Archispeak: Recent Episodes

Evan Troxel & Cormac Phalen // Gābl Media

What’s it really like to work in architecture? The hosts of Archispeak know, and they’re here to share real-life experiences. Since 2012 architects Evan Troxel and Cormac Phalen have been podcasting their brand of real talk on everything from design, tools, and work/life balance to generational differences, mentoring, job hunting, and more. Probing questions, revelatory interviews, and unique insights have grown their audience and become a weekly ritual for students and seasoned professionals alike. To join the conversation or learn more about the hosts, visit archispeakpodcast.com

What do you do when you finish six years of architecture school, land in the profession, and realize none of it speaks to you? Evan and Cormac start with a former student on a Detroit construction tour who says the buildings around her are falling on deaf ears, and they take the question seriously instead of waving it off. They dig into the difference between dreading the work and feeling nothing for it, why the degree opens far more doors than the traditional path, and how meaning has to be found before happiness can follow it.

From there the conversation widens into attitude and its contagious effect on a team, the collapse of the mentorship that used to teach young architects why a single line matters, and a misplaced fire department connection that reveals how coordination breaks down when nobody asks the question. This episode is especially relevant for emerging professionals second-guessing the path they chose, and for the people managing them. You'll leave with a harder, more honest frame: the situation is yours to change, and no one else is going to do it for you.

Episode Links:

Out of Architecture — the community and book Cormac points the disillusioned grad toward, for architects finding a life in, around, and outside the profession
TRXL Podcast — Evan's AEC tech podcast, recommended alongside Out of Architecture

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

Evan and Cormac dig into why architects deliberately stop detailing at "design intent" instead of shop-drawing level, and how that decision has handed constructability over to contractors and manufacturers. They explore the level of detail (LOD) gap between US and overseas practice, a real design-assist story about pushing a terracotta fin cantilever further with a manufacturer, and why competitive bidding punishes architects who over-detail their own work.

That leads into a wider conversation about why so much new construction feels generic and developer-driven, and why "breaking the mass" isn't the daring move it's marketed as. Using Frank Lloyd Wright's Usonian houses and Sam Mockbee's Rural Studio as examples, they make the case that affordability is a design tool, not a constraint that kills architecture.

This episode is especially relevant for project architects and BIM managers navigating construction documentation expectations, and for anyone frustrated by how mundane the built environment has become. It's a push to treat understanding construction and materials as the real path to bold, affordable design.

Episode Links:

Rural Studio — official site
Rural Studio — Our Story
Citizen Architect: Samuel Mockbee and the Spirit of the Rural Studio — official film site
Thorncrown Chapel — official site, E. Fay Jones
Schindler House / MAK Center for Art and Architecture — Rudolf Schindler's Kings Road House
Glenn Murcutt — 2002 Pritzker Architecture Prize
Citizen Architects — "Creating Hip Spaces on Solid Foundations"

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

Evan and Cormac catch up on Cormac's 6,800-mile road trip from Detroit to the AIA National Convention in San Diego with his daughter, built around a bucket list of architectural pilgrimage stops. They explore what happens when a non-architect finally sees a building that lands emotionally (Thorncrown Chapel), what happens when a canonical masterpiece doesn't (the Salk Institute reads as "a parking garage"), and what the 2026 AIA National Convention got right and wrong.

This episode is especially relevant for architects who've ever tried to get a non-architect family member excited about a building they love, and for anyone curious what 18 states and 10 national parks look like when the itinerary is built around Route 66 gas stations, Louis Sullivan bank buildings, and a soda shop with a 66-foot bottle out front. Expect a reminder that the buildings people love most aren't always the ones architects were taught to revere.

Buildings & Projects Mentioned

Thorncrown Chapel — E. Fay Jones
The E. Fay Jones Conservancy
POPS (Pop 66) — Rand Elliott Architects
Salk Institute for Biological Studies — Louis Kahn
Geisel Library — William Pereira, UC San Diego
Wainwright Building — Adler & Sullivan, St. Louis
Jack C. Taylor Visitor Center — Missouri Botanical Garden
John Deere World Headquarters — Eero Saarinen, Moline

Context: AIA National Convention

AIA National Convention (A'26), San Diego

Related Work

Rand Elliott Architects

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

David Prutting joins Evan and Cormac to talk about what 50 years of building high-end contemporary homes has taught him about the relationship between architects, owners, and builders. They explore the trust triangle that makes or breaks a custom project, why David actively steers clients away from design-build, and the floor plan theory he's developed over decades: the stranger the plan, the better the architect was listening.

This episode is especially relevant for architects at any career stage who want to understand how their work lands with the people who actually build it. David's perspective is rare — a builder who has spent five decades alongside Steven Holl, Toshiko Mori, Olson Kundig, and KieranTimberlake, who hires architects into his own construction firm, and who has been on both sides of the client chair. His book, A Builder's Life Done Well, is available on Amazon (link below).

Episode Links:

Get the book: A Builder's Life Done Well
Prutting + Company — prutting.com
David Prutting on LinkedIn
Prutting + Company on LinkedIn
Prutting + Company on Instagram
Profile — Residential Design Magazine
Steven Holl Architects
Toshiko Mori Architect
Joeb Moore & Partners
Olson Kundig
KieranTimberlake
New Canaan Modern — Prutting + Company
Philip Johnson Glass House
Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church (FLW) — Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

Sven Shockey, FAIA joins Evan and Cormac to talk about Virginia Tech Academic Building One — a 300,000-square-foot computer science and computer engineering building on a new campus in Alexandria, Virginia whose faceted, photovoltaic-integrated form was derived through 1,400 computational iterations. They explore what it means to design a building's exterior before the interior program is finalized, how three distinct types of building-integrated photovoltaics get assigned to 17 different facades based on orientation and performance data, and what a sewage wastewater energy exchange system has to do with a tunnel under a parking lot.

This episode is especially relevant for design architects and architecture students who want to understand how computational tools actually interact with design judgment — and for anyone who's ever wondered what it looks and feels like to sit inside a building where the facade is doing real work. The shadows move. The light is soft. The algorithm found a non-intuitive answer, and then the real design work began.

Episode LinksGuest

Sven Shockey on LinkedIn
Sven Shockey at SmithGroup

SmithGroup

SmithGroup website
SmithGroup on LinkedIn
SmithGroup on Instagram

Virginia Tech Academic Building One

Project page — SmithGroup
Virginia Tech Innovation Campus
First building nears completion — Virginia Tech News
Alumnus plays large role in designing the campus — Virginia Tech News
Virginia Tech's Striking New Building Pays Homage to the Sun — Interior Design
Virginia Tech Innovation Campus Academic 1 Building — Architect Magazine
A Window to the Future — Inform Magazine
Design centers on sustainability & connectivity — SmithGroup (2020)
First building nears completion — SmithGroup (2024)

Awards

Interior Design Best of Year 2025 — Dual Honors
AIA Virginia 2025 Design Awards

Context: Virginia Tech & Amazon HQ2

Virginia Tech Innovation Campus key to attracting Amazon HQ2 — Virginia Tech News

Related Work: DC Water Headquarters

DC Water Headquarters — SmithGroup
Putting Wastewater to Work — SmithGroup Perspectives
DC Water HQ earns LEED Platinum — DC Water SmithGroup

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

A van conversion project that was supposed to take three days is now four months in and an eighth of the way done. Evan and Cormac dig into what actually happened and why an architect's brain might be the single biggest obstacle to finishing a personal fabrication project on time. They cover the scope creep hiding in "wouldn't you do it differently?", why one wrong cut forces every subsequent piece to compensate, and the design-build logic that makes real-time problem-solving both efficient and indefinitely slow.

This episode is especially relevant for architects and designers who've ever started a hands-on project with a realistic-sounding timeline and found themselves months later still fitting cedar lining around corners that aren't quite 90 degrees, holding a saw, and refusing to call it good enough.

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

Cormac spent last week driving from Detroit to Baltimore for a punch review, then north to a factory two hours outside Toronto to inspect replacement vestibule glass — only to reject it for the second time because the print scale was still wrong.

Along the way, he squeezed in an unplanned tour of Frank Lloyd Wright's Darwin Martin House in Buffalo, ended up teaching the docents, and toured AGNORA's glass factory, where he found something almost no other manufacturer will attempt: a fully miterless, corner-glazed insulated glazing unit. He also saw a project where a developer printed the image of a demolished historic building onto the glass facade of its replacement.

Evan and Cormac dig into what "punch ready" is supposed to mean, whether we can still build at the level of FLW's Prairie homes, and what it costs (in time, travel, and patience) to hold a project to the standard it was designed to. This episode is especially relevant for project architects and CA practitioners who know the exhaustion of traveling to a site review only to walk away with another rejection, and who still find genuine awe in what the industry is technically capable of building, even when the job itself won't let you use it.

Episode Links:

AGNORA - glass manufacturer website
FLW’s Darwin Martin house

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

Five years into one project. Ten into another. Three principals retired before the second one wrapped. Evan and Cormac dig into what long-duration architecture projects reveal about career identity, why the profession has always romanticized the architect who works until death, and what retirement actually looks like when architecture is all you've ever done. They also get into the slow erosion of architectural vocabulary, why Cormac put a massive "WHY" at the center of his studio board, and the design decisions that unravel when nobody stops to ask the most basic question.

This episode is especially relevant for mid-career and senior architects who are quietly wondering where the work fits in the rest of their life — and for educators and mentors in the profession who want to give students the reasoning skills, not just the technical ones.

Episode Links:

Archispeak’s “What Makes This Building Great” - Kahn’s British Museum

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

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Ten years into a $600M research laboratory project, Cormac reflects on what it actually means to see a complex build through to the end — the COVID-era redesign, the permit battles across three code cycles, and the people who've been on site since day one. He and Evan unpack the case for continuity: why the architects who know every decision that was ever made are essentially irreplaceable, and why the grinding sameness of long construction administration is also the kind of rare, compacted education that most architects never get in an entire career.

This episode is especially relevant for project architects and CA teams who've ever wondered whether staying on a long, demanding project is actually worth it — and for anyone who's adopted someone else's mid-stream project and immediately felt the weight of not knowing why.

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

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Cormac spent twelve hours trying to send one email. Evan has seventeen apps open at all times. This week they trace the architecture of modern distraction — from "you're on mute" killing the flow of real-time thinking, to AI making it easier to do more of the wrong things faster, to the structural reason architects keep saying yes when they should say no. The profession runs on availability, responsiveness, and service, and those instincts are now at war with the deep, focused work that good architecture actually requires. This episode is especially relevant for architects who recognize the gap between how busy they feel and how much actual work they can point to at the end of the day — and who are starting to wonder whether the answer is less technology, better boundaries, or just learning to say no.

Have a question for the hosts? Ask it at AskArchispeak.com

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

Architecture firms are adopting AI faster than they're building the expertise to judge it.

In this episode, we explore the AI and expertise paradox with Christopher Parsons, Founder and CEO of Knowledge Architecture, the firm behind Synthesis — a knowledge and learning platform built for AEC firms — digging into what happens when the tools your firm is counting on require more institutional knowledge to evaluate than the people on staff actually have.

AI tools for technical work in architecture — code checking, quality assurance, documentation review — don't run themselves. They require experienced practitioners who can distinguish a real error from a flagged decision, catch what the model missed, and exercise judgment the model can't replicate. The problem is that the people who can do this are retiring. And the emerging professionals now entering firms are, in many cases, actively avoiding the deep technical tracks that build that kind of expertise. The knowledge gap is structural, and most firms aren't naming it yet.

Meanwhile, the apprenticeship model that used to transfer institutional knowledge quietly — through proximity, repetition, and mentorship — has eroded. Young professionals aren't getting the reps on site visits, project management calls, and technical coordination that used to form the foundation of good judgment. Architecture's feedback loop compounds this: a decision made today may not be visible in a finished building for four or five years, and by then the people who made it may not be at the firm. Organizational learning is nearly impossible without systems designed to accelerate it.

This conversation is essential listening for architects, firm leaders, and AEC educators who want to understand what it actually takes to build expertise in a profession that keeps adding tools faster than it builds the judgment to use them.

What you'll learn in this episode:

• Why AI tools for architecture QA and code-checking require senior technical oversight — and what happens when that oversight retires

• How the knowledge management crisis in AEC firms is structural, not just a staffing problem

• Why emerging professionals in architecture are increasingly skipping deep technical tracks — and what that means for AI adoption

• How architecture's long project feedback loop makes organizational learning harder than in almost any other industry

• What intentional mentorship looks like in practice — including "desirable difficulty" and how one firm rebuilt its approach to professional development

• Why expertise functions more like a verb than a noun, and what that means for how firms should think about training and retention

AIinArchitecture #KnowledgeManagement #ArchitecturePractice #AEC #ArchitectureEducation #DesignTechnology

Episode Links:

’The AI and Expertise Paradox’ by Chris Parsons

Have a question for the hosts? Ask it at AskArchispeak.com

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode of Archispeak, we catch up after Evan’s trip to New York City and the AECtech conference, where he moderated a panel with design technology leaders who’ve climbed all the way into firm leadership. We also talk about the continuing education grind it takes just to keep our licenses alive, why there’s really no such thing as “architecture without technology” anymore, and how technologists are quietly becoming some of the most strategic voices in practice. From the culture and community around AECtech’s workshops and hackathon, to studio juries that ask students whether they actually had fun, to wandering Heatherwick’s Little Island and wrestling with the idea that architecture is allowed to be whimsical and purely experiential, we connect the dots between career paths, culture-building, and remembering why we fell in love with this profession in the first place.

Have a question for the hosts? Ask it at AskArchispeak.com

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode of Archispeak, we pull back the curtain on what modern practice actually feels like when AI, meetings, and the architecture grind all collide. We talk about coming back from travel feeling not three weeks behind but three months, calendars that look like Tetris played on hard mode, and what happens when you join a call and realize you’re the only human in a grid full of AI note-takers. Cormac and Evan dig into how AI meeting companions, transcripts, and recordings change the way we think, remember, and take responsibility for decisions—and why it’s getting harder to even know where the “real” record of a project lives when it’s scattered across Zoom chats, email, Revit, and shared drives.

From there, we zoom out to the bigger question: what this nonstop communication and tool-stack chaos is doing to actual design work, mentorship, and the next generation coming up inside firms. We wrestle with whether AI is really relieving the grind or quietly raising expectations so everyone is “on” all the time, and we talk honestly about boundaries, attention, and how to carve out space for deep work in the middle of the mess.

Have a question for the hosts? Ask it at AskArchispeak.com

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

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In this episode of Archispeak, we sit down with architect Anthony Laney to explore the ideas behind his new book, Poetics of Home. We talk about what it really takes to design spaces that feel deeply human and how his team at Laney LA has built a practice around clarity, rigor, and emotional resonance.

We dig into the invisible forces that shape a great project: the trust between architects and builders, the discipline required to strip a design down to its essentials, and the humility it takes to let a home reveal what it wants to become. Anthony shares stories from the field, from working with an extraordinary build team to navigating the inevitable surprises that show up during construction, and how those moments often lead to the most beautiful outcomes.

Across generations in our profession, there’s a hunger for meaning in the work. This conversation gets right to the heart of that. Whether you’re just entering architecture or you’ve been at it for decades, Anthony’s perspective is a powerful reminder of why we do this in the first place: to create places where people can live well.

Episode Links:

POETICS of HOME by Laney LA
Amazon Link

Have a question for the hosts? Ask it at AskArchispeak.com

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

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In this episode of Archispeak, we talk about that elusive quality that aligns people with great art (and spaces)—but this time through the lens of a real-world architectural field trip. Evan shares his recent trip to Iowa, where he spent time touring projects and hanging out with the folks at OPN Architects. We dive into why the atmosphere of a place, both in architecture and in practice, matters more than most people realize.

Episode Links:

Watch this episode on YouTube (with all the pictures that go along with the conversation!)
Jeff Skunk Baxter - Harmonic Vibration & the Human Spirit (YouTube)
The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin (Amazon)
tetragrammaton podcast
Rick Beato’s interview of David Gilmour (YouTube)
OPN Architects
Pickle Palace

Have a question for the hosts? Ask it at AskArchispeak.com

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

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The Creative Act: A Way of Being

In this episode we discuss how taking a step back from work leads to better architecture. We talk about concrete ways to break free from constant busyness, when to pause instead of charging ahead, and how technology can both help and hurt creative solutions. We offer clear, practical advice on finding the right balance between thinking things through and getting work done.

Have a question for the hosts? Ask it at AskArchispeak.com

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

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In this episode of Archispeak, we trade fresh field notes from Cormac’s latest midwestern architecture road trip and wrestle with the title theme: Misalignments of Rigor. Cormac stands in the rain in Toledo to watch a Gehry facade actually perform, peek at SANAA’s elegant double-skin glass and its (imperfect) parapet detail, and then compare all of it to a new addition grafted onto a Louis Kahn building that seems to ignore his relentless order. Along the way, we unpack preservation vs. recreation, how committees and clients steer “of-our-time” interventions, and why tiny choices like material transitions, door proportions, and device locations (aka wall warts) make or break the whole. For students, emerging pros, and firm leaders alike, we turn on-the-ground observations into practical takeaways: where rigor matters, when to prototype, how to collaborate with manufacturers, and how to keep design intent aligned with construction reality so your next addition reads as deliberate, not accidental.

Have a question for the hosts? Ask it at AskArchispeak.com

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

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In this episode of Archispeak, we dive into the tough reality of how the architecture profession often fails its own. From the way firms accelerate project timelines while under-developing young talent, to the disconnect between academia and practice, we ask hard questions about why architects feel overworked, underprepared, and sometimes completely betrayed by the system they’ve dedicated their careers to. We explore how the industry’s obsession with speed and efficiency robs emerging professionals of essential learning opportunities, and why bad leadership and broken processes keep compounding the problem. Through real-world stories—from 52-minute model load times to lessons learned only through hard-earned experience—we grapple with whether the profession can change course, or if it’s destined to keep “eating its young.”

Episode Links:

Are students prepared for practice? (AIA article)

Have a question for the hosts? Ask it at AskArchispeak.com

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

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In this episode of Archispeak, we walk across the street in New Haven—literally and figuratively—to explore two masterworks by Paul Rudolph and Louis Kahn. These buildings, separated by time but connected by place and purpose, offer a rare opportunity to see two giants of architecture in conversation across the street.

We kick things off outside Paul Rudolph’s brutalist Art and Architecture Building, a six-story monument to concrete, shadow play (which is Cormac’s favorite), and interlocking geometries. From rough textures to zigzagging stair sequences, we unpack how Rudolph’s massing, detail, and bold restraint create an intensely dynamic corner in the city.

Then, just steps away, we head into Louis Kahn’s Yale University Art Gallery. Built 20 years prior, it’s a study in geometric discipline, restrained materiality, and the classic served-and-servant spatial philosophy. From triangular waffle slabs and coffered ceilings to floating stair treads, we peel back the layers of this early Kahn work and talk about how it set the stage for what came later in his career.

We also announce a new series: What Makes This Building Great?, available exclusively on our YouTube channel, where we take our conversations further by sketching over photos and plans to peel back the onion of master works of architecture. These are the kinds of deep, nerdy dives we’ve always wanted to do—and we’d love your feedback as we build this series out.

Head to our YouTube channel to watch the first episode featuring Kahn’s Yale Center for British Art. And let us know what buildings you think are worthy of the title.

Have a question for the hosts? Ask it at AskArchispeak.com

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

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In this episode of Archispeak, we walk through the Yale Center for British Art by Louis Kahn and reflect on what makes this building truly great. From its masterful use of natural light and honest materials to the clarity of its spatial organization, Kahn’s final building is both a work of art and a place for art. We discuss what it feels like to experience the space firsthand, how it invites contemplation, and why it continues to resonate with architects decades later. Along the way, we explore timeless questions about authorship, permanence, and what architecture has the power to communicate.

Episode Links:

Watch a YouTube-only visual version of this episode here
Yale Center for British Art (Wikipedia)

Have a question for the hosts? Ask it at AskArchispeak.com

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In part 1 of our summer series centered on the 2025 AIA Conference on Architecture, we discuss Evan's first visit to Boston and share his and Cormac's impressions of the city.

Rather than focusing on CEUs or presentations, we explore how the AIA Conference continues to serve as a powerful gathering place for the profession. The serendipity of in-person meetups, the nuance of hallway conversations, and the inspiration found in real-world architecture make it a unique moment in the calendar year.

Whether you made it to Boston or not, this episode captures the essence of what makes architectural travel and community engagement so energizing. It's a reminder that often the most meaningful aspects of being an architect happen outside the office—walking the streets of a great city or reconnecting with colleagues over drinks after years apart.

Episode Links:

Evelyn Lee, FAIA - AIA 2025 President
Arcol
Archistar
Upcodes
Hotel Marcel

Have a question for the hosts? Ask it at AskArchispeak.com

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode of Archispeak, we’re joined by Carla Johnson—author, speaker, and innovation strategist—for a conversation that’s both energizing and reflective. We dive into the idea of “slowing down to speed up” and how reconnecting with our innate curiosity might be the most important skill for architects and creative professionals today.

Carla shares her journey from engineering to architecture marketing to helping AEC firms rediscover the lost art of asking better questions. We explore how our industrial-era systems stripped us of critical thinking and why now—thanks to tools like AI—we have a new opportunity to reawaken our creativity.

Together, we talk about reframing failure, why safe ideas might be the riskiest ones, and how even a simple breath can change the way we approach problem-solving. Whether you’re a student staring down deadlines or a project manager caught in the machine, this one’s a reminder to pause, stretch, and let your curiosity lead the way.

Episode Links:

Carla Johnson on LinkedIn
Carla’s website
Michael Easter’s The Comfort Crisis
Jony Ive’s interview at Stripe Sessions

Have a question for the hosts? Ask it at AskArchispeak.com

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

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The Comfort Crisis: Embrace Discomfort To Reclaim Your Wild, Happy, Healthy Self

In this episode of Archispeak, we explore the evolving frontier of home automation with Jeff Thomas of Control4 and Michael Smith of Bromic Heating. Together, we unpack the layered relationship between architecture and integrated technology—why it’s critical to bring smart home specialists in early, how lighting, heating, and sound are blending into seamless user experiences, and where the real opportunities lie for residential architects.

We dig into the nitty-gritty: from the difference between Zigbee, Z-Wave, and Wi-Fi protocols, to the challenges of retrofitting systems in older homes. Along the way, we highlight how smart tech isn’t just about gadgets—it’s about extending comfort, enhancing ambiance, and making homes safer, more energy-efficient, and more enjoyable to live in.

If you’ve ever felt out of your depth when a client asks about smart thermostats, color-tunable lighting, or voice-controlled heating, this one’s for you. We’re asking the questions you didn’t know you needed to ask—so you can deliver better outcomes and stay ahead of what’s coming next.

This episode has been made possible with the generous support of Bromic Heating.

Episode Links:

Jeff Thomas on LinkedIn
Michael Smith on LinkedIn
Control4 website
Bromic website
Eclipse heaters
Bromic heater Revit and CAD files
Design service with a heating expert

Have a question for the hosts? Ask it at AskArchispeak.com

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

What makes architecture memorable? Why do some spaces hit you in the chest while others feel hollow? In this episode of Archispeak, we explore a concept that’s rarely taught but deeply felt. Genius loci. The spirit of the place.

From volunteering as a docent at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Home and Studio to taking a group of recent grads on an architectural pilgrimage through Chicago, Cormac shares stories that tie memory, mentorship, and emotion to design. Along the way, we discuss how the demands of modern practice often push this spirit aside in favor of speed, budgets, and repeatability.

Together, we wrestle with what it means to create architecture that belongs—architecture that understands its context, uplifts the human experience, and becomes part of the emotional fabric of our lives. If you’ve ever stood in a space and simply felt something you couldn’t explain, this one’s for you.

Have a question for the hosts? Ask it at AskArchispeak.com

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode of Archispeak, we’re joined by Jessica Orlando, Vice President and President-Elect of the AIA Pasadena Foothill chapter, to explore how architects are stepping up in the aftermath of the recent Altadena and Palisades wildfires in Southern California. Jessica shares how the AIA’s volunteer-led “Ask an Architect” initiative is connecting displaced residents with licensed professionals to help guide them through the overwhelming process of rebuilding—many for the first time.

We discuss the powerful role architects can play in disaster response, the challenges of balancing speed with resilience in permitting and design, and the implications of relaxed regulations in the name of urgency. Jessica also walks us through what’s happening on the ground, including policy shifts, modular and prefab strategies, bulk material purchasing efforts, and the surprising silver linings some homeowners are finding in being able to reimagine what “home” means.

This conversation highlights the profession’s unique ability to lead with empathy, share knowledge, and organize in the face of crisis—and why this moment is an opportunity for all of us to do better, together.

Episode Links:

AIAPF website
AIAPF on LinkedIn
AIAPF on Instagram
AIAPF Resources for Homeowners
Discounted AIA Contracts for architects working on fire rebuilds ($51 each)
Jessica Orlando on LinkedIn

Have a question for the hosts? Ask it at AskArchispeak.com

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode of Archispeak, we sit down with Robert Yuen, CEO and co-founder of Monograph, to dive into the findings from their latest Architecture and Engineering Salary and Business Benchmarks Report 2025. We discuss how Monograph’s anonymized real-world data provides a clearer picture of salaries, utilization, and realization rates across the industry—without relying on traditional survey methods. Together, we unpack why project managers and engineers are out-earning architects, the crucial role of financial literacy, and how radical transparency can shape a more sustainable and prosperous future for the profession.

Episode Links:

2025 Architecture & Engineering Business Benchmarks Report
Robert on LinkedIn
Monograph on LinkedIn

TRXL Podcast episodes featuring Robert Yuen

TRXL 086: ‘Here to Do the Hard Thing’, with Robert Yuen
TRXL 113: ‘Surprises Are Not Good’, with Robert Yuen
TRXL 185: ‘Radical Transparency’, with Robert Yuen

Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek

Official website
Amazon link

Have a question for the hosts? Ask it at AskArchispeak.com

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

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Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don't

In this episode we explore the intersection of structural engineering, adaptive reuse, and creative problem-solving in architecture. From a lighthearted discussion about ratchet straps as unconventional structural solutions to a deep dive into the challenges of modernizing existing buildings, this episode showcases how architects and engineers tackle complex design problems with ingenuity.

Have a question for the hosts? Ask it at AskArchispeak.com

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

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Join us for an engaging discussion with Chad Clary where we explore how architectural projects differ from movies and video games in terms of crediting contributors. We talk about whether the industry needs a better system for recognizing all those involved in building projects. The conversation also covers the critical importance of specificity in architectural documentation, examining how evolving professional roles affect design intent preservation while meeting contractor expectations.

Episode Links:

The Barnes Foundation by TWBTA

Have a question for the hosts? Ask it at AskArchispeak.com

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode, we have a discussion about the value of sketching for idea development, the importance of questioning everything in architecture, the impact of architecture on people's memories and experiences, and the need for architects to engage with users and understand the spaces they create.

Episode Links:

The Art Museums of Louis I. Kahn (Amazon Link)

Have a question for the hosts? Ask it at AskArchispeak.com

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

William Dodge joins the podcast to discuss his latest article the integration of AI in architecture, its impact on creativity, the evolving role of architects, and the shift towards innovative practices and micro studios, highlighting the future of the profession.

Click here for images that William shared during the conversation.

Episode Links:

William Dodge on LinkedIn
William’s article on Fast Company - The architecture industry may soon be unrecognizable
a gang of three
p-u-b-l-i-c
Richard England (Maltese godfather of architecture who told me the story about Frank Lloyd Wright + Renzo Piano’s bff)
Valentino Architects (tiny but amazing Maltese firm William mentioned)
Matthew Nowicki (original designer of Chandigarh)

Have a question for the hosts? Ask it at AskArchispeak.com

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode we welcome Helena Sawelin from Tillberg Design to explore the evolution of cruise ship design. Helena shares her company's impressive 60-year legacy and their expertise in luxury cruise, yacht, and residential ship design, along with their commitment to sustainability. She reflects on her 30-year progression from FF&E designer to business director, while highlighting the industry's transformation toward greener technologies and eco-friendly materials. The conversation delves into current trends in mid-size and luxury cruise ships—from seamless indoor-outdoor spaces to health and wellness amenities—and examines social media's influence on cruise tourism and design. Helena emphasizes how strong customer relationships and enduring design solutions play crucial roles in advancing sustainability.

About the Guest:

Helena has worked at TDoS since 1995, during this time, she has worked with some of the largest and most prestigious clients in the marine business, working also with high-end hotels, yachts, and high street boutiques.

Episode Sponsor - Bromic Heating

This episode has been made possible with the generous support of Bromic Heating.

Episode Links:

Helena Sawelin on LinkedIn
Tillberg Design of Sweden website
Tillberg Design on LinkedIn
Tillberg Design on Instagram
Bromic website
Eclipse heaters
Bromic heater Revit and CAD files
Design service with a heating expert

Have a question for the hosts? Ask it at AskArchispeak.com

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode, we talk about design intent and construction tolerances. We examine how architectural designs intersect with construction realities, exploring the crucial communication between architects, contractors, and clients. The discussion covers the challenges of maintaining construction standards within specified tolerances, while emphasizing the value of thorough planning and coordination. We also address the inevitable compromises that emerge during construction's final phases.

Episode Links:

Have a question for the show? Visit AskArchispeak.com

Have a question for the hosts? Ask it at AskArchispeak.com

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this thought-provoking episode, Evan and Cormac engage in a spirited critique of "The Brutalist," with an in-depth analysis of cinema through an architect's lens. We explore how architectural principles like clarity, editing, and supporting a core concept apply equally to filmmaking. We discuss the dangers of creative overindulgence and the importance of restraint in both architecture and storytelling.

Whether you're interested in film criticism, architectural theory, or simply enjoy hearing passionate professionals analyze creative work, this episode offers valuable insights into the intersection of different art forms.

Episode Sponsor - TimberTech

Discover how TimberTech is redefining synthetic decking with precision-engineered materials that balance enduring aesthetics with superior performance and sustainability. TimberTech’s advanced technologies replicate natural wood’s allure while minimizing maintenance and environmental impact. Request samples, read case studies or download our architectural white paper here.

Episode Links:

Nosferatu (2024 film)
The Green Knight (film)
The Brutalist (film)
Brady Corbet (director)
The Man Behind the World’s Ugliest Buildings by Comedy Central
Marcel Breuer
Brutalist Architecture
Bauhaus
Eero Saarinen
Louis Kahn
Christopher Nolan
Inception (film)
Modern Man by Anthony Flint
Pierre Jeanneret - Corbu’s cousin

Have a question for the hosts? Ask it at AskArchispeak.com

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

Modern Man: The Life of Le Corbusier, Architect of Tomorrow

In this episode, we dive deep into the often overlooked role of architectural specifiers. Our special guest, Jeff Potter, shares his unconventional path to becoming a spec writer and discusses the challenges and triumphs along the way. We use this opportunity to address a listener's question about the perception and value of the specifier role within firms.

From personal experiences to industry trends and evolving technologies, this discussion highlights the importance of specifications in architectural projects and explores the financial compensation and career progression in this niche. Join us as we unravel the complexities of the specifier's world and offer insights into navigating the profession.

Episode Sponsor - TimberTech

Discover how TimberTech is redefining synthetic decking with precision-engineered materials that balance enduring aesthetics with superior performance and sustainability. TimberTech’s advanced technologies replicate natural wood’s allure while minimizing maintenance and environmental impact. Request samples, read case studies or download our architectural white paper here.

Have a question for the hosts? Ask it at AskArchispeak.com

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode, we talk about early AEC exposure to high school students with a discussion of the ACE Mentorship Program. We share personal experiences and insights from mentoring high school students, talk about the program's value in exposing young minds to architecture, construction, and engineering. The conversation covers the challenges and rewards of volunteering, the importance of communication in teamwork, and how practical exercises can simulate real-world architectural practice.

Additionally, we have a bit of follow up on the Le Corbusier conversation from the last episode and the complexities of his legacy. This episode is a must-see for anyone passionate about architecture education and youth mentorship.

Episode Links:

Pierre Jeanneret - Corbu’s cousin
Modern Man by Anthony Flint
askarchispeak.com - our new Q&A website
ACE Mentor Program website

Episode Sponsor - TimberTech

Discover how TimberTech is redefining synthetic decking with precision-engineered materials that balance enduring aesthetics with superior performance and sustainability. TimberTech’s advanced technologies replicate natural wood’s allure while minimizing maintenance and environmental impact. Request samples, read case studies or download our architectural white paper here.

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

Modern Man: The Life of Le Corbusier, Architect of Tomorrow

In this episode, we discuss Cormac’s excitement about the Detroit Lions making the playoffs and explore the significant transformation happening in Detroit. We examine how the city's struggles have led to a new era of development and restoration. The main focus of our conversation centers on Le Corbusier and the often-overlooked contributions of his cousin Pierre Jeanneret, who helped make Corb's innovative designs technically feasible. We also announce our new Q&A website, askarchispeak.com, where listeners can submit questions for future episodes.

Episode Links:

Announcing askarchispeak.com - our new Q&A website
Modern Man by Anthony Flint
Pierre Jeanneret - Corb’s cousin
The Image of the City by Kevin Lynch
A Pattern Language by Christopher Alexander
The Timeless Way of Building by Christopher Alexander
250 Things Architects Should Know by Michael Sorkin
Philip Johnson’s Glass House

Episode Sponsor - TimberTech

Discover how TimberTech is redefining synthetic decking with precision-engineered materials that balance enduring aesthetics with superior performance and sustainability. TimberTech’s advanced technologies replicate natural wood’s allure while minimizing maintenance and environmental impact. Request samples, read case studies or download our architectural white paper here.

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

The Timeless Way of Building

A Pattern Language: Towns, Buildings, Construction (Center for Environmental Structure Series)

The Image of the City (Harvard-MIT Joint Center for Urban Studies Series)

In this episode, Frank Cavanaugh from the Aria Group joins us to share insights on designing outdoor spaces, focusing on essential considerations for architects. From the importance of local ordinances and understanding health department requirements to the significance of context, lighting, and material selection, this episode covers it all. We also touch on unique challenges such as integrating landscape, seasonal usability, and maintaining brand consistency. Tune in to learn about the critical elements that create remarkable and functional outdoor hospitality environments.

About Frank Cavanaugh:

As Principal, Frank leads a talented team of architects and interior designers as a studio leader. As a member of the Board of Directors, he advises on the overall direction of the firm. Frank also is involved as a Project Designer on various small and large-scale projects, in particular Planning projects within the office.

Frank has led and designed many large-scale projects throughout his career at Aria Group. Large retail and mixed-use projects include City Park Retail Center, The Esplanade of Algonquin. Hospitality and Entertainment designs include the original Hawthorne Casino & Racecourse, Brookfield Zoo - South American Market Place, Blue Chip Resort Hotel and Casino, Viper Alley at City Park, Park Plaza in Bowling Green KY, and Alsea’s Italianni’s restaurant brand in Mexico City. Municipal projects include the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center entry addition and G Hall expansion in Rosemont, IL. Hotel projects include work with Hyatt, the Chicago Hilton, The Wit Hotel, the Palmer House Hilton and The Conrad in Chicago. Frank has also developed many new concepts for Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises over the years, including the design of several Wildfire restaurants. Frank also works with Served Well Hospitality in Massachusetts on several entertainment and hospitality projects.

In 1995 Frank joined Aria Group and was promoted to Principal in 2000. He began his career working at the office of Krueck and Olsen Architects. Frank moved on to the office of Lohan Associates where he became an Associate and Project Designer for several corporate and institutional projects including the DePaul Library in Chicago. In addition to producing architectural renderings for Aria Group’s designs, Frank also works at photography, drawing, plein air painting and studio painting. He has completed several painted mural commissions for his architectural clients as well as other publicly displayed work and is a member of the Oak Park Art League.

Episode Links:

Frank Cavanaugh on LinkedIn
Aria Group website
Aria Group on LinkedIn
Bromic website
Eclipse heaters
Bromic heater Revit and CAD files
Design service with a heating expert

Episode Sponsor: Bromic Heating

This episode has been made possible with generous support from Bromic Heating.

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

Today we welcome Kevin Jones who is an architect and professor of practice from Virginia Tech's School of Architecture. We talk about the importance and intricacies of continuing education for architects.

In this episode we explore various aspects of Continuing Education Units (CEUs), different state requirements, and effective engagement strategies for those offering courses, share personal anecdotes from our careers as architects, some of our favorite courses, and discuss how architects can use CEUs to foster professional growth, advance their careers, and improve practice standards. We also talk about the effectiveness of in-person versus online learning and examine ways to innovate content delivery for maximum impact.

Episode Links:

Kevin Jones on LinkedIn
With Architecture - Kevin’s firm
Amber Book Continuing Education

About Kevin Jones:

Kevin is a practicing architect whose academic pursuits lie at the intersection of teaching, practice, and community engagement, and he has worked with both urban and rural communities on a variety of community-oriented impact design projects. His experience as a practitioner is diverse in type and scale and includes numerous adaptive reuse projects as well as housing, institutional, community, and cultural works. His design and professional work have been recognized by Preservation Virginia, the Urban Land Institute, and AIA Virginia, and he prefers white trace paper over yellow trace paper.

Episode Sponsor - Amber Book Continuing Education

The Amber Book's approach aims to transform CE from a compliance exercise into practical, actionable knowledge through visual and spatial learning methods, making it a great option for architects. Click here to learn more.

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

Join us as we discuss the end of 2024 and the beginning of 2025 which included Evan’s studio makeover (featuring a reveal if you’re watching on YouTube) while doing a water fast, extravagant Christmas light displays of some homeowners, and then main topic: group projects, communication, and team collaboration in both educational and professional settings. We share some important lessons about performance reviews, setting clear expectations, and the intricacies of teaching and learning architecture.

Tune in to hear insights on how to handle underperformers, the significance of teamwork, and the experiences of teaching architecture students.

Episode Sponsor - WorldTeams

WorldTeams can help your firm grow with a skilled and reliable remote team. Schedule a free consultation at https://worldteams.com/hire-top-talent.

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

Join us in our last episode of 2024 as we explore how to balance emotional energy while maintaining high service standards during the year-end rush. We also discuss effective communication and presentation skills in architectural education, sharing tips for creating engaging, streamlined presentations that translate seamlessly into professional practice.

Episode Links:

Enjoy The Silence by Depeche Mode (YouTube)

Episode Sponsor:

WorldTeams

WorldTeams can help your firm grow with a skilled and reliable remote team. Schedule a free consultation at https://worldteams.com/hire-top-talent.

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode of 'Archispeak Theater,' we begin with some musical nostalgia and then transition into a detailed exploration of the complexities and challenges involved in managing large Revit models for architectural projects.

Episode Sponsor - WorldTeams

WorldTeams can help your firm grow with a skilled and reliable remote team. Schedule a free consultation at https://worldteams.com/hire-top-talent.

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode, we discuss a listener's concerns about the financial burden of architectural education. We explore various career paths and alternative routes to licensure, examine the challenges young architects face, address the rising costs of education, and consider potential solutions such as specialization and entrepreneurship. We also reflect on our own career experiences and discuss how the profession continues to evolve.

Episode Links:

Minor Threat
Salad Days Film
Centre Pompidou
Richard Rogers
Renzo Piano
Archispeak 332 - ‘Navigating Internships and Early Career Steps’, with Michael Ermann
NCARB - Pathways to Practice
Archispeak 335 - ‘Multiple Pathways to Architectural Licensure’, with Jon Baker

Episode Sponsor - WorldTeams

WorldTeams can help your firm grow with a skilled and reliable remote team. Schedule a free consultation at https://worldteams.com/hire-top-talent.

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode, we talk with Israel Peña, who shares his incredible 13-year journey working on a historic elementary school modernization project in Beverly Hills. From the challenges of agency approval, unforeseen structural issues, and the complexities of preserving the historical fabric of buildings, Israel takes us through the entire process that he has actively worked on since it began in early 2011. We also explore his unique way of coping with stress through running and fitness, along with his passion project: an elaborate Pirates of the Caribbean-themed Halloween display at his home that also serves as a charitable endeavor.

Episode Sponsor - WorldTeams

WorldTeams can help your firm grow with a skilled and reliable remote team. Schedule a free consultation at https://worldteams.com/hire-top-talent.

Episode Links:

Bridging Centuries - El Rodeo Elementary School YouTube video
Israel’s Pirates of the Caribbean Halloween Display

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode, we dive into Cormac’s hoarding tendencies (aka our mutual love for architectural collectibles) by unboxing a special edition set of Frank Lloyd Wright Blackwing pencils, then talk about how to protect these valuable items from children. The conversation then shifts to recent travels, including Cormac’s trip to Baltimore to visit his Johns Hopkins project and for a major office collaboration day. Then it’s Evan’s turn to talk about his recent trip to San Diego for the annual Autodesk University conference. While there he had the chance to visit UC San Diego's Geisel Library, a marvel of brutalist architecture. Other topics include ongoing architectural projects, the logistics of managing large-scale adaptive reuse, and the joys and challenges of professional networking and conferences.

See the photos of Geisel Library here.

Episode Links:

Frank Lloyd Wright Blackwing Pencils
Geisel Library
William Pereira
Fallen Star (the little blue house at UCSD)
Autodesk University

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this special Episode 350 of the Archispeak podcast, we discuss the celebration of our milestone with an unboxing of fresh beans from “Coffee Boy”. We also talk about Evan’s un-conference experience in Florida that allowed for personal growth, leadership development, and some fun activities like learning to E-foil. Just beware of the 🌀 and 🐊.

Episode Links:

Coffee Sketch Podcast
Archispeak episode 300 with the hosts of the Coffee Sketch Podcast (YouTube)
AEC Acoustics Leadership Retreat
Autodesk University
Turons of Yellowstone Instagram

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

Join us on a captivating exploration of cutting-edge architecture with insights from our special guest, Slade Sheaffer. In this episode we dive into Slade's travels across Denmark, the Netherlands, and Germany as he uncovers the fusion of infrastructure and architecture with noteworthy projects like Copenhagen's Camp Adventure Tower and the city’s unique skiing experience at Copenhill, among others.

Tune in to the Archispeak YouTube channel for a visual tour through iconic European sites and innovative urban landscapes that inspire sustainable and multifunctional spaces.

Episode Links:

Robert Saemisch Prize from the Arizona Architecture Foundation

Projects visited:Copenhagen CopenHill (BIG) – waste to energy plant doubling as a ski hill! * https://www.copenhill.dk/en * https://www.archdaily.com/925970/copenhill-energy-plant-and-urban-recreation-center-big * Camp Adventure Observation Tower (EFFEKT) – spiraling ramp observation tower in the forest * https://www.archdaily.com/914486/camp-adventure-observation-tower-effekt * Karen Blixens Plads Public Square (Cobe) * The Opera Park (Cobe) * The Mountain (BIG) * 8 House (BIG) – residential building w/ elevated public promenade * https://www.archdaily.com/83307/8-house-big * IKEA CPH (Dorte Mandrup) – part of the 1-km long elevated park space * https://www.archdaily.com/962740/dorte-mandrups-design-for-ikea-copenhagen-features-a-rooftop-park?ad_campaign=normal-tag * Kaktus Towers (BIG) – immediately adjacent to IKEA CPH & part of elevated park space * https://www.archdaily.com/1012359/bigs-kaktus-towers-near-completion-in-copenhagen * SUND Nature Park (SLA) * Park ‘n’ Play (JAJA Architects) * https://www.archdaily.com/884956/park-n-play-jaja-architects * Israels Plads (Cobe) * Nørreport Station (Cobe) * Red Cross Volunteer House (Cobe) * Basecamp Lyngby (Larz Gitz Architects) – snaking mass residential building w/ hiking path on roof* * https://archello.com/project/basecamp-in-lyngby * https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8UHGCWCJkmw&t=41s * Superkilen Color-coded Urban Space (Topotek, BIG, Superflex)

Aarhus* Salling Roofgarden (Henning Larsen) * Moesgaard Museum (Henning Larsen) * Aarhus Harbor Development (Gehl/BIG + others) * Aarhus Harbor Bath (BIG) * ARoS Museum of Art, Aarhus (Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects)

Rotterdam Markthal (MVRDV) – market enclosed by a tubular apartment building* * https://www.archdaily.com/553933/markthal-rotterdam-mvrdv * TU Delft Library (Mecanoo)

Amsterdam Valley (MVRDV) – canyon-like public walkway between faceted residential towers* * https://www.archdaily.com/989217/valley-towers-mvrdv * Couch (MVRDV) * Sluishuis (BIG)

Utrecht* Utrecht Dafne Schippersburg Bridge (NEXT + rudy uytenhaak) * Utrecht Bicycle Parking (Ector Hoogstad Arch.) * Basket Bar (NL Architects)

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode, we kick off with discussions about favorite movies and documentaries, leading into the portrayal of architects in film, and eventually pivot to the intricate world of adaptive reuse projects. Cormac shares his new teaching experiences, detailing a unique studio project involving real-world constraints with students working on an adaptive reuse project in Flint, Michigan.

The episode covers various aspects of architectural education and practice, emphasizing the integration of different disciplines, the importance of site visits, and the role of creativity within constraints.

Episode Links:

Salad Days: A Decade of Punk in Washington D.C. (1980-1990)
Interstellar (Wikipedia)
Inception (Wikipedia)
The Brutalist (Wikipedia)
TRXL 073: ‘Design, Equity, & Data’, with Nicholas Cameron

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

Join us as we discuss Evan’s summer family road trip, loaded with scenic stops, family adventures, and unexpected roadside attractions.

And fear not! There is also talk about architectural registration as we share personal experiences about the process of obtaining and maintaining licenses in various states.

From navigating NCARB procedures to exploring ghost towns and national parks, this episode is packed with travel stories, practical advice, and a touch of nostalgia. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast or a travel buff, there's something in this episode for you!

Episode Links:

Badlands National Park
Jewel Cave National Monument
Black Hills of South Dakota
Sinks Canyon State Park, WY
Mount Rushmore National Monument
Crazy Horse

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode we have a conversation about Cormac's exciting new adventure as an adjunct faculty member at Lawrence Technical University. We discuss the nuances and challenges of teaching architecture, the importance of understanding the 'why' behind architectural tasks, and the often under-appreciated value of PhDs in the field. Cormac also shares his practical approach to mentoring and the significance of maintaining a holistic perspective in design.

Episode Links:

Lawrence Technological University College of Architecture + Design

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

Join us as we dive into Cormac's continued architectural summer adventures. This time he’s exploring the East Coast, Prince Edward Island, and visiting one of his favorite architects in Nova Scotia.

Today he tells us about his visits to iconic sites such as Yale's Louis Kahn buildings and Eero Saarinen's hockey arena. Hear about his surprise anniversary trip to Anne of Green Gables locations, and a fanboy moment meeting renowned architect Brian MacKay-Lyons. Along the way, absorb insights into regional architecture, family history research at the Canadian Immigration Museum, and vibrant street life in Quebec City.

Tune in for another episode of Cormac’s architectural travel tales!

Episode Links:

Cormac’s Quebec City post on Instagram
Lunenburg: UNESCO World Heritage Center
MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple:
Two-Hulls House
Sliding House
Shobac Campus

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode, we discuss pen refills and alignment OCD, the significance of what makes some architecture lovable (e.g. the Farnsworth House), a review of the book '100 Buildings' by Thom Mayne, exploring its relevance and the impact of past architectural precedents on modern practices, a deep dive into why certain buildings are preserved with immense dedication (e.g. Fallingwater), while others are overlooked, and more.

Episode Links:

Louis Sullivan’s Wainright Building is for sale (Archpaper)
Wainright Building (ArchDaily)
Book: 100 Buildings 1900-2000 by Thom Mayne and Eui-Sung Yi (Amazon)
Marilyn Moedinger’s tweet

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

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In this episode, we talk about our experiences with punch lists. What are they? Who should be creating them? Why do they exist? We also talk about the practice of architecture being an adhocracy, what that means, and wonder if there’s any way our profession can change.

Episode Links

TRXL podcast 158: ‘AEC is an Adhocracy’, with Andy Robert and Mercedes Carriquiry

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

Evan is jealous. Cormac recently went on a road trip with special guest Angelo Pirali to explore many (yes many!) remarkable architectural landmarks, and they’re here today to share about it.

Key highlights include visits to Cranbrook, the Farnsworth House, Frank Lloyd Wright's iconic homes and buildings (including Taliesn and Johnson Wax), Millennium Park, and much more. The discussion revolves around Angelo and Cormac’s intention of studying these places “from idea to execution”.

From historic masterpieces to contemporary projects, this journey provides deep insights into the essence of experiencing architecture.

Links and Trip Itinerary (no, we didn’t talk about all of these):

Day 1:

Ford House Visitor Center (SmithGroup)
Edith and Edsel Ford House (Albert Kahn)
Smith House (FLW)
Cranbrook (the Saarinen boys)
Affleck House (FLW)
Tour of downtown Detroit / Grosse Pointes

Day 2:

The Rookery (Burnham and Root / FLW)
The Monadnock Building
Chicago Institute of Art (Renzo Addition)
Pritzker Pavilion (Gehry)
Apple Store (Foster)
Chicago Tribune Bldg (Howell’s & Hood)
Glessner House (HH Richardson)
Stroll down Prairie Ave.
Robie House (FLW)

Day 3:

Fabyan Windmill (?)
Farnsworth House (Mies)
Unity Temple (FLW)
FLW House and Studio
Oak Park Tour
Poetry Foundation (Ronan)
860-880 Lake Shore (Mies)
900-910 Lake Shore (Mies)
Peoples Gas Pavilion (Studio Gang)

Day 4:

Kenosha Lighthouse
Pritzker Military Museum and Library (Jahn)
SC Johnson headquarters and labs (FLW)
Fortenza Hall and Commons (Foster)
Wingspan (Johnson House) (FLW)
Wind Point Lighthouse
Milwaukee Museum of Art (Calatrava)
Milwaukee War Memorial (Saarinen)
Curtain House (Johnson Schmaling)
Marquette University campus walk
Church of the Gesu
Saint Joan of Arc Chapel
Farmers and Merchant Bank (Sullivan)

Day 5:

The hidden Robert M. Lamp House (FLW)
First Unitarian Meeting House (FLW)
Taliesin
Hillside School/Theater
Romeo and Juliet Windmill Tower
Tan-y-Deri House (Wrights sisters house)
Midway Barn

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode, join Evan and Cormac as they reminisce about unique road trips, discuss the importance of taking time off, and share plans for exciting summer adventures. Discover why it's essential to leave the office, explore new destinations, and enrich your life with meaningful experiences.

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

Join us in this episode as we recount our time at the 2024 AIA Conference on Architecture recently held in Washington DC. We highlight the travel, keynote speakers, the expo hall, the incredible museums, and the architectural community.

Episode Links:

Mecanoo and OTJ Architects complete renovation of Mies van der Rohe's Martin Luther King Jr Memorial Library
Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center (the other Smithsonian air and apace museum)
Eero Saarinen's Revolutionary Design of the Dulles Airport
Smithsonian Institution, National Portrait Gallery (Architizer)
Phil Freelon and the Creation of the National Museum of African American History and Culture
National Museum of African American History and Culture (Wikipedia)
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Pope-Leighey house
National Museum of the US Army
Arthur C. Brooks (Wikipedia)
Evan Troxel on Instagram
Cormac Phalen on Instagram

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

Archispeak welcomes Scott Selzer, CEO of StruXure, and Scott Smith, CEO of Bromic Heating, to discuss the evolution, current state, and innovations in building products, specifically focusing on outdoor heaters and pergolas.

In this episode we talk about these building products in both residential and commercial projects and how they enhance outdoor living spaces.

Scott and Scott share their unique journeys, product innovations, the role of technology, sustainability practices, and the importance of integrating designs early in the planning process.

Learn more about how to transform outdoor spaces into functional, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing environments in this Archispeak University episode!

Episode Links:

Bromic website
Eclipse heaters
Bromic heater Revit and CAD files
Design service with a heating expert
StruXure website

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode, we use a critical analysis of Radiohead’s ‘In Rainbows’ album as a jumping-off point to discuss the parallels between creating music and buildings, including the management of client expectations, budget constraints, and the value of documenting the design process.

Episode Links:

Dissect podcast: Radiohead’s ‘In Rainbows’
In Rainbows: From the Basement (YouTube)

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

Cormac is on a new project. In this episode we explore the complexities of working with historic buildings and the nuances of adaptive reuse projects. We discuss the importance of accurate documentation, the impact of technology in documenting existing conditions, and the implications of design decisions on future use of the building through the negotiation between preserving history and accommodating modern needs.

Episode Links:

Liberty Island (Wikipedia)

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode of the Archispeak podcast, Thomas Ventura of Gensler joins us to talk about evolving expectations in office and outdoor space design, influenced by sustainability trends and the need for adaptable, multi-use spaces in response to changing client needs and environmental responsibilities.

We talk about Gensler's massive scale as a firm, boasting close to 7,000 employees and over 50 offices worldwide, emphasizing its commitment to sustainability and the architectural industry's future.

Thomas elaborates on Gensler's Global Cities Challenge commitment to achieve carbon-neutral projects by 2030 and the strategies to educate staff and integrate sustainable practices into all projects.

Episode Sponsor:

Bromic Heating - This episode has been made possible with the generous support of Bromic Heating.

About Thomas Ventura:

Thomas Ventura joined the Gensler Newport Beach office in 2014 and brings over 28 years of design experience in master planning, mixed-use, hospitality, multi-family residential and commercial office buildings. His international portfolio includes projects in the Middle East, China, and the Caribbean and fosters his ability to bring a global perspective and local understanding of context to each design. As one of the Design Experience leaders at the Newport Beach office, Tom is committed to a collaborative design process and is an advocate for the principles of the Gensler Design Synergy initiative.

Episode Links:

Thomas Ventura on LinkedIn
Gensler website
Gensler on LinkedIn
Bromic website
Eclipse heaters
Bromic heater Revit and CAD files
Design service with a heating expert

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode of Archispeak, Jon Baker shares his unique journey to becoming an architect and discusses the different pathways to licensure offered by NCARB. The conversation covers the importance of licensure, initiatives like the IPAL program, and the need for practical experience to be integrated with education. Jon tackles criticisms and emphasizes the role of licensure in expanding career options. The discussion also sheds light on the ongoing efforts to evolve architectural education and licensure to meet the needs of the profession now and in the future. Listen in to learn about overcoming barriers in the architecture profession and promoting diversity and inclusion.

About Jon Baker:

Jon Alan Baker, FAIA, NCARB, LEED AP, of San Diego, California, is a principal with DLR Group, an integrated international design firm delivering architecture, engineering, interiors, planning, and building optimization. Baker specializes in the design and planning of educational facilities throughout Southern California. As a gubernatorial appointee, Baker was a member of the California Architects Board from 2005-2018, serving four terms as board president. Actively involved with NCARB since 2006, he was inaugurated as president at the organization's 2023 Annual Business Meeting.

Episode Links:

Jon on LinkedIn
National Council of Architectural Registrations Boards (NCARB) website
NCARB on LinkedIn
NCARB on Instagram

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode of the Archispeak podcast, Je’Nen Chastain, founder of Apostrophe Consulting, joins us to discuss the shifts and challenges in the realm of architectural practice and running a successful firm, emphasizing leadership, business management, mentorship, and the need for adaptability within organizations. Je’Nen also touches on her personal challenges and professional evolution, the impact of the economic downturn on her generation, and the crucial role of mentorship and internal communication in fostering a supportive and engaging workspace.

Episode Links:

Je’Nen on LinkedIn
Apostrophe Consulting website
Apostrophe Consulting on LinkedIn
Apostrophe Consulting on Instagram
Leadership Is an Art by Max Depree (Amazon)

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

The Archispeak University (AU) series provides educational content for architects and designers.

In this episode of the Archispeak podcast, Primo Orpilla, Principal and Owner of O+A Architecture, shares his extensive experience in workplace design, tracing his experiences in the evolution of office spaces over the last 30 years.

Starting his career during a challenging period, Primo talks about how he adapted to the needs of tech companies in Silicon Valley, contributing to the transformation from traditional cubicle setups to dynamic, agile work environments.

Today he discusses the shift towards accommodating a variety of work styles within the office environment, emphasizing choice and flexibility for employees. Primo highlights the impact of amenities, cultural shifts, and the post-COVID landscape on workspace design, aiming to attract talent and foster productivity. Moreover, he explores the significance of creating diverse outdoor workspaces and integrating technology to support and enhance the work experience.

The conversation concludes with valuable advice for architects and designers on engaging with clients to craft spaces that resonate with current and future workforce expectations.

Episode Sponsor:

This episode has been made possible with the generous support of Bromic Heating.

Episode Links:

Studio O+A website
Studio O+A on LinkedIn
Studio O+A on Instagram
Primo on LinkedIn
Primo on Instagram
Bromic website
Eclipse heaters
Bromic heater Revit and CAD files
Design service with a heating expert

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode, Michael Ermann of Amber Book and Virginia Tech joins us as we tackle the topic of architectural internships – both for those seeking and for the firms providing them.

We kick off by sharing our early internship experiences and comparing them to modern practices. We discuss the treatment of internships as a scarce resource by many architectural firms and its impact on the industry and transition from education to professional roles.

We also reveal essential tips for students seeking summer internships and provide advice for firms on how to create a meaningful internship program and identify the best internship candidates. The conversation also explores the benefits of early licensure for emerging professionals and the pitfalls that hold people back within the profession.

Episode Sponsors

Amber Book

Pass the ARE® with Amber Book. Get your architecture license and build your career with our immersive, visually engaging ARE 5.0 exam prep. It’s time to pass the ARE 5.0 and have fun doing it.

Episode Links:

Amber Book website
Amber Book on LinkedIn
Amber Book on Instagram
Michael on LinkedIn

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode, podcaster Enoch Sears joins us to do a deep dive into the evolution of architectural podcasting over the last 12 years, the challenges and triumphs of running an architecture practice, and the importance of adopting a business mindset in order to run a successful practice.

Episode Links:

Enoch on LinkedIn
Enoch on Instagram
Business of Architecture website

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

We discuss Australia's 'Right to Disconnect' law, which aims to protect employees from having to engage in work-related communications outside of work hours, and the implications for both workers and companies. We get into the challenges and inefficiencies of modern work environments, including constant connectivity, the impact of email, and how technology has both helped and worsened work-life balance. We conclude with reflections on potential solutions for managing workloads and maintaining boundaries in the digital age.

Episode Links:

Australia Introduces Workers’ ‘Right to Disconnect’ (New York Times)

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

The Archispeak University (AU) series provides educational content for architects and designers.

In this episode, Sara Schneider of TCA Architects joins us to talk about design trends in multi-family and mixed use project types.

Sara is a veteran in the interior design field with a 20-year background, predominantly in hospitality, now focusing on multifamily residential projects with a mixed-use aspect at TCA.

Located in Irvine, California, with offices in Los Angeles, Oakland, and Honolulu, TCA specializes in creating multifamily residential spaces that offer a blend of luxury, functionality, and community living.

Today Sara discusses the importance of designing for different types of projects including multifamily, mixed-use, and student housing. She emphasizes the incorporation of amenities like outdoor spaces, fitness centers, and community areas that cater to a modern lifestyle, aiming for flexibility and adaptability to cater to various resident needs.

The conversation highlights trends in multifamily living, the long term impact of COVID-19 on design considerations and tenant expectations, and the role of amenities in attracting residents. Sara's insights reveal a shift towards creating multifamily spaces that not only serve functional purposes but also foster a sense of community and well-being, reflecting a broader trend in residential design towards lifestyle-driven amenities.

This episode has been made possible with the generous support of Bromic Heating.

Episode Links:

Sara Schneider on LinkedIn
TCA Architects website
TCA Architects on LinkedIn
Bromic website
Eclipse heaters
Bromic heater Revit and CAD files
Design service with a heating expert

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode, we talk about the things we do where we are so “in the zone” that we completely lose track of time. We also talk about the importance of failing as part of the learning process, the idea of the ‘flow state’, and how this can be achieved when deeply engaged in problem solving. We also touch on the notion of self-doubt and imposter syndrome and the importance of intrinsic motivation and good habits in achieving success.

Episode Links:

System Kid music (Evan’s band)
Flow state (Wikipedia)
Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Dan Pink (Amazon)

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode, Cormac reflects on the challenges, memories, and learnings from his most successful and intense project. He shares the story of the EO Wilson Biophilia Center in Florida which he compares to 'jazz' due to the ensemble of different ideas, skills, and experiences that came together to create something harmonious. We also explore our experiences with difficult projects, budgets, and client relationships that still resulted in remarkable outcomes.

Episode Sponsor

Chaos

For a limited time, get a 20% discount on Fixed and Floating Annual License of Enscape. Head to https://chaos-enscape.com and use code RES24 at checkout to supercharge your design workflow.

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode of Archispeak, we discuss the overwhelming volume of emails we receive and the culture of "ASAP" that often accompanies it.

We reflect on the time-consuming nature of emails and question how firm leadership would react if they knew how much time their employees spend managing their inboxes.
The conversation then shifts to the topic of boundaries in the workplace and the struggle to maintain a work-life balance in the face of constant communication and demands.
We also explore the potential of AI and emerging technology in the architecture field. We discuss how these advancements could transform the industry despite the rapid pace of change and the challenges it presents.
The episode concludes with a listener question about whether we would still choose to enter the architecture field given the potential future influence of AI.

Episode Sponsor

Chaos

For a limited time, get a 20% discount on Fixed and Floating Annual License of Enscape. Head to https://chaos-enscape.com and use code RES24 at checkout to supercharge your design workflow.

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode, Cormac tells us a story from the Army which sparks a discussion of various experiences on renovation and remodel projects which brings to light the meaning of the term “unforeseen conditions”.

Episode Sponsor

Chaos

Enscape is soon launching something special that will make your 3D workflow the best 3D workflow for a special price. In the meantime, you can experience it for yourself for free at https://chaos-enscape.com/trial-14 or simply by Googling “try Enscape”.

Get the show notes and links for this episode at https://archispeakpodcast.com/episodes/325

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode we start off by acknowledging the 12th birthday of the Archispeak podcast. Our first episode titled “That Ah-ha Moment” was published on February 3, 2013 and we don’t recommend listening to it!

Then we explore the potential of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) in architectural practices and talk about how these technologies could revolutionize the way architects work. We cover real-time rendering, immersive experiences of building designs, and enhanced client presentations. We also touch on the need for privacy and security considerations regarding the usage and licensing of digital assets. Lastly, we hypothesize how different it would be to start a practice today when it comes to choosing a toolset that would heavily rely on these technologies.

Episode Links:

Treasury - protecting, cataloging, and licensing for AEC’s 3d spatial assets
TRXL podcast episode 147: ‘The Era of Spatial Computing’, with John Manoochehri

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

We discuss Cormac’s snow shoveling incident and then go deep into talking about work-life balance and how architects often struggle with this, and what it means to truly be an architect. We further discuss the impact of emerging technology on architecture, particularly regarding the impending release of Apple’s Vision Pro headset.

We also explore the industry’s work culture, explore some intital thoughts about the importance of having a side-hustle, highlight the necessity of architects to continuously adapt, learn, and evolve.

Finally, we touch upon the financial implications in architectural projects and the conflicting demands of design aesthetic and budget constraints… yes, the age-old complaints about “value engineering”.

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode, we discuss the importance of details in architectural designs, highlight the influence of technology and BIM on architectural drawings and the art of detailing, and reflect on past experiences, including learning from old architectural manuals and dive into architectural design philosophy and practices.

Episode Links:

Pocket Ref by Thomas Glover (Amazon)
Desk Ref by Thomas Glover (Amazon)
Neufert Architects' Data (Amazon)
Graphic Standards (Amazon)

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

The Archispeak University (AU) series introduces educational content for architects and designers.

In this episode, Danny Wang of Danny Wang Design joins us to discuss new trends in custom residential design and construction, particularly focusing on the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces made possible with his turnkey design build service and some unique building products in the outdoor heating, flooring, and technology categories.

One key aspect of Danny's success is his ability to leverage social media as a marketing and business development tool. With a million Instagram followers, a vibrant YouTube channel, and his TikTok presence, he has built a strong audience, some of which become clients with big budgets. This allows him to explore and execute even more daring and innovative design ideas.

The conversation explores some of the jaw-dropping projects that Danny has worked on, including a pool built over a basement with acrylic windows, allowing views from both above and below the water. Another project features an indoor tennis court with a koi pond on top, creating a unique entry experience. These projects showcase Danny's knack for pushing boundaries and creating truly one-of-a-kind spaces.

This episode has been made possible with the generous support of Bromic Heating.

Episode Links:

Danny’s website
Danny’s LinkedIn
Danny Wang Design on YouTube
Danny Wang Design on Instagram
Danny’s personal Instagram
Danny Wang Design on TikTok
Bromic website
Bromic’s Eclipse heaters
Bromic heater Revit and CAD files
Design service with a heating expert

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

We all know architects work hard. Some work way too hard. In this episode, we discuss Cormac’s self-proclaimed workaholism and what he’s going to do about it in 2024.

Episode Links:

Architizer: New Year, New You? 8 Inspirational Resolutions for Architects in 2024

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

Main topic: Evan leads us in an AI workshop.

As we finish off 2023, we discuss the final printed Architect Magazine, the old ways of hoarding imagery for project inspiration in 3-ring binders, the demise of paper periodicals, what it was like when we could actually remember and recall information from our own memory, our strategy for passing the ARE’s, and then Evan leads us in an AI workshop with some image generation, text generation, and deep fake audio examples to give us a taste of what artificial intelligence tools are currently capable of.

Episode links

Watch this episode on YouTube (so you can see the visuals)
OpenAI ChatGPT 4 with DALL-E
Evan’s blog post about Autodesk University with all the selfies
Notion AI - Evan’s preferred writing companion
Veras - AI rendering for Revit, SketchUp, and Rhino by EvolveLab
TRXL 131: ‘It’s Prompting Us’, with Benjamin Guler (Ben is the developer of Veras)
Vizcom.ai - from sketch to render in seconds using AI prompting
ElevenLabs - generative voice AI
TRXL 141: ‘AI is Not Your Strategy’, with Mehdi Nourbakhsh, PhD and Scott Thompson

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

Cormac gets more CEU’s bringing his HSW count to Jedi levels, Evan visits Las Vegas for the Autodesk University conference and gives a full report, and they compare and contrast AU to the AIA National Conference on Architecture.

Episode links

Autodesk University

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

In this episode we discuss a bit of site seeing, we discuss what not to say—even if it's too late—when visiting someone’s project house and they ask for your opinion. Let’s face it, they don’t “really” want to know your opinion even if as an architect you have lots of them. We reflect on the 1-year anniversary of Evan’s move to Oregon, his early homesteading days, and his luck in not going the way of the Donner Party. We finish it up with a sportsing conversation Evan didn’t know he wanted but he got… So join us on this special Thanksgiving / Evan’s Birthday special episode.

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

David Bradley, AIA PCC joins us to discuss the importance of taking control of your career. We talk about defining outcomes, taking responsibility, setting boundaries, and building trust. We also talk about the need for small steps, accountability, and a clear plan to achieve personal and professional goals. David is also offering upcoming opportunities for coaching and mastermind sessions to support solopreneurs and small firm architects, so check the links in the show notes to connect with him.

Episode links

David on LinkedIn
Blueprint for Living Coaching website
David’s mastermind group

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

The Archispeak University (AU) series introduces educational content for architects and designers. Liz Neuffer of Aria Group joins the show to discuss the topic of hospitality and outdoor space design.

In this episode, we discuss the key factors that contribute to a successful design for hospitality and outdoor spaces. We explore how to design outdoor spaces that cater to different climate zones and enhance user experiences. Additionally, we delve into the use of building products to address thermal comfort, such as heating elements and protection against solar and wind exposure. We also examine the importance of sustainability and fuel types in outdoor space design, particularly in light of the Covid pandemic and its impact on the industry. Furthermore, we provide insights on educating clients, overcoming objections, and finding the right balance between aesthetics and functionality. We also explore the benefits of creating dedicated zones for different uses and weigh the pros and cons of various furniture types. Finally, we offer guidance on where to seek assistance for these types of projects and more.

This episode has been made possible with the generous support of Bromic Heating.

Episode Links

Bromic website
Eclipse heaters
Bromic heater Revit and CAD files
Design service with a heating expert
Liz Neuffer on LinkedIn
Aria Group website

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

In this episode, we discuss Cormac’s haunted house, rising license renewal fees, Evan’s first in-person (as an Oregonian) continuing education lunch n’ learn, using the SIPS building system on projects, the challenges of adopting innovative building systems in the building industry, first costs versus operational costs, school projects that are literally driven by the maintenance staff, and the need for architects to educate our clients.

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

In this episode, we kick things off with an unsolicited email that Cormac received inquiring about "just needing some plans drawn up”. Then, we welcome Evan back to the darkside as he rejoins the PC realm, as he dives headlong into the world of Microsoft laptops. This plunge down the Microsoft rabbit hole takes us on a nostalgic journey through the annals of Microsoft history, from the Zune to the Windows Phone. But our trip down memory lane doesn't stop there; we also find ourselves wandering down the Atari trail as we talk about the dawn of computer gaming and other things old people talk about.

Episode links

Microsoft Zune
Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2
Atari 2600+
Intellivision

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

Anger management kicks off our conversation where Cormac gets to deal with infrastructure replacement in his neighborhood and all of the joys that come with it. Evan shares stories about his ride (Ride the Rim) around Crater Lake. Unbeknownst to both of them, the way Evan decided to tackle his ride would foreshadow the ups and downs of their final conversation in which they discuss a code seminar that Cormac attended and how the constraints of the building code cause many ups and downs on a project.

Episode links

Ride the Rim event website

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

First we refresh Evan’s memory on what an “ASI” is, then move on to talk about an article from the Harvard Business Review on the glorification of overwork as we apply it directly to the profession of architecture.

Episode links

Why We Glorify Overwork and Refuse to Rest (Harvard Business Review)
Archispeak 294 - ‘Three Recessions Away from Extinction’, with Evelyn Lee
Archispeak 292 - ‘OUT OF ARCHITECTURE’, with Jake Rudin

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

In this episode Evan tells us about “Riding the Rim” which to much of Cormac's chagrin is not an all-you-can-drink margarita bar. We also reminisce about trips to Radio Shack and our first computers, and finally we discuss the insanity of the amount of drawings we tend to submit on a project for agency approvals.

Episode links

Too Many Drawings Heading to Permit - Cormac’s Instagram

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

Topic

In this episode of the Archispeak podcast, we continue to catch up with FLW and join Cormac as he continues his road trip adventure in search of Frank Lloyd Wright's iconic buildings. However, this time around, Cormac doesn't have to venture far from home as he's uncovered a surprising abundance of Wright's architectural gems right in the heart of the Detroit Metro area. Join Cormac and Evan as they dive deeper into Cormac's summer of architectural exploration.

Episode links

Wright’s Gregor S. and Elizabeth B. Affleck House

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

Topic

When a project shouldn't go wrong… it will. After a brief counseling session we move beyond the trauma and discuss Cormac’s latest architecturally-epic road trip through Wisconsin on the Frank Lloyd Wright Trail.

Episode links

Wingspread Exterior - Cormac's Instagram
Wingspread Interior - Cormac's Instagram
Wingspread Webpage
SC Johnson Headquarters and Lab - Cormac's Instagram
SC Johnson Tours
Burnham Block Stroll - Facebook Post
Rick’s #keepcudahyfunhouse

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

Topic

In this episode we discuss Evan’s earliest of 3D modeling and feeling slighted by Cormac’s reaction to the cutting edge imagery from decades past. Cormac revisits his despair about what he feels is the downfall of architectural magazines and their “content".

Episode links

Radial Building - Church of 2000
Freedom Tower Lawsuit
Camden Yards concept stolen/borrowed?
Architectural Record still exists

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

In this episode we discuss how Cormac plans (or not) for road trips and how Evan is similar but different in his planning strategy. We also talk about the ‘right’ way to pack and learn about song roulette.

Episode links

Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum
Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum (YouTube)
The Spirited Man (YouTube) - Essential Travel Packing Tips

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

In this episode Cormac discovers that math can determine the age of his house faster than his mind can, Evan prepares his house and property for the inevitable, and we talk about the permanence of buildings and the link to true sustainability. Oh, and we go on a journey to find the tallest peak in the continental United States… spoiler alert: it's not Mt. Shasta, which comes in at an elevation of 14,180ft.

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

Topic

In this episode we discuss a much needed summer vacation for Cormac: a complete cold turkey detachment from architecture as he ventures into the woods and how he can miraculously turn any trip into an architectural trip. Then we go out of the woods and into the big city of Chicago where we talk more in-depth about how the world's largest Starbucks and the river front Apple Store create experiences for their patrons.

Links

Chicago Roastery
Carson Pirie Scott & Co.
Apple Michigan Avenue
Apple Store (Foster Link)

Topic

In this episode, we chat about Twitter rebranding to X, Evan asks Cormac two questions about the potential impact of AI on the architecture profession, and a discussion about the need for firms to embrace technology and the importance of focusing on client experience and innovation to differentiate themselves in a commoditized market.

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

Topic

In this episode we discuss Wes Anderson’s Asteroid City, Cormac’s desire to design, own and operate an old timey feeling movie theater, Evan quizzes Cormac on AI and gives him a few what if questions…and at the end of the day we suck at it (but what does that mean?).

Episode Links

J Lab Creative (Instagram)

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

Topic

This episode we discuss Archispeak Podcast joining the new socials like Threads and Instagram (finally). Evan discusses the letter NCARB send out welcoming back all of the new members with a little gift of fee increases and how Cormac avoided future fee increases by not reinstating his NCARB record.

Episode links

archy_type instagram
archy_type threads
TRXL instagram
TRXL threads
Archispeak_Podcast instagram
Archispeak_Podcast threads
NCARB Fee Increase

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes

please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

👉 Full video:

📝 Full show notes: https://archispeakpodcast.com/episodes/301

📺 More episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@archispeak

✅ Subscribe to the podcast: https://pod.link/archispeak

Topic

A conversation about the use of technology in architecture, including the evolution of tools and the importance of maintaining a creative mindset. The discussion touches on the idea of what constitutes a "sketch" in the modern era, and the potential pitfalls of relying too heavily on technology in the design process. The hosts also offer a glimpse into their own creative processes and the tools they use to bring their ideas to life.

Episode links

Coffee Sketch Podcast
@archy_type on Instagram (Cormac)
@falloutstudio on instagram (Jamie)
@kurtneiswender on instagram (Kurt)
@etroxel on instagram (Evan)

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

Topic

In this episode we discuss our experiences at the 2023 AIA Conference on Architecture and the election of Evelyn Lee, FAIA as the 2025 President elect. The conversation also touches on the increasing role of AI in architecture and the need to reinvent the profession for the future.

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

Topic

In a conversation about woodworking and content creation, Cam Anderson of BlacktailStudio joins the podcast to discuss the importance of making interesting projects rather than chasing algorithms or demographics. He also talks about the value of showing mistakes and failures in the process of creating, and how it can be engaging for his audience.

Episode links

BacktailStudio website
Cam’s YouTube channel
BlacktailStudio on Instagram

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

Topic

We discuss scars from our youth and scars from the profession, object visualizers versus text-based learners, the lack of hands-on education in schools and the devaluation of blue-collar work, and the result of a disconnection between architects and the physical construction process.

Episode links

Why Only Some of Us Think in Pictures (YouTube) - Van Neistat’s video on The Spirited Man channel
The world needs all kinds of minds - Temple Grandin’s TED Talk
Thinking: Pictures vs Words (YouTube) - Temple Grandin’s podcast episode on the Jordan B Peterson channel

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

Topic

Sparked by a new offer, we revisit the value of NCARB membership.

Episode links

Details about the NCARB offer

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

Topic

In this episode we discuss the use of AI in architecture, including image and text generation. We talk about the potential for AI to automate mundane tasks and increase productivity, including using it to generate meeting minutes and other documents, as well as the ethical implications of its use. We talk about tools such as MidJourney and ChatGPT, and discuss how AI can be trained on a firm's data to generate designs that match their style.

Episode links

Notion
ChatGPT
MidJourney

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

Topic

In this episode with special guest Evelyn Lee, FAIA we discuss the pressing need for architectural firms to adapt to changing business models and billing practices in order to survive during economic downturns. We all know that architectural firms and staff are often hit hard during recessions, and that traditional billing models and the commoditization of architectural services are not sustainable in the long term.

Episode links

Evelyn’s LinkedIn post
Evelyn Lee on LinkedIn
Practice Disrupted Podcast

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

Topic

Cormac and Evan discuss the importance of understanding the "why" in architecture education how that transitions into a career in architecture. They discuss the desire for students to have a deeper understanding of the practicalities of building design, and the importance of practitioners and academics working together to provide this education. They also touch on the challenges of AI in architecture and the need for frameworks and mentorship to help guide students and young architects.

Episode links

Subscribe to the Archispeak YouTube channel and watch this episode
Architecture School is Broken by Ross Brady (Architizer)
TRXL podcast episode 112: ‘Start With a Better Framework’, with Christine Williamson of Building Science Fight Club

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

We have a conversation with Jake Rudin, co-author of the recently published book titled "Out of Architecture" to discuss the need for architects to appropriately value themselves and their skills to create a more positive and sustainable profession, or to leave it altogether for something else. We talk about the lack of leadership training, the importance of designing our businesses, and the value of architects as problem solvers in architecture firms and adjacent industries.

About Jake

Jake is a strategic thinker and designer with a decade of experience in building things from the ground up. He currently leads teams at Adidas in Computational Design, Digital Technologies, and Pattern Engineering. He also runs Out of Architecture, a career consulting firm helping designers apply their incredible talents in untraditional ways.

Episode Links

Out of Architecture website
Out of Architecture: The Value of Architects Beyond Traditional Practice (Amazon)
Out of Architecture on LinkedIn
Out of Architecture on Instagram
Jake on LinkedIn
Tangents podcast

Topic

We discuss the power of negotiation that an in-demand candidate has during a job search, the lack of training in architectural education about money and business, the ongoing talent drought, the mythical bonus, AIA dues, waning architectural publications as an analogy to the profession, provide our take on a provocative LinkedIn post by Evelyn Lee, and we take a stab at figuring out how long it actually takes to train an architect.

Episode links

Employees Who Stay In Companies Longer Than Two Years Get Paid 50% Less (Forbes)
Evelyn Lee’s LinkedIn post
Architect Magazine
Architectural Record (Wikipedia)

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

Topic

We discuss the value of doing home renovations and learning construction skills as an architect, talk about the importance of compromise, collaboration, and learning from hands-on experiences. We also touch on the differences between architects of the past and present, and the evolving role of technology in the industry.

Episode Links

Steve Baczek’s Instagram
Risinger Build’s Instagram
Awesome Framers Instagram

Topic

We have a conversation about the process of becoming a licensed architect in the United States and discuss the challenges of taking multiple Architect Registration Exams (ARE), NCARB’s rolling clock policy changes, and the need for change in the profession.

We also touch on the potential impact of technology on the licensing process with some personal anecdotes and opinions. We also talk about sticky notes, sketching, Cormac’s recent field trip to the University of Michigan Law School with his daughter, how architects can walk into buildings like they own the place, how students can prototype their possible career paths, and some tips on designing one’s life.

Episode Links

Cormac’s instagram
Cormac’s old blog post on his love for pens
University of Michigan Law School architecture (click through the slides to see the buildings)
Designing Your Life: How to Build a Well-Lived, Joyful Life by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans (Amazon)
Stanford: Designing Your Life course
Alexander Calder (Wikipedia)
Jackson Pollock (Wikipedia)
National Gallery by I.M. Pei
NCARB Eliminates the ARE Rolling Clock Policy press release
Commentary on NCARB data about length of time to get licensed (Archinect)
2017 data on NCARB revenue and the CEO’s salary (Archinect)

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

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

Topic

We discuss Evan’s tireless experience of the “sufferfest” that is moving one’s family into a new home, Cormac’s recent experiences with the ACE Mentor program, and we ask the question more people in the profession should be: Would people become architects if the we were honest about what it’s really like to be one?

Episode links

Ronnie Lott (Wikipedia)
ACE Mentor Program of America website

Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com

Saying goodbye to a house, spaces that evoke memories and emotion, personal experiences of working (and living) remotely, mentoring emerging professionals, and how the architectural profession has been the model for Elon’s recent email to Twitter employees (except for the severance option).

Links

Elon Musk demands Twitter staff commit to ‘long hours’ or leave: Read the email (CNBC)

We discuss the different types of architectural degrees offered and why one might pick one type over another (To B.Arch or not to B.Arch? That is the question.) based on an #askarchispeak question from a listener, and Cormac toured the Exchange Tower that’s currently under construction in Detroit. It’s being built… differently.

Links

With Exchange, LIFTbuild Delivering First Top-Down Project in the US Since the '70s

In this episode, we discuss Deborah Berke FAIA’s presentation and James Wines’ interview from the 2022 Monterey Design Conference which recently happened at the Asilomar Conference Grounds in California. We get into the adaptive reuse typology as well as environmental art and architecture.

Links

Monterey Design Conference (MDC) 2022 website

Asilomar Conference Grounds by Julia Morgan (Wikipedia)

Deborah Berke Partners website

NXTHVN project

Adaptive Reuse projects and white paper

James Wines SITE website

BEST Products Company Buildings

Ghost Parking Lot

When Art, Architecture and Commerce Collided: The BEST Products Showrooms by SITE (ArchDaily)

Listen and Subscribe to Archispeak

Cormac talks about his recent attendance of a lecture about architectural ornamentation from yesteryear in Detroit while Evan is speaking at the inaugural EntreArchitect Annual Meeting in Austin.

Links

Wirt C. Rowland (Wikipedia)

Corrado Parducci (Wikipedia)

Albert Kahn

The Life of Albert Kahn

Albert Kahn (History of Detroit)

Guardian Building (History of Detroit)

Guardians of Detroit: Architectural Sculpture in the Motor City • By Jeff Morrison

Guardians of Detroit on Instagram

Millard Sheets (Wikipedia)

In this episode, we discuss various mental, psychological, and physical injuries sustained from architectural (or construction) projects.

Links

Archispeak 31 - Architecture Will Kill You

This episode is about communication in our profession. Are you elevating or dumbing down the conversation? Is anybody listening? We also talk about wasting time in “valuable” “meetings”, how when the size of teams grows the lines of communication and complexity grows at a larger rate (Brooks’s Law), and more.

Links

Brooks’s Law (Wikipedia)

This episode is about communication in our profession. Are you elevating or dumbing down the conversation? Is anybody listening? We also talk about wasting time in “valuable” “meetings”, how when the size of teams grows the lines of communication and complexity grows at a larger rate (Brooks’s Law), and more.

Links

Brooks’s Law (Wikipedia)

This episode is about communication in our profession. Are you elevating or dumbing down the conversation? Is anybody listening? We also talk about wasting time in “valuable” “meetings”, how when the size of teams grows the lines of communication and complexity grows at a larger rate (Brooks’s Law), and more.

Links

Brooks’s Law (Wikipedia)

This episode is about communication in our profession. Are you elevating or dumbing down the conversation? Is anybody listening? We also talk about wasting time in “valuable” “meetings”, how when the size of teams grows the lines of communication and complexity grows at a larger rate (Brooks’s Law), and more.

Links

Brooks’s Law (Wikipedia)

It’s a “rantiversary”! We have some fresh follow-up on a 2-year-old episode about a Twitter thread on why one individual was sounding the alarms and contemplating leaving the industry — who then did leave — and hasn’t looked back. The conversation then ties into additional follow-up from a more recent topic about accountability for predatory and toxic educational and workplace environments kindled by the SCI-Arc Basecamp “How to be in an Office” panel discussion.

Links

Archispeak 186 - Why I’m Likely Leaving

Archispeak 260 - How (not) to be in an Office

Maryanne’s Twitter threads: how it started vs. how it’s going

Evan’s Twitter thread about why talent is leaving the industry

Listen and Subscribe to Archispeak

It’s a “rantiversary”! We have some fresh follow-up on a 2-year-old episode about a Twitter thread on why one individual was sounding the alarms and contemplating leaving the industry — who then did leave — and hasn’t looked back. The conversation then ties into additional follow-up from a more recent topic about accountability for predatory and toxic educational and workplace environments kindled by the SCI-Arc Basecamp “How to be in an Office” panel discussion.

Links

Archispeak 186 - Why I’m Likely Leaving

Archispeak 260 - How (not) to be in an Office

Maryanne’s Twitter threads: how it started vs. how it’s going

Evan’s Twitter thread about why talent is leaving the industry

Listen and Subscribe to Archispeak

It’s a “rantiversary”! We have some fresh follow-up on a 2-year-old episode about a Twitter thread on why one individual was sounding the alarms and contemplating leaving the industry — who then did leave — and hasn’t looked back. The conversation then ties into additional follow-up from a more recent topic about accountability for predatory and toxic educational and workplace environments kindled by the SCI-Arc Basecamp “How to be in an Office” panel discussion.

Links

Archispeak 186 - Why I’m Likely Leaving

Archispeak 260 - How (not) to be in an Office

Maryanne’s Twitter threads: how it started vs. how it’s going

Evan’s Twitter thread about why talent is leaving the industry

Listen and Subscribe to Archispeak

It’s a “rantiversary”! We have some fresh follow-up on a 2-year-old episode about a Twitter thread on why one individual was sounding the alarms and contemplating leaving the industry — who then did leave — and hasn’t looked back. The conversation then ties into additional follow-up from a more recent topic about accountability for predatory and toxic educational and workplace environments kindled by the SCI-Arc Basecamp “How to be in an Office” panel discussion.

Links

Archispeak 186 - Why I’m Likely Leaving

Archispeak 260 - How (not) to be in an Office

Maryanne’s Twitter threads: how it started vs. how it’s going

Evan’s Twitter thread about why talent is leaving the industry

Listen and Subscribe to Archispeak

We discuss how Evan’s recent talks about the future of the practice were received by two different audiences: architects and CFO’s. One group is much more excited about where we’re going… can you guess which one?

Link

Lamy Safari fountain pen (Amazon)

LAMY Safari Fountain Pen, Charcoal Medium Nib (L17M)

We discuss how Evan’s recent talks about the future of the practice were received by two different audiences: architects and CFO’s. One group is much more excited about where we’re going… can you guess which one?

Link

Lamy Safari fountain pen (Amazon)

LAMY Safari Fountain Pen, Charcoal Medium Nib (L17M)

We discuss how Evan’s recent talks about the future of the practice were received by two different audiences: architects and CFO’s. One group is much more excited about where we’re going… can you guess which one?

Link

Lamy Safari fountain pen (Amazon)

LAMY Safari Fountain Pen, Charcoal Medium Nib (L17M)

We discuss how Evan’s recent talks about the future of the practice were received by two different audiences: architects and CFO’s. One group is much more excited about where we’re going… can you guess which one?

Link

Lamy Safari fountain pen (Amazon)

LAMY Safari Fountain Pen, Charcoal Medium Nib (L17M)

We discuss a recent rant by Thomas Heatherwick about boring architecture, emotional responses to the built environment, the fabric of the city, what community is, cool scars, and more.

Links

Add your name to the list at Tect

"We're living through an epidemic of boringness" says Thomas Heatherwick

Listen and Subscribe to Archispeak

Evan is delivering a keynote titled ‘Disruptive Technology in Architecture, and You’ at the 2022 AIA Kansas Annual Conference, rural architecture and architects, presentation skills, communication, and more.

Links

Johnny America ‘zine website

AIA Kansas 2022 Annual Conference

Topic

Following our ‘quiet quitting’ episode we now discuss ‘quiet firing’, the objectification of roles in the profession and the unsustainable nature of this approach by incumbents for the future of the labor force, additional thoughts on other recent episodes and how they tie into this discussion and topic, workaholism, MidJourney AI image creation, and more.

Links

The Hustle Architect on Twitter and the Welcome to the Grind Unbuilt Environment store

After ‘quiet quitting,’ here comes ‘quiet firing’ (Washington Post)

Archispeak #276 - Quiet Quitting

Archispeak #274 - Tyranny of the Green Light

Archispeak #273 - Know Anyone Interested?

Archispeak #269 - Architecture is Hard

From Strength to Strength by Arthur C. Brooks (Amazon)

Explore #MidJourney on LinkedIn

Topic

We discuss the latest news on the #quietquitting trend, the architectural response to the subject, under-living and overworking, and more.

Links

Quiet Quitting (New York Times)

EntreArchitect Facebook Community

EntreArchitect community quiet quitting discussion

Innovation Theater

Deltek sucks

TikTok video about making paper (on Evan’s Twitter)

Work/life/work balance by Andrew Maynard (ArchDaily)

Topic

After discussing how there’s no shortage of things to be responsible for when adulting, we answer more listener questions regarding graduate school and licensure while throwing our personal experience into the mix.

Link

Friend of the show Cherise Lakeside, FSCI on Twitter

What does the little green status light next to your name signal? In this episode we get into expectations and conditioning, time management, discipline, and saying yes versus no in the always-on work environment.

Topic

A conversation about the current state of the architectural job market, a critique of the lackluster listings firms use to “attract talent”, and more.

Listen and Subscribe to Archispeak

We answer questions from an incoming architecture student about, well, all kinds of things. What should one do before beginning an architectural education? In addition to “everything”, what should one pay extra attention to in school? What should one study on their own time? What is the process of getting licensed in multiple states?

We discuss some recent adventures in home ownership and compare notes on a list of places we have and haven’t been to from an architectural perspective.

Topic

We do a debrief on the AIA National Conference on Architecture in Chicago both as an a attendee and as an exhibitor, what it was like being in the presence of our people again, thoughts about cities and their intersection with “the conference”, health outcomes from the conference (yep), and a quick tour of some Frank Lloyd Wright projects (because when in Rome/Oak Park…).

Links

Branch Technology

Unity Temple by Frank Lloyd Wright

Oak Park, Illinois projects by FLW

Hollyhock House by FLW (Wikipedia)

Ennis House by FLW (Wikipedia)

Listen and Subscribe to Archispeak

Topic

What lies beneath the surface of a seemingly simple project, that once built, doesn’t perform as required? We also get into the common request for projects to be “future proofed” by clients because why not? These are just some of the things that are part of the day-to-day of an architect.

Sponsor

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Listen and Subscribe to Archispeak

Topic

A conversation about architects, school design, funding, symptoms versus sources of problems, and gun policy in America.

Links

AIA Statement: This is a time of reflection

‘No Way To Prevent This,’ Says Only Nation Where This Regularly Happens (The Onion)

Start implementing powerful systems for the profitability you need and the freedom you want. Join Douglas Tieger, FAIA for the next Designing Your Business Masterclass, brought to you by BQE CORE. Every live masterclass session is free and includes AIA continuing education credit. Register now at bqe.com/masterclass.

Listen and Subscribe to Archispeak

Topic

Topics: SpaceX’s Starlink roaming internet service for the ability to truly work from anywhere and we dig into a listener email about mentoring in the adjacent industry of environmental design in game development.

Links

Starlink

Starlink Portability for RV’s

Graphic Standards website

TRXL Podcast

Start implementing powerful systems for the profitability you need and the freedom you want. Join Douglas Tieger, FAIA for the next Designing Your Business Masterclass, brought to you by BQE CORE. Every live masterclass session is free and includes AIA continuing education credit. Register now at bqe.com/masterclass.

Listen and Subscribe to Archispeak

Topic

We discuss Cormac’s big news 🎉 and the various type of places we as architects have for making including sketchbooks, apps, coding, and physical workshops. What are your favorite places for making? Let us know on Twitter (@archispk) or in the comments for this episode at https://archispeakpodcast.com

Links

The Craftsman (tv show trailer on YouTube)

Sponsor

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Listen and Subscribe to Archispeak

Topic

What do concept cars, skateboarding, and architecture have in common? It’s all about ‘the process’, finding new ways to suffer, expertise vs generalization, all the pieces of the puzzle, and thinking about how we evolve the built environment.

Links

Isuzu VehiCROSS (Wikipedia)

Pontiac Aztek (Wikipedia)

The Pontiac Aztek Survived Walter White in Breaking Bad; Why didn’t It Survive in the Auto Market? (MotorBiscuit)

PITCHING A TENT In My Pontiac Aztek Factory Overlanding Package (YouTube)

Dymaxion house (Wikipedia)

Buckminster Fuller (Wikipedia)

The History of Sears Kit Homes

Bones Brigade: An Autobiography (YouTube)

The SCI-Arc toxic culture topic on Archispeak: episode 260 & episode 262

TRXL Podcast

Start implementing powerful systems for the profitability you need and the freedom you want. Join Douglas Tieger, FAIA for the next Designing Your Business Masterclass, brought to you by BQE CORE. Every live masterclass session is free and includes AIA continuing education credit. Register now at bqe.com/masterclass.

Listen and Subscribe to Archispeak

Topic

Music producer & YouTuber Rick Beato had some observations about Gen Z in a recent video on his channel. In this episode, we compare his theory to our experiences raising kids, and then draw parallels to architecture. We also throw down about the ‘data versus wisdom’ tug-of-war that’s occurring in the industry.

Links

Rick Beato - Why Gen Z Doesn’t Care About Music (YouTube)

King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard website

Rolodex (Wikipedia)

Sponsor

Start implementing powerful systems for the profitability you need and the freedom you want. Join Douglas Tieger, FAIA for the next Designing Your Business Masterclass, brought to you by BQE CORE. Every live masterclass session is free and includes AIA continuing education credit. Register now at bqe.com/masterclass.

Listen and Subscribe to Archispeak

Topic

We get a house-hunting update from Cormac, share some of our experiences designing science buildings, and also touch on project delivery methods, quality contractors, and change orders.

Links

”We’ll See” parable

Contractor's Guide to Change Orders (2nd Edition) (Amazon)

@CheriseLakeside on Twitter

Sponsor

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Listen and Subscribe to Archispeak

None

Topic

We get an update on Cormac’s house hunting saga and follow up on our recent conversation regarding the SCI-Arc Basecamp panel discussion and the apparent lack of conversation within the architectural community about the cultural factors that were surfaced which should be widely addressed.

Links

Basecamp: How to be in an Office (by SCI-Arc on YouTube)

SCI-Arc LowLights - Basecamp: How to be in an Office (video synopsis of the spicy parts by Anon505 on YouTube)

“We all make our own choices” by The Hustle Architect (@VitruviusGrind on Twitter)

NAAB - National Architectural Accrediting Board

NCARB - National Council of Architectural Registration Boards

AIA - American Institute of Architects

Sponsor

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Listen and Subscribe to Archispeak

Topic

Heavy sigh; deep breath. Cormac’s house hunting adventure continues. We also observe the architectural profession’s identity crisis in which the problem of it lacking a communicable, easily understandable value proposition to the market is ever apparent.

Sponsor

Start implementing powerful systems for the profitability you need and the freedom you want. Join Douglas Tieger, FAIA for the next Designing Your Business Masterclass, brought to you by BQE CORE. Every live masterclass session is free and includes AIA continuing education credit. Register now at bqe.com/masterclass.

Listen and Subscribe to Archispeak

Topic

Evan and Cormac discuss the recent controversies surrounding and following a live event (and corresponding live stream on YouTube) in SCI-Arc’s Basecamp lecture series entitled “How to be in an Office” on March 25, 2022 featuring panelists Tom Oyler (Oyler Wu), Marikka Trotter (Tom Wiscombe Architecture), and Margaret Griffin (Griffin Enright Architects). Topics in this discussion include education, internships, firm culture, studio culture, scholarships, business models, toxic culture, exploitative environments, suffering for the art, work/life balance, disconnected “leadership”, and more.

Links

Basecamp: How to be in an Office (by SCI-Arc on YouTube)

SCI-Arc LowLights - Basecamp: How to be in an Office (video synopsis of the spicy parts by Anon505 on YouTube)

“We all make our own choices” by The Hustle Architect (@VitruviusGrind on Twitter)

Controversy at SCI-Arc over labor practices leads to faculty members placed on leave. Isolated incident or a wake up call for the industry at large? by Katherine Guimapang (Archinect)

What is going on at SCI-Arc? by Audrey Wachs (The Architect’s Newspaper)

SCI-Arc town hall leaked audio files

SCI-Arc town hall response from SCI-Arc CEO Hernán Díaz Alonso (Archinect)

SCI-Arc public salary records 2019 (Archinect)

Scholarship misconduct allegations: SCI-Arc Faces a Reckoning Amid Allegations of Faculty Misconduct (Architectural Record)Listen and Subscribe to Archispeak

Sponsor

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Topic

Cormac is very busy house shopping and therefore taking multiple road trips to the new location, so naturally, he has some stories about the current housing market landscape. We also discuss the state of truthiness (or lack thereof) in online real estate listings, both written and photographically.

Topic

We discuss the recent death of Christopher Alexander, his infamous book A Pattern Language, the newly released The Adam Project movie and architecture as a character, Cormac’s big news, and more.

Links

The Adam Project (Netflix)

Gimme: The House from ‘The Adam Project’

Christopher Alexander (Wikipedia)

Pattern Language website

The book: A Pattern Language: Towns, Buildings, Construction by Christopher Alexander (Amazon)

Fallingwater weekly livestream: A Closer Look

Eames lounge chair (Wikipedia)

Sponsor

Start implementing powerful systems for the profitability you need and the freedom you want. Join Douglas Tieger, FAIA for the next Designing Your Business Masterclass, brought to you by BQE CORE. Every live masterclass session is free and includes AIA continuing education credit. Register now at bqe.com/masterclass.

Listen and Subscribe to Archispeak

A Pattern Language: Towns, Buildings, Construction (Center for Environmental Structure Series)

Topic

Evan stages an intervention because of Cormac’s fountain pen hoarding and then the hosts open the storybook on past projects where teammates took too much liberty in the decision-making process.

Links

Lamy Safari fountain pens (official website | buy on Amazon)

Noodler’s Ink - Blue Black, of course (Amazon)

Field Notes reporter’s notebooks (official website | buy on Amazon)

Shape the Future of Architecture. You have the power to influence future updates to how architects are educated, trained, and licensed. Visit ncarb.org/AOP to take NCARB’s profession-wide Analysis of Practice survey and ensure your voice is heard.

Listen and Subscribe to Archispeak

Noodlers Ink 3 Oz Blue-Black

Lamy Safari Fountain Pen - Charcoal - Fine

Topics: Stopping the work; firing bad clients; abusive clients, the promise of future projects, and their effect on morale in the studio; rationalizing crappy project work; digging holes of risk; communicating design; and more.

Links

TRXL 071 - ‘Trust But Verify’, with Roderick Bates

Sponsor

Shape the Future of Architecture. You have the power to influence future updates to how architects are educated, trained, and licensed. Visit ncarb.org/AOP to take NCARB’s
profession-wide Analysis of Practice survey and ensure your voice is heard.

Listen and Subscribe to Archispeak

Topic

Books. Libraries. Personal architectural book libraries... We did some organizing of the bookshelves and it gave us a reason to slow down & crack open some old friends, which led to talking about some first-year arch school projects.

Links

Cyril A. Farey (Wikipedia)

Farey’s works sold at auction

Ian Stewart (watercolor artist)

Wassily Kandinsky (Wikipedia)

Piet Mondrian (Wikipedia)

Sponsor

Shape the Future of Architecture. You have the power to influence future updates to how architects are educated, trained, and licensed. Visit ncarb.org/AOP to take NCARB’s
profession-wide Analysis of Practice survey and ensure your voice is heard.

Listen and Subscribe to Archispeak

Topic

We compare and contrast our recent getaways to New York City and Death Valley National Park, and archi-nerd-out on performing arts theater design.

Links

Hamilton on Broadway

Death Valley National Park

Rhyolite Ghost Town

Sponsor

Shape the Future of Architecture. You have the power to influence future updates to how architects are educated, trained, and licensed. Visit ncarb.org/AOP to take NCARB’s
profession-wide Analysis of Practice survey and ensure your voice is heard.

Listen and Subscribe to Archispeak

It’s time to plan another road trip to a National Park, dark skies, astrophotography, and Evan speaks at a Professional Practice class at a local architecture school.

Links

Death Valley National Park (Nat’l Park Service)

The racetrack

Great Basin National Park (NPS)

Valley of Fire State Park (Nevada State Parks)

Badlands National Park (NPS)

EntreArchitect community (Facebook)

Listen and Subscribe to Archispeak

We’re celebrating a couple of birthdays, iPhone photo memories that lead to a conversation about amazing architectural chapels, and more.

Links

Wayfarer’s Chapel by Lloyd Wright

Wayfarer’s Chapel (Wikipedia)

ARCHEYES article on Wayfarer’s Chapel (includes the plan drawing)

Additional drawings of Wayfarer’s Chapel

Thorncrown Chapel by E. Fay Jones (Wikipedia)

Yancey Tire Chapel by Rural Studio

Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel by E. Fay Jones (Wikipedia)

Duke University School of Nursing by Ayers Saint Gross (Facebook)

Sponsor

Enscape is a real-time rendering and VR tool for the AEC market. It empowers design workflows by plugging into building modeling software and turning the models into immersive 3D experiences. Visit https://enscape3d.com/archispeak to sign up for a free 14-day trial.

Listen and Subscribe to Archispeak

A conversation about a recent lecture by Andrew Freear and Rusty Smith of Rural Studio at The Architectural League.

Links

Andrew Freear and Rusty Smith, Rural Studio: The Challenges of Sustainable Rural Living (YouTube)

Archispeak #170 - Guerilla Architecture; a conversation with Steven Hoffman of Rural Studio after a viewing of the Citizen Architect documentary.

Sponsor

Enscape is a real-time rendering and VR tool for the AEC market. It empowers design workflows by plugging into building modeling software and turning the models into immersive 3D experiences. Visit https://enscape3d.com/archispeak to sign up for a free 14-day trial.

Topic

We discuss how the grass is always greener wherever someone looks like they are loving their career, ping pong ball shooters and old-timey drum brakes, formative TV shows and books on making things, problem-solving including the interpretation of the building code, and more.

Links

Adam Savage’s website

Mythbusters (Wikipedia)

Tested - ping pong ball shooter (YouTube)

Every Tool's a Hammer: Life Is What You Make It by Adam Savage (Amazon)

This Old House website

New Yankee Workshop website

Bitchin’ Rides

Paint the Rust by The Dodo’s (YouTube)

Where the Deer and the Antelope Play: The Pastoral Observations of One Ignorant American Who Loves to Walk Outside by Nick Offerman (Amazon)

Grease Junkie: A Book of Moving Parts by Edd China (Amazon)

How to Build a Car by Adrian Newey (Amazon)

Sponsor

Enscape is a real-time rendering and VR tool for the AEC market. It empowers design workflows by plugging into building modeling software and turning the models into immersive 3D experiences. Visit https://enscape3d.com/archispeak to sign up for a free 14-day trial.

Every Tool's a Hammer: Life Is What You Make It

Where the Deer and the Antelope Play: The Pastoral Observations of One Ignorant American Who Loves to Walk Outside

Grease Junkie

How To Build A Car

A follow-up conversation (with the occasional digression) to a recent presentation at the AIAS FORUM | CONVERGE 2022 conference for architecture students.

Links

Advice for the Next Generation of AEC Professionals (YouTube)

Students: Join the Peopleverse | AIAS FORUM CONVERGE (YouTube)

Sponsor

Enscape is a real-time rendering and VR tool for the AEC market. It empowers design workflows by plugging into building modeling software and turning the models into immersive 3D experiences. Visit https://enscape3d.com/archispeak to sign up for a free 14-day trial.

It’s 2022 and we didn’t even notice, Cormac doesn’t like “resolutions”, work ethics and work habits, attracting and retaining talent, the profession’s struggle with profit and devalued labor to create it, scheduling quality productive time, and setting boundaries with Focus modes.

Sponsor

Enscape is a real-time rendering and VR tool for the AEC market. It empowers design workflows by plugging into building modeling software and turning the models into immersive 3D experiences. Visit enscape3d.com/archispeak to sign up for a free 14-day trial.

In this conversation we talk about the fluff and non-fluff in architectural drawings, the Disney-esque nature of Cormac's project, the architect's avoidance of "means and methods", the benefits of bringing other parties in to collaborate early on projects, and finally, Dale Carnegie's quote: "Remember, today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday."

Links

Write Notepads & Co.

Dale Carnegie's quote

Sponsor

Enscape is a real-time rendering and VR tool for the AEC market. It empowers design workflows by plugging into building modeling software and turning the models into immersive 3D experiences. Visit enscape3d.com/archispeak to sign up for a free 14-day trial.

Infratech outdoor comfort heating systems combine eco-friendly, ambient warmth with unparalleled design versatility, to add year-round comfort to the world’s most prestigious commercial and residential spaces. To learn more visit Infratech-USA.com/podcast.

Burnout is real. We discuss a recent report on the subject within the architectural profession over the past year with some shocking results, our observations and experiences on the matter, and more.

The State of Burnout in Architecture (2021) (Monograph's blog)

How To Build A Car by A. Newey (Amazon)

Sponsors

Enscape is a real-time rendering and VR tool for the AEC market. It empowers design workflows by plugging into building modeling software and turning the models into immersive 3D experiences. Visit enscape3d.com/archispeak to sign up for a free 14-day trial.

Infratech outdoor comfort heating systems combine eco-friendly, ambient warmth with unparalleled design versatility, to add year-round comfort to the world’s most prestigious commercial and residential spaces. To learn more visit Infratech-USA.com/podcast.

How To Build A Car

We discuss impostor syndrome, NCARB's IPAL Programs and different paths to becoming an architect, ego and ability, a call to action for the profession, doing theory vs grunt work, and window shopping at auto auctions.

Links

NCARB's IPAL Programs

TRXL 062: ‘Complexity and Opportunity‘ aka the call to action for the profession

Sponsors

Enscape is a real-time rendering and VR tool for the AEC market. It empowers design workflows by plugging into building modeling software and turning the models into immersive 3D experiences. Visit enscape3d.com/archispeak to sign up for a free 14-day trial.

Infratech outdoor comfort heating systems combine eco-friendly, ambient warmth with unparalleled design versatility, to add year-round comfort to the world’s most prestigious commercial and residential spaces. To learn more visit Infratech-USA.com/podcast.

A visit to Disneyland, exploring various layers of an example of the ultimate architectural experience at Galaxy's Edge, and more.

Links

Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge (Wikipedia)

Disneyland's attraction: Galaxy's Edge

The Story of Imagineering

Walt Disney Imagineering (Wikipedia)

Sponsor

Enscape is a real-time rendering and VR tool for the AEC market. It empowers design workflows by plugging into building modeling software and turning the models into immersive 3D experiences. Visit enscape3d.com/archispeak to sign up for a free 14-day trial.

Infratech outdoor comfort heating systems combine eco-friendly, ambient warmth with
unparalleled design versatility, to add year-round comfort to the world’s most prestigious
commercial and residential spaces. To learn more visit Infratech-USA.com/podcast.

The downsides of hyperrealism during design presentations, when it's time to stop designing, emotional experiences in architecture, and a mini-review of the masterpiece that is Dune.

Links

Denis Villeneuve (Wikipedia)

'Dune' Director Denis Villeneuve Breaks Down the Gom Jabbar Scene (YouTube)

Architect John Lautner (Wikipedia)

Architect Carlo Scarpa (Wikipedia)

Sponsor

Enscape is a real-time rendering and VR tool for the AEC market. It empowers design workflows by plugging into building modeling software and turning the models into immersive 3D experiences. Visit enscape3d.com/archispeak to sign up for a free 14-day trial.

Coming to you from remote locations on opposite sides the world (no, it's not flat—but it does have "sides" 🤣), we have a discussion about the true value of in-person meetings after a year and a half of virtual calls.

Sponsor

Enscape is a real-time rendering and VR tool for the AEC market. It empowers design workflows by plugging into building modeling software and turning the models into immersive 3D experiences. Visit enscape3d.com/archispeak to sign up for a free 14-day trial.

Architectural representation and its roles in cinema, world-building, alternative realities, the Metaverse, the concept of "future-proofing" space, and more.

Links
Metaverse (Wikipedia)

How does the architectural design process work? Is it linear—or is it something else entirely—and why?

Do you ever feel like you're being watched—or experimented on—when shopping online? A/B testing is a standard practice companies use not only for marketing purposes, but in user interface design and user experience as well. Adjustments are then made over time to suit the preferences of users making use of the data gleaned from the testing. Can/should/do architects do this? What kinds of modifications have you done in environments you have agency over to better suit your experience of space?

The Urbanist podcast episode 521, chapter 3 (Architecture in the virtual world)

Post-justified puns, green roof details, not knowing what we don't know, continuing education and building product selection, educating (and selling!) design concepts and building products to clients with the right information for them to make informed decisions, bad alliances and throwing teammates under the bus, and more.

In this episode we’re talking about corporate-sponsored productivity-enhancing drugs. Cormac jumps back on the wagon after an 8-month hiatus so we discuss our favorite morning ritual.

Links

Aeropress Go (Amazon)

Chemex Classic (Amazon)

Mr. Coffee 12-cup Coffee Maker (Amazon)

Sponsor

Thanks to our sponsor for helping make this episode possible:

Twinmotion

Twinmotion is a real-time rendering solution used by architecture, engineering, and construction professionals to create high-quality imagery, client presentations, and interactive experiences that help communicate your BIM data and design ideas, fast. Visit twinmotion.link/archispeak
and try Twinmotion for free.

Chemex Classic Series, Pour-Over Glass Coffeemaker, 10 Cup - Exclusive Packaging

AeroPress Go Portable Travel Coffee Press, 1-3 Cups - Makes Delicious Coffee, Espresso and Cold Brew in 1 Minute

Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Coffee Maker, Black

We discuss Cormac's recent trip to Saudi Arabia and the extraordinary humbling feeling he experienced during his adventure.

Links

Cormac's Instagram

China Ranch Date Farm near Death Valley National Park in California

Sponsor

Thanks to our sponsor for helping make this episode possible:

Twinmotion

Twinmotion is a real-time rendering solution used by architecture, engineering, and construction professionals to create high-quality imagery, client presentations, and interactive experiences that help communicate your BIM data and design ideas, fast. Visit twinmotion.link/archispeak and try Twinmotion for free.

This conversation is a continuation of our previous episode topic regarding documenting knowledge and includes some deeper theoretical discussion inspired by a recent article on Substack.

Subconscious Substack by Gordon Brander Notes are conversations across time

Field Notes notebooks

Sponsor

Thanks to our sponsor for helping make this episode possible:

Twinmotion

Twinmotion is a real-time rendering solution used by architecture, engineering, and construction professionals to create high-quality imagery, client presentations, and interactive experiences that help communicate your BIM data and design ideas, fast. Visit twinmotion.link/archispeak and try Twinmotion for free.

We discuss leadership acting as roadblocks and the need for capturing knowledge, teaching, and learning within our practices so we can all participate in leveling up the profession.

Links

TRXL 053 – ‘A Growth Mindset’, with Ellen Bensky

Don't let 'good' get in the way of 'great': a story about a slow process of perfectionism versus the instant gratification of good enough.

Links

OK Computer Lecture Series: Autonomous Vehicles (Evan's lecture on YouTube)

Le Corbusier’s Dream Car: The 1936 Voiture Minimum

Heatherwick Studio launches AIRO for IM Motors

Z-Car by Zaha Hadid

Dymaxion #1 by Buckminster Fuller

The Extraordinary Dymaxion Automobile

Don't let 'good' get in the way of 'great': a story about a slow process of perfectionism versus the instant gratification of good enough.

If a tree falls in a rainstorm and rips the electrical connection from your house and you don't see it, does it make a sound? Disaster strikes in Cormac's neighborhood, leading to another sidetrack conversation.

Links

Disney's Carousel Of Progress (YouTube)

Evan talks about his recent trip to Washington DC and Cormac foreshadows his retirement plan.

Links

Glenstone Museum

Archispeak 227 – Hugging Architecture (the Fallingwater episode)

IM Pei's east wing addition to the National Gallery of Art (1978)

Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial

National Museum of African American History & Culture

Evan gives an update on his adventures in construction, we talk about the disconnect between architects and contractors informed through Evan's experiences doing design-build, reminisce about learning how to build by watching This Old House, and more.

Links

This Old House on Twitter

This Old House (PBS)

Awesome Framers (Instagram)

Essential Craftsman (YouTube)

Tape Measure Pro Tips

Nailed It! (Netflix)

Great British Baking Show (Netflix)

Cormac tries to help Evan understand sports team loyalties. The topic then leads to the question of whether architectural loyalties (to an architect or office, for example) make sense.

Links

Hulk Hogan (Wikipedia)

Bonesaw McGraw

Randy Savage (Wikipedia)

Centre Pompidou (Wikipedia)

Richard Rogers (Wikipedia)

Renzo Piano (Wikipedia)

We discuss Evan’s recent visit (and Cormac’s past visits) to an architectural icon including observations only architects would enjoy and understand.

Links

Cicadas: 17 years underground & emergence in 2021

Frank Lloyd Wright

FLW: Fallingwater

FLW: Kentuck Knob

FLW: Pope Leighey house

Richard Neutra

Neutra: Kaufmann house in Palm Springs

Neutra: Visitor Center and Cyclorama at Gettysburg

Richard Meier

Meier: Douglas House

In an attempt to do anything except talk about architecture this episode, we discuss Cormac's sufferfest on the Appalachian Trail (AT), his discovery of the IT Band, tools for hikers, how Evan recently joined Cormac to hike in Great Falls Park, and a 'type-2 fun' story from Evan to round things out.

Links

Type 2 Fun on the Fun Scale

Great Falls Park

Harper's Ferry National Historical Park

Trekking Poles (Amazon)

Birch Hollow slot canyon in Zion National Park (Summit Post)

Black Diamond Distance Z Z Poles for Trekking, Trailrunning, Hiking

We discuss what's for breakfast, going back to the office, the intangible tangibles of the office environment and corporate culture, and how many professions are experiencing the "Great Resignation".

Links

"Great resignation" wave coming for companies (Axios)

MRE (Meal, Ready to Eat) (Amazon)

Entrenching tool (e-tool) (Amazon)

2021 MREs (Meals Ready-to-Eat) Genuine U.S. Military Surplus Assorted Flavor (4-Pack)

SOG Entrenching Tool- 18.25 Inch Folding Survival Shovel with Wood Saw Edge and Tactical Shovel Carry Case- Black (F08-N)

We discuss what styles (aka flair) architects can be identified by, Zoom-lash, your ninja skills and how they will play into the future of work, and what Cormac did when he got bored in the desert.

Links

Rise of the 10x Class by Dror Poleg

TRXL 041: ‘Stay Curious’, with Dror Poleg

Barbed wire gloves (Amazon)

Pneumatic Palm Nailer (Amazon)

Welding gloves (Amazon)

Welding helmet (Amazon)

Metabo HPT Palm Nailer, Pneumatic, Accepts Nails From 2-1/2" to 3-1/2", 360° Swivel Fitting, Over-Molded Rubber Grip, Ideal For Joist Hangers & Metal Connectors (NH90AB)

Schwer 2.0 Upgraded Version of Level 9 Cut Resistant Glove Upgraded Cutting Glove Durable Rustproof Reliable Stainless Steel Mesh Metal Wire Glove Latest Material Cutting Glove(XL)

Dewalt Premium Leather Welding Gloves, Fire/Heat Resistant, Gauntlet-Style Cuff, Elastic Wrist, Large

TOOLIOM Solar Powered Welding Helmet Auto Darkening for TIG MIG ARC Welder Mask with Adjustable Shade Range 4/9-13 Blue Eagle Design

We discuss the current auto fuel shortage, sweat (equity and pants), modeling things no one wants, and HighArc's website.

Links

higharc.com

We discuss all nighters, staffing projects in the context of the current economy, the psychology around the two things that architects hate, and change management.

We discuss our profession's continuing challenge of making meaningful progress within the very real constraints of selling time for money, how we willingly accept workflows the software industry has determined we use, the choice to stay in the trenches or to lead, and more.

Links

Archispeak 219: They Became Dinosaurs

We discuss the need for members of our community (that's you!) to support the content creators who are putting their creativity and time into the betterment of the profession. Rate, review, be positive and constructive with your feedback, and share with your friends and colleagues!

Links

How to Architect (YouTube)

30x40 Design Workshop (YouTube)

Archimarathon (YouTube)

She Builds podcast

Practice Disrupted podcast

Build Smart podcast

Build Your Brand podcast

I've Never Met a Woman Architect Before

ARE Hacks by Evan Troxel

The Little Architect's Alphabet: Learning your letters through design by Lora Teagarden

Upcodes

Yale School of Architecture Lecture Series

Architalx lecture series

The Little Architect's Alphabet: Learning your letters through design

ARE Hacks: Learn How to Pass the Architect Registration Exam

We discuss the stronghold of the architectural profession's traditional apprenticeship model and how it has decreased innovation potential.

Links

Tap-Tap-Twist – Climbing Gold Podcast with Alex Honnold (Apple Podcasts | Spotify)

We talk with Tim Leese, the Director of Marketing at @GlenGeryBrick, about the launch of FOLIO — a new print publication that showcases inspirational design with the fundamental modular building material we all know as brick.

Links

Glen-Gery Brick website

Request your copy of FOLIO and/or submit your project

We discuss the topic of trusted brands, loyalty, quality, and how these ideas both do and do not apply to the practice of architecture.

We discuss some comments that have been made about Evan moving to a new job and how some of the fundamental problems in our industry aren't attractive but still need to be solved.

In this episode Evan and Cormac discuss a bit of nostalgia and how it can shape the future of our workplace.

We reminisce about the first concerts we attended and link those experiences back to architecture, space, and how they have the ability to affect people.

Special guest Bob Habian joins Evan and Cormac in this marathon episode to talk about a new venture poised as a fantastic solution for the AEC industry, and reveal Evan's latest news.

Links

TectApp

We discuss consultant coordination issues, some benefits and trappings of BIM, and raise the question of who is going to get us out of our own purgatory.

We discuss Evan’s new mountain biking YouTube channel and why having something creative to do that’s non-architectural in your life is important. Everyone go subscribe to the channel and follow along on the adventures!

Links:

Evan’s TRXL MTB YouTube channel

The founders of F9 Productions and the Inside the Firm podcast join Archispeak to talk about their practice in Colorado, transitioning to developer/builders, and their new course to help architects make the transition.

Links

Watch this episode on YouTube

F9 Productions (Lance & Alex's firm website)

Inside the Firm podcast (Lance & Alex's podcast)

Lance and Alex’s Architect to Builder course

We discuss what happened between the original and actual submittal dates for Cormac's project, how to more successfully communicate design intent with owners in VR versus 2d drawings, and the correct number of design options to show clients.

We compare the size, scope, and purpose of a set of modern drawings to historical examples, how architects are seemingly happy reinventing the wheel, and who is to blame when something goes wrong.

Links

Evan was a guest recently on Context & Clarity LIVE (YouTube), and the topic was How is technology changing the architectural profession?

We discuss the newly released renderings of Amazon's proposed headquarters in Virginia & the resemblance to certain emoji, Tatlin's tower, that we should be paying attention to architects in the middle of the US (not just the coasts), & a McSweeney's article featuring some choice archispeak.

Links

Pile of Poo emoji 💩 (Emojipedia)

Soft ice cream emoji 🍦 (Emojipedia)

NordicTrack (Wikipedia)

Marlon Blackwell Architects

Amazon's next offices in Virginia (MSN)

Tatlin's Tower (Wikipedia)

I AM THE DESIGNER OF THIS RESTAURANT’S OUTDOOR SEATING SPACE, AND THIS IS MY ARTIST’S STATEMENT (McSweeney's Internet Tendency)

We discuss the relationships and emotional connections between humans and animals, and draw a connection to architects and their projects; and how most people don't understand the latter.

We discuss the distinction between comments and communications, what to do with staff during project down-time, the problem with data silos, and there's a little more to add to Cormac's Zoom shenanigans.

We discuss Cormac's open Zoom room and somehow the timing worked out just right to prank a teammate while recording the episode.

We discuss the architecture reality show we'd want to watch, some buildings by architect William Pereira, and some hopefulness on inauguration day for 46.

Links

William Pereira (Wikipedia)

List of William Pereira buildings (Wikipedia)

Pereira monograph (Amazon)

William Pereira

Forget goals and resolutions... in this episode, we share how we plan on just staying alive. And there's some new pretty exciting collaboration software we're looking at too, so check the link in the show notes.

Links

Huddle's Teamflow platform for online communication and collaboration with spatial aspects.

We discuss the two things that architects hate, and about intentionally (re)setting boundaries in our day-to-day to increase our potency.

Links

Evan's Disruptive Technology in Architecture presentation to AIA Palm Beach (YouTube)

2 architects. ~20 minutes (MAYBE). 200 episodes. 2020: The Dumpster Fire. Join us in this podcasting milestone episode—the last one of the year—as we discuss what 8 years of podcasting has been like.

Links

5Architecture

Fatman Beyond

The Gābl Media network

We discuss promotions, wicked and tame design problems, shell games, and what happens in the sub-sub basement of Cormac's project.

Links

Archispeak's Gifts for Architects 2020 - Youtube Episode

Looking to find a gift for your favorite architect? Look no further. Here are Archispeak’s top architectural gift picks for the 2020 holiday giving season.

This year, there’s also a video version of this episode. Why? Because we wanted to show you what we were talking about. Click here to watch it on YouTube.

Check out all the links below!

Links

Note: We may make a small commission when you use these links that do not affect the pricing of the selections in any way. And by doing so you're helping support the show. Thanks!

Evan’s picks:

Andrew Heumann's generative design prints

Runcible Studios online shop

LEGO Star Wars Stormtrooper Helmet

LEGO Star Wars Boba Fett Helmet

LEGO Star Wars Tie Fighter Pilot

Keychron K2 Wireless Bluetooth/USB Wired Gaming Mechanical Keyboard

Elgato Cam Link 4K

Evan's book recommendations:

The Little Architect's Alphabet: Learning your letters through design by Lora Teagarden AIA

ARE Hacks: Learn How to Pass the Architect Registration Exam by Evan Troxel AIA

Until Proven Safe: The History and Future of Quarantine by Geoff Manaugh and Nicola Twilley (preorder)

Adapt As An Architect: A career companion by Randy Deutsche (preorder)

Lamy Safari Fountain Pen Medium Nib - Mango - Candy Special Edition 2020 - Model 021

Vanmoof Electric bicycles

Super73-Z1 electric motorbike

Craftsman oscillating multi-tool

Cormac’s picks:

XP-PEN Artist13.3 Pro - Drawing Monitor

The Little Architect's Alphabet: Learning your letters through design

Nespresso ENV135B Coffee and Espresso Machine by De'Longhi, Black

Milk Frother, Miroco Stainless Steel Milk Steamer

Koncept - LED Desk Lamp

Good & Well Supply Co. National Park Candle - ZION

The National Park Candles (entire collection)

Cormac’s Book Recommendations:

See the suggestions Evan STOLE…STOLE, I say

Architecture of the Shot

Architecture of the Cocktail

Sketch tools and books Cormac flashed during the episode

Field Notes

Leuchtturm 1917 (Sketchbook)

And if you’re looking for something to send Cormac (in Olive Green)

CRAFTSMAN V20 Oscillating Tool Cordless Kit (CMCE500D1)

The Little Architect's Alphabet: Learning your letters through design

The Architecture of the Cocktail: Constructing the Perfect Cocktail from the Bottom Up

Until Proven Safe: The History and Future of Quarantine

Koncept AR3200-C-MBK-DSK Z-Bar Slim LED Desk Lamp, Cool Light, Metallic Black

LEGO Star Wars Tie Fighter Pilot 75274

Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Maker by De'Longhi, Piano Black

Elgato Cam Link 4K, External Camera Capture Card, Stream and Record with DSLR, Camcorder, ActionCam as Webcam in 1080p60, 4K30 for Video Conferencing, Home Office, Gaming, on OBS, Zoom, Teams, PC/Mac

Adapt As An Architect: A Mid-Career Companion

LEGO Star Wars Boba Fett Helmet 75277 Building Kit, Cool, Collectible Star Wars Character Building Set (625 Pieces), Multicolor

Keychron K2 Wireless Bluetooth/USB Wired Gaming Mechanical Keyboard, Compact 84 Keys RGB LED Backlight N-Key Rollover, Aluminum Frame for Mac Windows, Gateron G Pro Red Switch, Version 2

XP-PEN Artist13.3 Pro 13.3 Inch IPS Drawing Monitor Pen Display Full-Laminated Graphics Drawing Monitor with Tilt Function and 8 Shortcut Keys (8192 Levels Pen Pressure, 123% sRGB)

ARE Hacks: Learn How to Pass the Architect Registration Exam

LEUCHTTURM1917 - Master Classic A4+ - Dotted Hardcover Notebook (Red) - 235 Numbered Pages

Lamy Safari Fountain Pen Medium Nib - Mango - Candy Special Edition 2020 - Model 021

Architecture of the Shot: Constructing the Perfect Shots and Shooters from the Bottom Up

We discuss expectations and boundaries around our always-on communication options, and how fragmented and difficult to manage this has all become due to the multitude of options.

Links

Watch the Archispeak + Life of an Architect podcast happy hour (YouTube)

What delightful information comes to light when a project team member — hypothetically — thinks they've hung up from a call, but they actually haven't*?

not a hypothetical

Links:

Live stream happy hour with the Life of an Architect podcast on Nov 19th, 4:15pm PST (YouTube)

Being that it's Veteran's Day in the USA, we discuss war stories from the trenches... both from Cormac's time serving in the Army and from architectural practice. Oh, and don't forget the off-the-shelf, range-extending missile parts.

Links

Evan's temporary service interruption tweet

Veteran's Day (Wikipedia)

Scud missile (Wikipedia)

Patriot missile (Wikipedia)

Gulf War (Wikipedia)

We discuss current 2d project delivery challenges and opportunities, how application templates aren't one-size-fits-all, reincorporating lessons learned on projects into standards, and how architects are really damn good at dealing with levels of abstraction.

We discuss how brick and mortar-based architecture firms are dealing with the changing landscape of remote work due to COVID-19 and all the nuance that comes along with it. And Cormac breaks the news that Sean Connery died, so we talk about Bond movies, of course.

Links

Sean Connery

James Bond

George Lazenby

The Prisoner

Death Race 2000

Roger Moore

The Car

Duel

Following the last episode's topic of professional 'conference season,' we transition into the topic of architectural 'awards season' to discuss the positives and also how they could be so much better.

Links

Advancing Computational Building Design Conference

Day 1 agenda including Evan's presentation

TRXL podcast on Gābl Media

We discuss the October architectural conference flurry—including one that Evan is speaking at—and recap architect Jeanne Gang's keynote presentation at the 2020 Architectural Record Innovation Conference.

We discuss the new world of communication and physical barriers that many people are adapting to, and many who are not.

We follow-up on Cormac's double-jointed, shadetree mechanic adventure and wax nostalgic on Haynes manuals. And then, somehow, bring it back to architecture.

We discuss taking ideas from other industries — like auto manufacturing — and applying them to architecture.

We discuss ways to deal with last-minute changes on projects, which is something that never really happens.

We discuss a recent Twitter thread about structural engineering career angst and parallel issues we have observed in the architectural profession.

Cormac tells us a story of superstitious happenings, and we discuss the true meaning of three seemingly innocuous words that show up on so many drawing sets: Protect In Place.

Cormac and Evan discuss the sentiments expressed in the recently posted 'Letter to a Young Architect' by critic Kate Wager in Architecture Review.

Evan and Cormac talk about having too many digital input devices to maintain clarity while working.

We discuss the new format for Archispeak, and Cormac pays a visit to the office.

Evan and Cormac talk about the effort that is required to design the future of our beloved profession of architecture. It's time to take responsibility fellow architects!

Evan and Cormac start the episode all over the place but eventually bring it back to architecture, work/life juggling, and the evolving work schedules and behaviors we've found now that school is starting up in households around the world.

Summer break is here, and this is a redux of a previous episode where we discussed the movie Citizen Architect with a very special guest, architect Steve Hoffman.

We also welcome a special guest, Cormac's longtime-friend from architecture school Steven Hoffman, who was not only in the movie about the Rural Studio but was also a student and instructor there.

Cormac and Evan talk about the consequences of breaking the BIM when deadlines are looming, how the design process is time travel, and the need for a vacation.

Cormac and Evan talk about what they are doing instead of vacationing this summer, the importance of knowing how things go together, some of their favorite construction tools, conducting Zoom calls on water, and more.

Architects are anthropologists and psychologists too, right? Join us for a conversation about some behaviors we are observing during Covid-19 — along with everything else that's going on in the world right now — and how they might relate to architecture and design.

Evan and Cormac continue to nerd-out and do a deep dive into three buildings. Come along on the journey of experiencing capital "A" architecture during a time when it's practically impossible to do so.

Evan and Cormac nerd-out and go through a laundry list of great architecture that they've visited, hoping to narrow it down to do a deep dive into one building each in the next episode. Come along on the journey of experiencing capital "A" architecture during a time when it's practically impossible to do so.

blackouttuesday

Evan and Cormac discuss an episode of Netflix's docuseries Abstract: The Art of Design that focused on Olafur Eliasson's philosophy, process, and work, and relate that to what we do in architecture.

Picking up from some cues in the last episode, we talk about the Eames' movie The Powers of Ten, a design studio Cormac is participating in at Auburn, good communication skills, the power of the diagram, putting construction on display, and more.

In this episode, we follow up on the homework assignment and watch the Citizen Architect movie... because, what else do you have to do?

We also welcome a special guest, Cormac's longtime-friend from architecture school Steven Hoffman, who was not only in the movie about the Rural Studio but was also a student and instructor there.

As the world continues to quarantine, Archispeak continues their conversation about the "new normal" of working from home (WfH) and tries to devise ways of finding positivity in a sea of negative news. Plus, there will be homework.

Sheltering-in-(work)place, WFH, technology, weird occurrences as people get used to online conference calls, virtual happy hour, cooking, grocery stores, entertainment, and more.

Archispeak wraps up the technology series with a discussion of the BIM BOP Conference, held June 28, 2019 on the University of Southern California (USC) campus.

Topic

This is part 2 of the "Arcast", a joint production with the EntreArchitect and Inside the Firm podcasts live from the 2019 AIA Conference on Architecture expo floor.

Sponsor

ARCAT: Search the ARCAT libraries for architectural building products to find specifications, CAD details, BIM Objects and more, free of charge, with no registration required to download content. ARCAT has created a website devoted to you, the building professional, to find building product information fast and hassle free. Check out ARCAT today, at ARCAT.com.

Links

Note: All links open in a new window in case you are listening to the podcast on the site.

TestFit 2.0

USC BIM Bop

Carpenters International Training Center

Hoover Dam

Evan’s Instagram

Cormac’s Instagram

Leah Alissa Bayer - EVIA Studios

Earl Parson - Parson Architecture - Clever Moderns

Bill Jannot - ARCAT

Lucas Reames - Trimble Consulting - ZeroSixty Accelerator

Dimitrius Lynch - Spaces Podcast - House of Lynes

Upcodes - ‘spellcheck for buildings’

Scott Reynolds - Co-founder

IrisVR - Instant Virtual Reality for the Building Industry

Shane Scranton - Co-founder and CEO

Oculus Quest

Young Architect - Helping The Next Generation Of Architects Become The Most Successful Generation Of Architects

Michael Riscica - Founder

2019 Young Architect Conference

Monograph Dashboard

Robert Yuen - Co-founder and CEO

https://htmlcolorcodes.com

TonicDM - a powerful and easy to use cloud-based project information management system built specifically for AEC professionals http://tonicdm.com

Reg Prentice - Founder and CEO

Trimble ZeroSixty Accellerator Program

Dig Architecture

Nicholas Renard - Founder and President

Revit Rocketship

NCARB

Jared N. Zurn - Vice President of examination

Archispeak dives into reality capture and the numinous tools that are going to impact the future of how we practice architecture.

Archispeak discusses new technology and how we can use it for our benefit along with the challenges it brings to the profession.

Archispeak discusses the future of the design process.

Archispeak relives the recent past as we examine changes in the practice of architecture during our careers.

Archispeak returns for Year 7 where we touch on the future of the show and preview the upcoming shows.

Archispeak goes to class to learn how to be an effective leader and shares a typical scenario that architects encounter along with discussing the varied ways one can get a license.

2018 was a big year! Join Archispeak as we recap 2018 then look forward with goals for 2019 in a special end of the year episode.

Archispeak is back for the 6th Annual Gifts for Architects episode. Join us as we share our favorite gifts for that special architect.

Archispeak shares their recent experience of attending Autodesk University and then gets serious about identifying and coping with a mid-career crisis.

Archispeak sits down with John Cerone, Director of Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) at SHoP Architects in New York City to talk about technology, direct model to fabrication processes, and the future of project delivery.

We’ve all been there—compromise or stubbornly continue? Archispeak advises a student on how to proceed on a final project.

Archispeak takes some listener questions and provides advice on how to look for work.

Join Archispeak for a bubba sized episode of unkempt neglect, where we poke fun and laugh at ourselves plus the industry as we share funny stories of #architectfails.

Architecture is a process. In Episode 151 of Archispeak we discuss the importance of documenting our experiences and sharing, the good and the bad, as we navigate our stories in the profession.

Archispeak dives into the mailbag and gives back to the community with responses to some listener comments on this very special "Citizen Architect" 150th episode.

"Hey Siri, what's the future of architecture?" We all could use an intelligent assistant and in Episode 149 Archispeak discusses the roadblocks on the way to a model centric workflow in the profession of architecture.

The career of an architect can take many paths. In this episode of Archispeak we discuss the many possibilities one can do after deciding to take a year off between changing majors to study architecture.

Join Archispeak for a journey of what it is like to be an architect for a day. Listen in as we discuss all of the things we do in a typical day.

Summer is once again upon us and in this episode of Archispeak we follow up on Evan's concrete countertop experience and throw some shade before heading out for our 2018 Summer Architectural Adventures.

The (secret) bonus episode from the 2018 AIA National Conference in NYC that Neal doesn't know about, featuring special guests Bill Jannot of ARCAT and Joan Ferrin-Pann, architect at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (and Neal's better half).

Archispeak travels to the AIA Conference on Architecture 2018 and delivers a special episode, from New York, recapping the experience.

Drawing a line or creating a model is easy, but actually building something is far more difficult. Join Archispeak as we discuss the details of what it takes to build it.

Listen to a special Royal Wedding episode of Archispeak as we discuss the psychological effects of the jury process plus the consequences of ignoring BIM and VR in the practice of architecture. Also, did you hear Yanny or Laurel?

Join Cormac and Neal as they mourn the loss of Evan due to the mass purge initiated by Thanos in his quest to bring balance to the universe with some airing of grievances!

Archispeak episode 140 goes on a road trip to look at some buildings and experience architecture. Listen in as we go on a wild ride through the American southwest.

Archispeak episode 139 goes down to the bolts with a discussion about visiting past projects and explores the relationship of furniture to architecture.

Archispeak episode 138 kicks off with a look back into our childhood and marches down the superhighway of life to try and understand why design is such a struggle.

Join Archispeak for a candid discussion of architectural student follies, fun with Revit and we ask the question; is architecture just too damn complicated?

Archispeak welcomes back Rosa Sheng, FAIA to discuss changing jobs, earning her well deserved 'F' and updates us on the continuing efforts by Equity by Design to understand the differential experiences of professionals in architecture.

In Archispeak episode 135 we deal with issues we all have throughout the profession. Listen in as we navigate our way though the winter blues.

Season 6 of Archispeak starts with a recap of recent events in our offices, then crashes down on the subject of historic preservation and asks the question: should all buildings be saved?

Prompted by a comment on the previous episode, Archispeak pulls the thread on the sweater that is Zero Net Energy to discuss the costs, who is doing it and why someone might not. Join us for a "green" discussion all about ZNE.

Archispeak battles the information overload of the new year with some strategic planning for 2018 and touches on innovations in the profession, plus strategic planning and zero net energy goals.

Archispeak closes out 2017 with a wrap-up episode so we can step away from the glowing box. We reiterate the importance of designing your future and list our favorite episodes of the year.

Archispeak explores the typical architectural office end of the year rituals, including the "Office Party," crazy deadlines and workloads.

Treat yourself! Archispeak returns with our annual "Gifts for Architects" guide to help you find that perfect gift for your favorite architect.

In episode 128, Archispeak delves into the mind of an architect and discusses how learning more about oneself can assist you to build more effective teams in your office.

In episode 127, Archispeak looks back at attending the Monterey Design Conference and Façades+ in LA. Oh, and Evan hates dogs and Cormac likes the beach.

When analyzing an architectural project, can you tell what the big idea was? Join Archispeak in episode 126 as we help you to be a better architect by establishing a vision so you can be the life of the Parti.

Archispeak catches a bug, but gets into the zone as we discuss the positive psychology flow and its relationship to working in the architectural profession.

Archispeak speaks with Anne Fougeron FAIA, 2017 Chair of the Monterey Design Conference, about the conference and how it is a clamping experience for Architects that will remind you of why you became an architect in the first place.

Archispeak dives into the topic of skills and how that influences who works on what and how firms use titles.

In episode 122, Archispeak goes into the weeds to discuss the process of design and the patience it requires.

Learn about all the cool tools used we use in the production of the podcast in episode 121 as Archispeak takes you behind the scenes of the show and explains how the sausage is made.

Archispeak completes their summer vacation as we wrap up our architectural adventures.

Archispeak continues their summer vacation as we visit Fallingwater in part two of our architectural adventures.

Come with Archispeak as we explore our summer vacations and discuss how travel enhances your architectural career in part one of our architectural adventures.

For Archispeak episode 117, we discuss how we stay motivated during the months and often years long process that is architecture. Along the way, we explore if external motivators really work or if what we really want is autometry, mastery and purpose from the practice.

Episode 116 of Archispeak explores the concept of designing by Google and asks if architects are taking ideological shortcuts when it comes to design.

Archispeak presents their "Guidebook to Mentorship" in episode 115 where we discuss the investment it takes plus the relationships and benefits it creates.

Archispeak brings the #AIACon17 to you with this special recap episode with interviews from those that attended the conference in Orlando.

Archispeak discusses design, sustainability and how the sausage is made in a behind the scenes episode on how to select a new Twitter bio.

Archispeak welcomes back Rosa T. Sheng, Architect and Senior Associate with Bohlin Cywinski Jackson to discuss Equity. This time Annelise Pitts, a designer with Bohlin Cywinski Jackson joins the conversation to update us on Equity by Design in 2017.

Episode 111 of Archispeak is all about forethought and what does that really mean in architecture.

Archispeak shakes their fists and yells at clouds in episode #110 as we discuss the destruction of the uniqueness of place and why architecture has become so homogenized.

Architecture can inspire us to rethink and reshape our environment. In episode 109, Archispeak discusses where you can find that inspiration and how technology is making it easier.

Archispeak takes on the universal chicken-and-egg problem of standards, expectations and on-boarding in the practice of architecture.

Archispeak is joined by architect Lora Teagarden of RATIO Architects and author/creator of AREsketches to discuss "The Millennial Question."

Archispeak explores options for applying for architecture school and whether the profession is right for you. We also share our current projects and discuss continuing education.

Join us in episode 105 for a review of 2016, as Archispeak closes out the year with a look back at a few of the shows accomplishments and reflects on a number of changes, in what will be remembered as quite a year.

The fourth annual Archispeak "Favorite Things" episode where we suggest items for that favorite architect in your life, which maybe you! Tune in for our holiday suggestions and treat yourself to an Archispeak t-shirt & mug at our store. Happy Holidays!

What happens in Washington DC, does not always stay in DC. In episode 103 of Archispeak, we are joined by several guests to discuss the post-election response by the AIA, subsequent reaction to that response and eventual apology.

Archispeak examines the current state of architectural magazines and periodicals. Are we reading these or are we just looking at the pretty pictures? Tune in to find out.

Ride along as Archispeak hits The 101 for a journey where we discuss the upcoming Now Next Future Conference, breathtaking buildings and the current climate in the architectural profession.

In Archispeak's 100th episode spectacular, we have a casual conversation about social media and blogging with Mr. Life of an Architect, Bob Borson, where we discuss what the point of a blog is and he shares his formula for producing his writing.

In Archispeak Episode 99, we explore the topic that architecture is for the people and not just the rich and how it can make a difference in everyone's life.

Join Archispeak in Episode 98 in the "HR Free Zone" as we lift the veil on the hidden realities of working in the architectural corporate environment verses the experience of the college studio.

It is back to school time here at Archispeak. In episode 97 we provide our tips to survive and succeed in Architectural school plus the profession in general.

Archispeak continues its summer of fun in Episode 96 by talking about our favorite tools.

In episode 95 of Archispeak we lay back on the psychiatric couch and go introspective. Join us as we stare down the road and assess life, personal experiences and our contributions to the world.

Perfect doesn't exist. Or does it? In episode 94 of Archispeak we discuss how perfection can have a paralyzing effect on creativity and can be a "serial killer" to getting things done.

Archispeak looks back at #AIACon16 and shares some interviews with the leading software providers to the architectural profession and talks with NCARB to learn more about AXP and the future of licensure.

Archispeak goes "after dark" in episode 92 and lets the fur fly in a candid conversation about licensure in the profession of architecture.

Rock Star and Architect Ninja Warrior herself, Rosa Sheng who is instrumental in Equity by Design [EQxD] joins Archispeak in Episode 91 to recap #AIACon16 and the EQxD Hackathon which took place at the AIA Convention in Philadelphia.

In our third of three special episodes from the AIA Convention host city of Philadelphia, Archispeak discusses the experience of attending #AIACon16 as we recap the second day and look forward to day three at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

Day Two of the AIA Convention at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia is here and Archispeak looks back at the first full day. Join Archispeak for the second of three special episodes as we discuss the events of #AIACon16.

This year architects and those in the architectural industry gather in the City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia! The AIA Convention takes place at the Pennsylvania Convention Center and Archispeak is here to share with our listeners the vibe of the event.

How do you keep good employees when the talent war is raging on? In this episode we build on the discussion of why good employees leave & talk about what it takes to keep people at our firms by creating deep engagement to be able to grow into the future.

In the immortal words of Johnny Paycheck, "You can take this job and shove it!" In episode 86 of the Archispeak Podcast we discuss the top reasons why good employees quit their jobs.

What keeps you going? Architecture is a difficult profession, so what is it? Do you love the process? Is it the challenge? Join us as we explore capital 'A' architecture and discover that our architectural relationship status is: "It's complicated."

Have you ever wanted to start your own architectural firm? Join us as we lay back on the psychiatric couch and analyze the realities of being your own boss and discuss the difficult decision of going back to working at a firm.

Archispeak episode 83 is all about goals. We begin the show with a discussion about completing a company performance review, then explore the importance of writing down your goals for both personal and professional growth.

Is the architectural website a 21st century business card? Do you even need one to market your architectural practice? We explore these questions and discuss who owns the documentation and imagery of the projects you've worked on.

Season 4 begins! What's the most common architectural note on a set of plans? "Refer to Structural." In episode 81, Archispeak explores the value of a good engineer and discusses how to get their best work out of them.

What is it about the profession of architecture that makes us practically kill ourselves and be proud that we have done it? Lay back on the psychiatric couch and join Archispeak as we explore this concept and discuss jobs that will make you miserable.

Two for one! In Episode 79, Archispeak tackles two topics. The first is inspired from a listener question asking about doing their own house projects. After we discuss the rewards and pitfalls of that, we dive into the ethics of manipulated architectural photography.

Join Archispeak as we relive our adventures from 2015 including our most commented upon episodes, shoutouts from notable publications and our attendance at a couple of conferences which contributed to a reawakening of our design soul.

Archispeak is back with our third year of Gifts for Architects! This time we take the opportunity to gift ourselves some items that your favorite architect just might like as well.

Do you eat, sleep, and breathe architecture? Join Archispeak as we slip into those stretchy pants (post Thanksgiving) to explore the chaos that is architecture and the holiday schedule.

Archispeak Episode 75 dives deep covering several topics centered around the studio and office environment including iPad Pro, Apple Pencil, music, new hire hazing, and chili cook-off's.

It's the future, stupid! Do architects have the mindset to deal with the future? In Archispeak episode 74 we discuss the challenges architects face and what changes we expect to face in the next several years.

Our words matter. Architects generally suck at doing important presentations. In this episode we discuss presentation skills that will help you craft and deliver messages that resonate with audiences.

Archispeak welcomes back Rosa T. Sheng, Architect and Senior Associate with Bohlin Cywinski Jackson to discuss Equity. Rosa updates us on the progress and impact she and her team have had on the architectural profession.

While generally thought of as the "fun" part of the architectural profession, the Designer is the one that puts their work up on the wall for everyone to see, criticize, tear apart and comment on.

Archispeak welcomes Alice Y. Kimm, FAIA of John Friedman / Alice Kimm Architects to talk about the upcoming Monterey Design Conference (MDC).

Is anything real? Architecture is real, which is what makes it so good to watch. Archispeak turns the camera upon itself to discuss the very real life experiences of changing jobs and remembers what it is like on the first day in a new office.

We discuss the signs that maybe your current job is not the right one (hint: if you're not fulfilled, that's a clue) and if not, how to leave it. Join us for a lively discussion and don't forget to put a coversheet on your TPS reports before they go out. That'd be great. All right!

Are you just starting your career and don't know if you're ready to marry yourself to a niche within the architectural profession? Inspired by a listener, join us as we chase the dream of finding your place in architecture.

we talk with special guest host Gregory La Vardera Architect. He helps us navigate this supplemental income opportunity and argues that this is something that architects should be doing to introduce better quality design for everyone.

Coffee. Fonts. Consultants. Tune in to hear our thoughts on our favorite coffee, which fonts you should be using on your construction documents and how to live peacefully with your consultants.

In Episode 64 special guest Mark R. LePage of Entrepreneur Architect joins Archispeak to talk about the past, the present and the future of tools for presentation, communication and collaboration within the architectural practice.

We get back to reality after the AIA Convention in Atlanta and discuss the issues and complications that arise after taking time off & explore the benefits to taking a break which can lead to you coming back recharged and passionate about the profession!

In our last episode from the great host city of Atlanta, Archispeak discusses the value of attending #aiacon15 as we recap the second day and look forward to day three of the AIA Convention.

Archispeak looks back on the first day of the AIA Convention in Atlanta including the keynote speeches, the results from the NCARB Task Force and their stand on the use of "intern", and the death of the Tweetup.

The social media Illuminati gathers in Atlanta to discuss Equity by Design and what we're looking forward to doing on Day One of the AIA Convention in Atlanta. Join Archispeak for as we discuss what we are looking forward to at #AIACon15 Day One.

In part two of a special episode, Archispeak continues the discussion and explores work flexibility, what are the tradeoffs and/or benefits, and how school is not preparing architects to work nine to five.

In the first of a two part episode Archispeak begins the discussion with a question about how architects address staffing in an improving economy and expands to include various related topics.

Interruptions and distractions are something that all architects deal with in life, school and the profession. How do we deal with them? Listen in as we share some neuroses of some of our coworkers and challenge our audience to do the same.

Archispeak discusses how Apple & Google's different approaches to their products and services influence the architecture for their new corporate campuses.

Architects face rejection all the time, from the very first critique all the way through their professional careers. How one deals with that rejection can make a huge difference in their personal and professional lives.

Sometimes, how we start our architectural careers can ultimately pigeonhole us. Tune in and listen to Episode 54 of Archispeak as we talk about how to break free of monotony and ways leaders can help their people get unstuck.

Archispeak takes a trip back and explores how we each got into this crazy profession we call architecture.

Warning! Archispeak is not a lawyer, we just play one on this podcast. In episode 52, we partner with the prestigious law firm of Dewey, Cheatem & Howe to discuss the dark side of the profession: liability.

We break the first rule of Architectural Fight Club and discuss architecture's so-called "crisis of confidence." As more and more mainstream figures in the field are admitting that the profession has lost its way, we ask the question: what can we do?

For Episode 50, Archispeak takes a look back on 2014 and examines some of our most commented upon shows. Along the way we discuss office holiday policies and ask our listeners to let us know what their favorite episodes of 2014 was.

Buying a gift for someone is tough. When that person is an architect, it is almost impossible. Just in time for the holidays your friends at Archispeak are here to help with some of our favorite things. And when in doubt, get it in black.

There is a crisis coming to the profession of architecture. Over the next 15 years the number of architects aged 55-64 will increase by 47%, while the number of those aged 33-54 will decrease by 6%.

Archispeak is proud to have Rosa Sheng, Architect, Senior Associate with Bohlin Cywinski Jackson and AIA SF Board of Directors join us as we touch the "third rail" of the architectural profession and discuss equity in architecture.

According to Frank Gehry, "In this world we are living in, 98 percent of everything that is built and designed today is pure shit." So, where does that leave us, the rest of the world's architects?

It's time to critique the work, but don't take it personally. It's not about you. Episode 45 of Archispeak dives into the delicate process of the do's and don't when it comes to critiquing a project.

Archispeak does some followup on several listener calls and comments from prior episodes. We then spend the remainder of the show on another listener suggested topic (see, we do listen so keep calling in) and put on our "Preservation Pants".

Value engineering is a part of the architectural process. Sometimes for the good, but more often to the detriment of our projects. In Episode 43, Archispeak discusses what happens to a "value engineered" project and what we can do to make it less painful. Along the way we ask if value engineering or cost estimating should be taught in architecture school? Join us as we explore a more efficient or cheaper solution to achieve the intent at a more cost effective solution.

Architects and their websites. For episode 42, Archispeak crawls all over the web and examines the questions of whether or not you should have one, who your audience should be, what it should include and what it shouldn't.

A listener recently asked to hear our thoughts on working with engineers and other consultants. So, for Episode 41, Archispeak accepts the challenge and dispenses some wisdom on what it is like to try and herd cats in the world of Architecture.

What do architects do outside of architecture? In episode 40, Archispeak looks outside the office window and discusses our hobbies. Stick with the episode, through the comic geekery, for some solid advice on the advantages of taking a break from architecture.

In this episode Archispeak gets fired up and takes on the latest architectural meme - Millennials. We question the self proclaimed “millennial architect” and discuss how we can help them be the agent of change they so desperately want to be.

After a five plus year drought the market for architects is once again picking up, we take on the dreaded interview process. We discuss what architectural graduates or licensed architects should present (i.e. drawings, photos), wear and ask in an interview.

Archispeak attends the AIA Convention in Chicago! Well, not really, but we did gather around the dinner table (literally) and have a conversation with a number of friends of the show who were there.

NCARB set off a firestorm recently by announcing their "endorsement of the concept of an additional, structured path that leads to licensure.” We are joined by special guest Lee Calisti to discuss what this could mean to the profession.

We discuss some recent feedback & then take a detour to talk about everyone's favorite subject, the Architectural Registration Exam. During the discussion we suggest strategies and resources for studying, so you too can pass & call yourself an Architect.

Vacation. Do architects ever really take one? How important are vacations? Archispeak takes a hard look at the profession of architecture and discusses why we believe that you should take one. We also share what we will be doing this summer and we would like to know what you are planning. Let us know by posting a comment on the site.

Where and how do you find inspiration? Is it even necessary? Archispeak Episode 33 is proud to be joined by special guest host Marica McKeel as we crack open the books to discuss the means and methods to finding your inspiration.

Design. It is all around you and on every phase or part of a project including the layout of the sheets. Drop in on Episode 32 of the Archispeak Podcast where we talk about BIM and technology and how it is affecting the practice of architecture.

"Nothing is certain but death and taxes." In Episode 31 of the Archispeak Podcast we explore half of that famous quotation by discussing some of the most interesting and infamous deaths of architects. The practice of architecture really can kill you.

Clients: can’t live with them, can’t live without them. In Episode 30, the Archispeak Podcast takes on a particular scenario and discusses how a savvy client can take advantage of an architect. Along the way we suggest possible responses so that you don’t end up “doing it for free.”

Blueprints! Blueprints! Get your blueprints here! Three for a dollar! Yes, that’s right, in Episode 29 we venture out to the third rail and discuss the online selling of plans, exposing the fact that your AIA membership fees are supporting an industry that is trying to cut architects out of residential architecture business.

There’s no sympathy in architecture and especially so for the hosts of the Archispeak Podcast. After an epic recording session that will never see the land of Podcastville, we return to the microphones to record Episode 28, where we discuss working “extra” overtime.

Episode 27 kicks off Season 2 with a very special guest cohost Mark R. LePage! Yes, The Entrepreneur Architect himself joins the cast as we discuss some helpful and not so helpful “Habits for Success.”

Archispeak Podcast Episode 26, the Season 1 Finale, “raises the level” and brings extra value to our listeners by tackling Architectural Determinism. Can design solutions change behavior in a predictable and positive way? Tune in to find out.

Yo! What’s up? Archispeak goes all strategic sloppy and it’s AMAZ! Join Evan, Neal and Cormac as we discuss the topic of spelling or lack there-of and how you might not be as creative as you think. Yo!

The final episode of 2013 wraps up year one of the Archispeak Podcast. We reminisce about what's happened so far and talk a bit about where we're going in 2014. Thank you loyal listeners for a fantastic start. Happy New Year!

It's the 1st Annual Archispeak Podcast “Favorite Things” episode! Join Evan, Neal and Cormac as we discuss our list of gift ideas for the architect in your life or for yourself! Also, for a limited time, you can order your very own Archispeak Podcast t-shirt! All the details about dates, sizes and colors (who are we kidding... it only comes in “Architectural Black”) can be found here.

The Archispeak Podcast becomes “The Cormac Show” as we revisit the art of sketching in Episode 22. This time around we converse about the tools. We review what makes a good sketch book and talk about the merits of using pens, pencils plus paper and trace.

discusses some recent articles on the subject and weigh in with their own opinion. Note: We don’t get to it in the show, but do yourself a favor and don’t forget to check out the last link in this episodes 'links' for Annie Choi’s open letter. You can find the show notes at http://archispeakpodcast.com

For Episode 20 Archispeak Podcast considers the question, “Do architects care about the building after it’s been photographed?” In it we discuss the reasons an architect should photograph their projects and provide some tips on how to get good photography on the cheap. We also poke some fun at ourselves for always being the ones that will wait until everyone is out of a photo before taking it. Quote of the Podcast – “People should be in renderings, not photographs.”

When Archispeak episode 18 was submitted, as typical with plan submittals, it was only about 90% done. The tape was still rolling at Archispeak HQ and we had a few more things to tag onto the last episode to fill it out. We diverged a bit, as we typically do, and went down the BIM path too.

Archispeak Podcast goes “old school” and discusses the trend in architecture away from sketching and what it means for the profession. We “lay the block and swing the steel” to bring you a cornucopia of opinions and in the end discover that all the answers are found in a role of trace paper.

In this episode the Archispeak Podcast explores the question, “Is Architecture Fashion?” The discussion focuses on how we actually experience architecture, what architectural school should be teaching and if graduates today are good “skinners.” Also, Cormac springs a quote from Frank Gehry on us for the first time to get our reaction. Spoiler; it was not what he was expecting.

What can architects do to combat procrastination and what tools can we use to get things done? In this episode the Archispeak Podcast discusses both of these topics and suggests that claiming email bankruptcy might not be such a bad thing. We explore ways each of us get things done (Cormac loves his Post-It Notes) and come up with a new television idea for TLC: “Electronic Hoarders." We also learn that Cormac isn’t Superman. (He really cannot see through walls.)

In this episode of the Archispeak Podcast we discuss all the constraints we have to deal with when creating architecture and ask the question: is possible to design without them? Are there advantages in talking about these constraints with the people who inhabit our projects? Also, Cormac delivers vacation advice from Florida on how to attract sharks.

In this episode of the Archispeak Podcast we discuss the blurring of the line between “normal” business hours, being available all the time, and boundaries in a world where the growing trend is to be hyper-connected and always available at the client's (and the office's) beck and call. Show notes can be found at http://archispeakpodcast.com/episodes/14

Archispeak celebrates its 6-month anniversary! We reflect on the past 12 episodes and acknowledge Apple’s 1-billionth podcast subscription milestone. We then discuss why “good enough is the enemy of great” and explore why architects might design compromises into the project before it goes out of the studio/building.

In this episode of the Archispeak Podcast, Cormac takes a wild ride and ends up at Fallingwater, which leads into a discussion of the permanence in architecture and how we design and specify materials. Are we designing obsolescence into our buildings? Is all architecture meant to be permanent? Join us as we explore these questions and more.

In this episode Archispeak discusses the place where all the work happens: the studio environment. We examine what is wrong with the modern studio environment and eventually get around to talking about what makes an ideal studio. Are we all just plugged into The Matrix while working in our office cube farm? What is the worst thing that has happened to the architectural studio? Hint: they are often white and dangle from your ears. These questions and even some Super 8 spoilers are exposed for all to listen to.

In this episode Archispeak discusses how architecture can create safer buildings. We examine how schools are designed and retrofitted using technology to make them safer. Then we look at what is often written into project standards, including the demand for “no fancy-type lights” and how some requirements are created including “bubba-sized” ceiling and plumbing wall design. Also, we warn everyone against those clients who say “I know a guy.” The music for this episode is Karate by System Kid. You can buy it on iTunes. Support the band!

In this episode Archispeak discusses all things digital. Evan explains the design and 3D printing process for what has become our logo. We also explore how to be a better architect / designer and the tools available to do it. As a bonus, Evan and Neal (Cormac had to actually get real work done) were interviewed by Eric Bobrow for his Best Practices Course, Internet Marketing for Architects. Check it out. Although, we have to warn you, you will actually see and hear us.

In this episode Archispeak discusses the difference between confidence and ego, then examines simple and effective ways to establish camaraderie in an architectural office. We start the conversation with an exploration of the effects on the profession caused by technology and wonder if NCARB is an evil empire or a money laundering scheme. Also, Cormac records in the middle of a wind storm.

In this episode Archispeak takes on questions from our listeners and a group of 3rd graders. Also, Evan gets his first ‘C’ and Cormac panders to the children of Annapolis.

In this episode we discuss the importance of collaboration to the process of architecture and incorporating construction into the architectural education. Also, Cormac gets a new mic!

In this episode we discuss an architects life/work balance and reference Australian architect Andrew Maynard’s article on ArchDaily and its companion article by São Paulo-based architect Anthony Ling. Also, Cormac joins the army and finds it’s just like architecture.

In this episode we discuss the most recent Jobs Report, the importance of practical experience, suggestions for our listeners attending or soon to be graduating college and Evan's obsession with fonts. Links for the show can be found at http://archispeakpodcast.

In this episode, we share what's on our architectural library shelves. Cormac dug through his basement and found a treasure-trove of these ancient relics we call books, Neal talks about the great content in Graphic Standards and his love of comic books, and Evan talks about how these resources are just some of the necessary tools everyone who calls themselves an architect should have. We get a little derailed (in a good way of course) to talk about Design vs. design (capital D vs. little d), the "hand off" of the project between different teams in an office, working with teams, and ownership of a project by the people who work on it versus the mindless assembly line-mentality of picking up redlines. And there's a bonus "secret track" after the episode's official end at 1:14:17. Join the conversation and share what's in your architect's library on twitter by using the #architectslibrary hash tag and post a picture! Links to all the books we've talked about are on our website at http://archispeakpodcast.com.

We discuss the current state of being an architect versus the old days of the master builder, how architects can educate clients, the importance of sleep in our manic profession, and we begin to tackle the topic of proper planning for the ever-looming deadlines that keep us on the move.

In our inaugural episode, we start things out by defining archispeak, try to define architecture, and talk about what the general public probably thinks architecture is and what it isn't. Neal drops a bomb and tells architecture students that they probably aren't going to be designing the next Freedom Tower. Sad trombone.