What Type Of Person Thrives In The Architecture Industry According To An Architect At Boston Architecture Firm
To thrive in architecture, a unique blend of "perfectionism and personability" is crucial, requiring the ability to "speak both languages"—mastering both design and client communication—within a high-stakes, capital-intensive industry where reputation and networking are paramount. Success hinges on finding "the sweet spot" between excellent design and strong industry connections.
Communication, Problem-Solving, Project Management, Teamwork, Leadership
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Nima Shariat
Architect
Boston Architecture Firm
University of California, Santa Cruz
Harvard University, Graduate School of Design, Master of Architecture 2022
Computer Science, Economics, Fine Arts, Music
Arts, Entertainment & Media, Architecture, Construction & Design
Creative
Video Highlights
1. Nima's emphasis on the blend of perfectionism and personability highlights the importance of both technical skill and interpersonal communication in architecture.
2. The significant financial and stakeholder involvement in architectural projects underscores the need for credibility and effective communication with diverse audiences, from design teams to clients and the public.
3. The description of a 'small world' in architecture emphasizes the value of networking and building professional relationships for career advancement and project acquisition, indicating the role of reputation and word-of-mouth in success.
Transcript
How would you describe people who typically thrive in this industry?
I'd say that the same things as before, in equal parts perfectionism and personability, are very important. But I think to really thrive takes a very particular set of skills and abilities.
There's so much money involved in this field. Buildings are one of the most expensive assets ever produced, whether it be a high-rise for an office, a large apartment complex, or performance halls with the nicest finishes. They involve a lot of money, risk, and stakeholders.
Obviously, you need to be credible when taking on a big portion in facilitating that. This credibility comes with a lot of actual one-on-one engagement, similar to other fields that deal with this level of capital.
It can't just be something where you're an artist that can't be talked to directly, with a curator or representative speaking for you. You have to be both of those things, an intermediary, and able to talk the language of design with your own team.
But you also have to translate that to the audience, whether it be the public or the client bringing the resources. Having that synergy where you can speak both languages by being personable and intense in your design, with that level of rigor, is a unique mix.
I think people exist on the spectrum of that gradient, but the truly successful ones find a way to do both and take projects further. There are many firms with good designs but who don't get many projects due to lack of exposure or happenstance.
Conversely, there are firms with good access but not good designs. The successful ones hit the sweet spot between these two. It's about being in the right place at the right time, but approaching it with the right skills.
In tangential fields like real estate, it's a very small world. There aren't that many notable architects or firms. Everyone knows someone at those firms or is familiar with their projects. Word gets around, and that credibility and respect are very important.