Thanks for the thoughtful question.
In my opinion, in a variety of ways, each generation of architects has a small group that pushes beyond traditional boundaries - but ultimately, for real estate, this path has always existed on the fringes, and I don't see that changing dramatically. It's a great fit for some, but not for most.
Architects have an inherently strong base and foundation to bridge into finance and development, but the skill set required for real estate development is vastly different from what's taught in architectural education. That gap - or fear of it - is one of the larger barriers.
From my experience, pursuing the development route can be incredibly rewarding - both personally and professionally. It's where many can have greatest long-term impact, because ultimately you have control over the outcome - something most architects rarely get to experience.
As for the broader economic landscape, I tend to zoom out. Real estate will continue to follow its traditional cycles of expansion and contraction. But within those cycles, there's always room for thoughtful design - and that's where the value is also created. I don't view it as a mainstream industry trend, but rather as a movement of sorts that will continue to thrive at the edges, and most importantly - gives personal freedom to the participant.
------------------------------
Anthony Morena
------------------------------
Original Message:
Sent: 11-07-2025 09:21 AM
From: Bryce Perez, Assoc. AIA
Subject: Architect As Developer - A Practice-Based Workshop
I'm interested in your perspective on the future of the architecture industry as the Architect-as-Developer role gains popularity among younger professionals. This new generation seems to value freedom from traditional developer pro-formas, prioritizing quality design as a better-though sometimes riskier-long-term investment instead of merely seeking a guaranteed ROI. With this shift, how do you foresee the economic landscape of real estate in the US evolving?
Ultimately, my goal is to own a develop-design firm, and this integrated project delivery method has strengthened my optimism for the future of architecture in the US. Could this approach be what the industry needs-or at least a crucial starting point-to raise US architectural standards to the level of other highly regarded nations that emphasize investments with significant human impact?
Thank you for posting on this topic, I look forward to engaging further in this discussion.
------------------------------
Bryce Perez Assoc. AIA
Mach Architecture PC
Buffalo NY
Original Message:
Sent: 11-05-2025 06:22 PM
From: Anthony Morena
Subject: Architect As Developer - A Practice-Based Workshop
Architect-as-Developer:
A Practice-Based Workshop on Design-Led Real Estate and Architectural Entrepreneurship
Across the profession, more architects are exploring how to bridge the gap between design and development - taking an architect-as-developer approach that unites creative vision, financial structure, and project execution within a single practice.
Through my own experience leading design-driven, architect-led real estate projects, I've developed a practice-based workshop focused on teaching how architects can structure development work responsibly, sustainably, and profitably - without losing design integrity.
This workshop explores:
- The Architect-as-Developer model and how it changes traditional practice
- Fundamentals of architectural finance and pro forma modeling
- How to identify and evaluate sites through a design-driven investment lens
- The architect's role in managing risk, capital, and construction
- Case studies in architectural entrepreneurship and small-scale urban development
The goal is to demystify real estate development for architects - showing how to translate design skills into viable, self-directed practice models that strengthen both creativity and financial stability.
This series is an educational, non-commercial initiative intended to share real-world lessons and foster professional dialogue around sustainable firm models.
If you're interested in this topic, feel free to connect with me here on the AIA Community Hub to continue the conversation.
-
Anthony Morena
Principal – Mortar Group
Architect-as-Developer | New York, NY
------------------------------
Anthony Morena
------------------------------