Archispeak

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 InstagramLunenburg: UNESCO World Heritage CenterMacKay-Lyons Sweetapple:Two-Hulls HouseSliding HouseShobac 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.

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 LinksTRXL 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 PointesDay 2:The Rookery (Burnham and Root / FLW)The Monadnock BuildingChicago 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 StudioOak Park Toura...

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 LibrarySteven F. Udvar-Hazy Center (the other Smithsonian air and apace museum)Eero Saarinen's Revolutionary Design of the Dulles AirportSmithsonian Institution, National Portrait Gallery (Architizer)Phil Freelon and the Creation of the National Museum of African American History and CultureNational Museum of African American History and Culture (Wikipedia)Frank Lloyd Wright’s Pope-Leighey houseNational Museum of the US ArmyArthur C. Brooks (Wikipedia)Evan Troxel on InstagramCormac 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 websiteEclipse heatersBromic heater Revit and CAD filesDesign service with a heating expertStruXure 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 LinkedInGensler websiteGensler on LinkedInBromic websiteEclipse heatersBromic heater Revit and CAD filesDesign 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 LinkedInNational Council of Architectural Registrations Boards (NCARB) websiteNCARB on LinkedInNCARB 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 LinkedInApostrophe Consulting websiteApostrophe Consulting on LinkedInApostrophe Consulting on InstagramLeadership 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 websiteStudio O+A on LinkedInStudio O+A on InstagramPrimo on LinkedInPrimo on InstagramBromic websiteEclipse heatersBromic heater Revit and CAD filesDesign 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 SponsorsAmber BookPass 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 websiteAmber Book on LinkedInAmber Book on InstagramMichael 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 LinkedInEnoch on InstagramBusiness 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 LinkedInTCA Architects websiteTCA Architects on LinkedInBromic websiteEclipse heatersBromic heater Revit and CAD filesDesign 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 SponsorChaosFor 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 SponsorChaosFor 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.