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.
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Anthony Morena
Principal – Mortar Group
Architect-as-Developer | New York, NY
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Anthony Morena
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