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://www.architecturesocial.com

Stephen 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://www.architecturesocial.com

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://www.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

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://www.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

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://www.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

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://www.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

Join us for a special episode as we sit down with Greg Blaquiere, founder of Eagle Planning and Development. Discover Greg's fascinating journey in the world of planning consultancy, from his beginnings in local government to launching his own planning business. We explore the roles and responsibilities of a planning consultant, the dynamics of public vs. private sector planning, and the importance of relationship-building with architects. Greg shares insights from his first year in business, the impact of technology and AI in planning, and offers invaluable advice for aspiring planners and business owners. Don't miss this engaging discussion packed with practical wisdom and industry expertise!00:00 Introduction and Welcome02:00 Meet Greg Blaquiere04:10 History of Eagle Planning07:45 Journey from Public Sector to Private13:15 Building Effective Relationships with Architects20:30 Advice for Young Planners26:45 The Role of AI in Planning35:20 Challenges and Successes in the First Year45:00 Future Plans and Expanding the Business48:40 Contact Information and Closing Remarks____📐 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.com (00:00) - Introduction and Overview (01:00) - Meet Greg from Eagle Planning (01:23) - Greg's Journey into Planning (03:27) - Early Career in Local Authority (07:44) - Transition to Private Sector (13:24) - Starting Eagle Planning (15:23) - Diverse Projects and Challenges (20:37) - The Role of Technology in Planning (25:28) - Balancing AI and Due Diligence (26:21) - AI's Limitations and Risks (29:15) - AI in Business Operations (31:30) - Exploring Eagle Planning (37:16) - Starting and Running a Business (45:13) - Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Join us for a fascinating discussion on architecture's role in healthcare with Kim Kennedy, Principal at Parkin Architects. Based in Ottawa, Kim delves into her journey in healthcare architecture, exploring the design and impact of mental health facilities. Learn about the evolving field of healthcare architecture, challenges, and innovations, and get insights on what it takes to excel in this specialty. Whether you're an aspiring architect or an experienced professional, Kim's insights are invaluable. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation!00:00 Introduction and Overview01:02 Meet Kim Kennedy from Parkin Architects01:56 Kim's Journey into Healthcare Architecture04:49 Evolution of Healthcare Architecture07:04 Focus on Mental Health in Architecture09:32 Showcasing Parkin Architects' Projects18:18 Career Advice for Aspiring Architects25:33 The Role of Technology in Healthcare Architecture29:30 Future of Healthcare Architecture33:03 How to Connect with Parkin Architects36:15 Conclusion 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://www.architecturesocial.com (00:00) - Introduction and Overview (01:02) - Meet Kim Kennedy from Parkin Architects (01:56) - Kim's Journey into Healthcare Architecture (04:49) - Evolution of Healthcare Architecture (07:04) - Focus on Mental Health in Architecture (09:32) - Showcasing Parkin Architects' Projects (18:18) - Career Advice for Aspiring Architects (25:33) - The Role of Technology in Healthcare Architecture (29:30) - Future of Healthcare Architecture (33:03) - How to Connect with Parkin Architects (36:15) - Conclusion and Farewell

Join us on the Architecture Social Show as host Stephen meets Carlo Magni, an Architect and Associate Director at EPR Architects, to explore the intricacies of architectural leadership and career progression. They discuss the transition from technical roles to leadership positions, the importance of soft skills, and the challenges introverts face in leadership. Carlo also shares his personal journey, including his relocation from Italy to the UK, his passion for continuous learning, and his experiences with public speaking. Whether you're an aspiring architect or a seasoned professional, this episode offers invaluable insights into mastering both hard and soft skills in the architectural industry.0:00 Welcome to the Architecture Social Show00:50 Introducing Carlo Magni: Architect and Leadership Coach01:41 Carlo's Journey: From Italy to the UK06:27 The Importance of Soft Skills in Architecture10:45 Navigating Leadership and Team Management17:29 Challenges and Mistakes in Leadership21:45 The Value of Time Management and Delegation24:34 Not Everyone Needs to Be a Leader27:52 Debunking the Myth of Universal Leadership28:04 The Real Managers Study28:34 Effective vs. Successful Managers30:32 Leadership for Introverts35:45 Public Speaking as an Introvert47:38 The Importance of Soft Skills52:38 Navigating Complex Projects with Navisworks55:50 Conclusion 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://www.architecturesocial.com

Join us on the Architecture Social show as we dive into the world of historic building conversions and modern design with Simon Vernon-Harcourt, the Design Director at City and Country. Simon shares his journey from studying architecture to working in various renowned architectural practices, and ultimately transitioning to a developer role. We discuss the intricacies and challenges of restoring Victorian buildings, the impact of new technologies, and the evolving landscape of architecture. Simon also offers valuable advice for aspiring architects and those looking to work with developers. Don't miss this insightful episode packed with expertise and inspiration!00:00 Simon Vernon00:52 Meet Simon Verden Har Court01:29 Simon's Journey into Architecture 03:29 Transition to Developer Role06:55 City and Country Projects Overview 10:48 Challenges and Rewards of Conversion Projects 15:42 Finding and Procuring Unique Sites 18:23 Technology and Architecture23:54 Advice for Aspiring Architects30:18 Working with Developers32:23 Current Industry Sentiments 36:25 Closing Remarks 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://www.architecturesocial.com (00:00) - Simon Vernon (00:52) - Meet Simon Verden Har Court (01:29) - Simon's Journey into Architecture (03:29) - Transition to Developer Role (06:55) - City and Country Projects Overview (10:48) - Challenges and Rewards of Conversion Projects (15:42) - Finding and Procuring Unique Sites (18:23) - Technology and Architecture (23:54) - Advice for Aspiring Architects (30:18) - Working with Developers (32:23) - Current Industry Sentiments (36:25) - Closing Remarks and Contact Information