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

Architecture Business Club - For Architects, Architectural Technologists, Surveyors & Designers

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 Introduction

01:28 Meet Joe Wright: Architect

04:45 Joe's Architectural Practice and Philosophy

07:45 Joe's Journey to Becoming an Architect

13:31 Starting a New Practice: Challenges and Strategies

17:29 Early Business Struggles and Client Relationships

25:36 Dealing with Difficult Clients

27:18 Learning to Trust Your Gut

29:43 The Impact of Bad Clients on Mental Health

31:07 The Importance of Client Collaboration

31:41 Business Development and Marketing Strategies

40:45 Networking: Overcoming Fear and Building Relationships

46:39 Favourite Travel Destinations

48:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Key Takeaways...

Facing Your Fears and Taking Action

You 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 Matters

At 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 Clients

Sometimes 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 website

Connect with Joe on LinkedIn

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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.