Building Dreams: Joe Wright's Journey Through Architecture and Business | 079

Jon is joined by architect Joe Wright, who shares his journey from working in a large architecture firm to running his own small practice. Joe shares the challenges and rewards of this transition, including his changing approach to business and the importance of client collaboration. He also discusses personal anecdotes, his love for a local gospel choir, and the significance of sustainable design in his projects. The episode offers valuable insights for small firm founders aiming to build their dream business in architecture.Today's Guest...Joe Wright is a Chartered Architect who creates bespoke homes in London and West Sussex. His focus is on client collaboration and sustainable design. Joe has worked on around 10 projects a year for over a decade, from design to construction. Helping to turn his clients’ houses into fabulous homes. During that time, he’s also moved from Tottenham to the seaside town of Worthing in West Sussex. And oversaw building work on three projects on his own home. Asides from spending time with his architect wife, two sons and their mad cocker spaniel. Joe loves mountain biking, Arsenal football club, travel, and is a member of a local gospel choir.Episode Highlights...00:00 Introduction01:28 Meet Joe Wright: Architect04:45 Joe's Architectural Practice and Philosophy07:45 Joe's Journey to Becoming an Architect13:31 Starting a New Practice: Challenges and Strategies17:29 Early Business Struggles and Client Relationships25:36 Dealing with Difficult Clients27:18 Learning to Trust Your Gut29:43 The Impact of Bad Clients on Mental Health31:07 The Importance of Client Collaboration31:41 Business Development and Marketing Strategies40:45 Networking: Overcoming Fear and Building Relationships46:39 Favourite Travel Destinations48:48 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsKey Takeaways...Facing Your Fears and Taking ActionYou might feel scared to try something new — like getting into architecture, starting your own practice, or going to a networking event. But the longer you wait, the more chances you might miss. Taking action helps you learn as you go. You don’t need to have it all figured out — just get started, and deal with things as they come.Why Building Relationships MattersAt first, networking can feel awkward. But once you start meeting people, it gets easier — and it can really help your business. Talking to others, sharing stories, and asking for advice can lead to new ideas, referrals, and work. You don’t have to do it all alone — people want to help.Trusting Your Gut with ClientsSometimes you just know when a client doesn’t feel right. If you ignore that feeling, it can lead to stress, wasted time, and low energy. Be picky. Set clear rules from the start. When you work with good people, your projects go better and you feel happier too.Links Mentioned In The Episode...Visit Joe’s practice websiteConnect with Joe on LinkedIn—--Want to explore podcasting for your business?👉 Book a chat with Jon to explore working with him 📞Interested in joining our membership community?👉 Click here to JOIN THE WAITLIST 😀Resources…👉 Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁It’s the step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. Get it today (without any charge).👉 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.In The Next Episode...Next time, Jon is joined by Ray Brown to learn how you can dramatically improve your results as an architecture practice owner.