A large number of Architects, Associates, and Allied members gathered on July 23 for the latest AIA Arizona Small Firm Exchange (SFx) event at Holly Street Studio in Phoenix. Diane Jacobs, FAIA, and Michael Jacobs, AIA, gave a brief presentation about their firm, Holly Street Studio, from early visioning through shifting economic cycles and the realities of running a design-driven small practice. The history of the firm was followed by small group discussions focused on the information needs of practitioners in small firms (those that have no more than 12 persons on staff). Attendees discussed how to sustain a resilient business and a lasting architectural studio.
The discussions explored many of the same threads and challenges from additional perspectives including: how to design a practice the same way you design a project, how to create a sustaining practice, how to build a great culture and create lasting traditions, and what the long-term future of a firm and what the “end” could be. Major themes that emerged from the discussion included developing future leaders early, transparency about the firm’s plans and expectations, creating leadership opportunities, creating a culture where people feel comfortable and connected, building the right client relationships and nurturing them long term, taking care of your team first, and continuing to strengthen business fundamentals included business development, systems, and skills during slower periods to prepare for future opportunities.
The AIA Arizona Small Firm Exchange (SFx) is led by Ryan Short, AIA, a principal at Cotton Architecture in Phoenix. If you are an Architect or Associate member who works within a small firm, and you have interest in taking part in AIA Arizona Small Firm Exchange Steering Committee discussions, please email here.
See images from the event below.
