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Architecture Social

Architecture Social

By: Architecture Social Stephen Drew
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About this listen

It is hard to get a job in architecture. We exist to help you get there. Hosted by Stephen Drew, Architecture Social is the unfiltered guide to the UK Built Environment. We decode the realities of the industry, provide actionable cheat codes for your career, and bridge the communication gap between the drafting board and the boardroom. Whether you are a Part I assistant trying to survive your first role, a Part III architect managing complex procurement, or a Practice Director fighting tight margins and adapting to the Building Safety Act, this podcast is your central node of intelligence. We strip away the aesthetic gatekeeping and toxic positivity to talk about the actual mechanics of the business. Expect honest conversations about salary realities, portfolio strategies, hiring economics, and the true experiences of the people actively shaping the profession. No fluff, just the reality of practice.Architecture Social Limited Art Career Success Economics
Episodes
  • How to Land Your First Architect Role
    Mar 17 2026

    You want a job in architecture or interiors in London and you want it fast. This is the playbook. We cover how to stop waiting for job boards and go direct to studios. How to send a tight 3 to 5 page sample portfolio. The email that gets replies. Why volume plus a simple process beats vibes every time.

    We keep it practical. Use InDesign. Keep the CV clean. Put a UK number and a London base. Call out the graduate visa so it is a non issue. Interview in person if you can. It is a people game.

    Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Jm-X7yADeU
    ____

    📐 The Architecture Social is an online platform packed with content to help you find new jobs, stand out from the crowd and take your career in Architecture to the next level

    💻 Find out more at https://www.architecturesocial.com

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 23 mins
  • Is This the End of Revit? How Architects Must Adapt (2026)
    Feb 12 2026

    Stephen Drew sits down with Allister Lewis to break down the big changes happening in architecture today. From new software challenging Revit to the rise of AI across design, delivery and practice management, this episode gives a clear look at where the industry is heading.

    Allister shares his journey from architect to tech leader and explains how BIM 2.0, generative tools and smarter workflows are changing the way studios work. If you are an architect in London or the UK and want to understand how to stay ahead, this conversation is packed with insight.

    00:00 – Intro: AI, robots & the future of architecture
    01:36 – Meet Allister Lewis
    02:00 – Allister’s path from architect to BIM & technology leader
    05:33 – What practices really look like behind the scenes
    07:29 – BIM adoption in the UK and the rise of Revit specialists
    10:21 – The emergence of BIM 2.0
    10:53 – Generative design tools taking over feasibility work
    12:45 – Why choosing the right software matters
    15:03 – The “Wild West” of new architecture tech
    17:21 – The architecture tech landscape: AI, BIM, Viz, compliance & more
    19:10 – Software built on AI: what’s coming in 2026
    21:05 – Will AI replace architects? And how much will change?
    22:41 – What architects should focus on: relationships & communication
    25:10 – If design becomes faster, do architects earn less?
    27:47 – Who’s already building in‑house software?
    29:42 – Inside Allister’s massive software database (1,700+ tools)
    32:27 – The real problems inside architecture practices
    38:22 – How practices can fix their digital foundations
    41:30 – New job roles: BIM managers, computational designers, digital design leads
    44:06 – The rise of digital design leaders
    49:24 – AC Tech Jobs & software‑side careers
    51:38 – How architects can pivot into tech
    55:43 – The future of the industry: optimism or fear?
    57:58 – What architects must do to stay relevant
    01:03:09 – Should architects be building software too?
    01:07:05 – Where to find Allister Lewis online

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    1 hr and 9 mins
  • The Future of Housing: A Deep Dive into Modular Innovation with ZedPods
    Dec 18 2025

    In this episode, we sit down with Lalit Chauhary, Design Director at Zed Pods, an award winning modular design studio that’s changing the game in social housing. From studying architecture in India to leading zero carbon projects in the UK, Lalit shares the journey and the lessons learned along the way. We dive into the challenges of modular construction, closing the performance gap, and building a sustainable business that actually works. Plus, how technology and smart thinking are shaping the future of architecture. Whether you’re starting out or already established, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

    00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene

    00:38 Guest Introduction and Background

    01:18 Educational Journey in Architecture

    03:38 Early Career and Internship Experience

    06:06 Challenges and Lessons in Architecture

    10:36 Starting Zed Pods and Initial Struggles

    16:55 Breakthrough Projects and Growth

    25:51 Navigating the Pandemic and Expansion

    46:19 Pricing Mistakes and Lessons Learned

    46:38 Balancing Client Expectations and Fees

    47:17 Undercutting in the Architecture Industry

    47:53 Importance of Timing and Feasibility Studies

    48:32 Learning to Charge Appropriately

    49:34 Handling Client Conversations and Emotions

    51:17 Setting Competitive Fees and Managing Risks

    52:34 Growth and Success of Z Pods

    53:45 Commitment to Zero Carbon Approach

    54:41 Bridging the Gap Between Design and Construction

    55:16 Performance Gap and Energy Standards

    56:31 Innovative Business Model and Air Rights

    01:06:08 Hiring and Empowering Smart People

    01:13:58 Challenges and Rewards of Entrepreneurship

    01:22:02 Future of Modular Construction and Technology

    01:35:12 Conclusion and Contact Information

    _____

    📐 The Architecture Social is an online platform packed with content to help you find new jobs, stand out from the crowd and take your career in Architecture to the next level

    💻 Find out more at https://www.architecturesocial.com

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 39 mins
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