Return of the Master Builder

I have been practicing architecture, enduring its ups and downs, for over thirty five years. Having experienced the thrills of the profession’s highs, as well as agony and pain at it’s lows, I feel obligated to offer a different approach; one that can restore architects’ standing in order to reclaim the title ‘Master Builder’. This work examines all fundamental aspects of both design and business, related to the practice of architecture. It also reviews some competitors for the title ‘master builder’, especially contractors and developers. The journey I share is a long one that provides insight as to why the practice of architecture is changing. This book is intended for those who aspire to be architects, those who engage architects, as well as those affected by their decisions. In short this book is for those in the building industry and those who have an interest in how the American built environment is affected by certain design approaches.

The objective fathoms the dynamic changes occurring in the 21st century which requires a fundamental thinking of what an architect is. To do this I offer theories to describe what has happened, actual stories that dramatize the past; and foretell a future course of the profession of architecture, real estate development, and building construction. Since I have been exposed to a few of the great icons in both the business and design fields, I am qualified to describe the approaches they utilized and how they were able to foster great opportunities, as well as wealth and acclaim (or lack thereof). It was an exciting time in my career when I tried these approaches myself. I achieved almost immediate success but later paid unexpected prices. I have experienced the ups and downs of business cycles and on more than one occasion have lost almost everything but have been able to recover quickly.

Do I have secrets to tell the professional about how mentor number two became wealthy? The answer is no. I will offer a general business approach that will have wide application, but has little to do with fame or fortune. It is more a method to have a solid business plan and approach that will enhance design capability. I will explore the strong correlation of business theories to design theories. A very desirable objective is freedom from the constant worry of cash flow and economic downturns; however, this objective is rarely totally achieved. There is also an opportunity to enhance the weary design products, which pollute our visual landscape in America. I actually do not believe that being interested in financial reward will cause an architect to ‘sell out’ or compromise design integrity, or any of the like scare-tactics employed by academics. I will write about ‘brands,’ such as ‘big box’ retail outlets, fast food joints, and the sterile corporate glass box syndrome adorned with cartoon-like images of some historical elements. I do not advocate any of this. I believe we can create a better visual and behavioral environment if architects are trained differently. There is a compelling argument to modify the educational program at architecture schools in a way that moves from mostly technical training to one that offers training that result in both technical and business skills. To accomplish this, I will offer anecdotes and theories that may influence members of the profession to initiate needed changes to the educational requirements for licensure.