EntreArchitect

JANUARY 31, 2025

Chriss insights into content creation, marketing, and firm growth offer invaluable lessons for small firm architects looking to establish authority, attract ideal clients, and scale their businesses. Too often, firms rely solely on word-of-mouth or traditional networking to generate business. The key takeaway?

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Small Firm Firms Architect Building 92

EntreArchitect

JANUARY 6, 2025

In this episode, I sat down with Evan Troxel, a longtime friend, colleague, and industry thought leader, to discuss the evolving role of technology in the architecture profession and how small firm architects can prepare for the future. Balancing client demands, deadlines, and financial pressures leaves little room for experimentation.

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Innovation Small Firm Architect Technology 109

EntreArchitect

NOVEMBER 20, 2024

Small firm architects, it’s time to redefine how we measure and understand the health of our industry. Today, I’m thrilled to introduce the EntreArchitect Small Firm Business Pulse Survey and Report , a groundbreaking initiative created specifically for small architecture firms like yours.

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Small Firm Firms Contract Architecture Firm 97

EntreArchitect

MARCH 25, 2025

Thats the reality of how most small firm architects treat specificationsand its why this episode of the EntreArchitect Podcast is so important. If youre a small firm architect whos ever struggled with specs (or skipped them altogether), this episode is for you. They gave me clients. In every firm.

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Small Firm Firms Architecture Consulting 63

EntreArchitect

APRIL 4, 2023

A Guide for Small Firm Architect Business Owners Using Web-based Automation Tools Social media has become a vital tool for businesses to connect with their audience and establish a strong online presence. Are you looking to increase brand awareness, generate leads, or engage with existing clients?

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Small Firm Firms Architect Clients 78

EntreArchitect

DECEMBER 2, 2024

From grueling all-nighters in architecture school to managing relentless client demands, architects have historically worn their stress as a badge of honor. Morgan recounted how she and her clients practiced brief moments of silence—whether during a commute or in a parked car—to reset their minds before transitioning between work and home.

Architect 105

Architect Building Management Small Firm 105

SW Oregon Architect

FEBRUARY 23, 2025

The portfolio is crucial, but firms also consider communication, teamwork, and organizational skills. Those who are strong in project management, client relations, and technical execution can be just as valuable as pure design talents. Do you prefer working in a big firm or a small one, and why? Preferences vary.

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Architecture Firms Architecture Firm Small Firm 153

EntreArchitect

DECEMBER 23, 2024

Janines unique journey, blending corporate expertise, personal growth, and neuroscience-backed methodologies, provides an insightful lens through which small firm architects can discover not only professional success but also personal peace of mind. This involves simple practices like mindfulness and sensory exercises.

Small Firm 101

Small Firm Firms Industrial Foundation 101

EntreArchitect

JANUARY 17, 2025

Why the iPad Is Perfect for Architects Henry outlines several reasons why the iPad is ideal for architectural workflows: Portability : Unlike cumbersome drawing tablets tethered to a desk, the iPad is lightweight and portable, making it perfect for site visits, client meetings, and sketching on the go.

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Sketching Architect Architecture Technology 105

EntreArchitect

MARCH 11, 2025

For small firm architects, this approach is a reminder that working closely with contractors from the outset of a project can result in better outcomes for all parties involved. They ask potential clients what problem theyre trying to solve and whether they truly value the solution Tonic provides.

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Architect Small Firm Technology Technology 70

EntreArchitect

FEBRUARY 21, 2025

But when architects position themselves as experts, they transform the entire client relationship dynamic. This positioning isn’t just marketing – it’s about embracing your expertise and letting it guide every client interaction. Remember, saying no to the wrong clients makes room for the right ones.

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Client Clients Architect Small Firm 72

EntreArchitect

FEBRUARY 14, 2021

It may be the most important step in the entire process of acquiring a new architecture client. Send your client an overwhelmingly comprehensive legal agreement intended for large projects and it may end up on an attorney’s desk waiting for review and revision (or in many cases, a complete re-write). Make it “client friendly”.

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Small Firm Contract Firms Architect 52

EntreArchitect

NOVEMBER 27, 2024

Early in his career, he struggled to gain the trust of clients who were skeptical of his unconventional ideas. By framing architecture as a tangible offering, architects can attract investment and create opportunities beyond traditional client work. Challenges and Perseverance Inedu-George’s journey has not been without obstacles.

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Architecture Sustainability Innovation Firms 105

EntreArchitect

AUGUST 4, 2013

As small firm architects, work/life balance plays a critical role in the success of our businesses, as well as the success of our families. Small firm architects have a very difficult time keeping work and life separate. We need to be realistic here… stress isn’t going away as long as we have clients.)

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Small Firm Firms Architect Clients 52

EntreArchitect

JANUARY 26, 2014

The confidence level of our clients has been riding the roller coaster of an uncertain, unpredictable economy. Below are two charts that present data collected throughout the history of our small firm architecture studio. This first chart shows the number of commissioned projects in reference to prospective clients.

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Small Firm Firms Architect Contract 52

EntreArchitect

JANUARY 19, 2016

Seven years into owning our own small firm, Annmarie and I decided to make some changes. During the first two business days every month I prepare my client invoices (receivables), pay my bills (accounts payable), reconcile my bank accounts and credit card statements and review my financial statements.

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Small Firm Firms Architect Management 52

EntreArchitect

NOVEMBER 29, 2024

Whether through a podcast, blog, or social media, the stories you tell about your work can shape how clients, communities, and future professionals perceive the value of architecture. The post The Story of Going Green: Lessons from Creating a Documentary Podcast appeared first on EntreArchitect // Small Firm Entrepreneur Architects.

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Sustainability Events Environment Small Firm 104

EntreArchitect

JANUARY 17, 2017

There are 3 key strategies required for a successful architecture firm. Then find one thing that clients need and become the very best at that one thing. Missing deadlines or, even worse, not managing the expectations of your client could destroy a working relationship in one meeting. Have patience and don’t over-promise.

Small Firm 52

Small Firm Firms Architect Clients 52

EntreArchitect

APRIL 4, 2025

But when the firm owner is doing the technical work, were not doing the higher-value worklike finding clients, building systems, or leading a team. In fact, Brad pointed out that one path is to build the firm so well that you can come back to design lateron YOUR terms. As architects, many of us love the work. His answer?

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Architecture Firm Firms Building Finances 72

EntreArchitect

NOVEMBER 16, 2015

What do you wear when meeting with clients?”. About 20 small firm architects posted their response and the answers were mixed, but certainly leaning toward the casual. Small firm architects, many of whom are working solo from home offices, tend to dress for comfort over fashion. Or something in between?

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Small Firm Firms Architect Clients 52

EntreArchitect

JUNE 14, 2016

As small firm architects, we are responsible for so many different roles and responsibilities. We need to meet with clients, develop and distribute marketing, respond to important email, manage our social media accounts, send invoices, collect payments and so much more. 6 Digital Tools to Automate an Architecture Firm.

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Small Firm Firms Architecture Architecture Firm 52

EntreArchitect

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

As small firm architects, we are all working so hard to get everything done. Between the many hours we dedicate to building our firms and the time we spend building strong relationships at home, there are not many minutes left to do anything else. Set expectations with your team and clients and you will live happily ever after.

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Small Firm Management Firms Architect 52

EntreArchitect

APRIL 24, 2018

It may be the most critical step in the entire process of acquiring a new architecture client. We may have perfected our marketing, developed a strong reputation, executed a flawless sales process and have received our prospective client’s eager authorization to proceed with a new project. Make it “client friendly”.

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Small Firm Contract Firms Development 52

EntreArchitect

AUGUST 8, 2024

The Value of Offsite Retreats for Small Firm Architects As small firm architects, we live in the fast lane. Juggling client demands, meeting deadlines, and keeping the business afloat often leave us with little time to catch our breath, let alone think creatively or strategically.

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Small Firm Firms Innovation Development 98

Bustler

JUNE 3, 2024

Registration Deadline: Jun 27, 2024; Submission Deadline Jun 27, 2024 We're thrilled to announce that Small Firms, Great Projects is back, and it's better than ever! Small Firms, Great Projects offers a platform for small business owners to amplify their firm's visibility in print and online.

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Small Firm Firms Project Clients 40

EntreArchitect

MARCH 21, 2017

Fees for Small Firm Architects. There are hundreds of articles, forums, blog posts and comments discussing how we architects are not paid enough and how our clients don’t understand what we do. The value of architecture and the services we provide are established by you and me, not our clients.

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Small Firm Firms Architect Regulation 52

EntreArchitect

SEPTEMBER 6, 2016

” When Annmarie and I launched Fivecat Studio more than 15 years ago we had no projects, no clients and no money. We were two young architects seeking the freedom of our own firm. I wrote a 3-part blog series a couple years back sharing the full story of how Annmarie and I started our own architecture firm.

Small Firm 52

Small Firm Firms Architect Clients 52

EntreArchitect

SEPTEMBER 7, 2015

As small firm architects, work/life balance plays a critical role in the success of our businesses, as well as the success of our families. Small firm architects have a very difficult time keeping work and life separate. We need to be realistic here… stress isn’t going away as long as we have clients.)

Small Firm 52

Small Firm Firms Architect Clients 52

EntreArchitect

JULY 18, 2017

Our complete Pre-Design Client Questionnaire template is included with your purchase of our Foundations: Business Forms and Checklists for Architects package. It’s the document that we use at my firm to gather much of this important information from our clients. Listen carefully. Estimate often. Tweet This! ).

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Small Firm Management Firms Project 52

EntreArchitect

OCTOBER 2, 2018

The blog is still one of the most effective tools a small firm architect can use to foster community. Small firm architects are busy people. Small firm architects often ask me how they can find new projects. The Power of Blogging for Architects. The goal when writing a blog is to gain an audience.

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Small Firm Firms Architect Developer 52

EntreArchitect

FEBRUARY 23, 2016

When we present our initial schematic designs to our client, we are selling. When I present a product or service to a prospective client, I am presenting them with something that will improve their lives. A Simple Sales System for Small Firm Architects. Qualify the Client. There is value in what I am providing.

Small Firm 52

Small Firm Firms Architect Clients 52

EntreArchitect

DECEMBER 18, 2018

During good times and bad, the dangers threatening our firms not only come from outside pressures but literally from inside our heads. Six Ways To Earn More Profit As A Small Firm Architect. Here are six approaches to earning more profit as a small firm architect: 1. Remember, without profit our firms will fail.

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Small Firm Firms Architect Clients 52

EntreArchitect

APRIL 12, 2016

Marica finds inspiration by surrounding herself with creative people, collaborating with her clients, and forging strong working relationships with her contractors. In this article Marica shares her recent experience with building a new team for her small firm and how she is being intentional about the culture in which they work.

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Small Firm Firms Development Developer 52

EntreArchitect

APRIL 6, 2015

Most sole proprietors and small firms I know, struggle to meet the minimum requirements of operation. These are services available to your client, but are NOT included in your basic architectural services. Through the years we have learned that not every project and not every client is a good fit for these services though.

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Small Firm Firms Architect Clients 52

EntreArchitect

SEPTEMBER 12, 2017

Relative to the other expenses of a small firm, professional liability insurance is down right expensive… until you need it. If our business systems failed and the firm was required to defend itself without a policy, we certainly would have been crushed by the costs involved in such a legal action.

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Insurance Small Firm Firms Architect 52

EntreArchitect

JULY 24, 2018

Recruitment Strategies for Small Firm Architects. Recruiting new employees is one of the most important things a professional services firm can do to be sustainable. Firms leaders can start by breaking down recruitment into three stages: developing a candidate pool, narrowing to set of finalists, and negotiating the hire.

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Recruitment Small Firm Firms Sustainability 52

EntreArchitect

JULY 3, 2018

This is the transcript from EntreArchitect Podcast Episode 226, Successful Project Planning for Small Firm Architects. Do you know how to calculate the exact amount that you need to charge your clients in order to earn 20 percent profit on that project? Listen to this podcast episode or download the audio file here.

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Small Firm Firms Project Architect 52