Office Talk Australia, Marketing for Architecture

Jared Webb is the director of J.AR Office, a Brisbane-based practice established in 2022. Operating across all scales of architecture and interiors, each of their highly-considered projects is rationalised from the urban and social fabric in which they reside. The office’s early projects have received awards including the National Architecture Award for The Warehouses, as well as the Think Brick Awards, Eat Drink Design Awards and Australian Interior Design Awards.If you’d like to learn more about the studio, you can visit jaroffice.com or follow them on Instagram @j.ar.office.Office Talk is hosted and produced by Office D.SHARP, a strategic marketing and communications practice for architecture. We work collaboratively with clients across the world. To learn more about our process, simply visit officedavesharp.com.Thank you to Programa for sponsoring today’s episode. Visit programa.design/officetalk to start for free and save 25% on annual plans.This episode of Office Talk was edited and engineered by Oscar Crawford.

David Flack is the director of Flack Studio, a ten year old Melbourne-based practice of architects and interior designers renowned for projects that explore light, volume and materiality. Their work is published regularly in Vogue, Belle, Est and Architectural Digest, and David has recently been recognised as the Vogue Living Creative Of The Year, as well as the studio being listed in AD100, Est Living Esteemed 10, and numerous wins in the Interior Design Excellence Awards and Australian Interior Design Awards.If you’d like to learn more about the studio, you can visit flack.studio or follow them on Instagram @flackstudio_.Office Talk is hosted and produced by Office D.SHARP, a strategic marketing and brand strategy practice for architecture. We work collaboratively with clients across the world. To learn more about our process and book a consultation, simply visit officedavesharp.com.Thank you to Programa for sponsoring today’s episode. Visit programa.design/officetalk to start for free and save 25% on annual plans.This episode of Office Talk was edited and engineered by Oscar Crawford.

Adam Haddow is the Director of SJB, a multi-studio collective of experts in architecture, urban design, interiors and planning founded in 1976. Adam has been a Director of SJB’s Sydney studio since 2001, leading the practice in the development of multiple award-winning projects. He has recently been appointed the National President Elect of the Australian Institute of Architects, and his own home, 19 Waterloo Street, won the prestigious Robin Boyd Award for Residential Architecture in 2023. He first appeared on Office Talk in 2021, episode No. 37.If you’d like to learn more about SJB, you can visit sjb.com.au or follow them on Instagram @aboutsjb.Office Talk is hosted and produced by Office D.SHARP, a strategic marketing and brand strategy practice for architecture. We work collaboratively with clients across Australia and the world. To learn more about our process and book a consultation, simply visit officedavesharp.com.Thank you to Programa for sponsoring today’s episode. Visit programa.design/officetalk to start for free and save 25% on annual plans. You can also follow Programa on Instagram at @programahq.This episode of Office Talk was edited and engineered by Oscar Crawford.

Chris Gilbert is a director of Archier, a Melbourne-based practice known for creating design experiences that contribute to a better quality of life. Chris first appeared on Office Talk in August of 2022, and we are delighted to welcome him back to the show.In this episode, Chris and Dave discussed:The power of cultural narratives, such as current attitudes around the risks of building, and whether it’s better for architects to push back, or accept these powerful beliefs and adapt our approach.How Archier identified a pain-point in the design process, the endless hours spent pricing projects, then developed custom software to help speed up the process and drastically reduce the cost to the client.The story of starting Candour, a prefabrication and advanced manufacturing company helping architects to make off-site construction faster, cheaper, and more accessible.What impact a move towards automation, efficiency and accessibility could have on the brand perception of Archier, and architecture more broadly, as it challenges the traditional exclusivity of residential architecture.If you'd like to learn more about their studio, you can visit archier.com.au or follow them on Instagram at @archier_.Office Talk is hosted by Dave Sharp of Office D.SHARP, a strategic marketing and brand definition practice for architecture. We work collaboratively with clients across the globe. To learn more about our process and book a consultation, simply visit officedavesharp.com.Today's episode of Office Talk was edited and engineered by Anthony Richardson of Simple Dwelling Studio.This episode of Office Talk is supported by Mast Furniture. Mast is an established furniture design and manufacturing company based in Brisbane. In operation since 2012 and climate neutral certified since 2021, Mast has built a national and international reputation for producing original furniture of the highest quality. For Mast, the phrase ‘Good Design, made right’ embodies who they are, what they do and what they’d like to achieve. Mast values enduring design, taking their time to develop well designed products both in house and in collaboration with established and upcoming designers. With all of their furniture being produced from their Brisbane workshop and made to order, the majority of their range is able to be customised in material, size and finishes to suit specific projects and spaces in both residential and commercial environments. To learn more about Mast, visit mastfurniture.com.au or check out their instagram @mastfurniture.

John Wardle and Jasmin Williamson are partners of Wardle, a highly recognised Gold-medal winning practice known for creating extraordinary buildings and places that matter.In this episode, John, Jasmin and Dave discussed:The practice’s evolution from the early days of small, but highly considered residential projects, to the broad range of sectors and scales they work in today.Their process in pitching for work when entering into new sectors, and how they identify the right ideas and details from other projects to draw upon to inspire potential clients.Why John believes that not having previous built experience on a project typology can be advantageous for the client, but can also come with challenges when competing against efficient specialist practices.The thinking behind the rebranding of the studio and the decision to shift the focus from John to the other partners, who each bring a different voice to the practice.Their recent expansion into the Sydney market, and how a practice like Wardle goes about building relationships and brand awareness in a short space of time.If you'd like to learn more about the studio, you can visit wardle.studio or follow the studio on Instagram at @wardle.studio.Office Talk is hosted by Dave Sharp of Office D.SHARP, a strategic marketing and brand definition practice for architecture. We work collaboratively with clients across the globe. To learn more about our process and book a consultation, simply visit officedavesharp.com.Today's episode of Office Talk was edited and engineered by Anthony Richardson of Simple Dwelling Studio.This episode of Office Talk is supported by Mast Furniture. Mast is an established furniture design and manufacturing company based in Brisbane. In operation since 2012 and climate-neutral certified since 2021, Mast has built a national and international reputation for producing original furniture of the highest quality. For Mast, the phrase ‘Good Design, made right’ embodies who they are, what they do and what they’d like to achieve. Mast values enduring design, taking their time to develop well designed products both in house and in collaboration with established and upcoming designers. With all of their furniture being produced from their Brisbane workshop and made to order, the majority of their range is able to be customised in material, size and finishes to suit specific projects and spaces in both residential and commercial environments. To learn more about Mast, visit mastfurniture.com.au or check out their instagram @mastfurniture.

Aidan Anderson is the founder and editor-in-chief of The Local Project, an architecture publication known for celebrating extraordinary design to an inspired community.In this episode, Aidan and Dave discussed:How The Local Project has evolved from an Instagram page Aidan used to share his favourite architecture and interiors while working as a furniture maker, to a 46-person media company with a category-leading YouTube channel, website, magazine and book.The importance of highlighting the humans behind architecture, ensuring the architect or homeowner is front-and-centre, and how this narrative-driven approach has been key to the success of their well-known project films.Why Aidan believes architectural print is far from dead, and the thinking behind the launch of a magazine that has the qualities of a book, designed to be kept and displayed.What’s next for The Local Project, and why Aidan is excited about the potential for new forms of educational content that teaches the public about the thinking behind great architecture.If you'd like to learn more about the publication, you can visit thelocalproject.com.au or follow them on Instagram at @thelocalproject.Office Talk is hosted by Dave Sharp of Office D.SHARP, a strategic marketing and brand definition practice for architecture. We work collaboratively with clients across the globe. To learn more about our process and book a consultation, simply visit officedavesharp.com.Today's episode of Office Talk was edited and engineered by Anthony Richardson of Simple Dwelling Studio.

Anita Panov and Andrew Scott are the directors of Panov Scott, a Sydney-based practice known for their approach to ethical, sustainable and innovative architecture.In this episode, Anita, Andrew and Dave discussed:How crafting personalised books about each of their projects has allowed them to form deeper relationships with their clients, better communicate ideas and articulate their values.How being quiet on Instagram doesn’t translate to a quiet practice, and how they have spent the time off social media designing their business to suit their desired lifestyle.The importance of ensuring that the perception of the practice, and how you communicate and engage with the community, is authentic to the personality of the people within the practice.The evolution of architectural photography over their careers, and the photography trends from the early years of their practice they see re-appearing today.If you'd like to learn more about their studio, you can visit panovscott.com.au or follow them on Instagram at @panovscott.Office Talk is hosted by Dave Sharp of Office D.SHARP, a strategic marketing and brand definition practice for architecture. We work collaboratively with clients across the globe. To learn more about our process and book a consultation, simply visit officedavesharp.com.Today's episode of Office Talk was edited and engineered by Anthony Richardson of Simple Dwelling Studio.

Karen Alcock and Rachael McNally are from MA+Co, a 12-person Melbourne-based practice working on a mix of residential, multi-res and commercial projects.In this episode, Karen, Rachael and I discussed:How the studio has fostered strong long-term relationships with developers, and their insights on ways architects can play a bigger and more impactful role in the development team.Their approach to finding the balance between development budgets and the enjoyment of future occupants by concentrating on designing low-cost moments of joy into every space.They reflect on their recent rebrand, and discuss the benefits of a website that is highly curated, both in terms of the number of projects presented, and the short memorable messages shown to visitors.How the brand refresh allowed them to look inward, communicate what is important to them as a practice, and gain a professional external perspective on their values and strengths.A close look at their recent Mori House, focusing on how commissioning two photography sessions of the one project allowed them to capture the house in both a raw form, and then as a lived-in home.If you'd like to learn more about their studio, you can visit ma-co.au or follow them on Instagram at @ma_co.au.This episode of Office Talk is sponsored by Office D.SHARP, Welcome to Office D.SHARP, a strategic marketing and brand definition practice for architecture. Based in Perth, the practice works collaboratively with clients across the globe. To learn more about our process and book a consultation to discuss your practice, simply visit officedavesharp.com.Episode credits: Edited by Anthony Richardson of Simple Dwelling Studio. Engineered by James Ede of Be Heard. Cover illustration by Woshibai. Design by Studio Hi Ho.

Jemima Retallack and Mitchell Thompson are the directors of Retallack Thompson, a Sydney-based architecture practice seeking to create timeless and enduring architecture, interior and landscape design. In this episode, Jemima, Mitchell and Dave discussed:How to make the most of every project opportunity in the early years of practice, from realising that briefs and budgets will often expand and change from what clients present during the first meeting, to taking on smaller projects as a way to explore ideas, develop relationships or refine internal processes.Why Jemima and Mitchell believe that percentage-based fees can create an appearance of conflict of interest that can harm the architect-client relationship, impact the client experience and reduce potential referrals.The unexpected benefits of marketing to other architects; from valuable overflow referrals to collaborations with larger practices on public projects.What Jemima and Mitchell learned about achieving work-life balance from their experiences working in leading practices earlier in their careers, and how they have structured their practice to maximise both the quality of their work and the time they can spend with their kids.The negative influence Australia's real estate industry, with its emphasis on resale value, has had on the creative ambitions of residential clients. Jemima and Mitchell share how they encourage their clients to be brave with their homes, and worry less about future owners and more about their own enjoyment.If you'd like to learn more about Retallack Thompson, you can visit retallackthompson.com or follow them on Instagram at @retallackthompson. This episode of Office Talk is sponsored by Office D.SHARP, a practice providing specialised marketing consultancy and strategy tailored to meet the particular needs of architects. Based in Perth, the practice caters to a diverse range of clients around the world. Visit officedavesharp.com to learn more.If you have any marketing, strategy and brand questions you would like Dave and his guests to discuss in future episodes, you can send them to info@officedavesharp.com.

Jonathan Richards and Kirsten Stanisich are the directors of Richards Stanisich, a 20-person interior design and architecture practice based in Sydney.In this episode, Jonathan, Kirsten and Dave discussed:The journey of establishing the new Richards Stanisich brand after 15 years operating as SJB Interiors Sydney.The strategic challenge of designing a new brand that could convey a sense of experience, stability, maturity, and knowledge.The importance of a consistent and creative approach to project photography, emphasising depth, mood, and richness in their work.Their thoughts on fostering long-lasting client relationships, and the importance of repeat business and referral from existing clients.The evolving definition of luxury in the Australian residential market, focusing on uniqueness, longevity, and personalisation over extravagance.If you'd like to learn more about Richards Stanisich, you can visit their website at richardsstanisich.com.au or follow them on Instagram at @richards_stanisich. This episode of Office Talk is sponsored by Office D.SHARP, a practice providing specialised marketing consultancy and strategy tailored to meet the particular needs of architects. Visit officedavesharp.com to learn more.If you have any marketing, brand and business questions you would like Dave and his guests to discuss in future episodes, you can send them to info@officedavesharp.com.

Lauren Li is the director of Sisällä, a Melbourne-based interior design practice known for their colourful, playful and liveable approach to residential interiors. Lauren is also a design educator, running workshops, courses and an online community geared towards emerging interior designers. Lauren writes a monthly column for The Design Files, and has just released her first book, The New French Look, with Thames & Hudson.In this episode, Lauren and I discussed:Why Lauren believes having diverse revenue streams can make studios more resilient during slowdowns in the residential construction market, and a behind the scenes look at how she developed her different educational offers.Her journey as a design writer, from five posts a week in the early days of blogging to becoming a monthly columnist for The Design Files and writing a book—and how writing and putting ideas out there in public has helped Lauren to develop a unique point of view as a designer.Lauren's approach to making architectural photography more accessible and personal to the client, and balancing the trade-offs between images that resonate with potential clients, and carefully styled images that are more easily published in magazines.Why Lauren believes working with ultra design-savvy clients—although often the stated marketing goal for many architects and interior designers—can often make it harder for designers to take on the role of expert and educator in the design process.Why branding, getting published, putting your ideas out there and showing excitement and passion for the possibilities of a project can be crucial for building trust with new clients.Why developing a clear point of view as a designer and taking risks to challenge the status quo can help to attract like-minded clients and media exposure for small design studios.If you'd like to learn more about Sisällä, you can visit their website at sisalla.com.au, or follow them on Instagram at @sisalla_interior_design.Lauren's new book, The New French Look, is available on sale right now from online retailers, and your local independent book store.This episode of Office Talk is sponsored by Office D.SHARP, a practice providing specialised marketing consultancy and strategy tailored to meet the particular needs of architects. Visit officedavesharp.com to learn more.If you have any marketing, brand and business questions you would like me and my guests to discuss in future episodes, please send them to info@officedavesharp.com.

Nick James and Michael Roper are the directors of Architecture Architecture, a 9-person Melbourne-based practice working on a mix of residential, education and social housing projects. In this episode, Nick, Michael and Dave discussed:How the studio transitioned from the early days of word-of-mouth enquiries, where building trust and confidence was key, to attracting clients through their built work and how that has allowed them to concentrate their messaging on themes of physical and psychological comfort.Michael and Nick reflect on how a broader sense of uncertainty in society since the GFC may be leading people to seek out architecture like theirs that evokes feelings of warmth, safety, and comfort; while also bringing a bit of joy and experimentation through colour and form.The steps Michael and Nick took to move from private residential to education and social housing, from establishing systems and processes, building relationships, studying the market leaders and developing new ideas through teaching design studios.The importance of timesheets and carefully planned systems and processes; and how it's helped Michael and Nick to better understand the finances and resourcing around their projects, avoid micromanaging the team, and give their staff greater autonomy and enjoyment by streamlining their project admin.If you'd like to learn more about Architecture Architecture, you can visit architecturearchitecture.com.au or follow them on Instagram at @architecture_architecture.This episode was sponsored by Office D.SHARP, a practice providing specialised marketing consultancy and strategy tailored to meet the particular needs of architects. Visit officedavesharp.com to learn more, or email info@officedavesharp.com if you would like to get in touch to discuss your practice.

Hannah Tribe is the director of Tribe Studio Architects, a 20-year-old Sydney-based practice known for their playful and expressive approach to residential and community projects.In this episode, Hannah and I discussed:How she has designed her business to run efficiently and profitably, from a focus on gradual and sustainable growth to succession planning and delegation, and the hires she has made to help her focus her time on the studio's projects rather than administration.Hannah's insights into how residential clients experience the design journey, from their initial sense of overwhelm to their enjoyment of the design process as an act of self-expression of their personality and goals for their lives.Why Hannah believes that her studio doesn't have a house style, but instead a few key areas of interest that tie their projects together, and her thoughts on why some projects that embody these values tend to resonate more with potential clients than others.How Hannah has approached public speaking in front of audiences of non-architects, and how speaking has been a valuable opportunity for her to clarify her thinking, engage with peers, and get the general public excited by design and creativity.The difficulties small but experienced practices like Tribe face in winning government and public projects, despite their track records in other sectors, but how this is becoming easier as councils like the City of Sydney push for small practices to be included in public procurement processes.If you'd like to learn more about Tribe Studio, you can visit tribestudio.com.au. You can also follow the studio on Instagram @tribestudio_.Office Talk is hosted by Dave Sharp, M.Arch—an architectural marketing expert and the director of Office D.SHARP, a practice providing specialised consultancy, marketing and PR services tailored to meet the particular needs of architects. Working as a sole practitioner, Dave employs a collaborative, conversational approach to his work, fostering long-standing relationships that yield tangible results for clients.Visit officedavesharp.com to learn more, or email info@officedavesharp.com if you would like to get in touch.This episode was supported by our legendary sponsors. ArchiPro showcases the best and latest in the architecture and building industry, and connects people with trusted trade professionals and products to suit their needs. Visit ArchiPro.com.au to learn more.Mast Furniture is an established furniture design and manufacturing company based in Brisbane. In operation for 10+ years, Mast has built a national and international reputation for producing high quality, technically challenging furniture. Visit mastfurniture.com.au to learn more.