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

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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

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

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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

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

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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

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

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📐 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

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.

00:00 Introduction and Studio Tour

00:40 Moving to Camden

00:58 Starting the Business

01:19 The Business of Architecture

02:09 Essential Skills for Architects

02:39 Challenges of Running a Business

04:37 Networking and Client Relationships

06:33 Scaling Up the Practice

09:00 Innovations in Architecture

10:31 Hiring and Team Building

15:06 Work Environment and Culture

24:16 Debating Work Efficiency

25:00 Flexibility in the Workplace

26:19 Office Dynamics and Technology

27:44 The Importance of Office Presence

29:09 Challenges in Architecture Careers

31:12 Forecasting and Business Strategy

34:23 The Role of Technology in Architecture

40:26 Recruitment and Culture Change

48:26 Final 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

📐 #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