My guest is recording this podcast episode with me from the Frank Lloyd Wright Affleck House, owned and operated by the Lawrence Technological University in Michigan.
Dory Azar is a Canadian Architect who is licensed and ran his own architectural practice for over 14 years before he closed his practice and became a brand ambassador.
Dory is Part architectural consultant, part brand ambassador and drives awareness and adoption of SpecLink through public speaking, social media engagement, and strategic client outreach. He also hosts and curates bi-weekly webinar, SpecTalk, while providing marketing and industry support across multiple internal teams.
In this episode, we talk about leaving architecture, how social media has opened the door for a career change and why he has been living in a Frank Lloyd Wright House and so much more.
My guest is recording this podcast episode with me from the Frank Lloyd Wright Affleck House, owned and operated by the Lawrence Technological University in Michigan.
Dory Azar is a Canadian Architect who is licensed and ran his own architectural practice for over 14 years before he closed his practice and became a brand ambassador.
Dory is Part architectural consultant, part brand ambassador and drives awareness and adoption of SpecLink through public speaking, social media engagement, and strategic client outreach. He also hosts and curates bi-weekly webinar, SpecTalk, while providing marketing and industry support across multiple internal teams.
In this episode, we talk about leaving architecture, how social media has opened the door for a career change and why he has been living in a Frank Lloyd Wright House and so much more.
This episode is brought to you by Hahn Plastics, makers of Hanit – the innovative material reshaping the future of construction and design.
Manufactured from 100% recycled consumer plastic waste and with unmatched durability, Hanit is the sustainable solution for tomorrow's projects.
Want to discover how Hanit can transform your designs while reducing environmental impact? Book a CPD presentation today and let’s shape a greener future together at info@hahnplastics.co.uk.
Welcome back to The Broke Architect Podcast, where I gather together the best bits from the lives of sole practitioners in architecture in the UK. We shine a light on the challenges and the uncomfortable realities of being an architect today.
We are joined by Helen Maunders, John Kellett, Niall Hedderman, Catherine Hunt and Dale Whitfield
Why Stress is a silent Killer of architects
How to start on Social Media
We have too many architects and stagnating salaries.
New business services architects can offer
Asperger's and Architects
I can't get PII for larger projects!
Why we don't employ Part 1 students.
If you’re an architect tired of low pay, undervaluation, and outdated business models, this episode is for you.
👉 Listen now, share with a colleague, and join the conversation about building a profession that values its people as much as its projects.
This episode is brought to you by Hahn Plastics, makers of Hanit – the innovative material reshaping the future of construction and design.
Manufactured from 100% recycled consumer plastic waste and with unmatched durability, Hanit is the sustainable solution for tomorrow's projects.
Want to discover how Hanit can transform your designs while reducing environmental impact? Book a CPD presentation today and let’s shape a greener future together at info@hahnplastics.co.uk.
Welcome back to The Broke Architect Podcast, where I continue my theme of the life of sole practitioners in architecture. We shine a light on the challenges and the uncomfortable realities of being an architect today.
This week I’m joined by Niall Hedderman, architect and founder of Real Life Architecture. Niall has built a reputation for speaking openly about the issues too many in our profession prefer to ignore: low fees, low salaries, and a system that too often undervalues architects and the work we do.
With years of hands-on experience running his own practice, Niall brings sharp insight into the economics of architecture and why so many of us continue to struggle financially. Together, we dig into some big questions:
Why so many architects earn more working for themselves than as salaried employees.
How fragmentation of the profession, too many small practices, not enough scale, affects innovation and career growth.
Whether the surge in architecture graduates has really pushed fees down.
The impact of the public sector’s retreat from housing on fees and incomes.
How greater transparency around fees could transform the profession.
Why business training needs to be part of architectural education from day one.
The ultimate question: why does a profession that demands so much education, responsibility, and skill still struggle with low salaries and fees — and what can we do to change that narrative?
Niall Hedderman is the founder of Real Life Architecture, a practice that doesn’t shy away from asking the tough questions about what it really means to be an architect today. Through his work and outspoken online presence, Niall has become a voice for change in a profession that urgently needs new ideas about value, business, and survival.
If you’re an architect tired of low pay, undervaluation, and outdated business models, this episode is for you.
👉 Listen now, share with a colleague, and join the conversation about building a profession that values its people as much as its projects.
This episode is brought to you by Hahn Plastics, makers of Hanit – the innovative material reshaping the future of construction and design.
Manufactured from 100% recycled consumer plastic waste and with unmatched durability, Hanit is the sustainable solution for tomorrow's projects.
Want to discover how Hanit can transform your designs while reducing environmental impact? Book a CPD presentation today and let’s shape a greener future together at info@hahnplastics.co.uk.
🎙 Episode 15 – Top Tips for Beating the Competition (with Stephen Drew)
Welcome to Episode 15 of The Broke Architect!
As we take a short summer break, we’re bringing you something special, a throwback to our Clubhouse days with none other than Stephen Drew, architectural recruiter and founder of the Architecture Social.
In this value-packed episode, we cover everything you need to beat the competition in today’s architecture job market, including:
✅ Crafting a standout CV
✅ Navigating job search platforms effectively
✅ Writing winning applications
✅ Building a powerful portfolio
✅ Acing interviews with confidence
Whether you're a recent graduate or a seasoned professional looking for a new opportunity, this episode is full of practical, no-nonsense advice to help you get ahead.
💬 Don’t forget to leave a review wherever you listen, it really helps support the show!
This episode is brought to you by Hahn Plastics, makers of Hanit – the innovative material reshaping the future of construction and design.
Manufactured from 100% recycled consumer plastic waste and with unmatched durability, Hanit is the sustainable solution for tomorrow's projects.
Want to discover how Hanit can transform your designs while reducing environmental impact? Book a CPD presentation today and let’s shape a greener future together at info@hahnplastics.co.uk.
Are My Architects’ Fees Too Low?
I continue my focus on small practices in the UK….
This week, I sit down with Dale Whitfield, founder of Fields of Architecture for a candid, practical and empowering conversation on one of the biggest challenges architects face — FEES 💸
In This Episode:
- Why so many architects undervalue themselves
- The danger of “race to the bottom” pricing
- Practical steps to recalibrate your fees
- What happens when you charge what you’re really worth
Dale brings honesty, experience and a fresh perspective to the table, this episode is essential listening for any architect trying to run a sustainable practice without selling themselves short.
This episode is brought to you by Hahn Plastics, makers of Hanit – the innovative material reshaping the future of construction and design.
Manufactured from 100% recycled consumer plastic waste and with unmatched durability, Hanit is the sustainable solution for tomorrow's projects.
Want to discover how Hanit can transform your designs while reducing environmental impact? Book a CPD presentation today and let’s shape a greener future together at info@hahnplastics.co.uk.
In Part 2 of this two-part series, you will hear from thought-provoking John Kellett , an ARB-registered, RIBA Chartered Architect, and founder of KR.eativ: Architects Ltd. Based in Northamptonshire, John has built his career designing sustainable, functional, and beautiful spaces across healthcare, heritage, residential, and hospitality sectors.
His work combines modern construction methods with advanced BIM tools, underpinned by a passion for solving complex design challenges.
John continues to discuss how he is often without work and yet is ready and willing to design any building type and has the skills and computing power to deliver projects such as hospitals, but he can't get the insurance cover to do this! We discuss many topics which currently have a real impact on the profession.
From his childhood fascination with buildings to his insights on the failures of design-and-build contracts, building safety legislation, and the undervaluing of architects, this conversation pulls no punches.
In This Episode:
✅ The current education system ✅ Where Grenfell went wrong ✅ The role of Principal Designer and who is best to do this role ✅ How the media misrepresents architects in the press as murderers in the UK ✅ Protection of Title and Function ✅ Are Non architects' mistakes driving up PII? ✅ Big City architects stealing the work of provincial architects
Key Quote:🗨️ "I will never retire, I'm a fu*cking architect, it's who I am"
This episode is brought to you by Hahn Plastics, makers of Hanit – the innovative material reshaping the future of construction and design.
Manufactured from 100% recycled consumer plastic waste and with unmatched durability, Hanit is the sustainable solution for tomorrow's projects.
Want to discover how Hanit can transform your designs while reducing environmental impact? Book a CPD presentation today and let’s shape a greener future together at info@hahnplastics.co.uk.
In Part 1 of this two-part series you will hear from thought-provoking John Kellett , an ARB-registered, RIBA Chartered Architect, and founder of KR.eativ: Architects Ltd. Based in Northamptonshire, John has built his career designing sustainable, functional, and beautiful spaces across healthcare, heritage, residential, and hospitality sectors.
His work combines modern construction methods with advanced BIM tools, underpinned by a passion for solving complex design challenges.
John opens up about his journey through architecture, his neurodivergent perspective, and his bold views on how the profession and the regulation around it must evolve to meet today’s challenges.
From his childhood fascination with buildings to his insights on the failures of design-and-build contracts, building safety legislation, and the undervaluing of architects, this conversation pulls no punches.
In This Episode:
✅ John's early influences: how childhood trips to Portmeirion sparked his architectural eye
✅ The difference between Autism and Asperger’s in the workplace and how neurodiversity can strengthen architecture
✅ The case for 'slow architecture' and how attention to detail is being sidelined in today’s property world
✅ How an unconventional school project tracking Soviet satellites helped John gain entry to Bath University
✅ Why architectural education still suffers from stylistic and software biases
✅ The hidden dangers of novated design-and-build contracts
✅ A scathing critique of councils outsourcing architecture—and how it leads to poor public buildings
Key Quote:
🗨️ "Style is just fashion. Architecture needs objective beauty, proportion, space, and light."
This episode is brought to you by Hahn Plastics, makers of Hanit – the innovative material reshaping the future of construction and design.
Manufactured from 100% recycled consumer plastic waste and with unmatched durability, Hanit is the sustainable solution for tomorrow's projects.
Want to discover how Hanit can transform your designs while reducing environmental impact? Book a CPD presentation today and let’s shape a greener future together at info@hahnplastics.co.uk.
In this episode I talk with Architect Dr Rebecca Jane McConnell and Architect Cathal Crumley from The Future Blueprint.
They are breaking down the barriers in the architecture profession and are calling out the toxic issues that exist in the profession. Both were born in Northern Ireland and attended Queens Belfast University.
This episode is brought to you by Hahn Plastics, makers of Hanit – the innovative material reshaping the future of construction and design.
Manufactured from 100% recycled consumer plastic waste and with unmatched durability, Hanit is the sustainable solution for tomorrow's projects.
Want to discover how Hanit can transform your designs while reducing environmental impact? Book a CPD presentation today and let’s shape a greener future together at info@hahnplastics.co.uk.
In this episode of The Broke Architect, we speak with Catherine Hunt of Niche Design Architects, a small but thriving architectural practice based in Ilkley, West Yorkshire. It’s a brutally honest, no-holds-barred look at what it really takes to survive and ultimately thrive as a small studio in today’s architecture landscape.
We explore:
The harsh realities of setting up a practice from scratch
Navigating client expectations, pricing pressures, and self-doubt
How learning the business side of architecture changed everything
The mindset shift from creative struggle to entrepreneurial resilience
The power of community, local context, and doing meaningful work
This is a must-listen for any architect who’s feeling stuck, burnt out, or unsure of how to make a living doing what they love, especially those running or considering starting their own practice.
Small practices can thrive — but not by doing business as usual
Financial literacy is critical in architecture
Knowing your worth isn’t arrogance — it’s survival
Success in architecture isn’t always about awards or scale
The business of design deserves as much respect as the design itself
🔑 Key Takeaways:
Small practices can thrive — but not by doing business as usual
Financial literacy is critical in architecture
Knowing your worth isn’t arrogance — it’s survival
Success in architecture isn’t always about awards or scale
The business of design deserves as much respect as the design itself
This episode is brought to you by Hahn Plastics, makers of Hanit – the innovative material reshaping the future of construction and design.
Manufactured from 100% recycled consumer plastic waste and with unmatched durability, Hanit is the sustainable solution for tomorrow's projects.
Want to discover how Hanit can transform your designs while reducing environmental impact? Book a CPD presentation today and let’s shape a greener future together at info@hahnplastics.co.uk.
Recorded live at UK Construction Week 2025, this bonus episode of The Broke Architect FREE CPD!
I’m joined by Aaron Brian, Sales Director from Andel, a specialist in environmental protection and leak detection systems. We dive into the crucial role of water management in the built environment and how architects can integrate risk mitigation strategies into their designs. From climate resilience to smart sensor technology, we explore how Andel is helping to future-proof buildings in a rapidly changing world.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Who Andel are, what they do and their relationship with Hahn Plastics and the product Hanit.
The types of water risk facing buildings today
How leak detection systems work and where they’re used
Real-world examples of water damage prevention
The impact of water-related issues on sustainability and insurance
Andel’s approach to innovation and technology
What architects and specifiers should consider when planning for water risk
The importance of early-stage collaboration with specialists
Advice for practices looking to design more resilient buildings
This episode is brought to you by Hahn Plastics, makers of Hanit – the innovative material reshaping the future of construction and design.
Manufactured from 100% recycled consumer plastic waste and with unmatched durability, Hanit is the sustainable solution for tomorrow's projects.
Want to discover how Hanit can transform your designs while reducing environmental impact? Book a CPD presentation today and let’s shape a greener future together at info@hahnplastics.co.uk.
Today, I’m honoured to be joined by a representative from our Sponsor of the Show, Hahn Plastics, makers of Hanit. We recorded this episode live at Construction Week 2025 with Head of Sales and Marketing, Mathew Baxendale.
We explore how Hanit is turning plastic waste into durable, sustainable materials used across architecture and construction. Mathew shares insights on the challenges of changing industry mindsets, how Hanit products stand up to traditional materials, and what it takes to market sustainability without the greenwashing.
Whether you're a specifier, architect, or sustainability advocate, this conversation offers real-world takeaways for building a greener future, without breaking the bank.
This episode is brought to you by Hahn Plastics, makers of Hanit – the innovative material reshaping the future of construction and design.
Manufactured from 100% recycled consumer plastic waste and with unmatched durability, Hanit is the sustainable solution for tomorrow's projects.
Want to discover how Hanit can transform your designs while reducing environmental impact? Book a CPD presentation today and let’s shape a greener future together at info@hahnplastics.co.uk.
Last week, I was live from Construction Week 2025 at London's Excel Arena. I recorded this podcast with Phill Cross, Managing Director of PC Construction, who supply and install EcoCrib retaining walls, a sustainable solution made from 100% recycled plastic and work with the sponsor of The Broke Architect podcast, Hahn Plastics.
In this episode, which is a FREE CPD, we explore the environmental credentials of the retaining wall. We cover typical uses, sizes and scale, typical construction and maintenance of the system.
To arrange a CDP with PC Construction, please contact office@pcconstruction.co.uk
For this bonus episode, we summarise the key findings of the "Workplace Culture Report" finalised in November 2024. The Architects Registration Board (ARB) released this report in April 2025, and it does not make for pleasant reading.
I have used my American friends Artie Keene and Siri Mallory to voice the shocking findings while i take a break.
Over a third of all professionals working in architecture have experienced insults, stereotypes or jokes relating to protected characteristics. A third of professionals would not feel confident raising concerns if they experienced or observed misconduct.
Please take a listen as it's much easier than reading the full report.
This episode is brought to you by Hahn Plastics, makers of Hanit – the innovative material reshaping the future of construction and design. Manufactured from 100% recycled consumer plastic waste and with unmatched durability, Hanit is the sustainable solution for tomorrow's projects. Want to discover how Hanit can transform your designs while reducing environmental impact? Book a CPD presentation today and let’s shape a greener future together at info@hahnplastics.co.uk.
Visit hahnplastics.com to learn more.
Today, I’m absolutely honoured to be joined by one of the UK’s most respected architects, Stephen Hodder MBE. Many of you will know Stephen as the founding director of Hodder + Partners, which he runs with his wife Claire Hodder. Hodder and partners are the recipients of the inaugural RIBA Stirling Prize, and a former RIBA President.
The firm has been awarded over 60 major awards, their recent project, the Welcome Building at RHS Garden Bridgewater in Salford, has achieved remarkable acclaim, securing 17 awards on its own.
In this episode, we delve into Stephen’s journey from launching his practice during a recession to navigating the complexities of architectural education, procurement, and professional advocacy. We talk about what’s changed and what hasn’t — in the business of architecture, and why he believes the profession must reassert its value in today’s construction industry.
Whether you’re aspiring to lead a practice or struggling to make ends meet, this is a conversation packed with insight, honesty, and a deep passion for the craft of architecture.
This episode is brought to you by Hahn Plastics, makers of Hanit – the innovative material reshaping the future of construction and design. Manufactured from 100% recycled consumer plastic waste and with unmatched durability, Hanit is the sustainable solution for tomorrow's projects. Want to discover how Hanit can transform your designs while reducing environmental impact? Book a CPD presentation today and let’s shape a greener future together at info@hahnplastics.co.uk.
Visit hahnplastics.com to learn more.
I welcome back a past guest, an architecture recruitment business owner of the Architecture Social the wonderful Stephen Drew!
Warning - explicit language is heard throughout this episode.
Stephen and I got together on stream yard one Friday night, had some wine and free-styled. What you are listening to is an unscripted discussion about the state of architecture.
Topics include:
- Principal Designer is our chance to take back the profession.
- The Trump effect.
- RIBA problems pros and cons
- The Business of Architecture
- How the most talented people often don’t get the best jobs- Viral social media
- Cancel culture
- Architects are cool
- How we devalue ourselves.
This episode is brought to you by Hahn Plastics, makers of Hanit – the innovative material reshaping the future of construction and design. Manufactured from 100% recycled consumer plastic waste and with unmatched durability, Hanit is the sustainable solution for tomorrow's projects. Want to discover how Hanit can transform your designs while reducing environmental impact? Book a CPD presentation today and let’s shape a greener future together at info@hahnplastics.co.uk.
Visit hahnplastics.com to learn more.
In S4. E.6 I Meet Nikita Morrell, the ONLY copywriter in the world who ONLY writes for architects*. If you don't believe me just google her!
We talk about what makes a good website, top tips for gaining new clients and how she works with architects all around the world from her base in Australia.
Nikita has years of marketing & copywriting experience AND knows the architecture industry inside out. If you want to create a strategic, cohesive message for your firm — so you can get more (and better) clients, stand out from your competition & build your reputation — then get in touch.
TRUSTED BY: AIA (Presented at the 2024 AIA National Conference), RIBA, Entrearchitect, Business of Architecture UK, Australian Institute of Architects, Architecture Consulting Association, Architizer & more.
CHECK NIKITA OUT: at www.nikitamorell.com
Released today this S4.E5 I spoke with Johnathan Munkley of WSP.
Don't Miss It! 🎙️In this explosive episode, we dive into some of the biggest challenges and opportunities facing architects today:
🔥 Working for free – Why is this still happening?
⚖️ Protecting the architect's function – Should we have legal protection like lawyers?
🛑 Stagnation – Is architecture stuck in a rut?
📉 Race to the bottom – Are fees and standards spiralling downwards?
🔄 The PD role – Could this spark a renaissance in the profession?
🤖 AI fatigue – Is technology overwhelming architects?
💰 Data centres for Big Tech clients – Are architects missing out on this billion-pound industry?
🏗️ Mission-critical roles – Why architects are key to vital infrastructure.
🏢 Inside WSP – Exploring their culture, structure, and promotion paths.
🎓 Out-of-touch tutors – Are architecture schools preparing students for the real world?
🧠 Passing the torch – Why the next generation of architects needs more opportunities.
💺 Seats of power – Who really controls the future of architecture?
WSP employs 210 architects and designs data centres - could nuclear power them? This episode reveals why architects must act now to secure their place in these lucrative markets.
Meet Andrew Bondarenko, a BIM MEP technologist who lives and works in Ukraine. Andrew's story is unbelievable. A man who, despite difficult situations, has pivoted into BIM and runs a successful online BIM business from a warzone. What you will hear is a story of determination, resilience and hope.
Andrew and I have known each other for over 3 years and have kept in touch on Instagram. When the war with Russia happened, I tried to help him with contacts for overseas work, which was successful, and since then, he has worked for clients all over the world in a BIM capacity.
Andrew has a master's in Chemical Engineering and supports his family and was not able to join the army as he has had injuries to both of his knees which still need further surgery.
To contact Andrew see: https://andriibondarenko.wixsite.com/resume
Do you want to see the protection of function for architects and chartered technologists on the grounds of public safety? If so please sign my petition at https://www.change.org/p/petition-to-protect-the-function-of-architects-chartered-technologists-for-public-safety
In this episode, we dive into an inspiring journey of transformation, creativity, and resilience. Fro
Meet Vimi, who QUIT being an architect to create a CAKE business,The Cake Palette. The reasons why she quit architecture may surprise you.
Vimi was born in Sweden, was raised in Tanzania, and now calls Leicestershire, UK, her home. Vimi’s life has been a fusion of cultures, adventure, and an unshakable love for music and dance.
She began her career as an architect, but her passion for creativity led her down an unexpected yet fulfilling path—cake design. What started as a personal creative outlet during the challenges of 2020 soon flourished into a thriving business, where she crafts exquisite artisan cakes to celebrate life’s special moments.
Join us today as we explore her journey from architecture to artistry, the challenges of reinvention, and the sweet success of following your passion! 🎂
Website: https://www.thecakepalette.co.uk
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecakepaletteuk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecakepaletteuk