Practice of Architecture: How our skillset translates into Tech.
Published 4 months ago • 2 min read
2024
Hello Reader,
As we approach the end of the year, I wanted to share some exciting updates and a quick personal note. I’m just one week away from a life-changing event and wanted to let you know things might be a bit quieter next week and immediately following. I appreciate your understanding during this transformative time!
In case you missed it, the latest Practice Disrupted episode is live! Episode 178: Architecture and UX Strategist dives into the intersection of architecture and UX design—don’t miss this thought-provoking conversation.
On the community front, we’ve welcomed three new Disruptors into the Practice Community + LAB just in the past week! If you’ve been considering joining, now’s the time to act—we’re running an end-of-year special that locks in a lifetime price. Explore the benefits and join us here: Practice Community + LAB.
Thanks for being part of this journey. I hope to see you in the PC+L.
Keep learning and growing,
Evelyn M Lee, FAIA | NOMA
Founder, Practice of Architecture & Host, Practice Disrupted & Fractional COO
How can architects use their skills to pivot into tech design and UX successfully?
In this episode of Practice Disrupted, we chat with Emily Privot McNamara, a design strategist and researcher at Amazon’s Device Design Group. From designing buildings to designing tech products at Amazon, Emily demonstrates how architects can successfully transition into non-traditional roles. In our conversation, she shares how her architectural background has shaped her approach to the tech world and her vision for the evolving relationship between architecture and technology.
First, Emily discusses her path into architecture, her pivot to tech product design, and how the principles of architectural thinking translate to UX strategy. She also highlights her passion for health tech, where her work impacts millions globally.
How can architecture firms successfully transition to a hybrid work model that balances flexibility, connection, and structure?
In this episode of Practice Disrupted, we explore hybrid work models in architecture firms, using the firm Shepley Bulfinch as an example. We’re joined by three leaders from Shepley Bulfinch: Jenn Zagarella, Vice President of Administration; Jim Martin, Vice President and CIO; and Jim Chambers, Vice President of Practice Management. Together, they discuss how architecture firms can navigate the challenges of staying connected in today’s evolving workplace through hybrid models.
First, the panel provides an overview of Shepley’s pre-pandemic work environment, focusing on the strong foundations the firm established and how these prepared them for a smooth transition to hybrid work. Jenn, Jim, and Jim share the strategies, tools, and technologies Shepley uses to build a cohesive, flexible work environment.
// Practice Community + LAB // What we're reading and sharing //
Meta: Accelerating the Next Wave of Nuclear to Power AI Innovation - Meta is seeking nuclear energy developers to add 1-4 gigawatts of new nuclear generation capacity in the U.S. by the early 2030s, aiming to support AI innovation and sustainability goals. This initiative underscores the role of nuclear energy in providing reliable, clean power for expanding data center operations and the broader electric grid.
Binishells System 6 - This innovative construction company transforms air pressure and reinforced concrete into durable, sustainable dome structures—streamlining timelines, cutting waste, and offering architects unique design possibilities.
Every article we share in our newsletter can be found in the Practice Community + Lab. We're running an end-of-year special!
2025 Hello Reader, Last week, I had the incredible honor of presenting the 2025 AIA/ACSA Topaz Medallion for Excellence in Architectural Education to someone who’s shaped my thinking for over two decades—Tom Fisher. We met at an ArchVoices retreat in the late '90s, and from that first conversation, Tom pushed me to stay curious, critical, and deeply engaged in rethinking how architecture serves society. To recognize his contributions now felt like a full-circle moment—one rooted in personal...
2025 Hello Reader, This week in the Practice of Architecture community, I’ve been reflecting on what it means to run Practice of Architecture as an AI-first company—and what it would take to truly adopt that mindset. Eric Cesal recently asked whether any genuinely AI-first firms exist in our industry, and that question has stuck with me. There’s a fundamental difference between using AI tools to improve existing processes and reimagining an entire practice with AI as the foundation. The...
2025 Hello Reader, After weeks on the road, I've treasured this past week at home—a much-needed reset before diving back into the whirlwind. Today, I'm swapping keynote stages for something possibly more challenging: serving as the mystery reader in my daughter's classroom. Frankly, I suspect these young critics might be tougher to impress than any conference audience I've faced! Behind the scenes, I've been revamping my business operations in Notion, streamlining systems that were overdue...