Archi-Tech Network

In this episode of the Archi-Tech Network Podcast, Oliver Thomas sits down with Jens Kaarsholm, Director, Industry and Market Development of Motif, to discuss his journey from working at Bjarke Ingels Group to building one of the most talked-about startups in the architecture technology space.After years working inside one of the world’s leading design practices, Jens reached a turning point that led him to step away from BIG and into the startup world. What followed was the launch of Motif, a company aiming to rethink how architects collaborate and work with building information.The conversation dives into the origins of the BIM 2.0 movement, sparked by an open letter that challenged the slow pace of development in traditional BIM software. Jens explains why the architecture industry is still reliant on tools that are decades old — and how Motif is building a next-generation platform designed around collaboration, transparency, and modern workflows.Oliver and Jens also explore what it takes to build a technology company inside the AEC industry, from assembling a team of industry veterans from Autodesk and Revit, to the challenges of developing entirely new infrastructure for design collaboration.If you care about the future of BIM, design technology, and the next wave of AEC software startups, this conversation is not to be missed.

In this episode of the ATN Podcast, Oliver Thomas is joined by Ian Keough, founder of Hypar, alongside Andrew Heumann, software engineer and creator of the Human plugin, to unpack what BIM 2.0 could look like — and how automation and AI are changing architectural design.Ian brings a rare dual background in architecture and software development, while Andrew’s career spans design, computation, and engineering. Together, they explore how Hypar was born out of real-world frustration with traditional tools, particularly during Ian’s time at WeWork, where scale, speed, and repetition exposed the limits of conventional BIM workflows.The conversation traces Hypar’s evolution from early concept to Hypar 2.0, focusing on a core philosophy: automate the boring and repetitive parts of design while keeping architects firmly in control. Rather than positioning AI as a replacement for designers, Ian and Andrew discuss how it can act as supportive infrastructure — enhancing flexibility, speed, and creative decision-making.We also dive into the realities of building architectural software:Why user experience is critical (and often overlooked)How feedback from real projects shapes the platformThe shift from consulting to product-led developmentAnd whether architecture is approaching its own “Canva moment”This episode is a must-watch for architects, computational designers, and anyone interested in the future of architectural technology, design automation, and AI-powered workflows.Andrew Heumann |   / andrew-heumann-13751414  Ian Keough |   / ian-keough-4b1ba91  Try Hypar | https://hypar.io/ATN HOST | Oliver Thomas |   / olly____t  ATN MASTERCLASS | https://archi-tech.network00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates01:30 Introduction to the ATN Podcast and Guests04:36 Backgrounds of Ian Keough & Andrew Heumann07:31 The WeWork Experience10:25 Founding Hypar13:36 The Evolution of Hypar16:31 Hypar 2.0 & Designer Control19:28 Technical & Business Evolution22:27 UX and Software Insights25:30 Automation vs Creativity28:32 Hypar Today: The Elevator Pitch37:09 Long-Term Vision40:01 The “Canva Moment” for Architecture43:41 Integrating AI into Design56:34 AI & Building Design Challenges01:00:17 From Consulting to Product01:07:20 What’s Next for HyparEnjoyed the video? Be sure to like, subscribe, and share for more insights into the intersection of the Metaverse and Architecture. Don't forget to hit the bell icon to stay updated on our latest content.Like our new wall art? check out our collaborator Zaglono here:Instagram:   / zaglono  Website: https://www.pared.art/artistas/zaglono/Join the conversation on our social media platforms:INSTAGRAM |   / architech.network  LINKEDIN |   / archi-tech-network  TIKTOK |   / architech.network  EVENTS | https://linktr.ee/architech_network#hypar #BIM2.0 #Architecture #AEC #ATN #AIinDesign #BIM #architechnetwork #architecture #podcast

In this episode, we talk with Paul O’Carroll, founder of Arcol, a startup on a mission to become the Figma of the AEC industry. Paul shares his journey from growing up in construction to leading a company redefining how architects, engineers, and contractors collaborate in the digital age.We unpack the vision behind BIM 2.0, exploring how Arcol is building a web-based design platform that connects feasibility, collaboration, and design freedom, all in one space. Paul also discusses the role of AI in shaping constructability and automation, and what it takes to build a startup in one of the world’s most complex industries.Tune in to discover how Arcol is reimagining the design process and what the future of BIM might look like.Paul O’Carroll | https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-o-ca...Try Arcol | https://www.arcol.io/Learn more ‪@ArcolTech‬ ATN HOST | Oliver Thomas | https://www.instagram.com/olly____t/ATN MASTERCLASS | https://archi-tech.network00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates01:44 Hello Paul04:50 The Journey to Archol: Background and Inspiration07:43 Understanding Archol: The Elevator Pitch10:37 Focus on Feasibility: Why Start Here?13:39 Balancing Freedom and Automation in Design16:29 Collaboration as a Core Value19:34 The Technology Behind Archol22:34 Target Audience and Adoption Trends25:32 Navigating the BIM 2.0 Landscape30:47 Navigating Competition and Value Creation32:54 Product Development and User-Centric Design34:44 The Move to New York and Accessing Talent37:15 AI Integration in AEC and Future Trends45:36 Entrepreneurial Journey and Fundraising Insights54:27 Future Developments and User EngagementEnjoyed the video? Be sure to like, subscribe, and share for more insights into the intersection of the Metaverse and Architecture. Don't forget to hit the bell icon to stay updated on our latest content.Like our new wall art? check out our collaborator Zaglono here:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zaglono/Website: https://www.pared.art/artistas/zaglono/Join the conversation on our social media platforms:INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/architech.n...LINKEDIN | https://www.linkedin.com/company/arch...TIKTOK | https://www.tiktok.com/@architech.net...EVENTS | https://linktr.ee/architech_network#Arcol #BIM2.0 #Architecture #AEC #ATN #AIinDesign #BIM #architechnetwork #architecture #podcast

In this episode, Oliver speaks with Rob Asher, Founder of Giraffe, about how technology, data, and AI are transforming architecture and urban planning.Giraffe is a mapping, modeling, and calculation tool designed for architects and developers. It integrates data layers, automates workflows, and supports smarter, faster design decisions. Rob shares his journey from architect to entrepreneur, the challenges of building a startup in the AEC sector, and his vision for a future powered by BIM 2.0, AI, and design automation.

📌 Topics covered:

• Why automation should handle the details in design
• How Giraffe integrates mapping, modeling & data for smarter urban planning
• The role of AI and computational design in architecture
• The marketplace potential of sharing design scripts
• Lessons learned building a proptech startup

🔔 Subscribe to Archi-Tech Network for more deep dives into architecture, design automation, and BIM 2.0.Rob Asher |   / rob-asher-2b343632  Try Giraffe | https://www.giraffe.build/ATN HOST | Oliver Thomas |   / olly____t  ATN MASTERCLASS | https://archi-tech.networkLike our new wall art? check out our collaborator Zaglono here:Instagram:   / zaglono  Website: https://www.pared.art/artistas/zaglono/00:00 Introduction01:40 Background04:34 The Journey to Giraffe07:32 Understanding Giraffe: The Tool for Architects13:37 The Role of Data in Urban Planning19:02 The Future of Design and Automation25:13 AI's Impact on Architecture31:17 Entrepreneurship and Lessons Learned37:10 The Vision for Giraffe43:23 Closing Thoughts and Future DirectionsEnjoyed the video? Be sure to like, subscribe, and share for more insights into the intersection of the Metaverse and Architecture. Don't forget to hit the bell icon to stay updated on our latest content.Join the conversation on our social media platforms:INSTAGRAM |   / architech.network  LINKEDIN |   / archi-tech-network  TIKTOK |   / architech.network  EVENTS | https://linktr.ee/architech_network#Snaptrude #BIM2.0 #Architecture #AEC #DesignTools #AIinDesign #BIM #ArchitectureTechnology #architecture #Podcast

In this episode, Oliver Thomas interviews Altaf Ganihar, founder and CEO of Snaptrude, to explore the BIM 2.0 revolution in the AEC industry. Discover how Snaptrude is rethinking early-stage design, enabling real-time collaboration in the cloud, and building a truly modern design stack for architects, engineers, and developers.

Altaf shares his journey from tech to AEC, the challenges of designing intuitive tools for complex workflows, and how AI can enhance—not replace—human creativity in architecture. The conversation also covers Snaptrude’s funding story and its vision for the future of design technology.Whether you're an architect, designer, engineer, or tech enthusiast, this conversation will give you insights into the future of AEC design tools and the movement toward a connected, collaborative, AI-enhanced design stack.Altaf Ganihar |   / altaf-ganihar-54512367  Snaptrude | https://www.snaptrude.com/ATN HOST | Oliver Thomas |   / olly____t  ATN MASTERCLASS | https://archi-tech.network

In this podcast episode, Oliver interviews Patrick Schumacher, principal of Zaha Hadid Architects, discussing his journey in architecture, the evolution of technology in design, and the emergence of parametricism as a significant architectural movement. Schumacher reflects on his early experiences with Zaha Hadid, the role of technology in their work, and the impact of economic factors on architectural trends. He also shares insights on the future of architecture with AI and the importance of the code team in their projects.In this conversation, Patrik Schumacher discusses the innovative research being conducted in urban development, particularly the integration of AI and technology in architecture. He emphasizes the democratization of design through these advancements, while also addressing the challenges and opportunities within the current business models of architecture practices. Schumacher explores the potential of blockchain in real estate and the transformative role of the metaverse in architectural design and interaction.Patrik Schumacher |   / patrik-schumacher-49a02515  Zaha Hadid Architects | https://www.zaha-hadid.com/ATN HOST | Oliver Thomas |   / olly____t  ATN MASTERCLASS | https://archi-tech.network

Enjoyed the video? Be sure to like, subscribe, and share for more insights into the intersection of the Metaverse and Architecture. Don't forget to hit the bell icon to stay updated on our latest content.Join the conversation on our social media platforms:INSTAGRAM |   / architech.network  LINKEDIN |   / archi-tech-network  TIKTOK |   / architech.network  EVENTS | https://linktr.ee/architech_network#architecture #parametricdesign #PatrikSchumacher #zahahadidarchitects #aiinarchitecture #metaverse #parametricism #FutureOfArchitecture #BIM #zahahadid

In this episode of the ATN Podcast, we sit down with Tyler Suomala founder of Growthitect, a platform dedicated to helping architects grow their businesses through proven sales and marketing strategies.Tyler shares actionable insights on how architects can land real clients, stand out in a competitive market, and build a thriving architecture practice. We dive deep into:

• How to attract and win the right clients
• Sales and marketing growth hacks tailored for architects
• The mindset shift from designer to business owner
• Common mistakes architects make when running their own practice
• How Growthitect is reshaping the way architects think about business development

Whether you're just starting your own firm or looking to scale up an existing practice, this episode is packed with practical tips and honest conversations about the business side of architecture.My 9 most controversial takes on the business of architecture in 2025:https://www.linkedin.com/posts/tylers...Tyler Suomala |   / tylersuomala  Join the newsletter and get the Top 5 growth hacks for firms: https://growthitect.com/joinGrowthitect podcast: https://podcast.growthitect.com/LinkedIn:   / tylersuomala  Instagram:   / growthitect_com  YouTube:    / @growthitect  ATN HOST | Oliver Thomas |   / olly____t  ATN MASTERCLASS | https://archi-tech.networkLike our new wall art? check out our collaborator Zaglono here:Instagram:   / zaglono  Website: https://www.pared.art/artistas/zaglono/
Enjoyed the video? Be sure to like, subscribe, and share for more insights into the intersection of the Metaverse and Architecture. Don't forget to hit the bell icon to stay updated on our latest content.Join the conversation on our social media platforms:INSTAGRAM |   / architech.network  LINKEDIN |   / archi-tech-network  TIKTOK |   / architech.network  EVENTS | https://linktr.ee/architech_network#growthitect #marketing #computationaldesign #aectech #startup #architect #architecturepractice

In this episode of the ATN Podcast, we continue our exploration of architect entrepreneurs by talking with Jesper and Pamela Wallgren, Co-Founders of Finch, an innovative AI-powered platform designed specifically for architects. Finch streamlines the design process, enabling architects to rapidly transform massing models into detailed, AI-generated floor plans using advanced computational design and AI.Jesper and Pamela share insights into the technology driving Finch, discuss their entrepreneurial journey of launching Finch while managing their own architecture firm, and reveal valuable lessons they've learned about growing a tech-driven startup within the architecture industry.Pamela Wallgren |   / pamela-nunez-wallgren-77475445  Jesper Wallgren |   / jesperwallgren  Finch | https://www.finch3d.com/ATN HOST | Oliver Thomas |   / olly____t  ATN MASTERCLASS | https://archi-tech.networkEnjoyed the video? Be sure to like, subscribe, and share for more insights into the intersection of the Metaverse and Architecture. Don't forget to hit the bell icon to stay updated on our latest content.Join the conversation on our social media platforms:INSTAGRAM |   / architech.network  LINKEDIN |   / archi-tech-network  TIKTOK |   / architech.network  EVENTS | https://linktr.ee/architech_network#finch #ai #computationaldesign #aectech #vc #startup #preoptech #archtech

In this video, we sit down with Dimitrie Stefanescu and Matteo Cominetti, the co-founders of Speckle, an open-source platform transforming data sharing and collaboration in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries. We discuss what Speckle doe enabling seamless interoperability and real-time sharing of 3D design and BIM data across tools like Rhino, Revit, and Grasshopper while breaking down traditional data silos. Dimitrie and Matteo share their journey of starting Speckle as architects, the challenges they faced, and how they successfully scaled the company to secure their recent Series A funding.

In this video, we sit down with Patric Hellermann, Founding Partner at Foundamental, a venture capital firm specializing in investments in the AEC-Tech sector. Join us as we break down what VC firms do, the types of businesses they seek to invest in, and expert tips on how to successfully raise capital from a VC investor.