Jauregui

Residential architects are connecting as a professional group like never before.  Thanks in large part to CRAN (Custom Residential Architects Network), residential architects are becoming more cohesive and visible as a group. 

We’re finding common ground stemming from decades of growing frustration with our industry as a profession.  There is a strong sense of disenfranchisement from the A.I.A. and a pervasive lack of regard from the public for the value in our work.  It’s a bold move for the A.I.A. to even use the words “Custom Residential” on an initiative and it’s important for to us to help define its direction. 

Residential architects are at a crossroads between complacency and advocacy.  Discontent with being relegated to schematic design, today’s residential architects are seeking a leadership role in projects, from initial site evaluation on thru to complete drawings as well as project management. 

We need to educate our public and our clients about the intrinsic added value of good home design, both aesthetically and financially.  It takes time to create a well developed design and produce a well documented set of drawings.  The professional fees associated with these services are an investment well placed. 

Builders, as a consumer of our product, can recognize that any incremental cost added for professional design work is more than offset by the added value it brings.  A livable floor plan with good flow for today’s lifestyle will generate a sale faster than any other factor. 

Custom clients are growing as a demographic for architectural services.  Clients tend to seek out architects whose works most closely resemble the client’s own vision for his/her home.  The best way to connect with potential clients is if one of your designs is actually constructed.  Partner with a builder, offer your services even if for a stipends, and get some of your work built.  If you can participate in a Parade or Showcase, it’s the best marketing exposure you can have. 

Some of the conversation among architects touches on the disparity between our high level of post graduate education and our oftentimes disproportionate compensation.  Rather than lamenting over fees and who gets paid what, choose to embrace our industry partners such as Realtors and builders.  Create a professional team that focuses on exceptional service to our mutual clients.

The A.I.A. is beginning to demonstrate a growing awareness of the residential community of architects.  If you are not a member of the A.I.A., this is a good time to join.  Lobby for establishing residential initiatives to promote public awareness and education.  Attend the national A.I.A. convention and the CRAN committee in San Francisco in April.  Join in the CRAN email dialogue and dial up for its weekly conference call with activists around the country. Become part of this surging grass roots initiative and attend the CRAN committee at the national A.I.A. convention in San Francisco in late April 2009. 

Residential architects are developing a communal voice that is being heard.  As residential architects, we are at a pivotal point in this point in time.  There is a resurgence of interest in good design and particularly in good home design.  Now is the time to allocate some of your creative energies into the expansion of your industry as a whole.  The future design generation will thank you.