Archispeak

Join us as we discuss the end of 2024 and the beginning of 2025 which included Evan’s studio makeover (featuring a reveal if you’re watching on YouTube) while doing a water fast, extravagant Christmas light displays of some homeowners, and then main topic: group projects, communication, and team collaboration in both educational and professional settings. We share some important lessons about performance reviews, setting clear expectations, and the intricacies of teaching and learning architecture.Tune in to hear insights on how to handle underperformers, the significance of teamwork, and the experiences of teaching architecture students.Episode Sponsor - WorldTeamsWorldTeams can help your firm grow with a skilled and reliable remote team. Schedule a free consultation at https://worldteams.com/hire-top-talent.-----Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.Support Archispeak by making a donation.

Join us in our last episode of 2024 as we explore how to balance emotional energy while maintaining high service standards during the year-end rush. We also discuss effective communication and presentation skills in architectural education, sharing tips for creating engaging, streamlined presentations that translate seamlessly into professional practice.Episode Links:Enjoy The Silence by Depeche Mode (YouTube)Episode Sponsor:WorldTeamsWorldTeams can help your firm grow with a skilled and reliable remote team. Schedule a free consultation at https://worldteams.com/hire-top-talent.-----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 Theater,' we begin with some musical nostalgia and then transition into a detailed exploration of the complexities and challenges involved in managing large Revit models for architectural projects. Episode Sponsor - WorldTeamsWorldTeams can help your firm grow with a skilled and reliable remote team. Schedule a free consultation at https://worldteams.com/hire-top-talent.-----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 a listener's concerns about the financial burden of architectural education. We explore various career paths and alternative routes to licensure, examine the challenges young architects face, address the rising costs of education, and consider potential solutions such as specialization and entrepreneurship. We also reflect on our own career experiences and discuss how the profession continues to evolve.Episode Links:Minor ThreatSalad Days FilmCentre PompidouRichard RogersRenzo PianoArchispeak 332 - ‘Navigating Internships and Early Career Steps’, with Michael ErmannNCARB - Pathways to PracticeArchispeak 335 - ‘Multiple Pathways to Architectural Licensure’, with Jon BakerEpisode Sponsor - WorldTeamsWorldTeams can help your firm grow with a skilled and reliable remote team. Schedule a free consultation at https://worldteams.com/hire-top-talent.-----Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.Support Archispeak by making a donat

In this episode, we talk with Israel Peña, who shares his incredible 13-year journey working on a historic elementary school modernization project in Beverly Hills. From the challenges of agency approval, unforeseen structural issues, and the complexities of preserving the historical fabric of buildings, Israel takes us through the entire process that he has actively worked on since it began in early 2011. We also explore his unique way of coping with stress through running and fitness, along with his passion project: an elaborate Pirates of the Caribbean-themed Halloween display at his home that also serves as a charitable endeavor.Episode Sponsor - WorldTeamsWorldTeams can help your firm grow with a skilled and reliable remote team. Schedule a free consultation at https://worldteams.com/hire-top-talent.Episode Links:Bridging Centuries - El Rodeo Elementary School YouTube videoIsrael’s Pirates of the Caribbean Halloween Display-----Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit h

In this episode, we dive into Cormac’s hoarding tendencies (aka our mutual love for architectural collectibles) by unboxing a special edition set of Frank Lloyd Wright Blackwing pencils, then talk about how to protect these valuable items from children. The conversation then shifts to recent travels, including Cormac’s trip to Baltimore to visit his Johns Hopkins project and for a major office collaboration day. Then it’s Evan’s turn to talk about his recent trip to San Diego for the annual Autodesk University conference. While there he had the chance to visit UC San Diego's Geisel Library, a marvel of brutalist architecture. Other topics include ongoing architectural projects, the logistics of managing large-scale adaptive reuse, and the joys and challenges of professional networking and conferences. See the photos of Geisel Library here.Episode Links:Frank Lloyd Wright Blackwing PencilsGeisel LibraryWilliam PereiraFallen Star (the little blue house at UCSD)Autodesk University-----Thank you for listening to

In this special Episode 350 of the Archispeak podcast, we discuss the celebration of our milestone with an unboxing of fresh beans from “Coffee Boy”. We also talk about Evan’s un-conference experience in Florida that allowed for personal growth, leadership development, and some fun activities like learning to E-foil. Just beware of the

Join us on a captivating exploration of cutting-edge architecture with insights from our special guest, Slade Sheaffer. In this episode we dive into Slade's travels across Denmark, the Netherlands, and Germany as he uncovers the fusion of infrastructure and architecture with noteworthy projects like Copenhagen's Camp Adventure Tower and the city’s unique skiing experience at Copenhill, among others. Tune in to the Archispeak YouTube channel for a visual tour through iconic European sites and innovative urban landscapes that inspire sustainable and multifunctional spaces.Episode Links:Robert Saemisch Prize from the Arizona Architecture FoundationProjects visited:CopenhagenCopenHill (BIG) – waste to energy plant doubling as a ski hill!https://www.copenhill.dk/enhttps://www.archdaily.com/925970/copenhill-energy-plant-and-urban-recreation-center-bigCamp Adventure Observation Tower (EFFEKT) – spiraling ramp observation tower in the foresthttps://www.archdaily.com/914486/camp-adventure-observation-tower-

In this episode, we kick off with discussions about favorite movies and documentaries, leading into the portrayal of architects in film, and eventually pivot to the intricate world of adaptive reuse projects. Cormac shares his new teaching experiences, detailing a unique studio project involving real-world constraints with students working on an adaptive reuse project in Flint, Michigan.The episode covers various aspects of architectural education and practice, emphasizing the integration of different disciplines, the importance of site visits, and the role of creativity within constraints.Episode Links:Salad Days: A Decade of Punk in Washington D.C. (1980-1990)Interstellar (Wikipedia)Inception (Wikipedia)The Brutalist (Wikipedia)TRXL 073: ‘Design, Equity, & Data’, with Nicholas Cameron-----Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.Support Archispeak by making a donation.

Join us as we discuss Evan’s summer family road trip, loaded with scenic stops, family adventures, and unexpected roadside attractions. And fear not! There is also talk about architectural registration as we share personal experiences about the process of obtaining and maintaining licenses in various states. From navigating NCARB procedures to exploring ghost towns and national parks, this episode is packed with travel stories, practical advice, and a touch of nostalgia. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast or a travel buff, there's something in this episode for you!Episode Links:Badlands National ParkJewel Cave National MonumentBlack Hills of South DakotaSinks Canyon State Park, WYMount Rushmore National MonumentCrazy Horse-----Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.Support Archispeak by making a donation.

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:Lawrence Technological University College of Architecture + Design-----Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.Support Archispeak by making a donation.

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 Pav

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.