We spend so much of our lives working, in my opinion you are far better off doing something you love even if it pays you less, as long as you can cover a reasonable cost of living.
30X40 Design Workshop how to attract client more into architectural buisness I’m just beginner been in Architect world for roughly 7years. But my prob is how to get expose and attract more client. So I don’t have to go everywhere to get client. Need ur advice
Here in Puerto Rico , it’s very different . An entry March graduate could earn between 8 to 10 usd per hour, 15 to20 if experienced unlicensed top. Not to mention other constraints . If you’re licensed the best is to practice on your own . Congratulations for your videos!! Keep it up!
awesome. first bonus check i ever received as an intern i went out and bought a leather chair...wasn't large enough to get an eames...but it remains one of my best investments...
Another quick topic to mention should be location. My first job at an architecture office happened to be in NYC and I started at 50,000/ year. You can average about 3,000 - 5,000/ year raises after that in the city. I was in a position that moved very quickly and by my 3rd year there I was making 80,000 based on my design skills/ qualifications. As Eric mentioned, you can move very quickly if you become an expert in a specific field or branch. Long story short, I soon moved out of the city and im working in an Architecture firm in upstate New York. After my 3 years of experience in the city, my starting salary is 55,000/ year, but im much happier. Location in an urban or rural setting has a very big impact on salary, but one of the biggest takeaways you learn...its not all about the money.
Hey, It sounds like you are doing good in the architectual business. I'm 14 and in my 3rd year of Highschool in a Caribbean country, planning to become an architect but i don't know how well i will succeed in this 3rd world country. Do you have any tips that could help me? #Sean O'Connell
@@tayshaungentle2871 i would say start networking if you haven't already. Whether it's in your country or another country. What are your goals? Do you want to stay where you're at or are you willing to relocate? Also, start researching schools. Doesn't have to be Yale or Harvard. You can go to a much more affordable university (speaking about US). I don't know too much about the Caribbean schools. But, if you are planning to come to the US, then you need to make sure your experience and credits will transfer to the US. I've known people who were educated in other countries only to have their classes not transfer because of the university they went to. That would be unfortunate. In the US if you really really really want to be an Architect you need to go to an accredited school that has the 5 year Bachelor of Architecture. I went to a 4 year University and have a Bachelor of Science in Architecture. That is a pre-professional degree and you'd have to have 2 years of a Masters to get accredited. That's called the 4+2 program. I'm fortunate though. When I graduated I am still able to get my license with the 4 year degree thankfully. It's on my to do list, but I'm in construction now.
@@hockley91 Thank you so much for the helpful tips. I will surely take them into consideration as i continue my studies. I just want to be successful in life doing something i like, Which would be in Architecture or Planning/ Designing houses. Have a nice day as you have already made mine.
@@hockley91 wow that's thst such a blessing, wishing the best to you! How come I hear architecture is at leeeaast 5 years? If a uni says 5 years, should I consider it would take 6 or 7 too? Without the Masters
@@mvp5332 Thanks for the comments! The 5 year degree is a Bachelor of Architecture. it's an accredited degree and will allow you to be licensed in all 50 states. Unless you have other things going on in your life it should take you five years. I have the four year pre-professional degree. That is a Bachelor of Science in Architecture. That is a four year degree. That will limit the choices I have to be licensed in certain states. However, I got my degree years ago and fortunately I am able to get licensed here in my State of Texas.
Too bad Hollywood, made the Architect life style is all about fancy car, clothes and everything. So I grew up thinking that how its going to be, went to college than got hit by reality so fast hahaha. However, if you have the passion at least you would be happy doing a good respectable creative job (not threaten by automation in the future), building lasting building, something great for the community. If the working life doesn't suit you, its easy to do a career shift because architecture college prepares you for a lot of things. Design, art, engineering, management, marketing, environmental, computer, even filming and animation. It's one of the hardest colleges, so it will make most of these things seems easier in terms of time and effort needs to put in them.
so true, our training prepares us for many different career paths...very few who attend architecture school actually go on to be licensed architects. I do believe we can change how we're compensated and I'm always experimenting in my practice with new ways to earn more...those fancy cars / clothes don't do well on job sites anyhow...
I actually liked your videos on having a Passive Income, it's really important to have it. It makes you flexible and more experienced. Even if the economy takes a hit, you wont suffer as much. We now suffer temporary in Egypt from this after the devaluation of our currency in half! So having a passive income online in dollars can become higher than our monthly salaries with the local currency.
@@HanaTNT Romans 8:17 and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him. ///// Build your house on the mountain that is Jesus Christ, money is fleeting.
I still remember when I was at the first year of the university, one of my professors told us that if we wanted to make a lot of money, don't be an architect lol
MissMiia also depends on what city you work at, I’m in arch school, but I was lucky enough to start designing coming out of highschool since I got associated with a construction company that would pass me any drawings and designs that they needed. So at a fairly young age I was getting known as a designer in Los Angeles. So that has helped me make some money to reinvest in equipment and employees.
I am about to start archi. college in less than 3 weeks in Germany, honestly i can't wait! Even though a lot of people said its not a great job since u need experience and so on. I wont give up. I would also like to thank you sir, for your wonderful videos. Keep being great, cheers to you all. God bless!
you're about to enter one of the most rewarding times of your life my friend...enjoy it...forget the naysayers. you'll find negative people in every profession, heads down and focus on making things and you'll do well...best to you in archi-school
So far, I have only come across this architecture vlogging/youtube channel that actually touch on real life of an architect. We are fed with so many wishywashy conceptual things and so many top architecture schools are full of imaginary things in which the students love to adore.
funny how disconnected the actual practice of a profession can be from the academic training we offer our students... thanks for sharing your thoughts...
As a high school student hoping to become an architect this helped me a lot in thinking of how to run and track my life and goals thank you for doing what you do and I am pleased to find your channel I hope to learn a lot more from you. Would you mind doing a videos on different school I. The Midwest that have good programs I’m still looking for schools and don’t know which ones are better than others
I'm an architect student in the U.K. and in my second year now- your advice and videos have tremendously helped ease me through the first year and I will continue to watch you until I finish my degree 😃 keep up the good work and thank you for your help!
$12 an hr “twenty years ago” from when this video was published would have been $18 an hr as of today 2019. Depending where he lived is also a factor, north eastern Kansas in some cities $18 hr is a good paying job.
My healthcare is great, $200 a month for my entire family with no deductible. I had to retire from the Army but worth it. The average income in scotland in 2017 was just under $30,000. The average income in the US was just over $55,000 in 2017. With the student debt comes an education that will usually provide a higher income. Unless you pick a degree that has no hope of paying off the debt it created. There are opportunities in the US that are easily attained through dedication and hard work. I have not looked into the opportunities in Scotland or how easy they are to obtain. Any insight?
The student debt is not bad, I study in Spain and here is "free" (actually 2500€ per year), what is the point, when I finish my studies I have no work here...... I would rather get a flexible debt and get payed 12$/h just after finishing college, instead of rotting in unemployment. Debt isn't bad per se. In fact, debt is good for a lot of bussiness. The only debt bad is the one you expend is useless things. Student debt is basically financial leverage. Is like get in a debt to buy a house that you will rent taking profit.
Another good video. I like to call myself "Self Unemployed"! :-) I have never practiced for the money. I have told my kids "If you are good at what you do, you will make money".. I liken my doing architecture to playing on a football team. All I want to do is play! I don't want to be the famous QB or running back who everyone knows and get the big bucks. They usually don't last that long. I want to be the 2nd string left tackle that gets to play in the league for 15 years. Why? Because I get to play for 15 years! I know you will understand. More common with creatives, "This is my life, this is not just a job". Keep up the good work. Maybe somewhere down the road we can do a hangout just to share battle scars. Have a relaxing weekend!
Great video! I've been a designer for 15 years and worked for myself for 9 years so far. I am not licensed but very experienced in many practices and technology, management, finance, marketing, etc so that has helped me to have the courage and freedom to pursue my own business. I have also diversified my services more recently to include photography, videography and aerial drone services to supplement income between the big jobs. The longer I do this the more I agree that earning passive income is the key to an enjoyable level of success without burning yourself out...unfortunately that phase of development is still in progress for me, so I continue to fight with selling my time, luckily my business is debt free and cash flows all expenses and purchases, plus my salary (this is the first year I have exceeded my income working for someone else as well). There's still room to grow, but I'm glad there are people like you out there inspiring me!
good on you my friend...sounds like you have a fantastic thing going. it's a struggle though, I'm right there with you. it's easy to fall into the consulting model (trading time for dollars) b/c it is lucrative...! keep at it and share what you're learning, I'm someone who doesn't believe this is a zero sum game...room for all us to do well for ourselves and our families...cheers...!
It's actually really good if you have "people oriented spirits" like a doctor. Because it is the only way you can really enjoy it beside how much you earning every month *sorry for bad english*
Wow! That sounds AMAZING! I'm 14 and I am very interested in having property architecture as my main income and to develop/flip/rent properties as an additional path of income to create finacial success - good on you my friend - keep up what you are doing, it sounds awesome! :)
Eric - Very inspired by your work. I worked as a management consultant for health tech companies for 7 years and still do it on the side, but have transitioned into a building career and found your channel looking for videos on how to draw floor plans. Currently apprenticing with a semi-retired builder here in Oakland, CA. I can attest that a bunch of money once your basic needs are met, does not buy more happiness and as you've alluded, keeping your expenses low is pretty much a superpower to having the freedom to do what you want as far as I'm concerned. I've sent this video to an architect friend of mine as a source of inspiration. Cheers.
I studying Environmental Science and Management in Australia. That and architecture were equally as interesting to me, and so I went with Enviro. But its missing the creativity that architecture has! You make architecture feel like more of an aspiration to me with every video of yours I watch! And you hit the nail on the head when you talk about what success is to you. Thanks for oyu great videos!
Im still young but I'm really hoping to be an architect some day and my brother is looking forward to real estate. I just dreamed of me having such a nice modern mansion and actually claiming its mine. I know this takes time but I started looking at houses to see designs and colors.
I think I found one of my new favorite channels. I'm about 80% I'm about to start school to become an architect...at age 27. I'm just curious on the necessity of gaining a master's degree in the field. How do you feel about this?
good for you my friend...a masters would certainly be req'd for any kind of teaching and would truncate the internship time before you could sit for your licensing exams (if you're headed in that direction)...
If you want to make the high end of the spectrum, become an expert in a building type, ideally one that will allow you to get great referrals... but also find one that you LOVE. If you're excited about the building type you'll excel. Find the right project type and go for it. The people at the top of the range are likely running large firms, or studios in a large firm or are subject matter experts... all of these roles will have you in a position to bring in accounts and profits. Be careful, being a great technical architect isn't even the end of the game... the rain makers get the big bucks, not the guy who does a really great door schedule, or flashing details... these are easy to find. What's hard is someone who can mix with high net worth prospects and bring in work are GOLDEN. Working for poor people doesn't pay well... find well healed people who will invest in their projects... preferably family businesses where the kids will take over from Mom and Dad... Debt free living is also key (thank you for saying this!), live below your means in good times as my first boss used to say "this profession goes up and down more than a toilet seat"... I've been through 4 major economic downturns (I'm almost 60) and survived every one of them. I'm part of a large firm, my billing rate is over $225/hr. BTW, $150/hr (your example) is what a Project Architect would bill out at. Sr. PA's $20 to $25 more...
@Rich 91 Yes... you just gotta know the salary you want to made, and don't budge. But there are countless hours spent on learning that i don't get paid for, but I have to know it, in order to have the job that I have.
Great video, man. I really appreciate your work. I really do. You rock!!! I particularly like the idea of revenue diversification. There are many students of architecture to whom this knowledge would be practical. Also, there are many teaching-architects who want to help students. Like - millions. Literally. Have you ever thought of contacting those teachers? The channel visit would flew as a rocket!!!!
Can't stress getting your license enough. It's night and day. I postponed it for 10 years after my IDP was complete. Makes a huge difference, not just in freedom to leave a job but also the respect you get within the community.
This is one of the reasons that I’m getting into the Architecture profession. Not the money, the fulfillment that I hope to find. Going back for masters in August! Thanks for this video.
I'd like to say that your channel is extremely motivational and I thank you for that. I'm a junior graphics designer and the fact I get to work from home and helping people achieve the designs they dream of makes me go to bed happy every night. Knowing I helped them achieve something makes me feel that sense of fulfillment. End of story, less expenses = happier life, don't be a slave to consumerism.
Excellent summation of the topic. I'm in the bottom 10% in terms of fee earning. But I am self-employed, work on average a three day week, have no debt., time to enjoy gardening, my relationships, and feel that I have found my niche in residential projects. If I wanted to earn even whatever it is that the middle 50% earn, I would have to commute for 4 hours to work a 5 day week and sit at a desk pushing a mouse around for most of the time.
Thank you so much for providing such great advice to everyone! I am a first-year Architecture student at Louisiana Tech University. Often, there are stereotypes of what architects are supposed to do after college, you have really helped me expand my options for what is to come of my career. I am declaring a minor in Business Leadership- my dream has always been to either open up my own firm or to be self-employed, your experience and advice is really inspiring. Thank you so much for providing these amazing videos and helping me to keep pushing through, even when things become tough! Have a great day. Best Regards, Katelyn Reynolds
I am an architecture student that has been struggling to finish my education for a while, and even though I haven't graduated, I feel a lot more satisfaction with the design work I do as a freelancer than university. I don't know if this is what it was like for you but the hours on my course are crazy to the point where people sleep on tables in the studio. And I find that workload to be completely unsustainable. So my question is with running your own practice, do you end up with insane workloads or are they more manageable?
time management is something to get a handle on as soon as you possibly can...there are (and always will be) people who are just bad at this. I pulled very few all-nighters in school and not a single one since graduating. work-life balance is really important to me (recall my definition of success) and so I make it a priority to accept only the amount of work I need and spend time making things (products, etc.) that scale my time so I can earn while I'm away from the studio (with family, on vacation, etc.) have you seen this video i made earlier this summer? th-cam.com/video/cJ4pQP_HcMI/w-d-xo.html
Fab content - currently binge listening while working remotely. Some great advise and fantastic detail in all topics. For someone very interested in architecture but went down the technology route these videos are very insightful. Thank you
Personally Thanks a lot... I consider it a great advice... I'm not architect... I am software designer. Sometimes used to watch your videos in free time. The way you compiled it is also amazing. Once again thanks :)
I have never gone to drawing classes but I always wanted to be an architect. I know 3 point and 1 point perspective, learnt it by myself. But, what kind of knowledge should I already have before applying for a school? Will they teach me everything? Like, those sketches, model making, I mean, I would over time develop my own nuances, but I'm a bit intimidated. After I finish school, how do I find a job? Is it like voluntary internship and what would I do there? I have so many questions and no one to ask. Please answer, I just started my senior year nad am freaking out
interesting...i was in a position very similar to you in high school. i thought architects simply drew floor plans and built models all day (which is what I loved and wanted to do). There's lots more to the profession. There's a ton of video content on this site for you to dig into, the playlists section on the channel page is a good starting point like this: th-cam.com/play/PLuJj3iQpiK3uPL5PaDjPUS3vQbS2UtHC0.html or this one: th-cam.com/play/PLuJj3iQpiK3uQWo4UldSFyyAeEmlKu1Rx.html Explore lots of options, not only architecture. School will teach you what you the basics, but it's good to have some knowledge of drawing and sketching before going (and you need a portfolio). I have model building tutorials here: th-cam.com/play/PLuJj3iQpiK3s5wayt-o5FplJKSp9pwOfC.html and you'll no doubt figure some of this out on your own. Research the career path online, check NCARB for more info. It basically goes school>internship>licensure Be sure to subscribe for weekly videos...lots to learn here...!
I’m 11 almost 12 and when I grow up I want to be ether a judge or a architect so far architecture has more thoughts than judge cuz being a judge isn’t safe cuz if u give someone a life sentence u don’t think there homies will be mad so be expecting a new architect in a few years
Dose of reality. People are paid what they "deserve". That means that, no matter the profession, you have to create something worth selling. Motivation, creativity, ability to negotiate and work with people are the most important factors. The reason actresses in Hollywood make less than men is that they are not in as much demand as primary characters, and they aren't aggressive enough in negotiations. Be a go-getter, more talented than the other guy or gal and be tough. That's how you make more money. In my opinion we need a decent minimum wage for people who are not trained , motivated, or intelligent. That's the reality of the situation.
Amazing video and insights.! I am a young graduate architect from Nigeria. Been rummaging on some of the questions you answered in this video for a while now (working on my own, billing clients et al) and I'm so glad your answers gave me clarity. thank you!
Sad that Architect/designer salary hasn't changed in the 25 years I have been involved in the industry. Salary for designers hasn't changed in the past 15 years since I switch full time careers. Someone in the chain from design to build is making more money, architects/designers were too hungry to fight for more pay and got beat down by the builders/developers like all the other trades.
Soo.... It sounds like I Made the right decision to take civil engineering instead of architecture? My dream is still the same thoo, having my own architectural, structure, design interior company
Hi, I'm sorry I didn't understand the method of "making your own products" in the "diversify your income" section. Do you mean making a business by manufacturing materials or details, because it is hard to imagine an architect dealing with that since architects are not engineers. I have just started my Bachelor degree for Architecture, so I don't know much about it. But as an architecture student I am curious whether an architect could make his own products. Could you please explain this concept? Btw, I find your videos very beneficial and motivating:)
I talk about this in my books in detail (thirtybyforty.com/books), but the concept is this: convert the services and advice of an architect into a product. One thing I do is repurpose my designs and sell them on my website. This allows one design to generate revenues over and over again. Other ideas you can find are: Tom Kundig's line of hardware ( www.12thavenueiron.com/collections/olson-kundig-tom-kundig-collection ) or Marmol Radziner's jewelry line: ( www.marmolradzinerjewelry.com/ ) or prefab people like Res4...and on and on...hope that helps!
Cheers Eric another great insightful video and one of the biggest talking points at University. Surprising how many people think that they will be earning millions as an Architect. For me its about the passion of design and physically crafting the world around us; adapting and changing the life of strangers and communities- money doesn't even factor into my success equation. Always an inspiration and looking forward to the next video!
now that's spoken like a true architect. keep - and spread - this attitude every chance you get...we need more of it in the world... thanks for your continued support my friend...appreciate it...
Your videos are so inspiring. Am I an Architect as well and I want to start working for myself. I think theses videos are going to help me a lot. Thank you so much. Cheers
Dude! Fellow self-employed "architect" here (unlicensed but thriving under another's wings). Thanks for the awesome vids and inspiration. You're a smart m-Fer! Also, I LOVE the pace and diction of your videos. Reality tends to move too slowly for me most of the time. Lets get efficient and effective! Godspeed
This is 100% great advice on budgeting and managing your financial life. As he notes, you have to like the analytical part of being an architect, the people making really big incomes are developers, there are no country clubs or yacht harbors full of rich architects. If you want the official, legal title “Architect “ registration is the first thing to do after school, no excuses.
Eric, Thank you for your videos. I am a 24 y.o. designer. I have found myself in a rather difficult place where I have graduated with an unaccredited architecture degree, found a good job, but have found it unfulfilling to work for a large firm. I want to start my own residential firm, but I have neither the license (not needed but desired) or the ideal know-how to practice architecture independently. I've "designed" several homes and shops before, but it's usually been with the crutch of a pre-engineered metal building, and my responsibility was basically to draft a plan within a shell. I would like to start a business where I manage and design the project and would do it tomorrow if the opportunity were there practically. At what point were you able to say to yourself, "I am comfortable with my knowledge of construction details, making structural choices and taking on the liability that comes with designing a residence."? Thanks in advance.
Thank you very much for your video. I am both an architectural and mechanical drafter and I want to push my career further, I have a passion for architecture, what are the best steps to take in order to get licensed? It’s difficult to work for yourself when you don’t have a license especially in states where a license is required because the building department requires a stamped drawing either by an architect or an engineer. You are 100 percent correct when you said that success is not just having a lot of money, it’s the happiness you achieved along with the skills and education you gain through experience, you have to have a passion for architecture, not just the money, it’s like music, if you don’t have the passion for it you will not produce hits because it’s not in you, I hope what I said make sense. One more, can you please tell me what architectural books I could red to gain more knowledge? I use Revit software which is very good and is very user friendly. Thank you
Thank you for all the great content, your videos truly are the greatest help. I know that its not relevant to you, but maybe using a range of currencies in different locations would help. I stay in south Africa and the local currency is weak compared to the US dollar but it would be interesting to hear your take on the matter globally. As well as what can an up and coming architect do to get their name out there. A video discussing how you made your name and what any new architect can do to grow within the industry. But absolutely great content, please keep it up 👍🏻👌🏻
thanks my friend...I do love the idea of currency arbitrage in a global market, that could do magical things for you esp. if you're earning US dollars and trading them in for South African rands(?), an amazingly high standard of living there I would imagine ...running this YT channel has really opened my eyes to what a globally connected world we live in for sure... branding discussions are always interesting indeed...I'll see what I can muster...I have more ideas than time!
Thanks for the video! I'm on my second year studying architecture in the Philippines. Do you think opportunities there at your country would be to my advantage?
not entirely sure how to answer that...I apologize...there's a lot of opportunity here but you should verify whether the training you're receiving in the Philippines will transfer here to the US, it doesn't always correlate.
This talk moves me beyond hope and into possibilities, targeted goals and working methods as I graduated with an MA yrs ago but was 'leveraged' by debts for a long time. Yes,I can do this!
Hi. Thanks for the highly informative videos! Wanted to know what architectural apps you use on your iPad that can be best integrated with archicad/autocad and best for sketching purposes.
i've really just chose architecture because i wanted to do something i can enjoy and to have the chance to go to work everyday knowing that i will have a new experience trying new things , i'm graduating university this year and i'm facing alot of problems , i'm not very interested in money but i feel like i couldn't find my self yet , not my designing style or my touch on peojects. I mostly work on projects just to pass or something like that , at the end it wasn't the experience i was hoping for , but finding your channel really helped me to be able to dream again and despite the fact that i'll graduate soon i will try to continue my master degree and try to find myself again because succeed for me is to be able to love what i'm doing and make people love it as well !
Hello Eric, I find your videos to be inspirational and educational, especially this one about an architect's typical income as well as your videos on model making, which seems to be your passion. To be honest, your sketch models look as good as presentation models. I am currently struggling with trying to complete and repair an architectural model I made in undergrad but cutting acrylic with an OLFA utility knife I find more difficult now than back then when I was in my 20's, more than 25 years ago. I still have not gotten my Masters in Architecture degree but have been pre-accepted into a program on West Coast of the States. I plan to start it in 4 years after I complete my current Masters of Divinity program. Praying to Jesus for you and your family. Please pray for me and my family. God bless, Albert.
I have been doing design/build work for many years. I want to congratulate you on a well made video. You may have taken some of the romance of the profession for the up and coming newbees, but, you provided a good dosis of reality!
Very valid and useful information. I am planning on getting licensed and I am excited for the opportunity to move into that light. I feel as if when I watch the videos that it is an extended architectural education. Keep going!!!! Much appreciated.
Wow, I have to say you are sharing a wealth of knowledge with your videos! I stumbled upon your channel by chance and have been extremely impressed! You are putting out some very professional and thoughtful content. You will be very successful on the TH-cam platform! Cheers and thanks for the free knowledge you are sharing!
Good to see the drone pop up again. I purchased the same one for my design firm and I've been practicing with it. It takes great video and I'm excited to get licensed so I can start using it to document my projects. Have you found any other uses for it i.e. you talk about other avenues of income. Inspections, documentation of other projects, etc? Also interested if you have found any helpful apps to put the drone to good architectural use.
I've been using it for site recon, construction progress photos and roof inspections quite a bit lately...much easier than climbing on ladders and scaffolding and the high quality photos/videos are good 'instruments of service'. drone deploy is the only 3rd party mapping app I use at this point...it's a fantastic. lots of up sell opportunities with it locally...real estate, potential clients looking at land, photography of boats/yachts...
Let's start defining what means being an architect in US...in the rest of the world the offices, studios, ateliers, etc only you have two types of architects... the ones whom design and the other ones working in production until you get enough experience to design. here in US it looks like credits for a movie...you have the principal (one of the owner) sometimes he is good in business but zero skills for design then Project designer, project manager, project architect all of them with all the numbers (I, II, III, etc), Technicians , the old guy sketching details and so on....so in a big firm with 300 "architects" really you have less than 5% of them designing building... the rest is part of the bureaucracy and the excuse to bill big clients hourly.
indeed...I decided long ago I didn't want to work in a factory...have you seen this video: th-cam.com/video/nLUU6wcA3qE/w-d-xo.html it confirms precisely what you're discussing and it's why i left 'traditional' practice.
Great video...I don't get it when somebody decides " I'm want to be an architect" then they are behind a desk and far away from creating things.... ...you work when you are watching a movie and even sleeping sometimes...some part of you brain is always trying to find the best solution and it is not 8 to 5 job (Monday to Friday.) for sure.
totally agree. It's a 24 Hs job! I learned the hard way that when I have the holidays of the end of the year, 3 months without doing anything, then I have a hard brain like before starting the race! an architect is (should) thinking / creating / investigating / drawing permanently.
I can't stop watching your videos. I'm almost 30 but I've wanted to be an architect since I was a kid. Your advice and ideas are helping to shape my vision and I can't wait to check back in when I've finally reached my personal level of success.
Just after watching a few videos of yours... as an aspiring architecture student, I can say you’re one hell of a knowledgeable man, great resource for architects in general, and extremely inspiring with your organization and communication skills!! Thank you ! Please keep doing what you’re doing.
Wow! great video. had read 4hww in 2014 from the hand of a Microsoft programmer who became digital nomad, come on, the typical story (of our times) of the employee who earns 5000 dollars a month, gets tired of his work, disclaimer and becomes an online reference of his sector, owns their time, earns more than as an employee and all this without touching his savings (which has invested in index funds that will pay their retirement). the American dream of the 21st century. At that time I was finishing my 1st year of architecture, with 24 years. At last I had found the profession with which I felt identified and how to contribute to the world and felt that I had shit. was sure that there would be no way to productivize something as complex and personalized as architecture. Finding this channel was a great, great relief. we should not always wait to 'see' or be told that something can be done, but sometimes we simply need it. Now I'm thinking HOW I can do it. sometimes I become obsessed with my brand, a name or an identity instead of staying focused 24/7 on getting the degree! I do not know if I think the product or the brand first. I do not know if I bet hard to receive myself quickly and then create passive income, or try to do what I can as I can while completing the race, in 10 years (yes, bad idea 'choosing' most expensive and hard career having to work meantime haha) Or maybe stop thinking about all this and just do things that I like (draw, experiment with materials, design interior of stores, decoration items, etc. etc.), try, experiment, and let the product appear 'alone'. At this stage I am now. I hope to leave soon. your idea of packaging the design of a house and selling it is incredible! I blew my head. I hope you are having good results.
+Mauro Cerino...I like the last option best: stop thinking and experiment...that's what I've done and not only has it made life more interesting and fun, but it's always worked out. we're only at the beginning of what's possible using these digital mediums...think how augmented reality is going to transform our profession...that's in its infancy right now. tim ferriss reframed the way i looked at traditional practice and the tired model of trading time for dollars and it's made all the difference in my life. if you haven't read my books they tell the story of all my (failed and successful) experiments: thirtybyforty.com/books
Hi Eric, it's me again .. I have long thought to buy your books! I gave up on doing so at the very beginning because of this "why advance so much, I haven't get my degree" but I see that you can't shut up the worries you carry within haha. I have downloaded the samples for Kindle, and I have read some pages of the first, but I would like to have them on paper. I'm already seeing how to get them. Because of the augmented reality I agree 100% with you. sure there are many niches without exploring there. For the rest, I'll start experimenting, I'm sure you did not create your website, books, etc. in a day, but it was the result of explorations and iterations .. I know that something good will come out of my work. thank you for your comments
Thank you for the added info and perspective...I'm about to graduate with my B. Env Design in a couple weeks, and this topic has been weighing heavily- as I am continuing on to grad school next semester for my D.Arch (another 3 years. ahhh!). I appreciate your insight and advice to strategizing/realizing what is most important. Keep the videos coming!!
Thank You so much for your Videos. I find them so inspirational and I share them with my friends when we need some motivation. I'm currently a first-year student in Architecture School in New Zealand and loving it. I definitely agree with your views on this matter and hope to be in your position one day. Thank you for the advice and sharing your knowledge and experience :) P.S. Your studio is STUNNING.
hey...kind words my friend...many thanks...so glad you found it helpful... wishing I was heading into spring like you lot in the southern hemisphere...instead I'm buckling down for winter! cheers...
Really great video! I've been looking around for answers to this question and I think this was the most sufficient answer I got. Thanks, and love your channel btw. Best of luck in the future!
My brother is an architect and I'm a real estate investor. One of the best team ups are why I made my brothers company worth millions. I give him lots of business for my commercial properties
Hello, I just applied to one of only two Architecture schools in MN. I must say watching this video added a realistic view to my expectations of earning potential after graduation. Thank you for giving us your honest point of view.
I want to be an architect when I grow up. I’m only 12 and all I want as an architect is enough to sustain a family and a home that can fit my family I want to have. When I search up on google the salary of an architect it says about 66,000 - 77,000 is that enough? It doesn’t seem like much, and I would like to gain at least 150k yearly. Anyone know any jobs that would pay this much?
i want to make a lot of money.... but, i don´t know, i don´t think i want to do anything else but being an architect. Im just in my first year, watching your videos makes me think the things better, about what a want to do, and what should I do to better guide my way. English it´s not my fisrt language but i think i understand enough hahaha. I say Hi from México
How exactly does salary work in the US? Whenever I watch videos and people mention salary they always seem to talk about the yearly gross income instead of the monthly income. So I assume that US employees are paid on a monthly basis, but is there a specific reason as to why you people use the yearly amount as the metric number for salary?
Hello I have no idea who you are but I’m a ten year old girl and I hope to be an architect. Please make a video of tips for young architects like me. Every time I look it up on TH-cam it gives me stupid movie trailers. Please help me explain to the younger community. This is something I am passionate about and I make models all the time. Please like.
Too many people on here bitching about not being a lot of money in architecture. If you suck and are lazy at it then don't blame others for your failures. I'm sick of the stigma attached to architects, if you don't strive to be the best in any field of work, you will struggle.
I believe that anyone watching your channel is a high achiever by default. I am reminded of a phrase that I loosely remember that goes something like this..."If your looking for a shortcut, or a better way to do it faster, ask a lazy person to do the job". Having said that, I think that all your videos demonstrate that someone is only worth what they are capable of delivering to someone else who is willing to pay for it.
hi +Kenneth Ostrom, you pose an interesting question esp. when I think about it relative to the TH-cam ecosystem. doing work that doesn't scale or have quantifiable ROI - making videos for example - still has value even though I'm not being compensated for producing it. I haven't found a way to evaluate it on a balance sheet, but I can convert the discounted (nearly a 100% discount!) value into meaningful revenue in other ways. interestingly, this means of thought applies to architecture and the services of the architect too, which has been devalued by a number of things as you know. This is why the notion of creating products and productized services is so appealing to me, the value exchange is explicit and transactional. thanks for making me think about this more deeply...cheers...
Maybe, doing a huge project like skyscrapers are making so much money i guess but only money is not a happiness, good wife as a good friend and meaningful people for us is important for living this sorrowful life is happy
I'M IN LOVE WITH THIS CHANNEL! Being young industrial/automotive designer living in a (smaller) corporate world, these invaluable advices really push me towards an independent and creative future. Thank you!
Hi Eric! I just came across your channel and am blown away by the quality and presentation of insight in each of your videos I've so far! I'm looking forward to watching all of your videos. Thank you for generously sharing your knowledge.
24k a year ??? LOOLL WTF what existence universe is that? I've won 0 € aahahahahahah :D I've worked for free 2 years, and some colleagues after started to win 500 Euros month....a joke! that's why I'm a photographer now and even so money is almost nonexistent but at least there are no schedules and bosses :d
Check out the book I mentioned that changed my approach to time, life and business: thirtybyforty.com/4hww
We spend so much of our lives working, in my opinion you are far better off doing something you love even if it pays you less, as long as you can cover a reasonable cost of living.
As my Dad always says, time is something you can't get back, money can be made but be happy making it!
30X40 Design Workshop what does annual salary mean?
30X40 Design Workshop how to attract client more into architectural buisness I’m just beginner been in Architect world for roughly 7years. But my prob is how to get expose and attract more client. So I don’t have to go everywhere to get client. Need ur advice
Here in Puerto Rico , it’s very different . An entry March graduate could earn between 8 to 10 usd per hour, 15 to20 if experienced unlicensed top. Not to mention other constraints . If you’re licensed the best is to practice on your own .
Congratulations for your videos!! Keep it up!
An architect in my town started from nothing 10 years ago and now has a private jet and offices all over.
LOL
Progress and determination
hmmm ... 10years live target... I was sure that just a legend.. but its evidence that really works! ;-D
It took me 10 years just to become an architect. *sigh*
🧢
Enough to buy an Eames lounge chair. That's all that matters.
I'm glad someone has their priorities in check. ;)
awesome. first bonus check i ever received as an intern i went out and bought a leather chair...wasn't large enough to get an eames...but it remains one of my best investments...
+1
Hi Eric, I have a question what really multivated you as a child to developed the love for Architecture?
Brenton Seriously why does every architect have that chair?
Another quick topic to mention should be location. My first job at an architecture office happened to be in NYC and I started at 50,000/ year. You can average about 3,000 - 5,000/ year raises after that in the city. I was in a position that moved very quickly and by my 3rd year there I was making 80,000 based on my design skills/ qualifications. As Eric mentioned, you can move very quickly if you become an expert in a specific field or branch. Long story short, I soon moved out of the city and im working in an Architecture firm in upstate New York. After my 3 years of experience in the city, my starting salary is 55,000/ year, but im much happier. Location in an urban or rural setting has a very big impact on salary, but one of the biggest takeaways you learn...its not all about the money.
Hey, It sounds like you are doing good in the architectual business. I'm 14 and in my 3rd year of Highschool in a Caribbean country, planning to become an architect but i don't know how well i will succeed in this 3rd world country. Do you have any tips that could help me? #Sean O'Connell
@@tayshaungentle2871 i would say start networking if you haven't already. Whether it's in your country or another country. What are your goals? Do you want to stay where you're at or are you willing to relocate? Also, start researching schools. Doesn't have to be Yale or Harvard. You can go to a much more affordable university (speaking about US). I don't know too much about the Caribbean schools. But, if you are planning to come to the US, then you need to make sure your experience and credits will transfer to the US. I've known people who were educated in other countries only to have their classes not transfer because of the university they went to. That would be unfortunate. In the US if you really really really want to be an Architect you need to go to an accredited school that has the 5 year Bachelor of Architecture. I went to a 4 year University and have a Bachelor of Science in Architecture. That is a pre-professional degree and you'd have to have 2 years of a Masters to get accredited. That's called the 4+2 program. I'm fortunate though. When I graduated I am still able to get my license with the 4 year degree thankfully. It's on my to do list, but I'm in construction now.
@@hockley91 Thank you so much for the helpful tips. I will surely take them into consideration as i continue my studies. I just want to be successful in life doing something i like, Which would be in Architecture or Planning/ Designing houses. Have a nice day as you have already made mine.
@@hockley91 wow that's thst such a blessing, wishing the best to you! How come I hear architecture is at leeeaast 5 years? If a uni says 5 years, should I consider it would take 6 or 7 too? Without the Masters
@@mvp5332 Thanks for the comments! The 5 year degree is a Bachelor of Architecture. it's an accredited degree and will allow you to be licensed in all 50 states. Unless you have other things going on in your life it should take you five years.
I have the four year pre-professional degree. That is a Bachelor of Science in Architecture. That is a four year degree. That will limit the choices I have to be licensed in certain states. However, I got my degree years ago and fortunately I am able to get licensed here in my State of Texas.
Too bad Hollywood, made the Architect life style is all about fancy car, clothes and everything. So I grew up thinking that how its going to be, went to college than got hit by reality so fast hahaha.
However, if you have the passion at least you would be happy doing a good respectable creative job (not threaten by automation in the future), building lasting building, something great for the community.
If the working life doesn't suit you, its easy to do a career shift because architecture college prepares you for a lot of things. Design, art, engineering, management, marketing, environmental, computer, even filming and animation. It's one of the hardest colleges, so it will make most of these things seems easier in terms of time and effort needs to put in them.
so true, our training prepares us for many different career paths...very few who attend architecture school actually go on to be licensed architects. I do believe we can change how we're compensated and I'm always experimenting in my practice with new ways to earn more...those fancy cars / clothes don't do well on job sites anyhow...
I actually liked your videos on having a Passive Income, it's really important to have it. It makes you flexible and more experienced. Even if the economy takes a hit, you wont suffer as much.
We now suffer temporary in Egypt from this after the devaluation of our currency in half! So having a passive income online in dollars can become higher than our monthly salaries with the local currency.
@@HanaTNT Romans 8:17
and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him. ///// Build your house on the mountain that is Jesus Christ, money is fleeting.
Why does it sounds to fun? Ahahah. Im so excited.
I still remember when I was at the first year of the university, one of my professors told us that if we wanted to make a lot of money, don't be an architect lol
Do u regret now?
@@winterwolf211 is it true that they don't make a lot money on average?
MissMiia also depends on what city you work at, I’m in arch school, but I was lucky enough to start designing coming out of highschool since I got associated with a construction company that would pass me any drawings and designs that they needed. So at a fairly young age I was getting known as a designer in Los Angeles. So that has helped me make some money to reinvest in equipment and employees.
@@mindhunter8772 but do architects earn rise avarage salary?
Seungbin Yoo why
I am about to start archi. college in less than 3 weeks in Germany, honestly i can't wait! Even though a lot of people said its not a great job since u need experience and so on. I wont give up.
I would also like to thank you sir, for your wonderful videos. Keep being great, cheers to you all. God bless!
you're about to enter one of the most rewarding times of your life my friend...enjoy it...forget the naysayers. you'll find negative people in every profession, heads down and focus on making things and you'll do well...best to you in archi-school
You'll feel like giving up a lot, trust me, but don't let it stop you!
Auch Deutsch :)
Astrojack hi I also wanna study archi in Germany so which is the best college in Germany for archi if u know ?
The amount of time you put into architecture will greatly exceed people studying other majors, I hope you can learn to truly enjoy the process.
So far, I have only come across this architecture vlogging/youtube channel that actually touch on real life of an architect. We are fed with so many wishywashy conceptual things and so many top architecture schools are full of imaginary things in which the students love to adore.
funny how disconnected the actual practice of a profession can be from the academic training we offer our students...
thanks for sharing your thoughts...
glad im not the only one, also wealth means much more than just monetary gains
As a high school student hoping to become an architect this helped me a lot in thinking of how to run and track my life and goals thank you for doing what you do and I am pleased to find your channel I hope to learn a lot more from you. Would you mind doing a videos on different school I. The Midwest that have good programs I’m still looking for schools and don’t know which ones are better than others
welcome +Sam Rp, glad to have you here...
Me toooi
@@30by40 i want to become an architect, in this year i am going to graduate from high school can you give some advice that can help me.
4 people who disliked this video must be your ex- girl friends.
^you win: best comment.
Looks like the other 60 that passed him up got hate too lol.
@@builderspluscustomhomesand2146 and the other 50 that passed chatting with him in the library and bar are also hating their mistake
I'm an architect student in the U.K. and in my second year now- your advice and videos have tremendously helped ease me through the first year and I will continue to watch you until I finish my degree 😃 keep up the good work and thank you for your help!
...and after your degree too...right? ;)
thanks for watching...
Of course!!! You are full of knowledge that I know will help me throughout my journey! 😃
second year architecr here too
Good luck
jinz0001 How is archi btw. I’m doing GCSEs atm and what did you take for Alevels 😊
$12 an hr “twenty years ago” from when this video was published would have been $18 an hr as of today 2019. Depending where he lived is also a factor, north eastern Kansas in some cities $18 hr is a good paying job.
The American student debt and healthcare bs makes me so glad to be Scottish.
Leon Lawson What do you mean? Is healthcare free is Scottland? Do you guys not have student debt?
@@RandomRandomyeah yeah healthcare is free and we dont have student debt, but our healthcare is craap
My healthcare is great, $200 a month for my entire family with no deductible. I had to retire from the Army but worth it. The average income in scotland in 2017 was just under $30,000. The average income in the US was just over $55,000 in 2017. With the student debt comes an education that will usually provide a higher income. Unless you pick a degree that has no hope of paying off the debt it created. There are opportunities in the US that are easily attained through dedication and hard work. I have not looked into the opportunities in Scotland or how easy they are to obtain. Any insight?
The student debt is not bad, I study in Spain and here is "free" (actually 2500€ per year), what is the point, when I finish my studies I have no work here...... I would rather get a flexible debt and get payed 12$/h just after finishing college, instead of rotting in unemployment.
Debt isn't bad per se. In fact, debt is good for a lot of bussiness. The only debt bad is the one you expend is useless things. Student debt is basically financial leverage. Is like get in a debt to buy a house that you will rent taking profit.
Another good video. I like to call myself "Self Unemployed"! :-) I have never practiced for the money. I have told my kids "If you are good at what you do, you will make money".. I liken my doing architecture to playing on a football team. All I want to do is play! I don't want to be the famous QB or running back who everyone knows and get the big bucks. They usually don't last that long. I want to be the 2nd string left tackle that gets to play in the league for 15 years. Why? Because I get to play for 15 years! I know you will understand. More common with creatives, "This is my life, this is not just a job". Keep up the good work. Maybe somewhere down the road we can do a hangout just to share battle scars. Have a relaxing weekend!
Tim...not surprisingly, I really like the way you think...
...would be great to do a hangout some time...
Great video! I've been a designer for 15 years and worked for myself for 9 years so far. I am not licensed but very experienced in many practices and technology, management, finance, marketing, etc so that has helped me to have the courage and freedom to pursue my own business. I have also diversified my services more recently to include photography, videography and aerial drone services to supplement income between the big jobs. The longer I do this the more I agree that earning passive income is the key to an enjoyable level of success without burning yourself out...unfortunately that phase of development is still in progress for me, so I continue to fight with selling my time, luckily my business is debt free and cash flows all expenses and purchases, plus my salary (this is the first year I have exceeded my income working for someone else as well). There's still room to grow, but I'm glad there are people like you out there inspiring me!
good on you my friend...sounds like you have a fantastic thing going. it's a struggle though, I'm right there with you. it's easy to fall into the consulting model (trading time for dollars) b/c it is lucrative...! keep at it and share what you're learning, I'm someone who doesn't believe this is a zero sum game...room for all us to do well for ourselves and our families...cheers...!
If I studying architecture ,is it a bad major？
meanpicke
It's actually really good if you have "people oriented spirits" like a doctor. Because it is the only way you can really enjoy it beside how much you earning every month *sorry for bad english*
Wow! That sounds AMAZING! I'm 14 and I am very interested in having property architecture as my main income and to develop/flip/rent properties as an additional path of income to create finacial success - good on you my friend - keep up what you are doing, it sounds awesome! :)
Eric - Very inspired by your work. I worked as a management consultant for health tech companies for 7 years and still do it on the side, but have transitioned into a building career and found your channel looking for videos on how to draw floor plans. Currently apprenticing with a semi-retired builder here in Oakland, CA. I can attest that a bunch of money once your basic needs are met, does not buy more happiness and as you've alluded, keeping your expenses low is pretty much a superpower to having the freedom to do what you want as far as I'm concerned. I've sent this video to an architect friend of mine as a source of inspiration. Cheers.
much respect...cheers...
You have one of the best channels I ever found on TH-cam...cheers buddy . A real professional role model.
Ruby t. Colleague architect
You are wonderful Saint. So precise, honest, blunt, and kind. Please keep spreading humanity.
God bless you..
Ansar Ali Khan.
Pakistan.
I studying Environmental Science and Management in Australia. That and architecture were equally as interesting to me, and so I went with Enviro. But its missing the creativity that architecture has! You make architecture feel like more of an aspiration to me with every video of yours I watch! And you hit the nail on the head when you talk about what success is to you.
Thanks for oyu great videos!
Not typically a video I would watch, but I ended up learning more about life than I have from most content on TH-cam. Thank you so much!
Im still young but I'm really hoping to be an architect some day and my brother is looking forward to real estate. I just dreamed of me having such a nice modern mansion and actually claiming its mine. I know this takes time but I started looking at houses to see designs and colors.
100% agree with getting licensed. Glad you emphasize it.
(happened accidentally lol) try pausing at 1:22, you will see a similarity except the eyes closed haha... - ps always love your content, Eric!.
Even after practicing for 30 years...16 years with my own firm. You gave me some real insight here.
Thank you!
I think I found one of my new favorite channels. I'm about 80% I'm about to start school to become an architect...at age 27. I'm just curious on the necessity of gaining a master's degree in the field. How do you feel about this?
good for you my friend...a masters would certainly be req'd for any kind of teaching and would truncate the internship time before you could sit for your licensing exams (if you're headed in that direction)...
Here in the netherlands you need a master degree to be an architect
How’s it going ? I’m in your boat just a few years later
If you want to make the high end of the spectrum, become an expert in a building type, ideally one that will allow you to get great referrals... but also find one that you LOVE. If you're excited about the building type you'll excel. Find the right project type and go for it. The people at the top of the range are likely running large firms, or studios in a large firm or are subject matter experts... all of these roles will have you in a position to bring in accounts and profits.
Be careful, being a great technical architect isn't even the end of the game... the rain makers get the big bucks, not the guy who does a really great door schedule, or flashing details... these are easy to find. What's hard is someone who can mix with high net worth prospects and bring in work are GOLDEN. Working for poor people doesn't pay well... find well healed people who will invest in their projects... preferably family businesses where the kids will take over from Mom and Dad...
Debt free living is also key (thank you for saying this!), live below your means in good times as my first boss used to say "this profession goes up and down more than a toilet seat"... I've been through 4 major economic downturns (I'm almost 60) and survived every one of them. I'm part of a large firm, my billing rate is over $225/hr. BTW, $150/hr (your example) is what a Project Architect would bill out at. Sr. PA's $20 to $25 more...
angurisloud
2013 after graduating, got offered a job in Manhattan for a whopping $12 per hour 😂😩 😭
@Rich 91 Yes... you just gotta know the salary you want to made, and don't budge. But there are countless hours spent on learning that i don't get paid for, but I have to know it, in order to have the job that I have.
I do not only study architecture but I study structure engineering too, because I want to be both Architect and Structural Engineer.
Great video, man. I really appreciate your work. I really do. You rock!!! I particularly like the idea of revenue diversification.
There are many students of architecture to whom this knowledge would be practical. Also, there are many teaching-architects who want to help students. Like - millions. Literally. Have you ever thought of contacting those teachers? The channel visit would flew as a rocket!!!!
kind words my friend...many thanks...
I admire and appreciate the real passion. This channel is really valuable. Keep it up. You have vievers in Poland. ---- Pozdrowienia z Polski
I am so glad that I found you're videos and started watching them. Your an inspirational dude.
appreciate it my friend...
Great tips man im just in high school but this really helps
Great content and inspiration. Thank you. GDS Architects.
Can't stress getting your license enough. It's night and day. I postponed it for 10 years after my IDP was complete. Makes a huge difference, not just in freedom to leave a job but also the respect you get within the community.
This is one of the reasons that I’m getting into the Architecture profession. Not the money, the fulfillment that I hope to find. Going back for masters in August! Thanks for this video.
hahahahahaha good luck mate. You're gonna need it.
I'd like to say that your channel is extremely motivational and I thank you for that. I'm a junior graphics designer and the fact I get to work from home and helping people achieve the designs they dream of makes me go to bed happy every night. Knowing I helped them achieve something makes me feel that sense of fulfillment. End of story, less expenses = happier life, don't be a slave to consumerism.
now I'm starting learning. I had lot of fear about this course and language 😢😢
fantastic...I think...?
Excellent summation of the topic. I'm in the bottom 10% in terms of fee earning. But I am self-employed, work on average a three day week, have no debt., time to enjoy gardening, my relationships, and feel that I have found my niche in residential projects. If I wanted to earn even whatever it is that the middle 50% earn, I would have to commute for 4 hours to work a 5 day week and sit at a desk pushing a mouse around for most of the time.
great video.. gave me a new perspective on what ive been doing.. something i hadnt realized.. awesome :)
Thank you so much for providing such great advice to everyone! I am a first-year Architecture student at Louisiana Tech University. Often, there are stereotypes of what architects are supposed to do after college, you have really helped me expand my options for what is to come of my career. I am declaring a minor in Business Leadership- my dream has always been to either open up my own firm or to be self-employed, your experience and advice is really inspiring. Thank you so much for providing these amazing videos and helping me to keep pushing through, even when things become tough! Have a great day.
Best Regards,
Katelyn Reynolds
thanks for your comment Katelyn...kind words are always nice to hear...
Im a young Quantity Surveyor and still find your channel extremly motivational and some what relevant to my provetion.
Keep it up, loving it!
I am an architecture student that has been struggling to finish my education for a while, and even though I haven't graduated, I feel a lot more satisfaction with the design work I do as a freelancer than university. I don't know if this is what it was like for you but the hours on my course are crazy to the point where people sleep on tables in the studio. And I find that workload to be completely unsustainable. So my question is with running your own practice, do you end up with insane workloads or are they more manageable?
time management is something to get a handle on as soon as you possibly can...there are (and always will be) people who are just bad at this. I pulled very few all-nighters in school and not a single one since graduating. work-life balance is really important to me (recall my definition of success) and so I make it a priority to accept only the amount of work I need and spend time making things (products, etc.) that scale my time so I can earn while I'm away from the studio (with family, on vacation, etc.)
have you seen this video i made earlier this summer? th-cam.com/video/cJ4pQP_HcMI/w-d-xo.html
Fab content - currently binge listening while working remotely.
Some great advise and fantastic detail in all topics. For someone very interested in architecture but went down the technology route these videos are very insightful.
Thank you
Personally Thanks a lot... I consider it a great advice... I'm not architect... I am software designer. Sometimes used to watch your videos in free time. The way you compiled it is also amazing.
Once again thanks :)
I have never gone to drawing classes but I always wanted to be an architect. I know 3 point and 1 point perspective, learnt it by myself. But, what kind of knowledge should I already have before applying for a school? Will they teach me everything? Like, those sketches, model making, I mean, I would over time develop my own nuances, but I'm a bit intimidated. After I finish school, how do I find a job? Is it like voluntary internship and what would I do there? I have so many questions and no one to ask. Please answer, I just started my senior year nad am freaking out
interesting...i was in a position very similar to you in high school. i thought architects simply drew floor plans and built models all day (which is what I loved and wanted to do). There's lots more to the profession. There's a ton of video content on this site for you to dig into, the playlists section on the channel page is a good starting point like this: th-cam.com/play/PLuJj3iQpiK3uPL5PaDjPUS3vQbS2UtHC0.html or this one: th-cam.com/play/PLuJj3iQpiK3uQWo4UldSFyyAeEmlKu1Rx.html
Explore lots of options, not only architecture. School will teach you what you the basics, but it's good to have some knowledge of drawing and sketching before going (and you need a portfolio). I have model building tutorials here: th-cam.com/play/PLuJj3iQpiK3s5wayt-o5FplJKSp9pwOfC.html and you'll no doubt figure some of this out on your own. Research the career path online, check NCARB for more info. It basically goes school>internship>licensure
Be sure to subscribe for weekly videos...lots to learn here...!
I do really want to be an architect, no matter what.. thanks for your advice, very inspiring
Same wish you the best of luck
I’m 11 almost 12 and when I grow up I want to be ether a judge or a architect so far architecture has more thoughts than judge cuz being a judge isn’t safe cuz if u give someone a life sentence u don’t think there homies will be mad so be expecting a new architect in a few years
Jesus Christ tries me, Architecture is a amazing job and career.
Dose of reality. People are paid what they "deserve". That means that, no matter the profession, you have to create something worth selling. Motivation, creativity, ability to negotiate and work with people are the most important factors. The reason actresses in Hollywood make less than men is that they are not in as much demand as primary characters, and they aren't aggressive enough in negotiations. Be a go-getter, more talented than the other guy or gal and be tough. That's how you make more money. In my opinion we need a decent minimum wage for people who are not trained , motivated, or intelligent. That's the reality of the situation.
Amazing video and insights.!
I am a young graduate architect from Nigeria. Been rummaging on some of the questions you answered in this video for a while now (working on my own, billing clients et al) and I'm so glad your answers gave me clarity.
thank you!
+1
Sad that Architect/designer salary hasn't changed in the 25 years I have been involved in the industry. Salary for designers hasn't changed in the past 15 years since I switch full time careers. Someone in the chain from design to build is making more money, architects/designers were too hungry to fight for more pay and got beat down by the builders/developers like all the other trades.
Soo.... It sounds like I Made the right decision to take civil engineering instead of architecture? My dream is still the same thoo, having my own architectural, structure, design interior company
aqsha izac omg same
Hi, I'm sorry I didn't understand the method of "making your own products" in the "diversify your income" section. Do you mean making a business by manufacturing materials or details, because it is hard to imagine an architect dealing with that since architects are not engineers. I have just started my Bachelor degree for Architecture, so I don't know much about it. But as an architecture student I am curious whether an architect could make his own products. Could you please explain this concept? Btw, I find your videos very beneficial and motivating:)
I talk about this in my books in detail (thirtybyforty.com/books), but the concept is this: convert the services and advice of an architect into a product. One thing I do is repurpose my designs and sell them on my website. This allows one design to generate revenues over and over again. Other ideas you can find are: Tom Kundig's line of hardware ( www.12thavenueiron.com/collections/olson-kundig-tom-kundig-collection ) or Marmol Radziner's jewelry line: ( www.marmolradzinerjewelry.com/ ) or prefab people like Res4...and on and on...hope that helps!
30X40 Design Workshop Thank you very much!
Cheers Eric another great insightful video and one of the biggest talking points at University. Surprising how many people think that they will be earning millions as an Architect. For me its about the passion of design and physically crafting the world around us; adapting and changing the life of strangers and communities- money doesn't even factor into my success equation. Always an inspiration and looking forward to the next video!
now that's spoken like a true architect. keep - and spread - this attitude every chance you get...we need more of it in the world...
thanks for your continued support my friend...appreciate it...
Your videos are so inspiring. Am I an Architect as well and I want to start working for myself. I think theses videos are going to help me a lot. Thank you so much. Cheers
Dude! Fellow self-employed "architect" here (unlicensed but thriving under another's wings). Thanks for the awesome vids and inspiration. You're a smart m-Fer! Also, I LOVE the pace and diction of your videos. Reality tends to move too slowly for me most of the time. Lets get efficient and effective! Godspeed
thanks for noticing...i set a goal in january to try and improve production value this year...
appreciate you watching and commenting!
\m/
This is 100% great advice on budgeting and managing your financial life. As he notes, you have to like the analytical part of being an architect, the people making really big incomes are developers, there are no country clubs or yacht harbors full of rich architects. If you want the official, legal title “Architect “ registration is the first thing to do after school, no excuses.
I've been in practice for 23 years this is really great stuff.
Eric, Thank you for your videos. I am a 24 y.o. designer. I have found myself in a rather difficult place where I have graduated with an unaccredited architecture degree, found a good job, but have found it unfulfilling to work for a large firm. I want to start my own residential firm, but I have neither the license (not needed but desired) or the ideal know-how to practice architecture independently. I've "designed" several homes and shops before, but it's usually been with the crutch of a pre-engineered metal building, and my responsibility was basically to draft a plan within a shell. I would like to start a business where I manage and design the project and would do it tomorrow if the opportunity were there practically. At what point were you able to say to yourself, "I am comfortable with my knowledge of construction details, making structural choices and taking on the liability that comes with designing a residence."? Thanks in advance.
Thank you very much for your video. I am both an architectural and mechanical drafter and I want to push my career further, I have a passion for architecture, what are the best steps to take in order to get licensed? It’s difficult to work for yourself when you don’t have a license especially in states where a license is required because the building department requires a stamped drawing either by an architect or an engineer. You are 100 percent correct when you said that success is not just having a lot of money, it’s the happiness you achieved along with the skills and education you gain through experience, you have to have a passion for architecture, not just the money, it’s like music, if you don’t have the passion for it you will not produce hits because it’s not in you, I hope what I said make sense. One more, can you please tell me what architectural books I could red to gain more knowledge? I use Revit software which is very good and is very user friendly. Thank you
Thank you for all the great content, your videos truly are the greatest help. I know that its not relevant to you, but maybe using a range of currencies in different locations would help. I stay in south Africa and the local currency is weak compared to the US dollar but it would be interesting to hear your take on the matter globally. As well as what can an up and coming architect do to get their name out there.
A video discussing how you made your name and what any new architect can do to grow within the industry.
But absolutely great content, please keep it up 👍🏻👌🏻
thanks my friend...I do love the idea of currency arbitrage in a global market, that could do magical things for you esp. if you're earning US dollars and trading them in for South African rands(?), an amazingly high standard of living there I would imagine
...running this YT channel has really opened my eyes to what a globally connected world we live in for sure...
branding discussions are always interesting indeed...I'll see what I can muster...I have more ideas than time!
Your channel is brilliant. Thanks so much for sharing your knwoledge. Greatings from Venezuela.
Thanks for the video! I'm on my second year studying architecture in the Philippines. Do you think opportunities there at your country would be to my advantage?
not entirely sure how to answer that...I apologize...there's a lot of opportunity here but you should verify whether the training you're receiving in the Philippines will transfer here to the US, it doesn't always correlate.
This talk moves me beyond hope and into possibilities, targeted goals and working methods as I graduated with an MA yrs ago but was 'leveraged' by debts for a long time. Yes,I can do this!
Hi. Thanks for the highly informative videos! Wanted to know what architectural apps you use on your iPad that can be best integrated with archicad/autocad and best for sketching purposes.
sorry rita, I don't use an ipad (anymore) too cumbersome...!
i've really just chose architecture because i wanted to do something i can enjoy and to have the chance to go to work everyday knowing that i will have a new experience trying new things , i'm graduating university this year and i'm facing alot of problems , i'm not very interested in money but i feel like i couldn't find my self yet , not my designing style or my touch on peojects. I mostly work on projects just to pass or something like that , at the end it wasn't the experience i was hoping for , but finding your channel really helped me to be able to dream again and despite the fact that i'll graduate soon i will try to continue my master degree and try to find myself again because succeed for me is to be able to love what i'm doing and make people love it as well !
Hello Eric, I find your videos to be inspirational and educational, especially this one about an architect's typical income as well as your videos on model making, which seems to be your passion. To be honest, your sketch models look as good as presentation models. I am currently struggling with trying to complete and repair an architectural model I made in undergrad but cutting acrylic with an OLFA utility knife I find more difficult now than back then when I was in my 20's, more than 25 years ago. I still have not gotten my Masters in Architecture degree but have been pre-accepted into a program on West Coast of the States. I plan to start it in 4 years after I complete my current Masters of Divinity program. Praying to Jesus for you and your family. Please pray for me and my family. God bless, Albert.
I have been doing design/build work for many years. I want to congratulate you on a well made video. You may have taken some of the romance of the profession for the up and coming newbees, but, you provided a good dosis of reality!
Very valid and useful information. I am planning on getting licensed and I am excited for the opportunity to move into that light. I feel as if when I watch the videos that it is an extended architectural education. Keep going!!!! Much appreciated.
respect my friend. good hearing the videos are resonating with you.
Wow, I have to say you are sharing a wealth of knowledge with your videos! I stumbled upon your channel by chance and have been extremely impressed! You are putting out some very professional and thoughtful content. You will be very successful on the TH-cam platform! Cheers and thanks for the free knowledge you are sharing!
"Freedom. Purpose. Relationships."
Eric, that's so simple and so hard to achieve these days.
Thank you for your footage!
It's great!
agreed...it takes consistent effort! i put these at the top of my weekly schedule as a reminder, it does help.
Good to see the drone pop up again. I purchased the same one for my design firm and I've been practicing with it. It takes great video and I'm excited to get licensed so I can start using it to document my projects. Have you found any other uses for it i.e. you talk about other avenues of income. Inspections, documentation of other projects, etc? Also interested if you have found any helpful apps to put the drone to good architectural use.
I've been using it for site recon, construction progress photos and roof inspections quite a bit lately...much easier than climbing on ladders and scaffolding and the high quality photos/videos are good 'instruments of service'. drone deploy is the only 3rd party mapping app I use at this point...it's a fantastic. lots of up sell opportunities with it locally...real estate, potential clients looking at land, photography of boats/yachts...
Let's start defining what means being an architect in US...in the rest of the world the offices, studios, ateliers, etc only you have two types of architects... the ones whom design and the other ones working in production until you get enough experience to design.
here in US it looks like credits for a movie...you have the principal (one of the owner) sometimes he is good in business but zero skills for design then Project designer, project manager, project architect all of them with all the numbers (I, II, III, etc), Technicians , the old guy sketching details and so on....so in a big firm with 300 "architects" really you have less than 5% of them designing building... the rest is part of the bureaucracy and the excuse to bill big clients hourly.
indeed...I decided long ago I didn't want to work in a factory...have you seen this video: th-cam.com/video/nLUU6wcA3qE/w-d-xo.html
it confirms precisely what you're discussing and it's why i left 'traditional' practice.
Great video...I don't get it when somebody decides " I'm want to be an architect" then they are behind a desk and far away from creating things.... ...you work when you are watching a movie and even sleeping sometimes...some part of you brain is always trying to find the best solution and it is not 8 to 5 job (Monday to Friday.) for sure.
totally agree. It's a 24 Hs job! I learned the hard way that when I have the holidays of the end of the year, 3 months without doing anything, then I have a hard brain like before starting the race! an architect is (should) thinking / creating / investigating / drawing permanently.
I can't stop watching your videos. I'm almost 30 but I've wanted to be an architect since I was a kid. Your advice and ideas are helping to shape my vision and I can't wait to check back in when I've finally reached my personal level of success.
best time to be and architect was the 1970s and 1980s, downhill since then my friend
How much Architect charges per square meter/ foot? on average.
Just after watching a few videos of yours... as an aspiring architecture student, I can say you’re one hell of a knowledgeable man, great resource for architects in general, and extremely inspiring with your organization and communication skills!! Thank you ! Please keep doing what you’re doing.
Wow! great video.
had read 4hww in 2014 from the hand of a Microsoft programmer who became digital nomad, come on, the typical story (of our times) of the employee who earns 5000 dollars a month, gets tired of his work, disclaimer and becomes an online reference of his sector, owns their time, earns more than as an employee and all this without touching his savings (which has invested in index funds that will pay their retirement). the American dream of the 21st century.
At that time I was finishing my 1st year of architecture, with 24 years. At last I had found the profession with which I felt identified and how to contribute to the world and felt that I had shit. was sure that there would be no way to productivize something as complex and personalized as architecture. Finding this channel was a great, great relief. we should not always wait to 'see' or be told that something can be done, but sometimes we simply need it. Now I'm thinking HOW I can do it. sometimes I become obsessed with my brand, a name or an identity instead of staying focused 24/7 on getting the degree! I do not know if I think the product or the brand first. I do not know if I bet hard to receive myself quickly and then create passive income, or try to do what I can as I can while completing the race, in 10 years (yes, bad idea 'choosing' most expensive and hard career having to work meantime haha)
Or maybe stop thinking about all this and just do things that I like (draw, experiment with materials, design interior of stores, decoration items, etc. etc.), try, experiment, and let the product appear 'alone'. At this stage I am now. I hope to leave soon.
your idea of packaging the design of a house and selling it is incredible! I blew my head. I hope you are having good results.
+Mauro Cerino...I like the last option best: stop thinking and experiment...that's what I've done and not only has it made life more interesting and fun, but it's always worked out. we're only at the beginning of what's possible using these digital mediums...think how augmented reality is going to transform our profession...that's in its infancy right now. tim ferriss reframed the way i looked at traditional practice and the tired model of trading time for dollars and it's made all the difference in my life. if you haven't read my books they tell the story of all my (failed and successful) experiments: thirtybyforty.com/books
Hi Eric, it's me again .. I have long thought to buy your books! I gave up on doing so at the very beginning because of this "why advance so much, I haven't get my degree" but I see that you can't shut up the worries you carry within haha. I have downloaded the samples for Kindle, and I have read some pages of the first, but I would like to have them on paper. I'm already seeing how to get them.
Because of the augmented reality I agree 100% with you. sure there are many niches without exploring there.
For the rest, I'll start experimenting, I'm sure you did not create your website, books, etc. in a day, but it was the result of explorations and iterations .. I know that something good will come out of my work.
thank you for your comments
Thank you for the added info and perspective...I'm about to graduate with my B. Env Design in a couple weeks, and this topic has been weighing heavily- as I am continuing on to grad school next semester for my D.Arch (another 3 years. ahhh!). I appreciate your insight and advice to strategizing/realizing what is most important. Keep the videos coming!!
Thank You so much for your Videos. I find them so inspirational and I share them with my friends when we need some motivation. I'm currently a first-year student in Architecture School in New Zealand and loving it. I definitely agree with your views on this matter and hope to be in your position one day. Thank you for the advice and sharing your knowledge and experience :)
P.S. Your studio is STUNNING.
hey...kind words my friend...many thanks...so glad you found it helpful...
wishing I was heading into spring like you lot in the southern hemisphere...instead I'm buckling down for winter! cheers...
why not making more videos
Really great video! I've been looking around for answers to this question and I think this was the most sufficient answer I got. Thanks, and love your channel btw. Best of luck in the future!
glad to help...thanks for being a part of the community here...cheers...
Go for IT guys an architect lots of competition this days
Super helpfull but im from the uk so half the stuff is different
I really love how your video focused on happiness and not money. Very well said! 😌
My brother is an architect and I'm a real estate investor. One of the best team ups are why I made my brothers company worth millions. I give him lots of business for my commercial properties
you are making videos i love to watch .. you help a lot .. thank you
|m|
Hello,
I just applied to one of only two Architecture schools in MN. I must say watching this video added a realistic view to my expectations of earning potential after graduation.
Thank you for giving us your honest point of view.
of course my friend...earnings are only limited by creativity...
When I was in college I interned for landscape architectural firm making only $7.50 an hour.
I want to be an architect when I grow up. I’m only 12 and all I want as an architect is enough to sustain a family and a home that can fit my family I want to have. When I search up on google the salary of an architect it says about 66,000 - 77,000 is that enough? It doesn’t seem like much, and I would like to gain at least 150k yearly. Anyone know any jobs that would pay this much?
i want to make a lot of money.... but, i don´t know, i don´t think i want to do anything else but being an architect.
Im just in my first year, watching your videos makes me think the things better, about what a want to do, and what should I do to better guide my way.
English it´s not my fisrt language but i think i understand enough hahaha. I say Hi from México
I am an architecture student in the fourth year. I want to work for free. I have another degree in management and economics. Is that possible?
How exactly does salary work in the US? Whenever I watch videos and people mention salary they always seem to talk about the yearly gross income instead of the monthly income. So I assume that US employees are paid on a monthly basis, but is there a specific reason as to why you people use the yearly amount as the metric number for salary?
Hello I have no idea who you are but I’m a ten year old girl and I hope to be an architect. Please make a video of tips for young architects like me. Every time I look it up on TH-cam it gives me stupid movie trailers. Please help me explain to the younger community. This is something I am passionate about and I make models all the time. Please like.
Too many people on here bitching about not being a lot of money in architecture. If you suck and are lazy at it then don't blame others for your failures. I'm sick of the stigma attached to architects, if you don't strive to be the best in any field of work, you will struggle.
hmm anyone want to make some money? im trying to build a house ..
I believe that anyone watching your channel is a high achiever by default. I am reminded of a phrase that I loosely remember that goes something like this..."If your looking for a shortcut, or a better way to do it faster, ask a lazy person to do the job". Having said that, I think that all your videos demonstrate that someone is only worth what they are capable of delivering to someone else who is willing to pay for it.
hi +Kenneth Ostrom, you pose an interesting question esp. when I think about it relative to the TH-cam ecosystem. doing work that doesn't scale or have quantifiable ROI - making videos for example - still has value even though I'm not being compensated for producing it. I haven't found a way to evaluate it on a balance sheet, but I can convert the discounted (nearly a 100% discount!) value into meaningful revenue in other ways. interestingly, this means of thought applies to architecture and the services of the architect too, which has been devalued by a number of things as you know. This is why the notion of creating products and productized services is so appealing to me, the value exchange is explicit and transactional.
thanks for making me think about this more deeply...cheers...
Maybe, doing a huge project like skyscrapers are making so much money i guess but only money is not a happiness, good wife as a good friend and meaningful people for us is important for living this sorrowful life is happy
I'M IN LOVE WITH THIS CHANNEL! Being young industrial/automotive designer living in a (smaller) corporate world, these invaluable advices really push me towards an independent and creative future. Thank you!
you're quite welcome...fascinating to hear who watches the vids...!
Hi Eric! I just came across your channel and am blown away by the quality and presentation of insight in each of your videos I've so far! I'm looking forward to watching all of your videos. Thank you for generously sharing your knowledge.
welcome to the channel...glad to have you here...!
24k a year ??? LOOLL WTF what existence universe is that?
I've won 0 € aahahahahahah :D I've worked for free 2 years, and some colleagues after started to win 500 Euros month....a joke! that's why I'm a photographer now and even so money is almost nonexistent but at least there are no schedules and bosses :d