How might architects design better work, not just flexible work, to deliver a better work culture? — Many architecture practices are embracing the challenge of flexible work challenge. They’re choosing, however, to work the same way but more flexibly instead of rethinking the way to work and finding a better way. I think they can do better ,and build a better work culture in the process. I…

Most people start their year with good intentions. But the reality is staying on track can be hard. Here’s how to get help. — The start of every year provides a somewhat arbitrary chance to create a point of inflection for ourselves. A point at which we pause and reflect on our previous year, what we did well, what we didn’t and what we could do better, then setting out do do so. …

If you’re finding it a challenge to differentiate your practice or corner a particular market, skill stacking might be the answer. — To stand out, an architect or architectural practice, must have something to distinguish themselves from the next. One way to do so is through skills differentiation. Being better designers, communicators, managers, negotiators, etc, or it might be being faster, more efficient and cheaper. All architectural practices possess these skills in…

Contemplating my previous post on architects speaking out, I started wondering if the problem was architects are introverts. — Q: Are architects introverts? It was a random question and came mind as I considered my previous post, The problem of architects speaking out. A popular post and I’ve been contemplating why. As well as what I might need to rethink and what I might be missing. …

It’s a conundrum, architects want the profession to be heard, yet most remain silent. It’s easier to be quiet and hope for someone to speak on their behalf. — It’s not unique to the architecture profession. It’s easy to whinge in back channels or on social media. But are these the important channels to be heard? The important bit is to speak up when and where it matters. …

Architects possess an extraordinary array of skills. Many, but not all, are either taught at uni or on the job. There are some that escape attention. — The skills required of an architect, at face value, are seemingly obvious. It’s probable that most architects would describe similar skillsets necessary for practice. There’s some variation possible across a spectrum of skills. At one end, there’s the architects who draw as if they had trained in the École des…

How we make progress is determined by where we place our attention and what we prioritise. It’s intentional. — Who’s feeling courageous? There’s no doubt leading progress take courage. At the Australian Institute of Architecture’s Lost Opportunitiesconference, Sean Godsell observed, “The only way that architecture progresses is if there is a degree of courage.” I agree. Progress requires change, and change always takes a bit of courage.

Stealing from Broadway. How to get the best ideas and do better architecture. Consider this a reminder — you should already know this. — I’ve never directed a stage show, let alone created one from scratch but in my imagining there’s much in common with architecture. They’re visionary experiences with many moving parts and challenges. Both involve teams of highly creative as well as technically minded humans, with their own opinions, ideas and needs…

Generosity creates goodwill and lifts everyone up. Thoughts on why Architects should prioritise generosity. — Last week’s post, “They’re not a very good architect” took off and I’m going to continue its thread. If you haven’t already read it, go back before reading this one, it’s worthwhile context. Generosity is something shared, kind or a contributed. Whilst generosity and sharing are not interchangeable, sharing is…