New ventures

Residential Architect, April, 2004 by E. William Johnson

i enjoyed the various advice offered by seasoned architects to those who wish to launch a new architectural firm ("Tales from the Trip," November/December 2003, page 20). Years ago, my father said to me, "Go to law school, then get an accounting degree, then go to architectural school." His advice was great, but I went only to architectural school. It is a known fact that the average architect is not trained properly in terms of running a profitable business and marketing their talent.

I remember a seminar at which a prominent architect said, "Get the job, get the job, get the job." In other words, if you don't have a project in the office, you have nothing.

So, in addition to being a talented designer, an architect also needs to focus on marketing and simple accounting. You also have to love architecture with a passion and go to the office every day as if architecture were your favorite hobby.

To those who wish to strike out in terms of a new firm, I say, "If you're waiting for your ship to come in, swim out to it." And remember this also: You are what you want to be.

By the way, I'm a senior citizen, and I've been around the block.

E. William Johnson, AIA

E. William Johnson & Associates, Architects

Thiensville, Wisc.