We give awards to the worst architects

We give awards to the worst architect When I was in school I admired award-winning architects displayed with honor on the cover of magazines and dreamed of following their path and one-day receiving awards and recognition for my work. It took years for me to realize that this might be misguided. Awards are rarely given for quality, for hard work, … Read More

But somehow this is all my fault

So, I’ll tell you my favorite architect joke: A man is flying in a hot air balloon, aimlessly drifting for hours when he realizes he’s lost. He spies another man standing in the field below and he lowers the balloon to yell at the man. “Excuse me, could you tell me where I am? And how to get to Lerwick” … Read More

Notes from my clients friends niece who is a designer

Hi Svehn, I just wanted to drop you a line to share some thoughts on the home addition you designed for us. My friend was in town this weekend for the azalea festival and she brought along her niece who just happens to be a designer. Maybe you’ve met her? Sarah S____? Lovely girl. So smart. Since she was here, I … Read More

State of the Architectural Umion

The architect walks slowly towards the podium, clad in black, waving, and smiling. *crowd bursts into applause* Good evening my fellow architects. I stand here before you all today to say, proudly, that the state of our architectural umion is strong. *pauses for applause* The economy has continued to climb, inexplicably, upwards, lifting all boats, and firms, and “ateliers” in its … Read More

Tips for Architectural Marketing

Try to write your firm descriptions in as esoteric language as possible. If the potential client doesn’t need to use a thesaurus at least once, you don’t need them anyway. Show your work, including some sketches from your undergraduate school days at RISD. Show only work that has won an award. Do not point out that the award was given to … Read More