Practice Management Member Conversations

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  • 1.  arch firm ownership options

    Posted 04-04-2011 12:56 AM

    After 30 years managing a 20 person "C" corp architectural firm, I plan to reorganize as an LLC and rethink ownership and mangagement options.  To be competitive in the future, I believe the next generation of a small/medium design firm needs to be a truly new business model.  Everything is on the table and I am looking for any suggestions.  
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    Greg Allwine AIA
    Johnson Braund Design Group, Inc.
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  • 2.  RE:arch firm ownership options

    Posted 04-05-2011 09:06 AM


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    Thomas Roof AIA
    President
    TR,i Architects
    Saint Louis MO
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    I have recently undergone a similar transition; reorganized as an LLC and now offer Archiect led and managed design-build services (no self-performance contracting) on an open book; cost plus basis.  Starting with custom residential, light commercial and tenant finish work the results have been very postive thus far and have more than doubled the revenue typically associated with each project.  I spend less time solicitng work and more time implementing; which is much more enjoyable.

    I am inetersted in hearing feedback from others on this subject as well.






  • 3.  RE:arch firm ownership options

    Posted 04-05-2011 09:24 AM

    Smart minds think alike, or rethink alike. Rethink everything was my tagline at AYPC; a 30 year old firm that I founded with my partner and am now putting to sleep. I completely agree with the dawn of a new age and managing a medium to large firm is a difficult task at best. My new small LLC will be able to compete where my other firm could not and we are following the Hollywood Model. We are using small firms as our partners in graphics, design, production, etc. and our years of experience as the hook to new work. I am encouraged by the response so far.

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    Keith Youngquist AIA
    Dacre & Youngquist, LLC
    Chicago IL
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