 2022

Episode 083: Lessons from Practice Disrupted on Navigating Change

After four seasons of Practice Disrupted, what lessons on navigating change have we learned from past guests of the show?

Practice Disrupted was launched during the pandemic as a niche podcast: leaders who believe architects can practice in new ways and some who are even willing to question the boundaries that define the practice. On the way to 100 episodes this season and over 19,500 listeners later, the podcast has grown beyond what we could imagine and has taught us many lessons as hosts. In this episode, we break down some themes that continue to surface throughout the podcast and share playlists for those interested in taking a deeper dive into the podcast.

A special thank you to AIA Seattle Women in Design for hosting us in a July 2022 program that prompted us to explore this topic.

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082: Career Pivots Aug 04, 2022

Episode 082: Career Pivots

How do you navigate a career that adapts to changing needs over time?

In this week’s episode, we interview Tenille Bettenhausen, a Success Manager at Microdesk who has worn many different hats over time. Her path was not necessarily linear, but she has carved out a career that adapted to her changing priorities throughout life.

Tenille started in a traditional firm and has taken quite a few intentional career pivots working on the ownership side, with developers, general contractors, a trade association, and more. Come with us on her journey to explore:

Meaningful career transitions
Identifying and following your strengths
Understand where you are passionate
The importance of mentorship and listening to others
And how to continue to explore creativity in different mediums.

Did we mention Tenille is a fellow podcaster and host of Death by Architecture and a forthcoming children’s book author? We hope this episode inspires others to be intentional about their careers and understand that it’s about the journey, not a destination.

Guest:

Tenille Bettenhausen has been in the AEC industry for over 20 years. The first 15 of those years in project, in architecture firms and local offices as a designer and project manager. The last 6 years has been as a business developer and client relations strategist interfacing with clients. Tenille has a degree in Architecture from Arizona State University and is currently on the Board of Director for AIA Orange County and is co-chairing and mc-ing the 2023 Orange County Design Awards. She is the podcast host of Death by Architecture, a short storytelling podcast centered around true crime in the AEC industry and the author of the upcoming children's book, "Maybe I'll be an Architect" due out in this fall. Tenille is currently the Client Success Manager at Microdesk (a Autodesk software partner and technology strategy provider) where she truly believes that architecture and design lifts the human spirit and is a champion of goals that lead to knowledge diversification and consensus-building within our AEC firms.

📍 Show Links:

Death by Architecture

Tenillebwrites.com

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081: S5 Launch: AIA Conference on Architecture Recap Jul 28, 2022

Episode 081: S5 Launch: AIA Conference on Architecture Recap

Welcome back to season 5 of Practice Disrupted!

Co-hosts Evelyn Lee and Je’Nen Chastain celebrate a new season and take you behind the scenes to the AIA Conference on Architecture. Following two years of waiting for large-scale in-person events to resume, the AIA welcomed its membership back by hosting a premiere conference experience against the striking architectural skyline of Chicago.

Join Practice Disrupted as they reconnect with new and familiar faces from across the country, and explore what the conference has to offer. Discover what attendees had to say about the June 2022 event, what the AIA prioritizes through new executive leadership, and why volunteer leaders stay involved in the AIA.

Save the date for A’23 in San Francisco!

📍 Show Links:

aia.org

conferenceonarchitecture.com

📚 Continue Learning:

AIA CEO Lakisha Woods says "her success is tied to their success" at A’22 kickoff

President Barack Obama appears at the AIA Conference on Architecture 2022

A’22: Architects, exhibitors and a former US president gather in Chicago to define a shared vision

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080: Season 4 Finale with Madame Architect Jun 02, 2022