In this episode of Urban Forecast, Oli Lowrie and Jon Ackroyd dive into the unexpected success of their TikTok clip that racked up over 70,000 views and the fiery comments it sparked. From the frustrations of being undervalued in architecture to the looming influence of AI, the duo explore what’s driving discontent in the profession, why mental health needs to be part of the conversation, and how architects can reclaim their value in a changing industry. It’s candid, relatable, and unfiltered - two seasoned architects confronting the realities of their field head-on.


KEY TAKEAWAYS

Architects continue to feel undervalued and overworked, with many considering leaving the profession.

The industry’s culture of long hours and “all-nighter” deadlines fuels stress and poor mental health.

Comparing architecture to other professions like law or finance can be misleading - long hours are endemic across sectors.

AI is set to automate much of the “production” work in architecture, freeing architects to focus on design and storytelling.

Architects need to adapt by embracing data-driven design and understanding how people truly use spaces.

Hands-on experience with construction is becoming a lost skill - but one that AI can’t replicate.

Increasing technical complexity and regulation have fractured the architect’s traditional role, leading to reliance on more consultants.

The future lies in designing for longevity and reuse, moving away from a “throwaway” culture in buildings.


 BEST MOMENTS

“You just used to say to yourself on the way into work, one day we’ll all be dead - that was my way of getting through.”

“You can get AI to create something that looks pretty and cool, but how do you actually get that built?”

“We’ve lost touch with construction - architects need to get back on site.”

“We’ve only got one shot to use the resources left on this planet.”


VALUABLE RESOURCES

https://www.ackroydlowrie.com 


EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT

Michael Clark’s Take on London’s Development Challenge
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TMiUszt24jQ 

Labour’s Housing Delivery Crisis: Planning isn’t the Problem
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=76CxlOboM5A 


ABOUT THE HOSTS

Jon Ackroyd and Oliver Lowrie, the visionary hosts of Urban Forecast, bring their expertise from leading their innovative practice, Ackroyd Lowrie. Known for pushing the boundaries in urban design, Jon and Oliver use their podcast to delve into the future of cities, sharing insights from their work on projects that emphasise sustainability, community, and transformative architecture. Through Urban Forecast, they engage listeners with discussions on how architecture and design shape urban living, aiming to inspire new ways of thinking about the spaces around us.


CONNECT & CONTACT

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LinkedIn
http://linkedin.com/company/urban-forecast-podcast

Email: [email protected]