Architecture Social

Hosted by Architecture Social, Stephen Drew

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255

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May 2026

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About the show

It is hard to get a job in architecture. We exist to help you get there. Hosted by Stephen Drew, Architecture Social is the unfiltered guide to the UK Built Environment. We decode the realities of the industry, provide actionable cheat codes for your career, and bridge the communication gap between the drafting board and the boardroom. Whether you are a Part I assistant trying to survive your first role, a Part III architect managing complex procurement, or a Practice Director fighting tight margins and adapting to the Building Safety Act, this podcast is your central node of intelligence. We strip away the aesthetic gatekeeping and toxic positivity to talk about the actual mechanics of the business. Expect honest conversations about salary realities, portfolio strategies, hiring economics, and the true experiences of the people actively shaping the profession. No fluff, just the reality of practice.

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60 recent

June 16, 2026Episode 25549 min

A KPF Director’s Honest Advice for Young Architects

In this episode, Stephen Drew speaks with Francesco Casella, Director at KPF, about career growth, working at a global architecture firm, and what it really takes to succeed long term in practice.Francesco shares his journey to London, breaking into KPF, staying with one firm for over a decade, leading major international projects, and managing teams at scale.We discuss:How to get hired at big architecture practicesThe value of staying at one firmCAD vs BIM and design thinkingAI and the future of architectureCareer advice for Part 2s, Part 3s, and young architectsIf you’re navigating an architecture career right now, this episode offers honest insight and practical advice.🎙️ Guest: Francesco Casella, Director at KPF🎧 Host: Stephen Drew👉 Learn more about KPF: https://www.kpf.com👉 Subscribe for architecture and career conversations____📐 The Architecture Social is an online platform packed with content to help you find new jobs, stand out from the crowd and take your career in Architecture to the next level💻 Find out more at https://www.architecturesocial.comWant to sharpen your skills and actually stand out?We've partnered with ArchAdemia, an online learning platform built by architects, for architects. They cover the stuff uni doesn't teach you properly: Revit, Rhino, rendering, BIM, portfolio building, project management and more. If you're serious about levelling up, it's worth a look.👉 archademia.comUse code ARCHSOCIAL10 for a discount on their annual membership.

May 7, 2026Episode 2541 hr 17 min

Running an Architecture Practice Isn’t What You Think

In this episode, Stephen sits down with Tim, co founder of nimtim architects, a design led practice based in South London.Tim shares his journey from working in traditional practice to unexpectedly starting his own studio, building it from a kitchen table with no clients, no roadmap, and no clear plan.This conversation goes beyond projects. Tim goes into what it actually takes to run an architecture practice, from business realities and hiring, to fees, profit, and the challenges of delivering good buildings today.Find Nimtim Architects and explore their work to learn more about their approach to design and practice.Nimtim Website: https://www.nimtim.co.uk/Nimtim Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nimtimarchitects/?hl=enCurated content, insights and opportunities to accelerate your career in Architecture, Design, Development and Real Estate to the next level.📐 The Architecture Social is an online platform packed with content to help you find new jobs, stand out from the crowd and take your career in Architecture to the next level💻 Find out more at https://architecturesocial.com

April 14, 2026Episode 2531 hr 12 min

How to Future Proof Your Architecture Career

In this episode, Stephen sits down with Ami Nigam, Head of Design Technology at Benoy, a leading global architecture practice based in London.Ami shares his journey from studying architecture in India, to working internationally, to discovering computational design, BIM, and AI, and eventually creating a role that didn’t exist inside a major firm.This conversation goes beyond software. We talk honestly about architecture careers, future proofing your skills, AI in practice, and what firms actually value when hiring architects today.If you’re a student, Part 1, Part 2, or early career architect, and you’re unsure what skills will still matter in 5 to 10 years, this episode will help you think more clearly about where to focus your time.____📐 The Architecture Social is an online platform packed with content to help you find new jobs, stand out from the crowd and take your career in Architecture to the next level💻 Find out more at https://architecturesocial.com

March 24, 2026Episode 2521 hr 17 min

How to Actually Get Hired in Architecture and Interior Design

Stephen Drew from Architecture Social drops into Kingston University for a straight talking session on how students and early career designers can land roles in London. It is welcoming, honest and very practical.Stephen shows how to stop waiting on job boards and reach studios directly. He breaks down a clean 10 to 15 page sample portfolio that gets replies, plus a simple email format that busy directors actually open. He covers when to start applying, how international grads can frame the graduate visa so it is a non issue, and what to bring to interviews so you stay in control.Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HifIh5_4r2g____📐 The Architecture Social is an online platform packed with content to help you find new jobs, stand out from the crowd and take your career in Architecture to the next level💻 Find out more at https://architecturesocial.com

March 17, 2026Episode 2511 hr 22 min

How to Land Your First Architect Role

You want a job in architecture or interiors in London and you want it fast. This is the playbook. We cover how to stop waiting for job boards and go direct to studios. How to send a tight 3 to 5 page sample portfolio. The email that gets replies. Why volume plus a simple process beats vibes every time. We keep it practical. Use InDesign. Keep the CV clean. Put a UK number and a London base. Call out the graduate visa so it is a non issue. Interview in person if you can. It is a people game. Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Jm-X7yADeU____📐 The Architecture Social is an online platform packed with content to help you find new jobs, stand out from the crowd and take your career in Architecture to the next level💻 Find out more at https://architecturesocial.com

February 12, 2026Episode 2501 hr 9 min

Is This the End of Revit? How Architects Must Adapt (2026)

▶ Watch the video on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fbQy7kP2AgStephen Drew sits down with Allister Lewis to break down the big changes happening in architecture today. From new software challenging Revit to the rise of AI across design, delivery and practice management, this episode gives a clear look at where the industry is heading.Allister shares his journey from architect to tech leader and explains how BIM 2.0, generative tools and smarter workflows are changing the way studios work. If you are an architect in London or the UK and want to understand how to stay ahead, this conversation is packed with insight.00:00 – Intro: AI, robots & the future of architecture 01:36 – Meet Allister Lewis 02:00 – Allister’s path from architect to BIM & technology leader 05:33 – What practices really look like behind the scenes 07:29 – BIM adoption in the UK and the rise of Revit specialists 10:21 – The emergence of BIM 2.0 10:53 – Generative design tools taking over feasibility work 12:45 – Why choosing the right software matters 15:03 – The “Wild West” of new architecture tech 17:21 – The architecture tech landscape: AI, BIM, Viz, compliance & more 19:10 – Software built on AI: what’s coming in 2026 21:05 – Will AI replace architects? And how much will change? 22:41 – What architects should focus on: relationships & communication 25:10 – If design becomes faster, do architects earn less? 27:47 – Who’s already building in‑house software? 29:42 – Inside Allister’s massive software database (1,700+ tools) 32:27 – The real problems inside architecture practices 38:22 – How practices can fix their digital foundations 41:30 – New job roles: BIM managers, computational designers, digital design leads 44:06 – The rise of digital design leaders 49:24 – AC Tech Jobs & software‑side careers 51:38 – How architects can pivot into tech 55:43 – The future of the industry: optimism or fear? 57:58 – What architects must do to stay relevant 01:03:09 – Should architects be building software too? 01:07:05 – Where to find Allister Lewis online_____📐 The Architecture Social is an online platform packed with content to help you find new jobs, stand out from the crowd and take your career in Architecture to the next level💻 Find out more at https://architecturesocial.com

December 18, 2025Episode 2491 hr 38 min

The Future of Housing: A Deep Dive into Modular Innovation with ZedPods

In this episode, we sit down with Lalit Chauhary, Design Director at Zed Pods, an award winning modular design studio that’s changing the game in social housing. From studying architecture in India to leading zero carbon projects in the UK, Lalit shares the journey and the lessons learned along the way. We dive into the challenges of modular construction, closing the performance gap, and building a sustainable business that actually works. Plus, how technology and smart thinking are shaping the future of architecture. Whether you’re starting out or already established, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene00:38 Guest Introduction and Background01:18 Educational Journey in Architecture03:38 Early Career and Internship Experience06:06 Challenges and Lessons in Architecture10:36 Starting Zed Pods and Initial Struggles16:55 Breakthrough Projects and Growth25:51 Navigating the Pandemic and Expansion46:19 Pricing Mistakes and Lessons Learned46:38 Balancing Client Expectations and Fees47:17 Undercutting in the Architecture Industry47:53 Importance of Timing and Feasibility Studies48:32 Learning to Charge Appropriately49:34 Handling Client Conversations and Emotions51:17 Setting Competitive Fees and Managing Risks52:34 Growth and Success of Z Pods53:45 Commitment to Zero Carbon Approach54:41 Bridging the Gap Between Design and Construction55:16 Performance Gap and Energy Standards56:31 Innovative Business Model and Air Rights01:06:08 Hiring and Empowering Smart People01:13:58 Challenges and Rewards of Entrepreneurship01:22:02 Future of Modular Construction and Technology01:35:12 Conclusion and Contact Information_____📐 The Architecture Social is an online platform packed with content to help you find new jobs, stand out from the crowd and take your career in Architecture to the next level💻 Find out more at https://architecturesocial.com (00:00) - and Setting the Scene (00:38) - Introduction and Background (01:18) - Journey in Architecture (03:38) - Career and Internship Experience (06:06) - and Lessons in Architecture (10:36) - Zed Pods and Initial Struggles (16:55) - Projects and Growth (25:51) - the Pandemic and Expansion (46:19) - Mistakes and Lessons Learned (46:38) - Client Expectations and Fees (47:17) - in the Architecture Industry (47:53) - of Timing and Feasibility Studies (48:32) - to Charge Appropriately (49:34) - Client Conversations and Emotions (51:17) - Competitive Fees and Managing Risks (52:34) - and Success of Z Pods (53:45) - to Zero Carbon Approach (54:41) - the Gap Between Design and Construction (55:16) - Gap and Energy Standards (56:31) - Business Model and Air Rights (01:06:08) - and Empowering Smart People (01:13:58) - and Rewards of Entrepreneurship (01:22:02) - of Modular Construction and Technology (01:35:12) - and Contact Information

December 5, 2025Episode 24841 min

Why Architects Need to Think Like Influencers: Marketing Secrets Revealed

Join Stephen Drew on this detailed live stream covering essential marketing strategies for 2026 and beyond. Drawing from years of experience, mistakes, and successful tactics, the host shares valuable insights on building both personal and professional brands. Whether you're looking to enhance your online presence on LinkedIn or Instagram, or you aim to become a social media influencer, this episode provides actionable tips. Learn about the importance of targeting your audience, leveraging precedents, staying consistent, and closing sales effectively. Plus, get tips on using AI and automation to streamline your marketing efforts. Don't miss this comprehensive guide to mastering marketing in a busy, ever-evolving space.00:00 Welcome to the Livestream00:04 The Importance of Marketing00:55 Personal and Professional Branding01:18 Presentation Preparation02:17 Becoming a Social Media Influencer03:25 The Reality of Being an Influencer05:19 Core Lessons for Aspiring Influencers05:36 Lesson 1: It's Not About You10:08 Lesson 2: Everything is a Marketing Precedent13:51 Lesson 3: Consistency is Key19:36 Lesson 4: Always Be Closing20:09 Building Client Relationships20:52 The Importance of Always Closing22:41 The AIDA Framework Explained27:01 Marketing Rule: Not Perfect, Just Post32:32 Leveraging AI and Automations35:30 Inspiration and Final Thoughts_____📐 The Architecture Social is an online platform packed with content to help you find new jobs, stand out from the crowd and take your career in Architecture to the next level💻 Find out more at https://architecturesocial.com (00:00) - Welcome to the Livestream (00:04) - The Importance of Marketing (00:55) - Personal and Professional Branding (01:18) - Presentation Preparation (02:17) - Becoming a Social Media Influencer (03:25) - The Reality of Being an Influencer (05:19) - Core Lessons for Aspiring Influencers (05:36) - Lesson 1: It's Not About You (10:08) - Lesson 2: Everything is a Marketing Precedent (13:51) - Lesson 3: Consistency is Key (19:36) - Lesson 4: Always Be Closing (20:09) - Building Client Relationships (20:52) - The Importance of Always Closing (22:41) - The AIDA Framework Explained (27:01) - Marketing Rule: Not Perfect, Just Post (32:32) - Leveraging AI and Automations (35:30) - Inspiration and Final Thoughts

November 25, 2025Episode 24749 min

Why Ignoring AI Could Spell Doom for Your Architecture Practice ft. George Guida

Join us in this exciting episode of the Architecture Social show as we delve into the future of AI in Architecture with the founder of xFigura, George. Discover how AI is revolutionizing architectural practices, from concept design to 3D modeling, and what it means for the jobs of architects in the future. George shares his journey from studying at Oxford Brooks and Harvard to consulting large firms and developing cutting-edge AI tools. We also discuss the challenges of starting an AI-based business, the importance of UX/UI in software, and the role of educational institutions in preparing the next generation of architects. Don't miss this insightful conversation packed with industry expertise and future-forward thinking!00:00 Introduction to AI in Architecture00:59 Meet George: Architect and AI Enthusiast01:31 George's Journey into AI and Architecture02:56 Early AI Experiments and Innovations05:04 Launching xFigura: From Concept to Reality09:07 Exploring xFigura’s Features and Capabilities12:55 Challenges and Future of AI in Architecture19:59 Entrepreneurial Journey and Lessons Learned23:23 Challenges of Remote vs. In-Person Work24:52 Advice for Students on Academic Projects26:14 The Role of AI in Architecture Education28:10 Future of AI in Architecture32:08 The Changing Landscape of the Architecture Profession36:34 Optimism and Concerns for AI in Architecture41:11 Recruitment and AI: A Business Perspective46:39 Conclusion and Contact Information_____📐 The Architecture Social is an online platform packed with content to help you find new jobs, stand out from the crowd and take your career in Architecture to the next level💻 Find out more at https://architecturesocial.com (00:00) - Introduction to AI in Architecture (00:59) - Meet George: Architect and AI Enthusiast (01:31) - George's Journey into AI and Architecture (02:56) - Early AI Experiments and Innovations (05:04) - Launching X Figu: From Concept to Reality (09:07) - Exploring X Figu's Features and Capabilities (12:55) - Challenges and Future of AI in Architecture (19:59) - Entrepreneurial Journey and Lessons Learned (23:23) - Challenges of Remote vs. In-Person Work (24:52) - Advice for Students on Academic Projects (26:14) - The Role of AI in Architecture Education (28:10) - Future of AI in Architecture (32:08) - The Changing Landscape of the Architecture Profession (36:34) - Optimism and Concerns for AI in Architecture (41:11) - Recruitment and AI: A Business Perspective (46:39) - Conclusion and Contact Information

November 18, 2025Episode 2461 hr 3 min

Architecture's Future: Are Universities Keeping Up? | ft. Alberto Villanueva

Join us on the Architecture Social show as we explore the state of the architecture industry in 2025 with Alberto, head of the Department of Architecture at Ravensbourne University in London. In this episode, we discuss the challenges and opportunities in the field of architecture, the evolution of education and industry practices, and the critical role of bridging academia with commercial firms. Alberto shares insights on innovative teaching methods, the impact of newer universities, the importance of industry connections, and how he is navigating regulatory changes to benefit students. Don’t miss this insightful conversation filled with practical advice and visionary ideas for future architects.00:00 Introduction and State of Architecture in 202501:21 Guest Introduction: Alberto and Ravensbourne University03:36 Challenges and Changes in Architectural Education05:48 Building Industry Connections and Student Preparedness10:32 Financial Realities and Government Policies22:30 Alternative Career Paths and Skills in Architecture32:26 The Value of Crits and Presentation Skills36:50 Setting Clear Expectations38:06 Reflecting on Architecture Education38:50 Personal Challenges and Triumphs40:08 Healthy Competition and Success41:08 Bridging the Gap Between Academia and Industry43:06 The Role of AI in Architecture44:00 Tailoring Job Applications45:57 Balancing Passion and Practicality51:49 Future of Architectural Education58:35 Final Thoughts and Farewell_____📐 The Architecture Social is an online platform packed with content to help you find new jobs, stand out from the crowd and take your career in Architecture to the next level💻 Find out more at https://architecturesocial.com (00:00) - Introduction and State of Architecture in 2025 (01:21) - Guest Introduction: Alberto and Ravensbourne University (03:36) - Challenges and Changes in Architectural Education (05:48) - Building Industry Connections and Student Preparedness (10:32) - Financial Realities and Government Policies (22:30) - Alternative Career Paths and Skills in Architecture (32:26) - The Value of Crits and Presentation Skills (36:50) - Setting Clear Expectations (38:06) - Reflecting on Architecture Education (38:50) - Personal Challenges and Triumphs (40:08) - Healthy Competition and Success (41:08) - Bridging the Gap Between Academia and Industry (43:06) - The Role of AI in Architecture (44:00) - Tailoring Job Applications (45:57) - Balancing Passion and Practicality (51:49) - Future of Architectural Education (58:35) - Final Thoughts and Farewell