581: The Architect's Dilemma: Navigating Tough Clients and Design Decisions with Chris Kempel of Kempel Architects

Architects often face the daunting challenge of growing a firm while juggling client demands, managing teams, and navigating competitive markets. Balancing creativity with the need for profitability can be overwhelming. In this episode of Business of Architecture, Rion Willard interviews Blima Ehrentreu, founder of The Designers Group. They dive into how she grew her architecture and design firm from scratch to over 30 employees, with projects spanning multiple cities. Blima shares the challenges of starting fresh in a new city and how she broke into highly competitive markets. They also discuss her approach to working in various sectors, including a surprising transition into healthcare. Blima offers key insights on how her team keeps projects profitable while continuing to deliver high-quality results. You’ll also hear Blima’s unique approach to leadership and the one philosophy she uses to keep her team engaged. Plus, she reveals how her firm’s charitable efforts shape its identity and future goals. What is Blima’s secret to growing a firm in one of the most competitive cities? How did a chance meeting lead to big opportunities in a new sector? What’s the biggest challenge Blima faces in managing her large team? How does her firm’s pro bono work contribute to its growth?   To learn more about Blima, visit her: Website: http://www.thedesignersgroup.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thedesignersgroup/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedesignersgroup/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedesignersgroup/?hl=en   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/w0ZWJJyrT4ATtwGJnyW_4A6Ro8o?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at [email protected]   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates:   https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!

Architects often struggle with balancing leadership while managing their practice, where creative vision, profit, and team dynamics can clash. Many find themselves overwhelmed, stressed, and stuck in a cycle of decisions, unable to move beyond being the central figure in their business. In this episode of the Business of Architecture podcast, Rion Willard dives deep into an often overlooked aspect of leadership that many mistake as being weak. He challenges common perceptions and offers a new way to think about leading with purpose, rather than letting profit or ego take control. Along the way, Rion introduces ideas from spiritual traditions that can help shift your approach to business leadership. What is the one thing Rion says should take priority over profit in your business? Why does he believe most businesses unknowingly sabotage themselves? Discover the surprising truth behind "ruthless compassion" and how it can strengthen your leadership. Learn how an ancient leadership model could transform your team's success.   Link: https://inaspaciousplace.wordpress.com/2017/02/12/thomas-merton-on-love/   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/ys-50gTciPXWTNIBYew0TW0Omro?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at [email protected]   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates:   https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!

Architects often face uncertainty and fear when a recession hits. Projects get canceled, clients pull back, and the ripple effect can lead to layoffs and financial strain. In this episode, Enoch Sears dives into these challenges and how architects can navigate them. He shares personal stories from past recessions and explains why architecture is especially vulnerable to these cycles. Instead of worrying about the next downturn, he outlines key skills every architect should master. Discover how to shift your mindset and take proactive steps to secure your practice. Enoch offers a fresh perspective on how to turn challenging times into opportunities for growth. Learn what it takes to build a resilient architecture practice. What surprising event almost derailed Enoch’s early career? Why do some architects suffer from "architectural PTSD"? What is the one mindset shift that can help you thrive in tough times? Which four "savage skills" are crucial for every architect?   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/eRHklwu_RHvsZKZCqP1FXcGRcn4?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at [email protected]   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates: https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!

Architects often struggle to balance client expectations, business management, and the creative demands of design. Managing client relationships while ensuring high-quality design work, all within the constraints of time and budget can be overwhelming. Technology adds another layer of complexity but also offers solutions. In this episode of the Business of Architecture podcast, Rion Willard talks with Chris Kempel, an experienced architect who shares his journey from co-founding Rockefeller Kempel Architects to starting his new venture. Chris reflects on the challenges and successes of his 21-year career, offering invaluable insights into managing client relationships, maintaining design integrity, and leveraging technology. He also dives into the lessons learned from his past experiences and how he's shaping the future of his boutique firm. Listen in as Chris reveals how he balances creativity with the practical side of running a business, and find out how he builds strong, lasting client connections. The conversation touches on unexpected insights that might change how you approach projects. What’s one thing that can make or break a client relationship? How can architects effectively juggle design and business management? The surprising role technology plays in creating stunning designs. What Chris looks for when turning down a project.   To learn more about Chris, visit his: Website: https://www.kempelarchitects.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christopherkempel   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/eb8EbLBCME70vxJEXSbbDAPJVXo?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at [email protected]   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates:   https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!  

Architects often struggle with balancing leadership roles, managing design integrity, and navigating the complexities of construction development. As project demands increase, they face the challenge of maintaining control while collaborating with contractors who often take on more design responsibility. In this episode of Business of Architecture, Rion Willard sits down with Chris Butler, managing director of Walter Lily, to explore his remarkable career journey. Chris shares insights from his 26-year career with a single company, including a surprising start and an unexpected twist that led to his current role. He also touches on the evolution of contractor-architect relationships, the challenges of modern construction, and the importance of nurturing team dynamics. Chris reveals the key strategies he uses to manage a large organization, balance client demands, and foster innovation, all while reflecting on the shifts in the construction industry. His thoughts on leadership, psychology, and building successful teams offer lessons for anyone looking to improve their business. How a chance event altered the course of Chris’s career The surprising shift in the balance of power between architects and contractors The one major change that improved his company’s structure Why Chris believes some critical skills in construction are disappearing   To learn more about Chris, visit his: Website: https://www.walterlilly.co.uk/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/walterlilly1924/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/walterlilly1924/mycompany/?viewAsMember=true Twitter: https://twitter.com/WalterLilly1924   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/DFxj8mQhYXPpBFp1LuEqRIxEpZo?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at [email protected]   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates:   https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!

One of the biggest challenges architects face is managing a growing team while ensuring design quality doesn't suffer. As firms expand, architects often struggle to balance creative vision with the demands of business growth. In this episode of Business of Architecture, Rion Willard sits down with Brian Wakelin, co-founder of Public Architecture, to discuss the evolution of his firm and its unique multidisciplinary approach. Brian shares how his background, unexpected opportunities, and key partnerships helped shape the firm's direction. Brian offers some unexpected insights on how architects can influence larger organizations and navigate complex client relationships. He also touches on the importance of saying no to certain projects and learning to let go of tasks as a firm grows. How Brian’s surprising encounter led to a long-standing client relationship. The key to growing a firm while keeping design integrity intact. Why some projects aren’t worth taking on—even with a great client. One role that transformed the way Public Architecture operates.   To learn more about Brian, visit his: Website: https://www.publicdesign.ca/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/publicdesignvancouver/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/company/public-architecture-communication   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/cyvRA2RPC-jq9w-H2WiRI-fNCdA?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at [email protected]   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates:   https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!  

Architects often face unique challenges when trying to grow their team, from hiring talent with the right skills to managing the overwhelming demand for new projects. Finding the right fit in a competitive market can feel like an uphill battle, leaving many firms struggling with staffing issues. In this episode, Rion Willard talks with Jamie Van Cuyk, a small business hiring strategist and owner of Growing Your Team. Jamie shares her unique journey from corporate life to becoming a hiring expert and provides valuable insights for small business owners struggling to find the right talent. You'll hear tips on avoiding common hiring mistakes and how to make your hiring process more effective, but with a fresh perspective that may surprise you. Jamie also discusses some unexpected challenges businesses face when trying to find the right fit and offers advice on making smarter hiring decisions. She shares practical strategies on how to bring in the right team members and ensure they succeed from day one. What are the hidden challenges small businesses face when hiring? Why might your job posts be the reason you're not getting good candidates? How can you ensure your new hire fits in right away? What common hiring mistake could be holding your business back?   To learn more about Jamie, visit her: Website: https://growingyourteam.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrowingYourTeam Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growingyourteam/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamievancuyk   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/SEnkBtYZzY8zCy0ijzUqbEOIMHk?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at [email protected]   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates:   https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!

In this episode, Enoch Sears dives into the habits that could be holding your architecture firm back. He highlights the common mistakes firm owners make without even realizing it. By following these patterns, you may be working harder but not seeing the results you deserve. What if avoiding just a few key habits could lead to better clients, more time, and more money? Enoch’s advice might be the game-changer you need. Discover how making small changes could help you step off the hamster wheel and into a more rewarding practice. Are you unintentionally underpricing your work? Why is focusing on the wrong tasks costing you big time? What’s one thing you’re doing that keeps clients from valuing your designs? Could a simple shift in mindset help you win more business?   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/MjuOVj__hZ9IrypbsUiOLZpqWm4?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at [email protected]   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates:   https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!  

Join us for this episode, where Enoch Sears sits down with Erika Moody, president of Helix Architecture + Design and current IIDA president, to explore the qualities that make for effective leadership in architecture. Erika shares valuable insights on navigating challenges in leadership, managing ego, and adapting to client demands. She also reflects on her experience as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, offering candid advice for younger architects. Throughout the conversation, Erika emphasizes the importance of patience, mentorship, and community involvement for long-term career success. What are the three key behaviors that can make or break a leader’s success? Discover how embracing client surprises can lead to unexpected design breakthroughs. Erika reveals a powerful strategy that helps her stand out in a room full of men. Learn the one career-building tip that every young architect should know but rarely follow.   To learn more about Erika, visit her: Website: https://www.helixus.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helixKC/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/helix-architecture---design Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helix_kc/   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/CrkF-O4zJ2sNBc_9AsbeQITkruc?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at [email protected]   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates:   https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!

In this episode, Erika Moody shares her experience navigating a major merger with Helix Architecture + Design. She reveals how the transition unfolded, along with the unexpected opportunities that came with it. Erika also dives into the leadership challenges and rewards of managing a studio in both large and small firms. You’ll hear how the merger opened up new growth areas, especially in a surprising market. Erika also offers her thoughts on how the firm plans to expand its portfolio and handle relationships with clients. This episode is packed with valuable tips for those considering similar business moves. Discover the unexpected opportunity that’s driving Helix’s future success. How does a merger change leadership in a large firm versus a small firm? What key strategy is fueling Helix’s expansion into new markets? Hear the advice Erika wishes she had known earlier about leading through change.   To learn more about Erika, visit her: Website: https://www.helixus.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helixKC/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/helix-architecture---design Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helix_kc/   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/AkAmCAfBnLw2yg4L3FzhbzItA40?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at [email protected]   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates:   https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!