The architectural business and the architectural profession: complexities and nuances

Table of Contents:

• Architecture: The Fusion of Art and Commerce
• Mastering the Skills of Managing Uncertainty
• Prepare for the Failure of an Ending
• Introverts Struggle in Leadership
• The Impact of Friendships on Business Success

Ivan Korenkov, one of the founders of the bureau, shared his experience CORE.

The profession of an architect and the architectural field are often perceived through the prism of romanticism: the creative process, magnificent buildings, grandiose projects, participation in the formation of new urban landscapes… However, behind this captivating picture of creativity and inspiration lies a powerful business structure with its own rules and sometimes harsh conditions.

In this article for the Skillbox Media Business editorial team, I share my experience of the difficulties that can arise along this path, and also explain why entrepreneurial skills play an important role even in such creative fields.

• It is important to realize that architecture is not only a creative direction, but also a commercial activity.
• It is important to learn to manage situations full of uncertainty.
• It is important to realize that there may be no end point.
• People with an introverted personality type may find it difficult to occupy leadership positions.
• Friendship relationships can negatively affect business progress.

Architecture: The Fusion of Art and Commerce

Numerous applicants to the Moscow Architectural Institute (MARCHI) and other architectural institutions choose this profession driven by their passion for art, drawing inspiration from the works of renowned masters. They dream of creating aesthetically pleasing spaces and transforming the appearance of cities.

However, as soon as you begin to take your first steps in your professional career—especially if it involves starting your own business—it becomes obvious that architecture operates according to the same principles as any other sphere of commerce. The same market laws apply here as in areas such as construction, the restaurant business, or retail.

Of course, an architectural firm is not only a creative group but also a commercial organization. In this regard, the key aspect is not only the development and implementation of exciting ideas, but also the ability to find clients, negotiate business deals, manage project deadlines, track costs, and establish efficient processes.

Architects accustomed to the constant pursuit of perfection often find themselves in situations where they must adapt to strict deadlines and a lack of resources. It is especially challenging to understand that the ideas of what constitutes "beautiful" and "effective" are not always aligned. For example, a façade design, executed with utmost precision, may prove too costly to implement, requiring it to be simplified.

Nevertheless, the Russian market still shows considerable flexibility: even mistakes made do not always have catastrophic consequences. However, many studios face financial losses because they focus exclusively on the creative process, ignoring important business aspects.

Therefore, in the architectural process, it is crucial to establish the right approach from the very beginning. Even if the planned project is perceived as the pinnacle of a career, it must remain financially sustainable.

Mastering the skills of managing uncertainty

Architecture cannot develop in isolation. Economic crises, political unrest, and declining consumer demand – all these factors have a direct impact on the construction industry. Moreover, this sector is one of the most vulnerable to external changes.

During a crisis, there is a significant decrease in the number of orders for new projects. Developers often decide to postpone construction, which leads to delays and budget cuts. Architects face uncertainty: projects are put on hold, funding is not forthcoming, and the need to pay employees remains, or risk layoffs. This situation can be extremely frustrating, so it's crucial to be able to adapt to constantly changing conditions.

One approach to solving this problem is to diversify your activities. It is recommended to engage in projects of various formats: from consulting and redevelopment to master planning and public space development. It is also worth paying attention to interactions with government clients and private construction, as well as developing projects for both Russian and international clients.

Of course, it is pleasant to be able to focus exclusively on luxury residential real estate in large cities or on the renovation of industrial areas in a preferred region. However, adaptability and the ability to quickly respond to changes are the most important characteristics that will ensure the sustainability of your business in the face of further economic fluctuations.

In such times, it is especially critical to pay attention to finances: do not increase staff even in prosperous years, maintain a reserve fund, and carefully monitor expenses. Often, newcomers don't realize what a cash flow gap is until they find themselves in a situation where they need to pay salaries and don't have enough funds.

Be Prepared for a Missing Ending

While some professions offer clearly defined career ladders and ultimate goals, the architectural profession doesn't fit this pattern. There's no point where you can confidently say, "Now I've achieved it all." Even an architect with high achievements and numerous completed projects continues to develop and acquire new knowledge.

Modern technologies, software, building materials, as well as changing urban planning regulations, client needs, and current trends require firms and their employees to constantly update their methodological approaches. What was effective ten years ago may be irrelevant today.

When an architect stops training, their methods become irrelevant. That's why it's crucial not only to stay up-to-date with modern tools and technologies, but also to study related fields such as project management, product design, and sustainable, energy-efficient construction.

Architecture is a continuous process of growth and ascension, so at the outset, it's worth considering whether you're ready for the long haul. If your answer is yes, then it's crucial to create a structure from the outset that will foster growth not only for you but for your entire team.

For example, our team develops internal standards covering both software use and the project implementation process. These documents are not just a set of rules, but a dynamic system that helps maintain high quality work, even when deadlines are tight.

While extensive familiarity with various styles and projects is valuable, there's a risk of becoming trapped in this practice. Nowadays, many architects rely solely on Pinterest, collecting visual materials without delving into the in-depth content and concept of each submitted project.

To prevent such situations, we've implemented a practice of joint field trips in our firm. During these trips, we not only discuss observations but also hold workshops where the team jointly develops solutions to complex problems. In architecture, the key is not simply reproducing an attractive façade, but understanding the reasons why it fits harmoniously into a given environment.

Introverts Struggle in Leadership Positions

Most architects are introverts. They are comfortable developing their projects in a calm environment, immersing themselves in their own thoughts and carefully developing ideas. However, the demands of the modern marketplace require additional skills.

For an architectural firm to successfully develop, its founders must transform themselves from simple designers into multifaceted specialists, encompassing the roles of opinion leaders, managers, speakers, and ideologists. They must actively participate in conferences, negotiate, establish communication with contractors and clients, and represent their firm in the media and on social media.

For many, this becomes a real challenge and presents difficulties: they must leave their usual comfort zone, master public speaking skills, develop emotional intelligence, and build a personal brand. However, without these skills, it is difficult to succeed in the professional field.

Active leadership and the ability to present yourself play an important role in the architectural field. Many quickly adapt to these aspects and even begin to enjoy them. However, in the early stages, public activity can seem quite a daunting task.

The Impact of Friendships on Business Success

The architectural field in Russia is a compact and fairly united community. Here, everyone knows each other: some trained together, some collaborated on projects, and some had experience working at the same agency. However, in business, friendships can create certain difficulties. Firing a friend becomes difficult, and criticizing or criticizing their work can be awkward. Difficulties also arise when discussing budgets or demanding deadlines. Often in the office atmosphere there is a mixture of personal and professional relationships, and it is better to stay away from this.

Avoid hiring friends unless you intend to prioritize work in your relationship. If you do decide to collaborate with friends, it's important to establish clear boundaries between personal and work roles. This approach will minimize the likelihood of conflict and help preserve both the project and the friendship.

For example, we strive to reduce any conflicts through honest and open communication. Ignoring problems or shifting blame is unacceptable to us – we strive to resolve emerging issues immediately, without putting them off.

If you are passionate about architecture, we recommend checking out materials from Skillbox Media.

• The architectural trends expected in 2025 promise to be particularly interesting and diverse. An emphasis is expected on sustainable construction, which means using environmentally friendly materials and technologies that help reduce the carbon footprint. Also important will be the integration of smart technologies into architectural projects, creating more comfortable and functional spaces.

  Furthermore, building design will see a trend toward organic forms that blend harmoniously with the surrounding nature. This approach is not only aesthetically pleasing but also contributes to an improved microclimate in cities.

  Attention to community will also be an important part of the architectural future. Projects will be developed taking into account the interests and needs of local residents, which will make them more attractive and comfortable to live in. The use of public spaces and the creation of places for interaction will be an important element in design.

  Overall, the architecture of 2025 will be aimed at creating a comfortable, smart and sustainable urban environment that meets modern challenges and societal needs.

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• Classicism took a leading position in architecture thanks to its strict and harmonious style, which combines elements of ancient art and a rational approach to construction. This style, which became a symbol of order and symmetry, was particularly popular in the Soviet Union, where it embodied ideals of stability and grandeur.

  In the USSR, classicism was used not only in residential and public buildings, but also in monumental structures emphasizing the power of the state. Architects of the time admired its ability to convey the spirit of the era and create impressive images, which perfectly suited the ambitions of the Soviet regime.

  The love of classicism in the Soviet Union was also explained by its ease of ideological integration: its strict lines and proportions symbolized reason, order, and progress. As a result, buildings made in this style have become not only part of the architectural appearance of cities, but also important elements of cultural heritage, reflecting the spirit of the times.