Why is YADA the coolest Architecture Event in the UK?! And Where Can I Get a Cheeky Beer?!

Good architecture events are not only about free drinks. At their best, they help architects, developers and built environment professionals understand each other properly. Stephen Drew speaks with the team behind YADA about networking, property development, young professionals, mentorship and why informal events can create useful conversations across the architecture and development world. The conversation covers: How YADA started and why it connects young architects and developers Why networking works better when it feels relaxed and useful What architects can learn from developers and property risk How events can support mentorship and broader commercial awareness Why showing up in person still matters for built environment careers Read the episode on Architecture Social: Why is YADA the coolest Architecture Event in the UK? ____ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to YADA and architecture networking 05:00 How YADA started and what the name means 10:00 Creating events that bring architects and developers together 15:00 Breaking the ice and making networking less awkward 20:00 Ben Richards joins the conversation 25:00 Mentorship, development and learning from real business experience 30:00 Architecture, development and the risks behind property projects 35:00 Seeing the fuller picture beyond the design conversation 40:00 Making better impressions without overthinking it 45:00 Showing up, meeting people and building useful relationships 50:00 Growing the developer audience and the future of YADA ____ Architecture Social Find more architecture career advice, practice insight and live roles at Architecture Social. Explore more conversations on the Architecture Social Podcast, browse free resources at Architecture Social Resources, or join the community at Architecture Social Club. ____ Affiliate learning partner We have partnered with ArchAdemia, an online learning platform built by architects, for architects. If you join through our link or use code ARCHSOCIAL10, Architecture Social may earn a commission. Use code ARCHSOCIAL10 for a discount on the annual membership.