Architecture Beyond

From Homes to Civic Designs— How to Communicate Style with Clarity and Confidence

Episode Overview:
In this episode of Architecture Beyond, we unpack what style really means in architectural practice. Too often treated as a superficial label or academic category, style in the real world is a tool—one that can align clients, consultants, and contractors when used well, or derail a project when misunderstood.

🎧 Hosted by Brandon Gibbs, this episode explores:

• How to define and use style across residential, hospitality, and civic architecture
• Practical strategies for talking about style with clients, teams, and contractors
• A field guide to the most commonly referenced styles (Modern, Colonial Revival, Mediterranean, Industrial Chic, and more)
• Why architects like Frank Lloyd Wright, Louis Kahn, and Tadao Ando created timeless works without being boxed in by stylistic labels
• How to leverage AI tools to explore and visualize architectural style

🧰 Resources Mentioned:

• Style vocabulary checklists for project teams
• Books: What Style Is It?, The Architecture of Happiness, Modern Architecture Since 1900
• Visual boards: Pinterest, Morpholio, ArchDaily, Dezeen
• AI Tools for Architects course — details below 👇

🎓 Learn More:

🚀 Want to explore architectural styles visually with powerful AI prompts?
 Start our new course:
 👉 AI for Architects – Enroll Now at Iamthestudio

This course walks you through using tools like MidJourney and DALL·E to develop style boards, test ideas, and align your vision across teams.

Watch Episode @ Iamthestudio.com
https://www.iamthestudio.com/architecturalstyle/

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Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world.

We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere.

Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

Celebrating 2 Years and 30 Episodes of Meaningful Design Conversations

We’ve reached a major milestone—30 episodes and nearly 2,000 downloads strong! Architecture Beyond has officially made the Feedspot Top 100 Architecture Podcasts, and we’re just getting started.

In this special anniversary episode, host Brandon Gibbs takes you on a curated journey through some of the most insightful, inspiring, and industry-shaping conversations we've had over the past two years. Whether you’re an emerging architect, an experienced designer, or a curious creative—this episode is packed with timeless lessons and future-facing ideas.

🎧 Featured Highlights from Top Episodes:

• How to Become an Architect with Elif Bayram listen here
• Sustainable Design with Purpose with LEED Fellow Blake Jackson, AIA listen here
• The Revit Guide for Residential Architecture listen here
• Computational Frontiers at BIG with Oliver Thomas listen here
• Modern Interiors, Real Voices with Jerica Michelle Banks & Lorraine Ensley listen here
• SketchUp Made Simple for Architects listen here
• Business Design for Architects with Rachel Gresham, AIA, MBA listen here
• Decoding the International Building Code listen here

🎓 Sponsored by Iamthestudio

Ready to master the tools shaping the future of design?
 Get 30% OFF professional courses on Revit, Rhino, AI rendering, Grasshopper, and more at Iamthestudio.com with code beyond30.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world.

We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere.

Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

Why Tune In?

Every design idea eventually meets the plan reviewer. In this 55‑minute master‑class, host Brandon Gibbs turns the IBC from creativity‑killer into design jetpack—perfect for ARE candidates, project architects, and anyone who wants code fluency without the snooze factor.

What You’ll Hear:

Segment Highlights

• Cold‑Open Challenge | Five‑story atrium face‑off—prove it’s safe, elegant, and code‑compliant in 30 seconds.
• Code in Context | From three regional codes to one global rulebook—and why “performance” language fuels innovation.
• Anatomy of the IBC | Chapters 3–11 mapped directly onto programming, massing, and material choices.
• Exam Power‑Ups | Color‑coded flash‑card hacks and Cornell note tweaks for instant recall.
• Frank Lloyd Wright’s Seismic Triumph | How the Imperial Hotel rode out a 7.9 quake and rewrote risk‑based design.
• Smart Code Sheet Workflow | Live demo: Revit + ChatGPT = automated egress, fire‑rating, and ADA tables—no Dynamo required.
• Lightning Q‑A | Six curveballs, four minutes, zero sweat.
• Key Takeaways | Three habits that turn constraints into catalysts.

Get started with the Complete Revit Guide today with code "decoding25" 

Find free resource downloads here:
https://www.iamthestudio.com/abbuildingcode/

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Support the show

Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world.

We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere.

Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

What happens when a designer crosses over to the world of product representation?
In this episode of Architecture Beyond, we sit down with Betsy Lindell — designer, founder of BetsyLindell.me, and product specialist — to explore the often-overlooked relationship between original design and thoughtful product selection.

From specifying systems in fast-paced studio environments to advocating for solutions that truly serve the people who use them, Betsy brings a rare and refreshing perspective. Her path from architecture to product advocacy challenges us to look beyond aesthetics and ask: What makes a design truly original? And how can we specify better, together?

🎧 What You'll Learn:

• Why product selection is design thinking in action
• How original design is rooted in user awareness and not just form
• Behind-the-scenes stories of bridging the gap between designers and manufacturers
• How to balance creativity with the reality of systems, reps, and code constraints
• Advice for emerging architects on working smarter with product reps

🛠️ Bonus for Our Listeners

Take your skills further with courses in BIM, AI rendering, Rhino, Revit, and more at Iamthestudio.
Use coupon code: aboriginal2025 at checkout for 15% off any course.

👉 Start Learning at Iamthestudio

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world.

We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere.

Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

Episode Overview

Welcome to this dynamic episode of Architecture Beyond, where we dive into two game-changing topics every design professional needs to know:

• Smart Tax Strategies:
  Uncover actionable tips for maximizing deductions, leveraging tax credits, and planning for sustainable growth. Learn how strategic financial planning can empower your career and fortify your firm's success.
• Revit Phases for Renovation Workflows:
  Discover how to streamline your renovation projects by mastering Revit phases. Get practical insights on setting up templates, importing scanned models, and coordinating with your project team for optimal results.

Key Takeaways

• Transform Your Financial Strategy:
  Understand the nuances of tax planning tailored for architects and designers. Unlock hidden savings and reinvest for long-term growth.
• Streamline Renovation Projects:
  Leverage Revit phases to manage complex projects efficiently, from initial scans to final permit sets.
• Actionable Resources:
  Gain access to expert insights, downloadable guides, and tools designed to help you navigate both tax planning and technical design challenges.

Exclusive Offer from Our Sponsor

This episode is proudly sponsored by Iamthestudio, the leading professional resource for mastering design, BIM, and CAD software.

• Special Bonus:
  Get started with Iamthestudio’s comprehensive Revit Phases Guide today.
• Exclusive Discount:
  Use code "abtaxes2025" at checkout for a 25% discount on courses.
  
  

Download resources and see video episode here:

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world.

We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere.

Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

🚀 Set Your 2025 Resolutions for a Thriving Architecture Career 🎉

The new year is here, and it’s time to level up! In our first episode of the year, Architecture Beyond is helping architects set powerful resolutions to learn new skills, expand opportunities, and position themselves for success in 2025.

🎙️ Episode Highlights:
✅ Key Skills for Architects in 2025 – Master 3D modeling, AI-powered design, parametric workflows, and more.
✅ Professional Organizations to Join – Learn how AIA, NOMA, and CSI can elevate your career.
✅ Positioning Yourself for New Opportunities – Build your brand, grow your network, and set career-changing goals.
✅ Resources to Help You Get There – Explore top courses from Iamthestudio to support your learning journey.

🔊 Tune In & Take Action!
Don’t miss this essential episode to start your year strong. Subscribe now and be the first to listen!

📢 Follow & Stay Updated: https://www.instagram.com/iamthestudio/
📚 Explore Resources: Iamthestudio Course Catalog

💡 Let’s make 2025 the year of growth, innovation, and new opportunities in architecture!

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world.

We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere.

Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

Happy Holidays from Us to You!

As we close out another inspiring year, we want to thank you—our listeners—for making Architecture Beyond a space for impactful conversations and ideas. Your support fuels our passion to bring you the best insights into architecture and design.

Exciting Changes for 2025

We’re thrilled to announce some updates for the year ahead:

• New Show Schedule: Starting in January, episodes will air once a month on Saturdays.
• Deeper Focus on Skills and Exploration: Join us as we dive into career-enhancing topics and explore critical issues in architecture and design.

Stay tuned for our January highlight show and the official 2025 schedule!

Next Episode Sneak Peek

Mark your calendar for January 2025!
We’ll kick off the year with a fresh perspective on the role of architects and designers in shaping the world, aligned with the mission of our premier sponsor, Iamthestudio.

Visit Our Sponsor: Iamthestudio

Elevate your design career with cutting-edge skills and tools from our sponsor, Iamthestudio.
Explore workshops, certifications, and resources designed to push your potential further.

👉 Visit Iamthestudio.com

Don’t Miss Out

Be part of the journey as we redefine what’s possible in architecture and design. Subscribe to Architecture Beyond today and join us for a year of discovery, growth, and inspiration.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world.

We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere.

Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

 In this episode of Architecture Beyond, we explore why voting is essential for design professionals. Architecture may not be a political field, but as citizens in a democracy, understanding the policies and leaders that shape our communities is key to our work. Join us as we discuss how infrastructure funding, environmental standards, and local legislation impact our profession, and why voting thoughtfully empowers us to keep creating spaces that serve everyone. Tune in to learn about the resources and strategies that can help you make informed decisions at the polls.

For more info on voter education, see the sites below:
Vote411.org – Non-partisan voting resource from the League of Women Voters, providing candidate information, ballot measures, and local voting guidelines.

Ballotpedia – Comprehensive source for unbiased information on local and national candidates, policy issues, and legislative positions.

GovTrack.us – Tool for tracking representatives' voting records and understanding how their stances align with professional concerns.

Architects Advocate – Organization offering resources and insights specifically for architects, focusing on policy issues impacting the design industry.

Local Government Websites – State and city government websites for local issue information, candidate forums, and community-focused updates.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world.

We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere.

Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

Join us for a compelling conversation with Rachel Gresham, AIA Senior Director of Professional Practice, as we explore the pivotal role of business skills and professional development in elevating architectural practices. Rachel shares her journey from designing impactful community projects to advocating for equity-centered workplace cultures and practice management across the AEC industry. Discover how business acumen, mentorship, and organizational culture are crucial to the success of modern architects and firms alike.

Key Topics Covered:

• The personal journey of growth in architecture
• Developing business skills alongside design expertise
• The importance of workplace culture for retention and recruitment
• Insights from Rachel's MBA research on organizational structures in the architecture industry
• How firms can better support equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) initiatives
• Practical tips for emerging architects looking to advance their careers

Guest Speaker:

Rachel R. Gresham, AIA, MBA, WELL AP, CDT

Rachel is a Nashville-based Registered Architect and the Senior Director of Professional Practice at the American Institute of Architects (AIA). With a decade of experience managing $40+ million construction projects and a passion for mentoring emerging professionals, Rachel advocates for better workplace cultures, practice management, and social justice across the architecture profession. She is also a thought leader on organizational culture and equity within the AEC industry.

Bonus:
Check out our new merchandise here, 10% off this month only: 
https://iamthestudio-shop.printify.me/products

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world.

We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere.

Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

Greetings to our listeners and great friends. 

Just sharing that some close losses have disrupted production in this month, which are important to us. However, we will be back on schedule in October with excellent leaders and thought provoking guests from around the industry.  So stay tuned for more from Architecture Beyond, and don't forget to visit our sponsors Iamthestudio and ThinkParametric for the latest in Design and Architecture Technology courses.

@Brandon Architecture Beyond.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world.

We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere.

Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).