Charging 50% upfront. Blogging to get work. Teaching part-time and even working as a dinner lady in the early days.
From just herself to a team of six. Refusing to play the “starving artist” trope. Claire Nash isn’t just running an architecture practice - she’s rewriting the manual.
In this honest, funny and practical conversation, Claire breaks down what it’s really like running a small architecture studio in the UK. From cash flow crunches to the mindset shift needed to chase overdue invoices, how she carved out a niche in barn conversions, scaled the team, and wrote two books along the way.
If you’re dreaming of starting your own practice or just want to make yours a little less chaotic, this one’s for you.
00:00 Welcome to the Architecture Social Show
01:17 Introducing Claire Nash: Author and Architect
01:50 Starting an Architecture Practice: Claire's Journey
03:34 Challenges of Running a Small Architecture Practice
05:58 Managing Cash Flow and Client Payments
20:25 Marketing Strategies for Architects
24:41 Public Speaking and Networking Tips
28:56 Navigating Social Media Platforms
30:18 The Power of Real-Life Networking
32:57 The Importance of Niches in Business
39:39 Balancing Business and Personal Life
42:30 Writing and Publishing Books
49:24 The Role of AI in Architecture
54:16 Conclusion and Contact Information
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📐 The Architecture Social is an online platform packed with content to help you find new jobs, stand out from the crowd and take your career in Architecture to the next level
💻 Find out more at https://www.architecturesocial.com
Award-winning author, strategist and curator Lucy Bullivant joins us to spill the tea on what it really takes to shape cities that work – and why good urbanism needs more than just good design.
We dive into her journey from writing "Masterplanning Futures" to curating edutainment exhibitions, chairing design review panels and working hands-on with communities from Oslo to Enfield. It’s all about retrofitting, storytelling, publishing, people and place.
Lucy’s lived it – and she’s not holding back.
00:00 0236 - Lucy Bullivant
00:08 Welcome to the Architecture Social Show
00:35 Meet Lucy: Curator, Mentor, and Strategist
01:45 Lucy's Background and Influences
02:52 Global Projects and Collaborations
04:06 Passion for Architecture and Urban Design
04:36 Temple Bar Trust and Diverse Voices
05:50 Master Planning Futures: A Book Journey
12:00 Writing and Research Process
19:13 The Role of AI in Writing
23:28 Collaborative Writing and Curation
25:44 Exploring the World of Edutainment and Exhibitions
26:26 Curating Exhibitions: From Concept to Execution
28:32 Innovative Exhibition Projects and Collaborations
31:06 The Importance of Retrofitting and Sustainable Design
35:11 Consultancy Work and Urban Design
43:02 Temple Bar Trust: Promoting Architecture and Education
44:52 Upcoming Talks and Events at Temple Bar Trust
48:24 Final Thoughts and How to Connect with Lucy
Ben Richards gave up the drawing board for the developer’s desk and now he’s got four businesses, millions in property deals, and a lot of stories from the front lines.
In this episode, we dig into the nitty-gritty of going from architect to real estate entrepreneur - what actually happens when you swap the studio for the site, the hard truths about making money in property, and how Ben’s managed to build (and survive) a business empire.
It’s not all doom and gloom though - we get into opportunities in social housing, what tech like AI and LIDAR might mean for the industry, and how to spot the trends that matter in 2025. Brutally honest, useful, and oddly motivating.
Ben is the founder of Aura Architecture & Interiors, XP Property, and XP Surveys.
00:00 Ben Richards
00:09 🎄 Christmas Live Stream Kickoff
00:41 👷♂️ From Architecture to Development: Ben's Journey
01:29 💼 Building and Managing Multiple Businesses
03:49 🛠️ The Challenges of Hiring and Team Building
13:17 🏢 Transitioning from Architecture to Real Estate
18:02 🏘️ The Realities of Property Development
24:35 📈 Opportunities and Challenges in the Housing Market
29:58 🏠 Social Housing and Affordable Development
32:40 The Planning Process: Challenges and Changes
33:48 Social Housing and Property Conversions
34:30 Trends in Retail and Industrial Sectors
38:30 The Role of AI in Architecture and Business
47:35 Exciting Prospects for 2025
52:56 Business Strategies and Community Building
59:05 Podcast and Final Thoughts
Top 5 Mistakes in Architecture Marketing with Ayo Abbas
In this episode, the host welcomes Ayo Abbas of Abbas Marketing to delve into the common mistakes made in architecture marketing. They discuss the top five errors, including misconceptions about marketing's role, underestimating the importance of storytelling, and the need to keep up with social media innovations.
Ayo shares her career journey from construction PR to becoming an award-winning marketing consultant. The conversation also touches on the value of client relationships and the importance of sticking with marketing strategies for the long haul. Ayo offers advice for those looking to enter the field and emphasizes the necessity of treating marketing as a strategic business function rather than a task for a single 'marketing unicorn.'
00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene
00:27 Meet Ayo Abbas: Marketing Expert
02:54 Defining Marketing and Its Importance
04:01 Common Marketing Mistakes in Architecture
05:27 The Role of Visuals in Marketing
10:23 Strategic Marketing vs. The Coloring Department
14:43 Keeping Up with Social Media Innovations
25:29 Defining Community in the Digital Age
26:45 Top Marketing Mistakes: Giving Up Too Soon
28:19 The Importance of Consistency in Marketing
35:00 The Myth of the Marketing Unicorn
39:10 Career Insights: From Construction PR to Marketing
40:50 Client Relationships and Personal Branding
47:31 Marketing Consultant Services and Podcasting
50:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Exploring Architecture and Town Planning with UPP - Journey, Challenges, and Collaboration
In this episode, join us as we dive into the fascinating world of Architecture and Town Planning with the unique practice, UPP. We meet Enrique, Motti, and James, who share their journey from a cozy basement startup to a thriving interdisciplinary firm. Learn about the firm's collaborative approach, combining town planning and architecture under one roof, and how they leverage AI to enhance their workflows.
The team also discusses the importance of adaptability, the impact of the pandemic on their operations, and future plans for UPP, including international expansion and a new office space. Whether you're an aspiring architect or planner, or simply interested in the built environment, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.
00:00 Introduction and Overview
00:49 Meet the Team: UPP's Founders
03:18 James' Journey into Town Planning
04:36 Understanding Town Planning vs. Architecture
06:58 The Collaborative Process at UPP
19:20 Adapting to the Pandemic
26:58 The Importance of Face-to-Face Meetings
28:26 What Makes a Standout Portfolio
32:35 Transitioning Careers and Finding Fulfillment
40:10 The Role of AI in Modern Architecture
43:23 Future Prospects and Optimism in the Industry
45:17 Final Thoughts and Reflections
What does it take to build a thriving architecture business from scratch? Hakan Agca, founder of CrossWorks, joins the show to share his journey from working in top firms to running his own practice.
We’re diving into the nuts and bolts of the business of architecture: taking risks, building networks, hiring as well as firing, scaling sustainably, our biggest mistakes and staying ahead with technology like AI and BIM. It’s real talk about the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship in the built environment, all wrapped up in a lively and our most brutally honest chat yet.
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Curated content, insights and opportunities to accelerate your career in Architecture, Design, Development and Real Estate to the next level.
💻 Find more content at https://www.architecturesocial.com
📐 #Architecture #ArchitectureStudent #Architect #ArchitecturePodcast
Old Meets New: A Deep Dive into Heritage and Conservation Architecture
In this engaging livestream, join host Stephen Drew and special guest Jonathan Goode from Lillet Architects as they explore the world of heritage and conservation architecture. Jonathan shares insights from his 20-year career in London, focusing on maintaining the essence of historical buildings while adapting them for modern use.
They discuss the challenges and surprises of working on various projects, including residential homes, schools, and churches. Jonathan also provides valuable advice for aspiring architects interested in heritage projects and emphasizes the importance of sensitivity and understanding in this field.
Whether you're an architecture enthusiast or a professional, this conversation will offer a fascinating look into the balance of preserving history while embracing the future.
00:00 Introduction and Overview
00:52 Welcome to the Live Stream
01:32 Meet Jonathan Goode
02:09 Jonathan's Background and Passion for Heritage
02:54 Exploring Jonathan's Projects
07:32 Challenges in Heritage Projects
14:24 Working with Churches
16:25 Advice for Aspiring Heritage Architects
18:14 Starting a Heritage Architecture Practice
19:58 The Importance of a Physical Office
20:31 Local Projects and Hands-On Heritage Work
22:15 Navigating Challenges in Architecture
23:32 The Role of AI in Heritage Architecture
25:30 The Importance of Hand Drawing and Physical Models
27:33 Hiring Tips for Heritage and Conservation Roles
31:55 Excitement and Optimism for 2024
33:52 Reflecting on Heritage Projects
37:54 Closing Remarks and Contact Information
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📐 The Architecture Social is an online platform packed with content to help you find new jobs, stand out from the crowd and take your career in Architecture to the next level
💻 Find out more at https://www.architecturesocial.com
Join us in a fascinating discussion with Holly Welsh, Associate Director at DMFK Architects, as she delves into her journey in architecture, starting from her studies in Northumbria University to her current role.
Explore how DMFK has adapted to the changing landscape of commercial office spaces, from traditional designs to innovative, user-centric workspaces.
Learn about key projects, sustainability in design, and the future direction of workplace environments post-pandemic.
If you're curious about evolving office design trends and the impact of AI in architecture, this episode is a must-watch!
00:00 Welcome to the Virtual Studio
00:12 Meet Holly Welsh from DMFK
01:18 Holly's Journey into Architecture
04:40 First Steps in Commercial Projects
05:01 Adapting Office Designs Post-Pandemic
05:15 Innovative Office Spaces with TOG
08:35 The Evolution of Office Amenities
18:14 Sustainability in Modern Office Design
23:55 The Challenges of Remote Work
25:10 Attracting and Retaining Office Staff
26:20 DMFK: A Great Place to Work
28:59 Tips for Aspiring Architects
31:33 The Impact of AI in Architecture
35:14 A Question for the Host
39:01 Concluding Thoughts and Contact Information
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Curated content, insights and opportunities to accelerate your career in Architecture, Design, Development and Real Estate to the next level.
💻 Find more content at https://www.architecturesocial.com
How is BIM shaping the future of landscape architecture? Join us for a conversation with Alejandro Gatica, Principal BIM Manager at Gillespies, as he shares his journey from architect to BIM expert.
We’ll explore how tools like Dynamo and Grasshopper are transforming workflows and how BIM is unlocking new possibilities in the industry.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your skills, Alejandro’s insights will give you a fresh perspective on BIM’s role in design.
What’s it like to balance cutting-edge technology with groundbreaking design? Alfonso Monedero, Head of BIM at Heatherwick Studio, shares his journey from struggling architect to spearheading design innovation through BIM and coding.
From tackling "impossible" geometry to building an in-house AI assistant for Revit, Alfonso breaks down the intersection of creativity, tech, and teamwork.
A candid conversation packed with insights for anyone navigating—or contemplating—a career at the crossroads of architecture and technology.
Ste Taylor’s career path is anything but traditional—starting in architecture, navigating difficult times and redundancies before ultimately rising to Head of Design at Turley.
In this episode, we dive into his unexpected journey, from falling out of love with architecture to mastering design and planning on the client side.
We’ll also get into the nitty-gritty of design codes, their role in shaping better housing, and why they’re more critical now than ever.
With the UK at a crossroads in urban development, Ste shares how design codes can help avoid past mistakes and deliver a new era of beautiful, high-quality homes.
Ever feel like you're stuck on the traditional architect path?
Enrique Soler from Willmott Dixon Interiors is here to show you why playing it safe might be holding you back.
We’ll get into the nuts and bolts of working within a contractor in the role of a designer, how interior design can open up whole new avenues for architects, and why sticking to one speciality is riskier than you think.
What happens when budget constraints don’t exist? Join Victor LG, Design Director at HBA/Hirsch Bedner Associates, for an eye-opening look at what it means to design for the ultra-rich.
We’ll dig into the unique challenges, boundless opportunities, and creative freedom that comes with working at the highest end of luxury.
Discover how navigating these projects can fast-track a creative career, the essential skills that separate good designers from great ones, and the hard-earned lessons Victor has learned over more than a decade in the industry.
This is where creativity meets ambition, and output transforms into impact.
Aqeel Sourjah joins us to chat about his journey from architecture to managing major ESG-driven office developments at Quadrant, including YY London in Canary Wharf and OSMO in Battersea.
With a background in architecture and an MSc in Real Estate Development, Aqeel brings fresh insights into the intersection of design, development, and sustainability.
We'll also explore how his experience is shaping some of London’s most exciting new workspaces.
We’re diving deep into the world of architecture apprenticeships with the team behind the Architecture Apprenticeship Handbook.
Join us as we sit down with Daniel Goodricke, Luke Murray, and Laura McClorey to unpack the apprenticeship journey, from applying to smashing career goals.
Laura shares her personal experience as a Level 7 apprentice at FaulknerBrowns Architects and how it shaped her career.
Whether you're curious about taking this route or you're an employer wanting to know more, this conversation is packed with insights from the architects shaping the future of the profession.
What if confidence is quietly shaping the careers of women in architecture?
We sit down with Ishwariya Rajamohan to explore how challenges with confidence affect retention and career growth for women in the field. Drawing from her experience supporting female leaders, Ishwariya highlights the unique pressures women navigate every day.
This conversation is a must for anyone passionate about creating a more supportive and inclusive environment in architecture.
Ever wondered what it takes to transform a bland office block into a vibrant, design-led hospitality hotspot?
This week, we're diving deep with Eric Jafari, a visionary in real estate development who’s reshaping the way we experience spaces.
From overseeing billion-pound portfolios to creating bespoke, community-driven destinations, Eric shares the highs, lows, and hard-learned lessons of converting office spaces into thriving hotels.
See you shortly!
Dive into the digital realm with Jack Stewart and Ben Porter as they unpack their journey from architects at Hawkins Brown to digital pioneers at REMAP.
Discover how REMAP is shaping the future of the built environment through innovative technologies, and explore the pivotal projects and strategic decisions that are setting new benchmarks in the industry.
Learn how REMAP’s approach to digital transformation and technology adoption is redefining the architectural landscape.
Forget the cold, lifeless cubicles and soulless glass boxes. Greta Kriovaite, Design Principal at Woodalls, dives deep into why workplace design needs a massive rethink.
In this candid chat with Stephen Drew, Greta breaks down how to create offices that feel like home—spaces that inspire creativity, nurture connection, and balance collaboration with focus.
From debunking the “hotelification” trend to sharing her thoughts on AI’s role in the future of design, this conversation is packed with insights that’ll change how you think about where and how we work. If you're interested in what makes a workspace truly great, this episode is a must-listen.
Navigating complex design challenges requires more than creativity; it demands strategy and precision.
Enter Nirmala Srinivasa and Mario Romero from Perkins&Will, masters of computational design. They’ll unpack how advanced tools help them tackle intricate projects, using real-time optioneering to pivot designs instantly and keep client needs front and center.
Learn how parametric design optimizes material usage, cuts costs, and sharpens decision-making. Plus, discover how data-driven approaches push the boundaries of sustainability and innovation. If you’re looking to elevate your design process, don’t miss this deep dive into the future of architecture.
