Architect and Entrepreneur: A Field Guide to Building, Branding, and Marketing Yo

by Eric W. Reinholdt

Part narrative, part business book; Architect + Entrepreneur is filled with contemporary, relevant, fresh tips and advice, from a seasoned professional architect building a new business. The guide advocates novel strategies and tools that merge entrepreneurship with the practice of architecture and interior design. The Embarking on a new business venture is intimidating; you have questions. But many of the resources available to help entrepreneur architects and interior designers start their design business lack timeliness and relevance. Most are geared toward building colossal firms like SOM and Gensler using outdated methods and old business models. If you’re an individual or small team contemplating starting a design business, this is your field guide; crafted to inspire action. The Using the lean startup methodology to create a minimum viable product, the handbook encourages successive small wins that support a broader vision enabling one to, “think big, start small, and learn fast.” It’s a unique take on design practice viewed through the lens of entrepreneurship and is designed to answer the questions all new business owners face, from the rote to the existential. Questions - Startup costs - Business models (old and new) - Marriage of business and design - Mindset - Branding & naming (exercises and ideas) - Internet marketing strategies - Passive income ideas - Setting your fee - Taxes - Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) - Securing the work - Client relations - Software - Billing rates - Contracts Building a business isn’t a singular act; it’s a series of small steps. Using the outline found in Architect + Entrepreneur you can start today. The chapters are organized to guide you from idea to action. Rather than write a business plan you’ll be challenged to craft a brand and you’ll sell it using new technologies. Follow the guide sequentially and you’ll have both the tools and a profitable small business.

Genres: Architecture, Nonfiction, Business

174 pages, Paperback

First published April 10, 2015

Reviews

[Elrond · Rating 5 out of 5]

Looking for a book that walks you step-by-step through the process of setting up your own architectural firm? There might be other books that do this, but there are none that are bang up-to-date with the Houzz and Youtube era we now operate in as architects. And none that I know of that give detailed practical instructions and share the lessons learnt along the way, whilst still ‘being in the trenches’, as Eric Reinholdt does with authenticity and self-awareness in this gem of a handbook. He follows a Lean Startup approach, so don’t fall into the trap of thinking you need major finances or financing to get started. There are lots of good lessons for blogging (I’ve already implemented some on elrondburrell.com) and managing a practice, even if you’re not setting up one from scratch.

[Curiouscat · Rating 2 out of 5]

"Architect and Entrepreneur" is a practical guide for architects interested in starting their design businesses. The book, written by successful architect and entrepreneur Eric Reinholdt, provides valuable insights into the business side of architecture. In addition, it offers actionable steps that readers can take to build their successful practices.
One of the key strengths of the book is its practical advice. Reinholdt draws on his experience as an architect and entrepreneur to guide various topics, including creating a business plan, marketing, finances, and project management. He breaks down the process of starting and running an architecture business into clear and actionable steps, making it easy for readers to follow along and implement the advice provided.
Another strength of the book is its accessibility. Reinholdt uses a conversational tone throughout the book, making it engaging and easy to read. In addition, the explanations of complex topics are clear and concise, making the book accessible to readers of all backgrounds and experience levels.
However, the book does have some limitations. One of its main weaknesses is its US-centric focus. While many of the principles and strategies outlined in the book can be applied globally, some legal and financial advice may only be relevant to readers within the US. Additionally, the book primarily focuses on the business side of architecture. As a result, it covers only some essential aspects of the field, such as design theory and history. Finally, the book does not include many visual aids to help readers understand complex concepts, which may make it challenging for readers who are visual learners or prefer a more hands-on approach to learning.
Overall, "Architect and Entrepreneur" is a valuable resource for architects who want to start their businesses. While the book has some limitations, it provides practical advice and actionable steps to help readers succeed in the architecture industry. So whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting in the field, "Architect and Entrepreneur" is a valuable guide that can help you navigate the complex world of architecture and build a successful practice.

[Nguyen Giang · Rating 3 out of 5]

Practical advice and information for setting up your own office. It is detail and very instructive however, there is small gap between the book and the working environment outside USA. The book broaden my perspective views of the preparation for setting up rightly an office as an architect. There are no advise for the recruitment nor how to create an inspirational environment which seem to relevant more in to management knowledge.

[Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very useful information. My only complaint is that I read it 7 months after co-founding a firm. Read it before if you can, but definitely read it.