Explore every episode of the podcast Archispeak
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| #346 - Balancing Academia and Professional Practice | 12 Sep 2024 | 00:53:37 | |
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: ----- Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com. Support Archispeak by making a donation. | |||
| #345 - Cormac's Continued Architectural Summer Adventures | 21 Aug 2024 | 01:00:20 | |
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:
----- Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com. Support Archispeak by making a donation. | |||
| #336 - AU - Embracing Sustainability | 06 May 2024 | 00:44:04 | |
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:
----- Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com. Support Archispeak by making a donation. | |||
| #246 - Burnout 2021 | 06 Dec 2021 | 00:42:20 | |
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. | |||
| #245 - Code Minimum Architect | 29 Nov 2021 | 00:40:22 | |
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 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. | |||
| #244 - Experiencing Galaxy's Edge | 22 Nov 2021 | 00:37:45 | |
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 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 | |||
| #243 - Crappy Game of Telephone | 15 Nov 2021 | 00:40:00 | |
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. | |||
| #242 - Aloha and As-salam alaykom | 08 Nov 2021 | 00:34:31 | |
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. | |||
| #241 - Future-proofing Architecture | 01 Nov 2021 | 00:44:03 | |
Architectural representation and its roles in cinema, world-building, alternative realities, the Metaverse, the concept of "future-proofing" space, and more. | |||
| #240 - The Process | 25 Oct 2021 | 00:35:04 | |
How does the architectural design process work? Is it linear—or is it something else entirely—and why? | |||
| #239 - Reality to Virtual | 18 Oct 2021 | 00:47:47 | |
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) | |||
| #238 – Wax the Carpets | 11 Oct 2021 | 00:42:31 | |
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. | |||
| #237 – Unspoken-spoken Rule | 27 Sep 2021 | 00:31:06 | |
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 | |||
| #335 - ‘Multiple Pathways to Architectural Licensure’, with Jon Baker | 29 Apr 2024 | 00:57:55 | |
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:
----- Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com. Support Archispeak by making a donation. | |||
| #236 – Flanking the Camel Crowd | 20 Sep 2021 | 00:48:30 | |
We discuss Cormac's recent trip to Saudi Arabia and the extraordinary humbling feeling he experienced during his adventure. Links 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. | |||
| #235 – Zigzag Patterns of Thought | 13 Sep 2021 | 00:37:51 | |
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. | |||
| #234 – Moving Past Your Past | 06 Sep 2021 | 00:36:03 | |
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 | |||
| #233 – Snout House | 30 Aug 2021 | 00:35:46 | |
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 Dymaxion #1 by Buckminster Fuller | |||
| #232 – More Holes than SpongeBob | 23 Aug 2021 | 00:33:09 | |
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. | |||
| #231 – A Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow | 16 Aug 2021 | 00:45:56 | |
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) | |||
| #230 – Mr. Troxel Goes to Washington | 09 Aug 2021 | 00:48:48 | |
Evan talks about his recent trip to Washington DC and Cormac foreshadows his retirement plan. Links Archispeak 227 – Hugging Architecture (the Fallingwater episode) IM Pei's east wing addition to the National Gallery of Art (1978) | |||
| #229 – Nailed It! | 26 Jul 2021 | 01:03:51 | |
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 (PBS) Awesome Framers (Instagram) Essential Craftsman (YouTube) Tape Measure Pro Tips Nailed It! (Netflix) Great British Baking Show (Netflix) | |||
| #228 – Architectural Loyalty | 19 Jul 2021 | 00:45:44 | |
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) Randy Savage (Wikipedia) Centre Pompidou (Wikipedia) Richard Rogers (Wikipedia) Renzo Piano (Wikipedia) | |||
| #227 – Hugging Architecture | 12 Jul 2021 | 01:44:56 | |
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 FLW: Fallingwater FLW: Kentuck Knob FLW: Pope Leighey house Neutra: Kaufmann house in Palm Springs Neutra: Visitor Center and Cyclorama at Gettysburg Meier: Douglas House | |||
| #334 - ‘Evolving Architectural Practice’, with Je’Nen Chastain | 16 Apr 2024 | 00:59:30 | |
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:
----- Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com. Support Archispeak by making a donation. | |||
| #226 – Hulk Hand | 05 Jul 2021 | 00:48:32 | |
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 Harper's Ferry National Historical Park Trekking Poles (Amazon) Birch Hollow slot canyon in Zion National Park (Summit Post) | |||
| #225 – Hotdogs & Hummus | 28 Jun 2021 | 00:50:26 | |
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) | |||
| #224 – Ninja Skills | 21 Jun 2021 | 00:38:26 | |
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) | |||
| #223 – Sweat Equity Pants | 17 May 2021 | 00:37:54 | |
We discuss the current auto fuel shortage, sweat (equity and pants), modeling things no one wants, and HighArc's website. Links | |||
| #222 – This Can't End Well | 03 May 2021 | 00:37:02 | |
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. | |||
| #221 – The Indiana Jones Warehouse of Wooden Crates | 26 Apr 2021 | 00:38:08 | |
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 | |||
| #220 – PSA: We're All in This Together | 19 Apr 2021 | 00:39:42 | |
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) 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 | |||
| #219 – They Became Dinosaurs | 12 Apr 2021 | 00:36:41 | |
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) | |||
| #218 – Glen-Gery Brick's FOLIO Launch | 29 Mar 2021 | 00:31:00 | |
We talk with Tim Leese, the Director of Marketing at Glen-Gery Brick 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 | |||
| #217 – Architecture's Marketing Problem | 18 Mar 2021 | 00:39:44 | |
We discuss the topic of trusted brands, loyalty, quality, and how these ideas both do and do not apply to the practice of architecture. | |||
| #333 - AU - Evolving Workplace Design | 08 Apr 2024 | 00:43:21 | |
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:
----- Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com. Support Archispeak by making a donation. | |||
| #216 – The Two Things Architects Hate | 15 Mar 2021 | 00:43:22 | |
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. | |||
| #215 – A Forced Release | 11 Mar 2021 | 00:26:42 | |
In this episode Evan and Cormac discuss a bit of nostalgia and how it can shape the future of our workplace. | |||
| #214 – It Was At A Zoo | 08 Mar 2021 | 00:22:06 | |
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. | |||
| #213 – Ch-Ch-Changes | 01 Mar 2021 | 01:59:39 | |
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 | |||
| #212 – Detail Suppository | 25 Feb 2021 | 00:22:10 | |
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. | |||
| #211 – The Way You're Wired | 22 Feb 2021 | 00:26:59 | |
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 | |||
| #210 – ‘Architect to Builder‘ with Lance Cayko and Alex Gore | 15 Feb 2021 | 01:21:24 | |
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 F9 Productions (Lance & Alex's firm website) Inside the Firm podcast (Lance & Alex's podcast) Lance and Alex’s Architect to Builder course | |||
| #209 – ”Changes” ”Happened” | 11 Feb 2021 | 00:28:04 | |
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. | |||
| #208 – Reinventing the Wheel | 08 Feb 2021 | 00:24:34 | |
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? | |||
| #207 – I Had A NordicTrack | 04 Feb 2021 | 00:21:20 | |
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) 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) | |||
| #332 - ‘Navigating Internships and Early Career Steps’, with Michael Ermann | 01 Apr 2024 | 01:38:04 | |
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: ----- Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com. Support Archispeak by making a donation. | |||
| #206 – It's Not You, It's Me | 01 Feb 2021 | 00:21:45 | |
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. | |||
| #205 – Potential Levels of Dysfunction | 28 Jan 2021 | 00:24:20 | |
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. | |||
| #204 – Cooking with Cormac | 25 Jan 2021 | 00:21:45 | |
We discuss Cormac's open Zoom room and somehow the timing worked out just right to prank a teammate while recording the episode. | |||