Architecture Without Ego: Lessons from Sonny Ward

As the principal architect and founder of June Street Architecture, Sonny’s journey is rooted in sharpening his instincts so clients can contain theirs —and do less. A bold thinker, his boutique firm - known for preservation work - has created some of L.A.'s coolest homes. Currently wrapping up a ten-year restoration of a Richard Neutra apartment complex, we learn from Sonny what constitutes a good living space. He shares how they started working out of a garage with a handful of employees and have grown to a medium-sized office of 20.Always entertaining and to the point, we touch on the history of some of L.A.'s most iconic neighborhoods and how Hancock Park may not be as authentic as you would think.A recurring theme in my own work, we also discuss the importance of building trust with clients so that the process can unfold more smoothly. Relevant to any service-based business, we explore JSA’s first project that led to a career of referrals, the benefits of "finding your lane," and the value of removing your ego. Sonny's ambitions extend beyond serving clients; he is also focused on identifying his own real estate investment opportunities. We hear about those, including the 40-acre farm and house he and his partner took on, and the fruits of his never-ending curiosity.I left this conversation with a better understanding not only of rehab work but also of myself—and I had a ball the whole way through!You’ll learn:- Sonny Ward’s Start: evolving from into a 20 person firm, and the importance of a solid foundation.- Experience Shapes Decisions and Trust: Experience refines decision-making, enhancing client’s and your ability to do what you do.- Pressure and Growth: Sonny discusses how pressure—and sports—play a significant role in both personal and professional growth- Lessons for Newcomers: Sonny a forever teacher, shares valuable lessons for those starting today, highlighting the importance of finding your niche, and embracing a curiosity-driven mindset.- Consistency and Uniqueness: Underrated and often misunderstood; it is vital for success. Sonny's commitment to his ongoing search for unique opportunities demonstrates this.Follow me on my Social media:💟Website: https://www.ariwintraub.com/💟Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AriWintraub💟Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/AriWintraubProperties 💟Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/all-things-real-estate-with-ari-wintraub/id1799328546You might also like:✅ https://youtu.be/_mwVMmZavxY✅ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wOIKN1HA0Sk✅ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nw0Dq6lCB8I🔰 My playlist : https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0IVJkkBL0GRnTsR2uLElHCba1tfvgnSf#AriWintraub #ATRE #SonnyWard @jsa.la @clw3sonny #ArchitecturePodcast #design #Architecture #HistoricPreservation #ResidentialArchitecture #LosAngelesRealEstate #DesignProcess #LongTermThinking #BuiltEnvironment