In this episode of Not A ‘Licensed’ Architect, Stefani Thatcher sits down with Don Titus, founder of Haven Architecture Studio. With over 25 years in the field and nearly two decades running his own business, Don shares a unique perspective shaped by both unlicensed and licensed experience.

They dive into the realities of the licensure journey—what it actually takes, where people get stuck, and why persistence matters more than perfection. Don opens up about failing multiple exams, stepping away for years, and eventually finding the support and strategy he needed to follow through.

They also explore the value of community, the importance of aligning budget with expectations, and what it looks like to design homes that truly serve the people living in them. If you’ve ever questioned your path—or your pace—this episode will give you clarity and encouragement to keep going.

What You’ll Learn

• Why the path to becoming an architect isn’t always linear
• How to stay motivated after repeated setbacks or failures
• The role of community and accountability in achieving big goals
• What licensure actually changes (and what it doesn’t) in your career
• How to qualify clients and align budget with expectations
• Key challenges in remodel and addition projects
• Why honesty and guidance are essential in client relationships

Chapters

00:00 – From Childhood Inspiration to Architecture

04:25 – Understanding the Licensure Process

10:01 – Starting a Business During the Recession

17:30 – Failing the ARE and Losing Momentum

20:46 – Licensed vs. Unlicensed: Pros and Cons

25:58 – Specializing in Remodels and Additions

36:55 – Final Advice: Persistence and Finding Support

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In this episode of Not A ‘Licensed’ Architect, Stefani Thatcher sits down with Cole Hamilton, licensed architect and founder of Hamilton Home Design. With a non-linear path into architecture, Cole shares how he built a business focused on designing homes that truly reflect the people who live in them.

They unpack the realities of the residential design industry—from confusion around titles to gaps in quality and service—and why clear communication and strong processes matter more than trying to impress with “perfect” design.

If you’re an aspiring residential designer or working in the custom home industry, this episode will help you design with more clarity, confidence, and a stronger client-first approach.

What You’ll Learn

• Why designing for real people matters more than impressing with a portfolio

• How to help clients find the right designer (and be the right fit)

• The importance of asking better questions before starting a design

• How to balance guiding clients without overpowering their vision

• Why clear processes improve both design outcomes and client experience

• How ongoing learning and code knowledge can set you apart

• The role of honesty and communication in building trust with clients

Chapters

00:00 – From Accidental Architect to Residential Design

02:31 – Cole’s Path to Licensure

09:55 – Starting a Business Through Opportunity

13:14 – The Gap in Residential Design Services

16:50 – How Clients Can Choose the Right Designer

24:56 – Communication, Revisions, and Client Expectations

40:49 – Systems, Process, and Final Advice

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In this episode of Not A ‘Licensed’ Architect, Stefani Thatcher sits down with Brian Free, co-founder of VirtuActive, a residential design firm that has grown from a small side operation into a nationwide business serving builders and homeowners. With a background in construction and drafting, Brian brings a practical, process-driven perspective to residential design.

Together, they explore what it really takes to scale a design business, from building a team and training designers to creating efficient systems that improve both workflow and client experience. Brian shares how speed, iteration, and early feedback can lead to better outcomes than trying to perfect a design upfront.

They also dive into the importance of communication and collaboration—especially with builders—and how tools like 3D visualization help clients better understand their homes. If you’re an aspiring residential designer or working in the custom home industry, this episode will help you deliver stronger designs with more confidence and efficiency.

What You’ll Learn

• Why speed and iteration matter more than trying to create the “perfect” first draft
• How strong processes improve both efficiency and the client experience
• Why collaboration with builders leads to better design outcomes
• The role of 3D visualization in helping clients understand their homes
• How to train and scale a design team effectively

• • Why tracking performance improves productivity and accountability
  • The importance of clear communication and setting expectations with clients
• 
  
• Chapters
• 00:00 – Introduction & Brian’s Background
• 02:36 – From Side Work to Scaling a Design Business
• 08:36 – Working with Builders vs. Homeowners
• 14:02 – Building and Training a Design Team
• 19:16 – Speed, Process, and Client Experience
• 25:07 – Using 3D to Improve Communication
• 32:25 – Final Lessons: Feedback, Efficiency, and Delivery
• 
  
• Connect with Brian & VirtuActive

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VirtuActive/

  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/virtuactiveomaha

  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/virtuactive/

  
  

  Want to Be a Guest?

  Do you want to be a guest on Not A ‘Licensed’ Architect or nominate someone?

  👉 https://www.dostudios.co/contact