YOUR Architecture Questions Answered

Answering your architecture questions. In this video, I cover: when/how to start your own studio and what I’d do differently if I had the chance to do it over. How to find the right clients and the steps to take once you do (templates/questions I use can be downloaded here: thirtybyforty.com/spl). How to develop your own personal architectural style and whether I think practicing architecture is creatively fulfilling. Learn how you can start being independent (right now) and how having a side hustle is key.
I share my approach to construction cost estimating, balancing competition and academic work, and my thoughts on a career path that promotes freedom and choice rather than indentured servitude. And, lastly there's the story behind the name 30X40 Design Workshop.
This is a wide-ranging discussion and the questions are all drawn from the channel’s subscriber feed. Make sure you’re subscribed to the channel and click that notification bell for the chance to submit your questions the next time I post there and you’ll be the first to know when something new comes up. Thanks to all who submitted questions and for your continued support. Cheers my friends!
// RESOURCES + LINKS //
**Client Questionnaire (included in the Startup Toolkit) thirtybyforty.com/spl
**Cost Estimating Video: • Building Cost + How It...
**More on my career path: • Being an architect. Wh...
**Time Management for Architects (and students) • Architectural Design P...
**Austin Kleon’s book: Steal Like an Artist thirtybyforty.com/steal-like-a...
// GEAR I USE //
DRONE:
*Mavic Pro by DJI: amzn.to/2hW3dTA
DSLR CAMERA:
* Canon 6DMKII thirtybyforty.com/6dmkii
* Canon 80D: amzn.to/2fBWGMQ
LENSES:
* Canon 24mm f2.8 Lens: amzn.to/29l7ac5
* Canon 40mm f2.8 Lens: amzn.to/29x2QcI
* Canon 10 - 18mm f4.5 - 5.6 IS Lens: amzn.to/2vyErvS
* Canon 24-70mm f2.8L Lens: amzn.to/2DMt0Y5
MUSIC I USE:
* thirtybyforty.com/music
AUDIO:
* Rode VideoMic Pro (hotshoe mtd.): amzn.to/29qlNM3
* ATR-2100 USB (dynamic mic): amzn.to/2dFDaKp
ARCHITECTURE GEAR:
* Copic Markers: thirtybyforty.com/copic-sketch
* Prismacolor Markers: thirtybyforty.com/markers
* Timelapse Camera: thirtybyforty.com/brinno
* AutoCAD LT: amzn.to/2dxjMDH
* SketchUp PRO: amzn.to/2cRcojz
* HP T120 Plotter: amzn.to/2dBGf1O
* Adobe CC Photography (Photoshop/Lightroom) Plan: amzn.to/2dhq5ap
CAD DRAWING TEMPLATE:
* Download here: thirtybyforty.com/autocad-temp...
STARTUP TOOLKIT:
* Architect + Entrepreneur Startup Toolkit: thirtybyforty.com/SPL
~-~~-~~~-~~-~
Please watch: "Making a Site Model - The Outpost Project"
• Making a Site Model - ...
~-~~-~~~-~~-~

[@30by40]

Referenced in this vid: Austin Kleon's Steal Like an Artist thirtybyforty.com/steal-like-an-artist/

[@30by40]

Of course my friend... you can follow me: @30by40

[@caleblozier1610]

If I’m new to architecture what book would be good to get even if I had not gone to college yet for architecture.

[@qhobsec]

Ohk

[@qhobsec]

@@caleblozier1610 yeah

[@Martin_Z555]

benig underslept was definitely one of the factors in my having had a health crisis in 2013 which im still recovering from. sleep is a crucial function of the human body to restore itself

[@weronika198780]

I agree! Tbh this kind of "sacrifice" is what scares me off most if to do Architecture at all.

[@lacuarel2]

@@weronika198780Do it when is necesary, when you feel you can't cut the inspiration. But don´t do it as a habit just because someone says so. It´s important to sleep. Not everybody can funtion normaly on few hous of sleep.

[@anthonysarillo3911]

Sleep less?!?! No! I have been in this business for more than 20 years and I have seen the destructive results of that concept. It is completely opposite to a healthy work-life balance. I feel success follows managing you time well and making healthy decisions.

[@emmo8134]

Understandable point, getting less sleep is in contrast to a healthy lifestyle, however, everyone sees the world differently. I see an individual with true passion and have a strong 'why' for what he does. Surely it does not work for everyone, it is always important to look after your health and know what's best for your mind and body. Regardless of what field where in, there is always 1% of this rare type of people which separates them from the 99% of the masses.

[@Eldoradosash]

I need to sleep at least 7-8 hours as I training in the gym. I have interest in many fields which one of them is Architecture. Great video!

[@30by40]

well said my friend...exercise is an important ritual in my daily practice too...

[@ShakaDangleben]

I appreciate your contribution. You're always quite clear in your explanations and I find you to be a very organized architect. I've only been following you for a couple weeks now and I must say that I'm impressed. Keep up the good work

[@30by40]

appreciate that my friend...thanks...

[@dawnmelanson]

Eric!! I'm always patiently waiting in anticipation for your videos :) and I was excited to get the notification today! I like the side hustle topic you brought up today because it’s something I've been really interested in for a while, and about how it can help fulfill and refuel your creative sides, it really spoke to me. I think photography for me on the side helps me refuel, gets me out of that creative rut. I remember reading your 2 books a little while ago and learning things I hadn’t even considered before in regards to the “hustle". Thanks for all your hard work and creativity and your passion for sharing! Much appreciated! ....loved the video as well ;)

[@30by40]

cheers dawn...photography IS your side hustle...love your work & edits...I also completely relate to the personal struggle of not posting out of fear of rejection / fewer likes...I say keep doing what you're doing, like-minds appreciate it!

[@tonyjackson9950]

You have helped me so much in my practice. I wish when I was in architecture school I had you as a professor. Keep up the amazing work!!!! Please keep the videos coming

[@30by40]

Really pleased to hear this Tony... much success to you...!

[@jamesmason2206]

Another brilliant video Eric, big fan of the Q&A's. Just amazing how involved you are in the community and in tune with helping other. Can't wait for the next one!!

[@UndercoverArchitect]

Such a great insight shared from your extensive experience Eric. Thanks for answering those questions! Huge value given to those building their career and learning how they can be fulfilled, creative and successful as architects.

[@30by40]

thanks amelia...appreciate your support!

[@Spacepuft]

You've no idea what a blessing these videos are to me. Can't wait for more. Thank you so much for putting these out!

[@30by40]

cheers my friend...always glad to help...

[@robthewaywardwoodworker9956]

Thanks again brother. As always, great content shared in a most pleasing way. I never regret time spent watching your videos. Cheers.

[@30by40]

absolutely my friend...appreciate the kind words...

[@CoastersInc]

Great video glad to hear some the the responses of those questions and can’t wait to see more content. I was just accepted into architecture school and I’m quite nervous yet excited for it and I know I’ll be watching your videos all the way through those years. So keep up the great work and would love to see another q&a in the future.

[@zenatoure6868]

Absolutely awesome channel. Been watching episodes nearly everyday during my lunch break. Im a student in interior architecture and learning alot. Thanks from Clapham, South west London, UK

[@kirkcoulter1180]

Many, many thanks for your efforts and diligence in putting this together. These videos have made my life better and surely has touched a vast many. Thank you. You have made the world a better place.

[@KeepingitAnalog]

Best KZbin channel!

[@30by40]

\m/ much respect...

[@KeepingitAnalog]

30X40 Design Workshop respect is mutual! Everyday I question why I continue to build. Somehow your channel eases the pain.

[@firouzgholami6432]

honestly you the reason I'm continuing architecture the amount of work we have to do is unbelievable.. tnk u

[@hithasinirajagopal7315]

Thanks for your tutorials Eric...its a great inspiration for architecture students like me..:) lots of love and respect from India :)

[@30by40]

cheers Hithasini Rajagopal ...thanks for your kind words...

[@jyothis571]

MALAYALI??

[@polsovannara1891]

love ur channel love what you doing. GREAT!!!

[@30by40]

appreciate that my friend...thanks...

[@algoriticus]

Whooooooa! That first answer you gave was magical! Start with three, not one, I suffered starting with one. Thank you for that perspective.

[@mariazegers5365]

Thanks for answering my question and thanks for your advice!!!!!😱😱😱 This week I started my freshman year studying architecture and I love it!

[@johnvanderlinde9301]

This video has so much in it for us up and coming designers. Please more of these!!!

[@ithilweenshadowsong8151]

Was waiting for another of this, 21min of something better than watching TV and for the next one got a question/maybe video material for you: your work is about homes but, what about urbanism or landscape? Maybe with an excersice like those you get in the University.

[@shubssharma1697]

Very inspiring! You talking about architecture can make alot of people fall in love with the field and inspire them. Hope to listen to you in Tedx Talks one day. It can be really enriching!

[@30by40]

kind words...many thanks...

[@adriannapierzycka9818]

Hi Eric! Once again amazing content that I can't get enough of. The only thing though - please don't encourage prioritising design practice over one's health. I know that's a popular approach in the industry (at my uni we have a saying that sleep is for the weak), but I know from experience that it can impact both your physical and mental state very badly. Personally I choose a balanced life over anything else, even if it means (and it probably does) that I'll never make it to the top. Otherwise I really enjoyed your Q&A and I can't wait for more from you :)

[@jarredj5954]

G'day Eric, awesome content man. Keep it up. I've only just found you and now subscribed.

[@brutbo5248]

you dont know how much i appreciate your words bro,!! thanx!

[@yenegh]

Thank you so much for sharing this video... this is gold..... it is really helps me refocus my direction. Much respect to you.

[@aayushvijayvergiya7252]

Sir , Thanks for your precious time and effort that you put in creating these contents and being crystal clear to teach all of us.........that said ,I cannot express the appreciation in these words. Your blogs and Longhouse Blog are extremely rich of resources and are of great great help to us in understanding what cannot be taught in architecture schools. Your follower from India Aayush :)

[@30by40]

thank you my friend...appreciate your comment and support!

[@marcosandoval9328]

Man all I knw once I found out about this program I started to watch it since the beginning started to look at it learn from it and also I like how you teach and also you’re achitechture I would said it’s once you learn you knw you can build that and more you can imagine I’ll say you are one of the most school you have and looking you have a bright future

[@mauromiqueias2570]

Great!! You are my inspiration. Muito obrigado Eric, (from Angola)

[@30by40]

glad to help...appreciate your sentiments my friend...

[@lailafeidesign7700]

wow...thank you Eric, again another inspiring video for us!

[@messi10Pao]

I hope your knowledge reaches more people. Thank you.

[@30by40]

\m/

[@ivannavi1183]

Hi Eric, I'm from indonesia. I loved watching your videos, they really encouraged me andinspired me. Good luck, Eric!

[@safuatouro-tagba3039]

Really appreciate the stuff you are doing. Thank you so much

[@AA-nf2pl]

Hey Eric I just wanted your take on a question that I had. I have been in the field of architecture for 7 years working as a building designer here in Australia but currently undertaking my bachelor's degree in architecture to be on my way to registration. I find in studio the tutors really press the issue about looking at precedent studies to form our own design style. I think it is great to look at what past architects have done but to just say that I'll be adopting a minimalist style or a modernist style wouldn't that make it copying? so my question is, how did you come about forming your own style and most importantly stay true to it. The second question is about going out on your own, what made you make this decision to go out on your own? I have been thinking about it for a long time and stepping over that line has been hard always wondering what if what if. I'd be intrigued to know what made you take that big step. Anyway keep up the good work loving your videos.

[@mikesmith199]

For anyone looking for jobs websites for architecture practices are a must! They are an easy, go to source to discover what a certain practice does and whether their style suits you. For prospective students though I would argue that PDF portfolio's are vital! Easy to access, view and print to later discuss in person. Thanks for the great, honest content!

[@Discoveryquest]

Well said. Many good ideas and cautions! Many good vids!

[@emhassy]

Honestly this channel is amazing.

[@wesleyhardin3234]

I'm subscribed! :-) I enjoy your videos and look forward to many more! I'm a student just starting so I get a lot of tips from you! Thank you for making them.:-)

[@chrisb3927]

Hi Eric, Thanks a lot for sharing your knowledge. I am very interested to see your video(s) about construction details when you have them ready. I just subscribed. I am a licensed architect from Peru and California.

[@swarnavabanerjee6937]

Great video. I love this channel and it's content. Very few professionals really come up and share their experiences. Most professionals are quite introvert and are reluctant to share their knowledge and experiences...even with their juniors and interns. One thing i would like to ask is that how does an architect know that it's time to move on to set up his independent practice...??? And how difficult or necessary is it to have your own independent team of professionals around you e.g. engineers, supervisors before you start out on your own...??? I am an architect and have been working at a mid sized firm for the last four years (three as a student/ intern and one as a graduate). I am doing good work but am not paid too well. I have been handling all the work of my office at one of it's branches right from design/ drawings, client interactions, getting clearances and site supervision. And i have been doing these since my student days and have suffered academically too due to this. I thought that at least i am on the professional field early and it will benefit me and so i laboured on. But now i think i am still stuck with the student/ intern tag in the eyes of my employers. Has this happened to you...??? If yes, then how did you deal with it...???

[@jimnz17]

Just on working for a companies before going on your own. While optimum, i know its not vital. i tried to get a job with the few design firms in the small town i started in with no success due to them being happy as "one man bands". i didn't want to move towns so i just got into it. My first few were renos, a couple well over my skill level but i got through it. I acquired many locally presented plan sets and studied the layouts. i researched the local building authorities for requirements and managed to fumble through it. Ive been drawing for 2yrs now, still by my self and have completed 25+ plan sets where most have been built or in the process. im on circa six figures. My point is its possible but much harder and you wont pickup a lot of incite from a company environment. ...great job 30x40

[@manasakodical6075]

Amazingly inspiring content as always ❤️❤️

[@lear7407]

This is my fav youtube channel

[@sauravsardar2786]

Thanks for the client questionnaire and involving a contractor idea.

[@30by40]

of course...thanks for watching...

[@keenochiKeenan]

Thanks, great work!

[@AFOLABITIMI]

it's important you know I watch your vids the moment they pop.... thanks

[@30by40]

very nice to hear this...thank yo my friend...hope things are well with you...

[@oliviax2136]

Thank you for the videos!!!!

[@fernandolino6493]

I always meet my potential clients face to face. I don't think that over phone or by emails one could decide if they are a good fit. In my experience most of the people don’t communicate well their ideas initially and for them it’s a learning experience. The fact when you design a custom home you have at least two clients ( husband and wife) with two different point of views and priorities so for that reason I believe that face to face meeting is very important. I’m having ”over budget” projects very often and the reason is because general contractirs /builders receive kickbacks from subcontractor.... Now, one has to re-design the house so they can get their 20% under the table on top their 15% GC fee and stay in budget..controlling and passing those savings to my clients is something that I’m really considering these days. Excellent video as usual.

[@renataarchitect8530]

Your really are an inspiration, your advice, your story, your clarity and your encouragement is unique and genuine. Thank you for your contribution to the Architecture profession and upcoming Architects. You have helped me refine my Architectural practice and confirm that I'm on the right track and areas where I need to review. Keep up your great work. May I suggest a coaching program that you could offer in addition to your video series. Greetings from Ren in Sydney, Australia :-)

[@30by40]

hi ren...appreciate your support...coaching program is an interesting idea...!

[@renataarchitect8530]

You would be a great Coach!

[@imadasmone8915]

Best architecture channel... inspiring and satisfying 😊😊

[@30by40]

appreciate the support my friend...thanks...

[@laurabartha606]

Can you link the "How to" book? It seemed very interesting. Thank you!

[@josetellez5924]

Yes! I would watch the Whole 12 episode series for a single project. I also had a questions, where are you located in?

[@annaszucs9025]

Jose Tellez Maine I think

[@kudzaishemakweta211]

thank you for such an informative channel sir

[@romaissamedjber672]

that's a really good and helpful video.. you talked about competitions, can you tell us the biggest international architecture competitions that we can participate in because it's kinda hard to find when you've never participated in a competition before and once you find them it's often too late? and have you ever participated in one before if yes could you tell us more about your experience ? otherwise thank you so much i'm a big fun of your work and videos you keep on enlightening me and other people too i'm sure of it!

[@yasserlem9611]

Respect! U r the best! Thank youuu

[@hperk3233]

What do you think of a solar, vertical wind generator and battery powered personal home? What are some of the things that could, would or might get in the way. I love your channel. Thank you, for your answer(s).

[@aniketsonare0079]

Thanks,very useful information.

[@30by40]

cheers...

[@dempsonhaney1393]

Love your videos and have read both your books. Do you foresee a video in the future discussing the relationship with the contractor and engineering consultants that an architect may work with. The firm I work for has in house structural, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical engineers. When I go out on my own, what should I expect when working with these trades as consultants rather than fellow employees? Thanks

[@doaamohammed7202]

Thank u very much for this vid. 💙

[@khelifimohamedamine190]

well i'll think you so much for this appeasement....thank you so much

[@Coralcupcake133]

Is it possible to get a video of how to build a website ?! I have no idea where to start. Thank you for your amazing videos, I've always wished I could create content like this!

[@brutbo5248]

well said. we are just alike love your videos

[@kimhengsrun3859]

Thank you for everything :) ....

[@sumanadak7429]

Sir, I am following you from last 6 months. I am an Interior designer. Now i want to get some practical ideas of architecture that is site work and drawing details. Please make a video what are the scopes of work at site. How a project started and hand overed to the client.

[@kaviyagopalakrishnan7149]

Great :) Your videos are awesome . It would be helpful if you could do a video on "Proportion and Scale in architecture" . Thank You :)

[@aarond9563]

As someone who has had there fair share of much sleep deprivation as a student I heavily disagree with the sleep when I'm dead sentiment.

[@jeffrice4347]

As always Eric very informative. I have two questions. What kind of laser cutter do you have? I’m looking for a personal one and have looked at several, and considering a Glowforge. Second you said it is good to have competition alongside other ventures, do you still compete? If so what was the last competition you entered? Continued success to you.

[@30by40]

hi jeff...i recently sold my laser cutter which was a: FSL 40W 5th Gen. I liked it quite a bit, but just didn't use it enough to justify it taking up space. It's been a while since I was shopping for one, so I'm unfamiliar with Glowforge...sorry i'm not more help...great name though...! RE: competitions, I think it CAN be a good creative infusion into a practice, esp. if times are slow and you're without billable clients...however, I don't have a dearth of creative infusions or a lack of billable work so I haven't pursued them... much success to you my friend...cheers...

[@adelaborjas]

Thank you, I feel inspired and know that I am actually not that crazy 😂

[@jawadalishah2075]

Thanks for the video. Please guide about how to make a company portfolio. Also can we add our job project to personal company profile ??

[@30by40]

Here's what I recommend for making your portfolio (start at 3:18 if you want the real meat): kzbin.info/www/bejne/g6fGkqZmnq52ftE

[@wayneparker1235]

Another incredibly insightful and inspirational video Eric! Loving your work! Could you please tell me what the book is on your desk behind the caption at 16:43?

[@30by40]

Thanks Wayne...appreciate your kind words... that's my old architecture school portfolio + thesis project...you can see more of it in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/g6fGkqZmnq52ftE

[@wayneparker1235]

30X40 Design Workshop I thought the coloring looked your work!

[@WorldLandscapeArchitecture]

An interesting approach for estimating, do you use Quantity Surveyors for larger jobs?

[@thomaslusty7032]

Hi.. Can u make a video on how to make elevations aesthetically pleasing using architectural principles like massing, harmony, balance etc along with a case study?

[@AdilHussain-tt2qw]

thanks for this video sir

[@josesimoo]

Hey, I have two questions. The first one is that if, does it really matter where do you study architecture? or is where you do the master or in the studio you start working in that matters the most? I'm in my first year of architecture, and I'm thinking about changing college... And my second question is that, if do you think that just by being in first grade of architecture, could I work during the summer in an architect studio? I thought about talking to some architects to see if could I work for them, at least to just bring them coffee... but I'd really like to see how they work! Thanks a lot for your attention, love your videos!

[@josesimoo]

Grahamhg Thanks mate! That's what I thought!

[@shanyialexander]

Thank you.

[@rua0612]

Hey you are the best by the way,wanted to ask what subject do you need to do architecture in univesity..

[@alexp535]

i like your videos. My question is, how do you apply the golden ratio into residential or commercial building? like some of the modern and well known architecture back days. s.r. crown hall. or by richard neutra, zaha hadid et.c.

[@zanzibarbob7]

What laser cutter are you using and does it handle museum board well? Great video channel!

[@30by40]

i was using the FSL 40W 5th gen...worked museum bd like butter...i sold it recently just wasn't getting enough use...now i have a new camera + a nice lens

[@OnePixel28]

Please make a video about Structure Design!!! :D

[@johnmurfadevera]

Awesome channel. I enjoy learning from you. But I need sleep, exercise, and a good diet for a wok that is optimal. Again, awesome channel. I subscribed. Where can I find your website?

[@30by40]

welcome...glad to have you join us here... ...i need sleep (5 hours +/-), exercise and lots of protein too... website is: thirtybyforty.com/

[@sabajafri9632]

I love your videos as it is very informative to me... But as i am in my begining stage of architecture I don't know from where to start my journey and also pls refer me some books.. Hope u reply soon and thanks again..

[@mohamedbataouche2660]

thanks for all this :)

[@30by40]

of course...thanks for watching...

[@mohamedbataouche2660]

i was just about to quit architecture, but with all what you said, your spiritual attitude, your energy make me go on, thanks a lot

[@a.h.s75]

Please make a video from your own home I'm interested to see how it's like 🌹

[@addtext]

How many of your projects come in on budget? It seems like if a client may plan on a 500k project but truthfully ends up spending 15% more. What does your experience show? Thanks for all your sharing of info. I've found it very interesting. Best

[@Majoofi]

Love the channel. How do you go out and find clients?

[@30by40]

thank you my friend... re: clients...early days it was all networking, basically telling everyone who would listen what i was doing. also at that time i wrote articles for Houzz which they sent out to their huge email list. Shortly after that I started making videos (great inbound marketing BTW)...built-out my website (added predesigned plan sets to sell along the way)...wrote lots of content to rank for search terms around my design specialty...and after doing a few projects word gets out and pretty soon you're busier than you'd ever want...today it's all referrals from previous client / contractor networks, repeat clients, people who discover me online (YT/Google). If you're a single person operation the amount of work you'll get this way is overwhelming...I talk about all the strategies in my books: thirtybyforty.com/books/

[@Majoofi]

Wow! that was fast. Thanks. Keep up the good work.

[@no1famous890]

Could you recommend any books for a first-year architecture student learning how to draw plans and sections for the first time? I've really been struggling with my analytical drawing course this semester. Line weights, hatching, scales.......I've never been so overwhelemed.

[@EmilioGol]

your AWESOMEEEE

[@tracywang2306]

I’m considering becoming an architect but I’m scared that I’ll have an incorrect calculation somewhere which might result in a building collapsing. If a building does collapse, is the architect responsible?

[@me3mari.online]

New follower from Syria :)

[@30by40]

welcome...new videos come out on thursdays...

[@me3mari.online]

waiting for them and i ll watch the rest of your vids later

[@me3mari.online]

And please i hope you can dedicate a vlog to describe what materials , finishing methods and enclosure systems we can choose for our different project including the consideration we have to keep in mind , respecting the finance -environment&region - the type &size of the building - that i really got confused when i think about it .

[@juliachro]

I’m only in college so I have a lot of time to practice but I don’t know how to could you help me?

[@rhandel13]

How did you get your first outside client? Were you honest about your experience level or did you have to fake it until you make it?

[@caramellow_]

Hi I'm going to be a year 1 architecture student. What laptop would you recommend me to get? Macbook pro 2017 version (13inch) or Dell vostro 5481 with i7 processor (14 inch)?

[@josecalitas8959]

Awsome

[@maryesraiel5578]

How can i start in our progress ...this first year to me to study architecture ... How can i create my own style .. How to solve the project well ..

[@clem5194]

Hi, do you think it's important to go to a top architecture school in order to become a top architect? Thanks

[@newera3757]

11:11 from where did you get this markers holder?

[@krinashah3928]

Hey... I have done enough case studies researches and understood the concerns for my thesis project But while designing I am not able to perceive the clear picture of what I want and how will I take it to next level. Sometimes there are so many constraints that it becomes difficult to take a decision what shall I do at that time and how can I take my thoughts to next level when I am in confused state

[@30by40]

ask yourself: "at the end of this project, if i were only allowed to accomplish one thing, what would that be?" it's the points of struggle that reveal the best solutions, sometimes you have to go down a path knowing it won't work, just to reveal the other paths you couldn't see while paralyzed with indecision. try it, it really does work...sketching often works things out in a way that your mind can't do alone...this is a common situation for artists to be in...step away from studio for a while and do something completely unrelated, then come back to it...this often helps me...and, here's a video that might help: Finding architectural ideas (8 strategies) kzbin.info/www/bejne/eaK0pqCwj7uUZ7c

[@thomaslusty7032]

try solving lateral thinking questions

[@murtazaameer2688]

What is the basic concept on which an architect start to work while designing a building?

[@30by40]

Two videos for you: Design Concepts Architecture Short Course Part 1 kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWXHh5qYqt11d9k Finding architectural ideas (8 strategies) kzbin.info/www/bejne/eaK0pqCwj7uUZ7c

[@zacharyschweter6466]

How much competition do you have from other Architects in your area or areas of project locations? and Does it affect the bottom line of your bid proposals submitted?

[@30by40]

There are more than two dozen architects locally...I never bid on projects...I simply ask if clients want to join the waiting list...scarcity is quite effective

[@zacharyschweter6466]

@@30by40 I used to have what you have... however there is a massive slowdown in my area where building departments are able to review plans inside of 2 weeks instead of 3 months.... How do you - or have you ever - drum up "opportunity" for yourself when there is a lack of opportunity around?

[@30by40]

@@zacharyschweter6466 Have you seen this video yet: How to Get Architecture Clients (for Architects + Students) kzbin.info/www/bejne/fZfEdIFmYreehpI If you need work right now, best short term plan is to tap your network(s), long-term there's many options...I talk about both in the video...check it out, I think you'll find it helpful...