Chapter 2
The Not So "How To" of Becoming a Famous Architect.
What does becoming a famous architect mean nowadays? In today's interconnected world, the notion of fame has taken on new dimensions, transcending traditional boundaries and permeating various industries, including architecture. Aspiring architects often find themselves drawn to the allure of fame, inspired by the legacy of iconic figures like Frank Gehry, Zaha Hadid, and Renzo Piano. But what does it truly mean to become a famous architect in today's context?
Frank Lloyd Wright designed his first house at 22, Mies Van Der Rohe designed his first house at the age of 21, at the age of only 31 Rem Koolhas starts OMA and ends up designing some of the most renowned buildings in the world as well as has a Pritzker Prize. Frank Ghery, at the age of 28 designed his first residence and became one the world's most famous architects, as well as another holder of a Pritzker Prize. All of these designers had their claims to fame pretty young. At 26 I already feel like I’m past my architectural prime. Should I just retire? As anything in life, some things take a little extra work. It’s hard but anything worth it, is worth working hard for.
Gone are the days when fame in architecture was solely measured by the scale of one's projects or the number of awards collected. While high-profile commissions and accolades certainly contribute to an architect's visibility, the definition of fame in architecture has evolved to encompass a broader range of factors. Today, architects can achieve recognition through their innovative design solutions, thought leadership in sustainability, contributions to community development, or even their influence on architectural discourse through social media and digital platforms. That’s part of the reason I created this blog, I wanted a way to get my name out there. With technology and social media influencing being a big part of this generation why not hop on that train. This is a special niche, I’m not reviewing makeup products or doing clothing hauls. I’m talking about real life experiences in the field of architecture, but hey, it’s something. This isn't a “how to” on how to become a famous architect, because I certainly don’t know. But, like a profile on linked in, an architecture instagram, doing a competition, starting a blog, joining the AIA, all of these are a start.
In an increasingly competitive landscape, architects are realizing the importance of cultivating a distinct personal brand to stand out amidst the crowd. Building a personal brand involves more than just showcasing a portfolio of projects; it requires architects to articulate their unique design philosophy, values, and vision for the future of the built environment. But how do we do that? Especially as someone who is the low man on the totem at work. What is that one thing that will eventually set us apart?
Start with defining your unique identity. Determine a niche, what are your areas of expertise and specialization within architecture, whether it's sustainable design, historic preservation, urban planning, or innovative materials and technologies. Develop a compelling narrative that communicates your background, passion for architecture, and what sets you apart from others in the field. Highlight your unique experiences, projects, and design philosophy.
Every famous architect's journey begins with a spark of inspiration – a passion for design, a fascination with space and form, or a desire to shape the world around them. This initial spark ignites a lifelong commitment to the craft of architecture, driving individuals to explore, create, and innovate in pursuit of their vision. Creativity is the lifeblood of architecture, and famous architects are celebrated for their bold, visionary designs. Cultivating creativity requires constant curiosity, an openness to new ideas, and a willingness to push boundaries. Whether sketching concepts on paper, experimenting with digital modeling software, or exploring unconventional materials, architects must embrace creativity as a guiding force in their work, constantly seeking fresh perspectives and innovative solutions.
Find a way to showcase your work. Start an instagram page, over time you’ll gain followers, whether it’s 100 or 100,000 it’s an opportunity for others to see your work. Post your portfolio on LinkedIn. Your connections are most likely people related to your field, this could also turn into an opportunity to get a job and network. Create content and engage with your audience. Position yourself as an authority in your niche by sharing valuable insights, tips, and resources related to architecture and design. Write articles, give talks at industry events, participate in panel discussions, or contribute guest posts to architecture blogs or publications. Produce original content that showcases your expertise and perspective on relevant topics in architecture. This could include case studies, design tutorials, project walkthroughs, or discussions on emerging trends and technologies. Engage with your audience by responding to comments, messages, and inquiries promptly. Foster meaningful conversations, ask for feedback, and show appreciation for your followers' support. These are just the ingredients, it’s up to you and what you do with it to reach your desired end goal.
Building a personal brand in architecture requires a combination of self-awareness, creativity, and strategic communication. By defining your unique identity, showcasing your work, establishing thought leadership, engaging with your audience, and cultivating your network, you can create a compelling personal brand that sets you apart in the competitive field of architecture. Then, you'll be the one they study in architecture school.