How can architecture firms successfully transition to a hybrid work model that balances flexibility, connection, and structure?

In this episode of Practice Disrupted, we explore hybrid work models in architecture firms, using the firm Shepley Bulfinch as an example. We’re joined by three leaders from Shepley Bulfinch: Jenn Zagarella, Vice President of Administration; Jim Martin, Vice President and CIO; and Jim Chambers, Vice President of Practice Management. Together, they discuss how architecture firms can navigate the challenges of staying connected in today’s evolving workplace through hybrid models.

First, the panel provides an overview of Shepley’s pre-pandemic work environment, focusing on the strong foundations the firm established and how these prepared them for a smooth transition to hybrid work. Jenn, Jim, and Jim share the strategies, tools, and technologies Shepley uses to build a cohesive, flexible work environment.

Then, we explore how Shepley’s hybrid model supports effective communication, continuous learning, location-based needs, and a sense of community. They also discuss the tech required to support their model and highlight the importance of defining what hybrid work means for your specific firm.

Our hybrid model has helped to really reinforce, and in some ways, formally articulate the flexibility and the trust that we place into our people. It's helped us to be able to hire people that don't happen to be close to one of our studios. It's actually, in a few cases, allowed us to bring people back that we were sad to lose. Now that we're capable and comfortable working in a different manner, we can, we can bring them back. - Jim Chamber

To wrap up the conversation, the group reflects on the impact of hybrid work on Shepley’s culture, trust, and connections. They also address common questions and concerns leaders may have when implementing a hybrid model in their practice.

Tune in next week for a conversation with an architect turned UX Strategist.

Guests:

Jenn Zagarella, Vice President, Administration

Leads a diverse administrative team focused on efficiency, innovation, and inclusion. She facilitates collaboration and empowers creativity across departments. Since 2014, Jenn has contributed to continuous improvement efforts, process mapping, and building empathy and consensus firmwide

Jim Martin, Vice President, CIO

Drawing on over 30 years of Information Technology experience, Jim leads the development of strategies for technology tools that support and advance design, delivery, and collaboration at Shepley Bulfinch. He focuses on new technologies and how they affect the design process. Jim is a Six Sigma Green Belt and holds a Bachelor's degree in Architecture from Roger Williams University.

Jim Chambers, Vice President, Practice Management

As the Vice President of Practice Management, Jim provides leadership for the overall performance of the design organization. In partnership with the business operations, Jim develops and directs processes and standards that improve all aspects of the design practice with a focus on the management and delivery of our product. He holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Carnegie Mellon University.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Jenn on LinkedIn

Connect with Jim Martin on LinkedIn

Connect with Jim Chambers on LinkedIn

Learn more about Shepley...

How can architects maximize their impact on communities through the built environment by leveraging valuable relationships, evolving technology, and sustainability?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we sit down with Joshua A. Foster, an award-winning community builder, designer, educator, and speaker. As the Founder and CEO of JAF Creative Solutions – a consulting firm dedicated to maximizing community impact in the AEC and real estate industries – Joshua shares his insights on aligning with architecture firms to integrate community impact into the built environment and practice.

First, Joshua explains what motivated him to create JAF Creative Solutions. He also discusses how he nurtures strong relationships with clients, industry connections, and community leaders, working together to create meaningful and lasting change.

Then, Joshua dives into his approach to defining success and value for his firm with a look at his development strategies. We also explore the challenges of building community engagement services, and Joshua explains how JAF incorporates community feedback into projects while maintaining a sustainable business model.

Architecture, for me, has always been surprisingly so traditional, even though all of the people that I've met in it are really innovative... I think that, as a whole for the world, we're in a good place. As for the profession and people that are running architecture practices, I think we're pretty behind because we're not figuring out how to maximize on all these amazing talents, thoughts, and ideas. People in the industry feel like they have to completely leave it to be able to be innovative. As a profession, it's important for us to figure out – how do we capture these ideas and innovations into the traditional practice so that we don’t necessarily have to start a whole new company? – Joshua A. Foster

To wrap up the conversation, Joshua shares his thoughts on how technology is reshaping community engagement and highlights his vision for the future of architecture along with his personal goals.

Tune in next week for an episode about designing a successful hybrid practice.

Guest:

Joshua A. Foster

Joshua A. Foster is an award-winning community builder, architectural designer, educator, and speaker. He is the Founder and CEO of JAF — a community-impact-focused consulting firm empowering the AEC and real estate industry with the tools to maximize impact in the built environment. Joshua also serves on multiple local and national non-profit boards including, the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA), the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture (ACSA), the Long Beach Community Design Center, Architecture + Advocacy, and the USC Architectural Guild. A native of the Philadelphia area, Joshua is a graduate of both Columbia University and the University of Southern California.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn

Check out JAF Creative Solutions

Follow JAF Creative Solutions on Instagram

📚Continue Learning:

OGL Virtual Museum

ThinkWatts Foundation

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How can architects utilize their diverse skill sets outside of the practice to create meaningful, lasting social impact within communities and the built environment?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we welcome Wayne Mortensen, a leader whose career spans architecture, urban design, and social work. As Vice President of Excel Development Group and founder of Public Square Development Services, Wayne brings an interdisciplinary perspective to community development. In our conversation, we discuss Wayne’s passion for affordable housing and his commitment to creating lasting social impact through design.

First, he shares his journey, beginning with his academic pursuits in architecture, urban design, and social work. We touch on his transition from traditional consulting to social work to address the intersection between design and community needs.

Then, Wayne highlights his time as a Rose Fellow in Cleveland and the importance of trust-based relationships in community development. He talks about founding Public Square Development Services, his leadership role at Excel Development Group, his position at the University of Nebraska, and why working in multiple roles can increase social impact.

There's all sorts of ways that skills can be utilized in both conventional architectural practice and non-traditional practice. I want architecture school to be a lot more like my social work experience, where we are an accelerator and not a gatekeeper. Because if there's somebody that is an architecture school, it's because they have a passion and a fundamental belief in the built environment and its importance, and there's absolutely no reason that we can't find a role for them. - Wayne Mortensen

To wrap up the conversation, Wayne offers advice to emerging professionals, encouraging them to view architecture education as a tool for diverse career paths. He advocates for a more inclusive and collaborative approach to education as a means to drive meaningful change.

Tune in next week for an episode about community-impact consulting

Guest:

Wayne Mortensen, AIA, NASW

Wayne Mortensen is a developer, planner, and architect in Lincoln, Nebraska where he serves as Vice President of Excel Development Group and runs a nonprofit affordable housing consultancy, Public Square Development Services. After preparing for a traditional career in architecture at the University of Nebraska, his academic interests shifted to the emerging field of public interest design–a journey that took him to DC, St Louis, and Cleveland before returning home in 2020 to explore affordable housing solutions that transcend the urban/rural divide.

In DC, Wayne oversaw the launch of a national service initiative called Freedom by Design while serving as the 2003 President of the American Institute of Architecture Students. In 2010, he was awarded an Enterprise Rose Architectural Fellowship, which took him to Cleveland, Ohio. For nearly a decade, he helped facilitate citywide planning, housing, and redevelopment strategies as a pro bono consultant within Cleveland’s expansive community development ecosystem. This work culminated in 2020, the same year that Wayne was the recipient of an AIA Young Architect Award.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Wayne on LinkedIn

Check out Excel Development Group

How can architecture firms develop strong and innovative company values, foster a supportive workplace culture, and continue to grow while making an impact?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we sit down with the founding team of Modellus Novus – Jonathan Garnett, Creative Director; Preeti Sriratana, Managing Director; and Steven Harper, Operating Director. In our conversation, they discuss the inspiration behind their firm, what sets them apart from others in the industry, and how they're actively challenging the status quo of the practice of architecture.

First, the team explains their shared vision for Modellus Novus, their leadership dynamic, and their commitment to building an innovative architecture firm that stays true to values. They provide examples of how their workplace culture and policies prioritize employees, reflecting the mission to create a team-first business.

Then, we dive into their approach to collaboration and the strategies the firm uses to continuously improve their work environment. The founders also discuss their response following the pandemic, their diverse project portfolio, and how they choose which clients to work with.

I'll share one of our admin values, which is – the team, the team, the team. Put your people first. They're the ones who are actually going to design and build the architecture. Support them and they'll deliver something incredible. And in turn, you will find clients that value that. - Jonathan Garnett

To wrap up the conversation, Jonathan, Preeti, and Steven share their exciting plans for growth while maintaining quality, culture, and impact. They offer valuable advice to young architects who want to make a difference in their communities and the world through the practice.

Tune in next week for an episode about affordable housing and community development.

Guest:

Jonathan Garnett

Jonathan Garnett is Creative Director and a founding partner at Modellus Novus, where he oversees creative direction for a range of the firm's architecture and design projects, as well as its external and internal initiatives. He is responsible for establishing, evolving, and tailoring the firm's design processes, priorities, and principles in coordination with business development, financial, and organizational strategies. Jonathan was fundamentally shaped by summers working with a non-profit design firm in Detroit that provided design-build services to underrepresented communities and community organizations invested in improving the quality of life in that city. A native of Oakland, California of Black and Japanese descent, he received his Bachelor of Arts (Magna Cum Laude) with Concentrations in Industrial Design and Graphic Design from the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, studied at the Technical University at Delft in the Netherlands, and received his Master of Architecture from the Southern California Institute of Architecture in Los Angeles. Previously he worked at Detroit Collaborative Design Center in Detroit, George Yu Architects in Los Angeles, and Open Office in New York. After spending years overseeing the construction of projects he designed, while also making furnishings and objects with his hands, Jonathan learned what kind of creative leader he wanted to be. He imbues those values in his daily work with the project teams at MN.

Preeti Sriratana

Preeti Sriratana is Managing Director and a founding partner at Modellus Novus, where he provides strategic direction and manages growth. He is committed to shaping communities and creating access, from non-profit work to MN’s efforts to create spaces for the many in all of their projects. Beyond MN, he is board chair for Apex for Youth (for which he received an Official Commendation from the City of New York); co-founder and board member of national renovation marketplace

How can firms effectively leverage knowledge management to stay ahead of the evolving industry?

In this episode of Practice Disrupted, we explore the evolution of knowledge management in the AEC industry with Christopher Parsons, founder and CEO of Knowledge Architecture. Christopher’s work centers on developing ways to manage and share knowledge within AEC firms. Together, we discuss the future of knowledge management and how firms can stay ahead of industry shifts.

First, Christopher defines knowledge management as integrating people, processes, and technology to maximize a firm’s expertise. He breaks down the benefits for firms of all sizes and outlines the three key eras of knowledge management: tacit knowledge, social media, and AI.

Then, we discuss why Christopher believes AI will drive the next major shift in knowledge management. He touches on effectively leveraging AI to optimize its potential, the challenges and opportunities of implementing AI in AEC, and generational critical knowledge transfer.

I think there's this idea that our industry right now is in a permanent state of change that's only picking up speed… Part of knowledge management is learning what to unlearn… don't be too attached to the way we've done things or the knowledge that we've acquired, and be willing to continue to upgrade yourself and your company in terms of what you know and how you work – knowing that the half-life of knowledge is shrinking every year more and more. - Christopher Parsons

To wrap up the conversation, we highlight how knowledge management supports the development of soft skills and strong leadership within firms. Christopher shares practical tips for starting to integrate knowledge management into firms and personal routines. He also shares his perspective on the future trends for knowledge management.

Tune in next week for an episode about starting Modellus Novus.

Guest:

Christopher Parsons

As Founder and CEO of Knowledge Architecture, Christopher is responsible for product development, marketing, and organizational health. Christopher has been a technology leader in the AEC industry since 2002, including serving as the Chief Information Officer for Steinberg Architects and the Information Technology Director for SMWM (now Perkins+Will).

Christopher has a degree in History from Wake Forest University. He’s an avid reader, trail runner, birdwatcher, and cook.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Christopher on LinkedIn

Check out Knowledge Architecture

📚Continue Learning:

AEC Knowledge Management 101

Synthesis Overview

Synthesis AI Roadmap

Critical Knowledge Transfer Series at KA Connect

KA Connect Talk Archive

Deep Smarts by Dorothy Leonard and Walter C. Swap

Critical Knowledge Transfer by Dorothy...

How can leaders build and grow successful firms by integrating strong operational support, continuous learning, and adaptability into their leadership approach?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we continue to redefine traditional leadership in a conversation with Ellen Bensky, Principal, CEO, and CFO of Turner Fleischer. Ellen's background from psychology to business to architecture leadership has shaped her innovative approach to running a successful design firm. Under her leadership, Turner Fleischer has not only expanded its technological capabilities but also demonstrated the critical role that operational teams play in the success of any design practice.

First, Ellen shares her unique journey, the path that led her to her current leadership role, and the core values that have guided her career decisions. She explains how she built a financial and organizational foundation at Turner Fleischer and emphasizes embracing confidence and perseverance in achieving career goals.

Then, Ellen discusses the crucial role of an HR team and operational support in driving growth. She explains how she established the TF Academy to foster continuous learning, development, and a sense of community within the studio. We also explore how the pandemic reshaped their workflows and team structures.

We are not going to be successful by telling somebody you have to be 90% billable. We want to allow our studio members to have access to learning programs so they can develop their skills. We want a digital department that is adding operational efficiencies. That, to me, is the way you do it. When you have members of your studio who are learning and growing, excited by the work that they do, and want to be together doing it, they do great work without billable targets.- Ellen Bensky

To wrap up the conversation, Ellen reflects on her leadership journey and the importance of adapting to industry changes. She offers advice to young professionals on integrating her leadership principles into their own career journeys while also creating a meaningful and fulfilling work environment.

Tune in next week for an episode about how Knowledge Management is evolving in Architecture Firms.

Guest:

Ellen Bensky

Ellen Bensky is a transformative leader at Turner Fleischer, guiding the Toronto-based firm’s growth into a dynamic Studio specializing in Architecture, Interior Design, and Experiential Graphic Design. Her unique 34-year journey as a non-architect to becoming Principal, CEO, and CFO is a testament to her exceptional leadership and vision. She has strengthened the Studio’s technological capabilities by developing a Digital Practice team with deep expertise, integrating advanced tools and systems to digitize both the practice and their projects.

She is dedicated to driving social change, embedding a culture of community engagement within the studio. Weaving social impact into the fabric of the studio’s culture, she empowers Studio members to give back to the communities they live and build in, in meaningful ways. Ellen is deeply passionate about education and lifelong learning. She established TF Academy to support continuous growth and development for all studio members. Her unwavering dedication to sharing knowledge and lessons learned inspires her to speak globally and challenge the industry’s status quo.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Ellen on LinkedIn

Check out Turner Fleischer

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How can architects use their work and voice to drive social justice, create a positive impact on the community, and inspire the next generation of leaders?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we celebrate Douglas Ito, the 2024 recipient of the AIA Whitney M. Young Jr. Award. As a managing member of SMR Architects in Seattle, Douglas has been a driving force in the creation of over 2,800 affordable housing units, including 1,300 units dedicated to permanent supportive housing.

First, Douglas outlines his journey into architecture as an Asian American and how his career at SMR Architects has allowed him to find his voice and specialize in affordable housing. We explore his passion for social justice and housing advocacy and why receiving the Whitney Award can inspire architects to engage in social justice within and beyond the field.

Then, Douglas discusses the inherently political nature of architecture and highlights SMR Architects' commitment to fostering career growth and leadership development. He offers valuable advice for the next generation of architects who are eager to make a positive social impact.

I think the importance of the Whitney isn't that every architect should necessarily have to go into social justice work or affordable housing. It’s that even if you're doing work that isn't that – you have a voice. If you have a conscience that leads you to social justice, racial justice, or housing justice, you still have a voice and can make that known to people. I want to emphasize that outside of architecture, because it does no good to talk about it to other architects. - Douglas Ito

To wrap up the conversation, Douglas shares his favorite aspects of architecture and his insights for emerging professionals, encouraging them to seek out opportunities and build strong connections within the architecture community.

Tune in next week for an episode about

Guest:

Douglas Ito, FAIA

Douglas Ito, FAIA Is a managing member of SMR Architects in Seattle, Washington. He is the Past President of the AIA Washington Council and has served on numerous committees for both the AIA Washington Council and AIA Seattle. Douglas's commitment to design excellence is reflected in the accolades his projects have received. Honors include the 2020 AIA/HUD Secretary's Housing Accessibility - Alan J. Rothman Award for Plymouth on First Hill, the 2021 Urban Land Institute's Jack Kemp Excellence in Affordable and Workforce Housing Chairman's Award for Arlington Drive Youth Campus

Douglas is a dedicated advocate for affordable housing, working tirelessly at both the local and state levels with a successful history of working on affordable and supportive multi-family housing developments for individuals and families. Throughout his career, he has contributed to the creation of over 2,800 units of affordable housing, including more than 1,300 units specifically dedicated to permanent supportive housing.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Douglas on LinkedIn

Check out SMR Architects

📚Continue Learning:

Whitney M. Young Jr. Award 2024: Douglas Ito, FAIA

AIA24 Whitney M. Young, Jr. Award - Douglas Ito Acceptance Speech

Isan Bellevue

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How can architectural form inspire innovation in the fashion and product design industries?

On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we dive into the intersection of architecture, fashion, and technology with Duane McLemore and Katherine Voorhies, the creatives behind the jewelry brand Xover0. Duane, an architect passionate about digital fabrication, and Katherine, a self-taught graphic artist and fashion designer, discuss how they've blended their backgrounds to build their unique jewelry line.

First, Duane and Katherine share their design philosophy, foundational approach, and creative process for turning architectural form into beautiful jewelry with the help of machinery and 3D printing. We highlight the success and inspiration behind their Geoheart pendant, which was heavily featured in the Netflix film Uglies.

The Geoheart pendant was inspired by Art Deco architecture, and we designed it for Valentine's Day a few years ago. At that time, there wasn't really much of this geometric style – this kind of non-traditional, heart-shaped pendant. So we thought it was an appropriate creative challenge, and that's what we came up with. - Duane McLemore

Then, they open up about their creative and entrepreneurial challenges and how they overcame these obstacles. Duane and Katherine offer valuable advice for aspiring designers on growing a brand in the digital age, building connections, and pursuing their passions.

To wrap up the conversation, Duane and Katherine share the exciting future for Xover0, from collaborations with TV shows to projects that range from opera masks to car builds.

Tune in next week for an episode with Whitney Young Jr. Award Winner Douglas Ito FAIA.

Guests:

Duane McLemore, AIA

Duane McLemore, AIA is an architect licensed in the state of California. He is also a Professor of Architecture who specializes in the creation of digital tools for the application of sophisticated geometries for advanced fabrication. Among other things, Duane is the author of Horta, a component library for implementing the Space Groups in architectural computation, and Leafcutter, a component library for concrete 3d print pre-processing. He presents his research internationally. Duane is a graduate of the University of Southern California School of Architecture and the Bartlett School of Architecture at University College London.

Katherine Voorhies

Katherine Voorhies is a self-taught graphic designer and a fashion designer by training, working in the fashion industry in Paris prior to moving to Los Angeles. After serving as Director of Production for a high-profile gift and stationery company, Katherine founded Xover0 to explore the jewelry arts. She was educated at le Chambre Syndicale de Haute Couture and Parsons, graduating from their Paris program.

📍 Show Links:

Connect with Duane on LinkedIn

Follow Xover0 on Instagram

📚Continue Learning:

Xover0's website

Uglies on Netflix

Scott Westerfeld

Blue Ocean Strategy by W. Chan Kim & Renee Mauborgne

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