By creating a work culture that supports the physical, emotional and social wellbeing of its staff, architects and designers will be better equipped to design environments that do the same for those affected by our work.
The Business of Architecture: It’s About People, is an introductory session that discusses the importance of work environment and culture and how it is critical in building a stronger team and architecture practice. The guest speakers will cover topics including behavioral assessments, promotion of individuality and psychological safety, wellness in the workplace, and strategic planning. Participants will consider how these topics can be used to foster a healthy firm culture.
In this session discussion, we will hear from members of Desmone, an Architecture and Interior Design firm operating since 1958 from Pittsburgh, PA, which evolved from a family-owned company to one with nearly 25% of its staff as owners/shareholders. Desmone strives to create a work environment that focuses on the wellbeing of its staff, and recently designed its own offices to be the first WELL Gold certified building in Western PA.
President Eric Booth, AIA, has held ownership with two different firms, and brings decades of experience with firm management and growth.
Director of Professional Services Travis Kreidler, AIA, has been with the firm since 2006 and in addition to managing the firm’s project work flow and delivery; he is intimately engaged in client relations, resource management and human resources and their impact on firm culture.
Interior Designer Ingrid Lamay brings the perspective of a team member that started her career as an intern with Desmone and has stayed with the firm full time. Her immediate positive contribution stems from the firm's efforts to foster development of team members allowing them to thrive and utilize their talent and skill.
EVENT LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
1. Attendees will learn about behavioral tools that can be used to hire the right staff and build a culture of understanding.
2. Attendees will consider how a company's work environment, policies, physical space, promotion of psychological safety, and recognition of individuality can create a strong team and healthy firm culture.
3. Attendees will observe how a company can use strategic planning as a tool to drive growth, foster engagement, and improve communication and participation amongst all staff members.
4. Attendees will engage in a round table discussion to share their thoughts and personal experiences and consider ways to apply session content in their architecture practice.
EVENT DATE: Thursday, October 6th, 2022
EVENT LOCATION: VOCON - 3142 Prospect Ave. Cleveland, Ohio
EVENT SCHEDULE:
5:00 pm | Doors Open, Check-In, Networking (light hors d'oeuvres, beer/wine)
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm | Guest Speakers (including Q&A)
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm | Networking / Round Table Discussion among members interested in staying.
EVENT TICKET PRICES:
$5 | AIA, AIA Assoc., NOMA, AIA Cleveland Allied Professional Members
$10 | Non-AIA Members
FREE | Students with valid student ID
GUEST SPEAKERS:
Eric Booth, AIA, NCARB
Ingrid LaMay
Travis Kreidler, AIA, NCARB, LEED GA