Resolutions Archives

Beyond Resolutions: 24 Intentions Architects Should Revisit Throughout 2024

Evelyn Lee is a Start-up Advisor in the Tech Space, Angel Investor, Founder of Practice of Architecture, and Host of the podcast Practice Disrupted. She is a prominent speaker on architectural practice evolution, technology integration, and diversity in AI, dedicated to guiding the profession into new horizons.

At this point, we are well into 2024, and sure, you could say we are past creating resolutions, strategies and goals for the new year. I prefer to set an intention for the year but to remain constantly on the lookout for opportunities. In the fast-evolving architectural landscape of today, architects face the challenge of adapting traditional practices to meet the demands of a dynamic and competitive industry.

To succeed in this environment, architects must simultaneously embrace change and innovation, foster collaboration and prioritize the sustainability of their businesses, careers, and practices. Here are 24 opportunities that architects can consider as we navigate the complexities of the year ahead.

Imagining New Ways to Practice

It is one thing for architects to raise their fees with the pace of inflation, but to truly raise our fees to be able to pay and have benefits that, say, compete with Tech salaries, we have to rewrite the business model. This entails venturing into uncharted territories, positioning oneself and the firm as knowledge leaders, and considering the possibility of new products and services.

Bay Area Research Company by SkB Architects, California | Jury and Popular Choice Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Commercial Interiors (> 25,000 sq ft)

1. Break free from tradition with innovative business models:

Architects should explore novel business models that align with changing market dynamics and client preferences. This could include offering additional products and services that support the entire lifecycle of a building or looking for ways to engage the client sooner before deciding whether or not they need a building. Going beyond buildings, we will place ourselves to build more of the buildings we want to build within our community.

2. Venture into uncharted territories, making architecture more inclusive:

I’ve often felt like an outsider in the profession, even though I have my license and remain engaged in professional membership organizations. We must find a way to invite those who found others back into the profession. Take a moment to track down those you went to school with who find themselves outside of architecture and remind them what they loved so much about architecture in the first place. They could be in a position to be a client or, at the very least, an advocate.

3. Build community connections with strategic outreach:

Establishing meaningful relationships with potential clients, especially within the community, lays the foundation for successful collaborations and future projects. Strategic outreach efforts are crucial in building these relationships, as they facilitate communication, understanding and alignment of values. Participating in community events allows architects to showcase their work and demonstrates their commitment to and investment in the communities they serve.

4. Become thought-leaders in the built environment:

By actively engaging in thought leadership activities, architects can influence the direction of the profession and contribute to meaningful change. Publishing articles in industry journals, blogs or mainstream media outlets allows architects to share their insights, expertise and innovative solutions with a broader audience. This elevates the architect’s profile and enriches the architectural discourse, inspiring others and sparking new ideas.

Boosting Business Operations

One of the key ways to increase cash flow within the firm is to prioritize business operations. Efficiency and agility are paramount for the success and longevity of architectural practices. Architects should optimize their business operations to adapt to changing market demands and ensure the firm’s sustainable growth, even through hard times.

Polaris North Offices by b720 Fermín Vázquez Arquitectos, Madrid, Spain | Popular Choice Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Office – Mid-Rise (5-15 Floors)

5. Streamline practices with automation:

Automation tools can streamline repetitive tasks such as document management, scheduling and project tracking, allowing employees to focus on more value-added activities. This not only reduces the burden of administrative tasks but also frees up time for employees to dedicate to creative and strategic aspects of their work, fostering a more fulfilling and rewarding work experience.

6. Master the art of finance and planning:

Understanding financial principles and strategic planning is crucial for every member of an architectural firm, as it directly impacts the overall success and sustainability of the practice. Employees can maximize their impact and contribute to its growth and prosperity by aligning their efforts with the firm’s goals and objectives. This shared understanding fosters a collaborative and goal-oriented culture within the firm, where every individual is motivated to perform at their best to achieve collective.

7. Foster confidence with improved control over business outcomes:

Through strategic planning, architects can enhance business outcomes by aligning project objectives with firm goals. Quality assurance processes ensure consistency and reliability in project delivery, bolstering client satisfaction and the firm’s reputation. Architects foster transparency and accountability by tracking project metrics and providing regular updates, building trust with clients and stakeholders. This proactive approach leads to successful project outcomes and strengthens long-term relationships.

8. Allocate resources efficiently for sustainability:

In today’s business world, sustainability and flexibility go hand in hand, so using resources wisely is crucial. That means spending money wisely and investing in the right tools and tech to do the job. Ensuring a team’s talents match the projects they’re working ensures that everyone works at their best. Valuing agility sets architects up for long-term success in a changing world, ensuring they’re adaptable to challenges or opportunities and giving them a competitive edge in the market.

Cultivating Culture

Creating a positive and inclusive work culture is vital for attracting and retaining top talent in architectural firms. Architects should foster a supportive environment where every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute.

EDGE Suedkreuz Berlin by TCHOBAN VOSS Architekten GmbH, Berlin, Germany | Jury Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Office – Mid-Rise (5-15 Floors)

9. Promote transparency, ensuring every voice is heard:

Cultivating open and transparent communication fosters collaboration and belonging among team members. Regular team meetings, feedback surveys and check-ins with managers provide avenues for sharing updates and addressing challenges collectively. Actively listening to diverse perspectives informs decision-making and promotes inclusivity. By creating a respectful environment where all voices are heard, teams can harness collective wisdom to drive positive change.

10. Build a community that extends beyond office borders:

Architects can expand their circle and build community by connecting with peers and industry folks outside their office walls. This might mean hitting up networking events, joining pro groups or getting involved in mentorship gigs where they can swap ideas and advice. By mingling with others in the field, architects can gain new perspectives, stay in the loop with industry trends, learn from seasoned pros and boost their careers and share their insights.

11. Create spaces of belonging for career development:

Giving your team chances to grow and learn keeps them engaged and committed. That could mean hooking them up with mentors who can share their wisdom, covering the cost of courses to keep skills fresh or offering leadership training to help them level up. When you invest in your team’s development, you show that you value them and give them the tools they need to advance their careers within the company. A culture where everyone’s always learning and growing together is a win-win for everyone involved.

12. Respect work-life balance:

Firm owners should ensure the well-being of their team members and encourage them to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Offering amenities like yoga classes or gym memberships can improve their physical and mental well-being. However, alternatives like subscriptions to wellness apps like Calm can also be supportive. Additionally, providing resources for counseling or stress management workshops demonstrates a commitment to supporting their mental health needs.

Developing People and Creating Better Policies

Investing in the growth and development of employees is not just good practice; it’s essential for the long-term success of architectural firms. By providing opportunities for learning and advancement, firms can empower their employees to expand their skills, take on new challenges, and contribute more effectively to the firm’s goals.

Chengdu Co-Innovation and Cooperation Center by LAGUARDA.LOW ARCHITECTS, Chengdu, China | Popular Choice Winner, Commercial – High Rise (16+ Floors)

13. Grow people with flexible workplace policies:

Architecture firms demonstrate their commitment to supporting their employees’ success and well-being by prioritizing flexibility, ultimately fostering a more engaged and productive workforce. This could involve providing remote work options, flexible scheduling or additional time off to accommodate personal or professional needs. This flexibility enhances job satisfaction and work-life balance and empowers architects to manage their time effectively and pursue growth opportunities.

14. Celebrate diversity for unique perspectives:

Diversity brings a wealth of perspectives, enhancing problem-solving and design in architectural teams. Embracing diversity in all its forms fosters creativity and innovation within architectural firms. This may involve promoting diversity in hiring practices, establishing diversity and inclusion committees, or hosting cultural awareness workshops celebrating different backgrounds and experiences.

15. Make equity a standard, ensuring fair opportunities:

Architects should prioritize fairness and equality in hiring, promotion, and project allocation to ensure all team members have a level playing field. This involves implementing inclusive recruitment practices and unbiased promotion processes to attract and retain talent from diverse backgrounds. Similarly, project allocation should be based on merit and skill, fostering an environment where everyone has equal opportunities to contribute and advance.

16. Prioritize employee mental health and well-being with nurturing policies:

Recognizing the crucial connection between employee well-being and productivity, firm leaders should implement policies prioritizing physical, mental and emotional health, including providing comprehensive health insurance coverage and employee assistance programs. Policies that promote mental health awareness and support such as counseling services or mindfulness workshops, are essential for maintaining employee morale and productivity.

Elevating How Teams Work Together

Effective collaboration and project management are critical for delivering successful architectural projects. Fostering collaboration empowers team members and cultivates trust and transparency in project management processes and employee experience.

Kabelovna Studios by B² Architecture, Hlavní město Praha, Czechia | Popular Choice Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Commercial Interios (<25,000 sq ft)

17. Encourage collaboration for empowerment:

Creating high-performing teams is essential for architectural firms to achieve project success and innovation. This involves establishing clear team agreements that outline expectations, goals and communication norms, allowing for more flexible work arrangements that accommodate individual preferences and needs. By empowering team members to have a say in how they work and collaborate, architects can boost morale, productivity and creativity.

18. Inspire future leaders with professional development:

Strategically implementing professional development opportunities ensures managers have the skills and knowledge to lead and manage teams effectively. Mentorship programs, leadership training workshops and industry certifications give managers the tools and insights to navigate complex challenges and drive team success. By investing in their professional growth, firms empower managers to take on greater responsibilities and make informed decisions that contribute to their overall success.

19. Build trust with transparent management structures:

Creating a culture of trust through feedback is vital for advancing careers within architectural management, enhancing individual performance, strengthening team dynamics and bolstering collective growth. By implementing regular performance reviews and upward feedback mechanisms, architects provide managers with constructive input on their leadership style and professional development, building trust. Providing clear pathways for progression ensures managers are supported to advance within the firm.

20. Value empathy and human connection in leadership:

As licensed professionals entrusted with safeguarding the health, safety and welfare of the public, architects are responsible for embracing empathy as a core value in their interactions with team members, clients and stakeholders. Understanding and valuing the perspectives and experiences of others is essential for success. This involves actively listening to concerns and feedback, celebrating achievements and offering support during challenging times.

Exploring new tools and AI

Technological advancements, including artificial intelligence (AI), are transforming the architectural profession or will transform while we stand on the sidelines. Architects should embrace new tools and technologies to streamline processes, enhance efficiency and assist in delivering innovative design solutions.

Stream Office by Kris Lin International Design, Zhuhai, China | Jury Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Architecture +Workspace

21. Stay ahead with AI in business and practice management:

Artificial intelligence offers innovative solutions that can revolutionize various aspects of architectural firms, from project management to client interaction. While architects should keep a keen eye on emerging AI tools, they must also consider their involvement in the development process. By actively participating, architects can ensure that AI solutions are tailored to their needs, positioning them for success in an increasingly AI-driven world.

22. Discover AI’s potential to enhance efficiencies:

By leveraging AI-powered solutions, architects can automate repetitive tasks and gain valuable insights into project performance and market trends. This saves time, minimizes errors, enables data-driven decision-making and fosters innovation. Additionally, AI-driven analytics tools provide employees with personalized learning and development opportunities, empowering them to grow and advance within the firm.

23. Leverage technology for improved service delivery:

Architects can draw inspiration from industries such as retail and hospitality, where innovative technology and streamlined processes have significantly improved the client experience. By adopting similar approaches, such as implementing client portals and utilizing VR/AR technologies, architects can offer clients transparent communication and immersive design experiences. Prioritizing customer feedback and satisfaction enables architects to continuously effectively tailor solutions to meet client’s needs.

24. Merge human creativity with AI speed for a new architectural era:

Merging human creativity with AI speed represents a transformative shift in architecture, unlocking new possibilities and advancements, accelerating design iterations. By leveraging AI technologies, architects can devote more time to creative exploration and pushing the boundaries of traditional design paradigms. Facilitating rapid prototyping and informed decision-making, the synergy between human ingenuity and AI advancement promises to revolutionize architectural design. (There I said it — AI can help with the design process.)

As architects work through 2024 and beyond, it’s clear that today’s world calls for a fresh approach to practice, business, culture, people and even projects. Do we have to embrace everything all at once? No, we are all a part of a complex, broken system that carries no easy fix, but as you can see from above, there are themes across the areas where a focus on being a good human can do a lot to move the profession forward.

As we tackle the challenges and seize the opportunities we face today, let’s stay committed to pushing boundaries, embracing diversity, and working together to create firms and design spaces that enrich everyone’s lives. Together, we can shape a future where architecture reflects society’s values and inspires future generations.

Architizerâs Tech Directory is a database of tech tools for architects â from the latest generative design and AIÂ to rendering and visualization,Â 3D modeling,Â project management and many more. Explore the complete library of categoriesÂ here.

Reference

Architecture

New Year, New You? 8 Inspirational Resolutions for Architects in 2024

By Zarkon Group,02/01/2024

The latest edition of “Architizer: The World’s Best Architecture” — a stunning, hardbound book celebrating the most inspiring contemporary architecture from around the globe — is now available. Order your copy today.

The story of the New Year’s resolution began over 4,000 years ago in ancient Babylon. From what we know, at the end of each year, the pious and virtuous, polytheistic Babylonians made promises to their various gods, pledging to settle outstanding debts and return any borrowed goods. It was their way of starting the coming year on a right and moral footing.

Our reasoning for making resolutions might not be as serious as returning your neighbor’s grain barrel before you curse your crops for the rest of the year; however, four millennia later, the purpose remains true. Bringing in the new year always feels like the right time to cast off old habits, reset and wipe the slate clean as best we can — I’m pretty sure the Babylonians could have related to that phrase, actually.

New Year, new you? Well, no, probably not. New Year, a slightly improved you? We can get on board with that one. So, recognizing that we are not Bablyonians and that resolutions no longer need to be life or death, Architizer has outlined eight manageable resolutions that employ minor changes that will hopefully inspire you to make the most of 2024. They might even make you a better architect if you’re lucky.

Draw more.

The Last Resort by Nikhita Sivakumar, Student Winner, A+Vision Awards 2023, Drawing, Hand Drawn Drawing.

This is one for the people whose sketches look more like Minecraft models than multi-lined masterpieces.

Sketching is a skill; yes, some people are naturally good at it, others not so much. But skills can be learned, and that means practice. So, if you want to improve your illustration, sharpen your shading, and hone your hatching, make it your mission to fill an entire sketchbook by the end of the year with spontaneous architectural doodles, ideas and musings.

Or if carting around a sketchbook all day every day feels a little too “Renaissance painter trying to find a muse” for this century, why not sketch your ideas on anything but traditional paper? Napkins, walls, banana peels — get creative with your mediums. Collect them all up, and at the end of the year, you’ll have a unique timeline of precious “junk” that tracks your progress.

Both are a great way to keep the creative juices flowing daily, and who’s to know, we might even be looking at the next Le Corbusier (probably not, but it’s important to dream).

See more.

Francisco Tirado – Cobe Architects, Studio Winner, A+Vision Awards 2023, Best Of The Year, Architectural Photographer Of The Year

There’s a Bart Simpson-esque joke in there somewhere, but let’s keep it professional…

Honestly, seeing more doesn’t always mean spending lots of money, booking lots of trips, and traveling around the world — as much fun as that can be. Seeing more can also mean taking notice of your immediate surroundings. We are almost all somewhere someone else wants to visit. So, be a tourist in your own town. Wander, explore and uncover the story of the architecture around you. Or, if you’re a fan of a plan, you could take it one step further and make a list of buildings you haven’t seen yet, or you’d like to see again and map out a route to visit them.

Explore where you are, and while you are at it, you can develop your photography skills by challenging yourself to take at least one photo a week of a building, a material or architectural detail that inspires you. By the end of the year, you’ll have fifty-two images that are a timeline of 2024.

You never know. You might even take a photograph that wins Architizer’s 2024 A+Awards.

Find Inspiration.

Finding new ways to be inspired is a year-round challenge. So, how about setting yourself a resolution that will give you the creative boost you need this year?

You could pick a country, one for each of the twelve months of the year, and commit to learning about its architectural heritage, its most recognized style, or its most well-known architect. You can find some great examples in Architizer: The World’s Best Architecture. By the end of 2024, you’ll have a knowledge of global architecture that could rival anyone in the office, and I bet you’ll be surprised at how much more diverse and exciting your projects become after just a few months.

Or if international architecture seems like too broad and overwhelming before you’ve even begun (this is always a pitfall with resolutions. They should be something you could actually achieve), why not work your way through the alphabet instead? A for Atrium, B for Balcony, C for Columns and so on? It’s a quick and easy approach to expanding your design horizons, and the topics can be as broad or as specific as you choose.

Go Green.

Eucalyptus Society Garden by SWA GROUP / Los Angeles, Guangzhou, China. Popular Choice Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Public Parks & Green Spaces

I think it is safe to assume this one is on pretty much every architect’s list for 2024. Be more eco-conscious, be less wasteful and design smarter for the planet and its people. However, you frame it —this one is a biggie. Oh, but what to do? How about pledging to incorporate at least one additional sustainable design element in every project? This could range from using a recycled material to adding an innovative energy-saving product. But the catch is that it has to be one you added above and beyond your initial proposal; that way, you’re boosting your impact. Start with one and see how many you can add.

Or, if you’re the type of person who responds better to financial penalties, what about implementing a personal swear jar? Instead of being penalized for cursing, you need to cough up every time you specify using non-sustainable material. It’s a great way to keep yourself accountable for your choice, and at the end of the year, you can donate the cash to a worthy cause.

Prepare for the future.

Silk & Stone by Mohammad Qasim Iqbal. Student Winner, A+Vision Awards 2023, Visualization, Ai Assisted Visualization.

The future is here, and there is no denying it. AI, VR, and all the other acronyms you can think of are here to stay. So, this year, your resolution could help you prepare and keep you at the forefront of the monumental changes we are witnessing.

Get going with virtual reality. Whether it’s using VR for client presentations or exploring virtual construction, stop messing with the 2D and get yourself involved in the virtual world. Not only will you have a blast messing about in your models, but your clients will also thank you for making understanding space planning so much easier.

Or get ahead of the game in AI. If you still need to, resolve to learn what it is and how it’s going to help you as an architect. You can make it your mission to listen to every episode of Evelyn Lee’s Practice of Architecture podcast, or you can sign up for something like wordsmith Nikita Morell’s ChatGPT for Architects Masterclass.

You could even stick your alerts on for LinkedIn posts from our very own Editor-in-Chief Paul Keskeys and read the reviews on Architizer Tech to get updates on the latest applications, innovations and tips that will keep you up to date on what’s hot and what not in the tech-o-sphere. (we think you should do this either way).

Rein it in.

As architects and designers were often told, our industry is complicated, exclusive and inaccessible. And in some cases, they would be right. So, this year, why not simplify things? Ditch the dialogue. Challenge yourself to stop using architectural jargon, be direct and to the point and say exactly what you mean. At the end of the day, you might find it improves your business when people actually understand what you are talking about.

Or if thats not your problem, what about committing to downscaling overly ambitious ideas? We often get carried away, going smidge overboard every now and again. In all fairness, it’s often part of the fun. I do not deny there is a time and place for glass columns and gold-plated beams, but how about, if you find you’re one of those architects who spends more time scaling back than scaling up, that this year you challenge yourself to rein it in and refocus your precious time on to yourself instead of arguing the necessity of triple height ceilings in the guest bathroom that no one asked for?

Banish the beige.

GRiD by Spark Architects, Singapore. Jury Award Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Retail. Photographs by Fabian Ong.

Or, if your thinking, “count me out of reining it in,” then it’s time to toss out the tepid and embrace the bold. Beige isn’t just a color; it’s a symbol of safe choices that lull us into a creative slumber. This year you could set yourself the task of shake off that drowsiness and give your work some much-needed pizzazz.

Think about it. When was the last time you stepped out of our comfort zone with color? I’m not talking about a touch of terracotta or a splash of sage. I’m talking full kaleidoscope. It’s not just about painting the town red (or green, or purple). Let’s get inventive with our spaces have a heart-to-heart with our materials. This year could be a great time to experiment and give your designs the innovative eye they deserve.

And who knows, those eye catching hues it might just be what makes them stand out to our jurors in future A+Awards competitions.

Celebrate the wins.

And finally, and in my opinion, most importantly, celebrate the wins! We said that the new year is all about reflecting and looking back at our achievements, recognizing what we did well or not so well. But why wait? Why not celebrate the wins as and when they happen? Commit yourself to taking time out, whether it’s a day, an hour or a week, to really appreciate the times that things went well. Don’t just move on to the next challenge and forget to take time to pat yourself and your team on the back and say, “Well done!”