The business side of architecture… unless you’re born with a predilection for spreadsheets, its ‘boring’ right?
Well, I choose to approach it as another type of design problem. Here’s some reference materials to aid the journey.
After downloading a couple PDFs about 20 years ago on starting your own firm, and getting stuck in a research loop, I revisited the idea and the first place that I landed was Eric’s books & website. This is a how-to manual for engaging in the practice of architecture and the decisions necessary along the way. Both of his books are treasures of information, and always in reach. I can’t read these before bed because I end up setting off a brain stimulus where I end up writing instead of counting sheep.
Volume #2 is necessary reading for anyone with an idea and the desire to make it fly. More than a book of ideas and nimble pivots, it’s a book that inspires you to try. Get out there, make things and do stuff. Tell people about what it is you’re doing because you never know.
Unfortunately, this one isn’t being published anymore, but if you have a chance to pick up a copy – I’d recommend it. It folds in with Eric’s books and offers another source of way-finding thru the maze of architectural startups.
I just picked this one up to research an alternate path to the carer of architecture. I’ve been involved in a few front-end design/developer projects to sell ideas to larger developers, and there’s something to be said for being at the front end of the discussion, rather than waiting to be hired to have it.
In the pursuit of information on just how to start and run a home practice, this is another well-read copy on my shelves. Interwoven with anecdotes and practical experience, its a great book on turning a profit in design work.
I’m a fan of Simon’s. From this book, the TED talks, and his other works he uncovers important principles and delivers them in a common sense way to shift the way you look at things. This was my first purchase, and my library is filled with his others.
The unconventional thinking path toward start-ups. Now I’m not ever going to be on the path to VC funding for a startup unless I happen to invent some game-changing sensor pack that 3D prints a single-family residence from a puck with a button on it, but this one is worth reading for ways to advance your thinking, instead of copying the guy in front of you.
I’m in the midst of reading this one now, based on a recommendation from a podcast. I’ve escaped the 9-5 (a couple times), I’ve worked from everywhere… I’m hoping to figure out the 3rd part.
Another book from the podcast suggestions, and the next on the reading list.
Ok, so I lied about getting to Disrupt You! next. I was going thru my stack of business books, and this one popped out at me. Accidentally start a business? Get dissed by Steve Jobs? Read in a single sitting? Too much to pass up. This is a great book by Derek and his path with his company CD Baby. I’m going to check out his TED talk and probably pick up another of his books soon.
There are plenty of ways to begin, and since Eric’s pioneering efforts – everyone seems to be on the ‘disrupt’ path toward tech and entrprenurial advancements in architecture from design, to tech. It’s a great space to be in – but also can be rather daunting to navigate.
I look forward to sharing more resources here to offer resources to anyone who finds themselves on this path.
For me, this is less about releasing the shackles of a corporate career and starting out on my own. It’s more about survival, sharing knowledge & having a greater conversations like I used partake in about design, architecture & what it all means to create things.
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