EntreArchitect // Small Firm Entrepreneur Architects

Business training and resources for small firm entrepreneur architects.

Architect Firm Growth Strategies: Sell Then Hire and Other Lessons from Mark Orttung

Starting With Clarity: Why Your Firm Exists I love conversations that reveal a single idea you can take back to your firm and use immediately. My interview with Mark Orttung, CEO of Projectworks and chair of Provoke, delivered several. The biggest one is this: every strong firm begins with a crisp answer to why it […]

From Immigrant to Industry Leader: How One Architect Built a Thriving Design Build Firm on Her Own Terms

When you meet Danilda Polanco, founder of DOPE Architecture in Denver, you instantly understand two things: she’s not here to play small, and she’s not asking for permission. She’s an architect, a licensed general contractor, a business owner, and a force of nature who has built a thriving design build firm rooted in passion, control, […]

Designing Sustainable Houses for Hot, Humid Climates with Jane Frederick

I’ve had the privilege of interviewing hundreds of remarkable architects over the years. But every once in a while, I connect with someone whose experience, values, and work deeply align with the mission of EntreArchitect. Jane Frederick, FAIA, is one of those people. In episode 619 of the EntreArchitect Podcast, I sat down with Jane […]

Top Architect Contract Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

If you’ve ever agreed to work without a contract, failed to charge for additional services, or let a client slide on payment, you’re not alone. These are just a few of the most common architect contract mistakes made by small firm owners—and according to construction attorneys, they happen far too often. This week on the […]

Building with Purpose: How Haven Creates Housing Where Communities Thrive

What happens when an architecture firm is built not only for profit but for purpose? What does it look like when design meets social impact—when a team of architects and builders dedicate their entire practice to making life better for underserved communities? That’s exactly what I explored in my recent conversation with Zach Sunderland of […]

A Guide to AIA Fellowship for Small Firm Architects

How One Architect’s Journey Illuminates the Path and Process Every week on the EntreArchitect Podcast, I speak with people pushing our profession forward, but episode 616 felt different. When Jim Zack, FAIA, and Je’Nen Chastain joined me to unpack Jim’s recent elevation to the AIA College of Fellows, the emotion in Jim’s voice was unmistakable. […]