AEC Tech Journeys with Mayur Mistry

In this conversation, Jefferson Schierbeek, a principal and co-founder of Addison Schierbeek Architects, shares his journey in architecture, discussing his transition from practicing architect to business owner, the importance of client relationships, and the evolving landscape of architectural services. He emphasizes the significance of understanding client needs, effective pricing strategies, and the rise of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in response to housing policies. Jefferson also reflects on his teaching experience and the impact of technology and AI on the future of architecture. Takeaways   Architecture is a journey filled with adventures and highlights. Creating homes that feel uniquely theirs is essential for clients. Many architects back into business management rather than planning for it. Joining professional networks like Entree Architect can be beneficial. Building relationships is crucial for finding clients in architecture. Understanding client needs is key to successful projects. Pricing strategies should reflect both effort and market conditions. The rise of ADUs is a response to changing housing policies. Teaching architecture can provide valuable insights into design and methodology. AI is evolving but is not yet ready to replace human architects. Chapters   00:00 Journey Through Architecture: From Education to Practice 02:22 Navigating the Business of Architecture 04:53 Building Relationships: Finding Clients in Architecture 07:27 Understanding Client Needs and Expectations 09:51 Pricing Strategies in Architectural Projects 12:46 The Rise of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) 15:21 Teaching Architecture: Insights and Experiences 17:56 Reflections on Notable Projects 20:27 The Future of Architecture: Technology and AI   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/

In this conversation, Michael Loussinian, Founder of BlueBuild, discusses his journey from architecture to integrating AI into architectural workflows. He shares insights on the future of AI in architecture, the challenges of freelancing, and the importance of custom UI development for automation. Michael emphasizes best practices for AI workflows, explores the limitations of AI, and presents innovative use cases in design. He also highlights the role of AI in architecture firms and discusses the LA Mapscraper automation tool. The conversation concludes with rapid-fire questions and Michael's thoughts on the evolving landscape of architecture and AI.   Takeaways   Michael's journey from architecture to AI showcases the evolving landscape. AI is transforming the way architects work, focusing on automation. Freelancing in architecture presents unique challenges and learning opportunities. Custom UI development is essential for effective automation in architecture. Best practices in AI workflows lead to better outcomes and efficiency. AI can help eliminate repetitive tasks, allowing for more creative focus. Understanding AI's limitations is crucial for its effective application. Innovative use cases of AI can enhance design processes significantly. The memory of AI is important for maintaining project context over time. Anticipating changes in business models is necessary as AI becomes more integrated.  Chapters   00:00 Introduction to AI in Architecture 00:52 Career Highlights and Freelancing Journey 03:49 The Future of AI in Architecture Firms 06:08 Overview of Blue Bill Enterprises 09:05 Project Walkthrough: Automation in Action 14:50 Best Practices for AI Workflows 19:57 AI Limitations and Opportunities 24:10 LA Mapscraper: A Practical Example 28:17 Testing and Refining AI Workflows 33:14 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/

In this conversation, Dr. Yoav Vered, CTO of Zen Acoustics, shares his journey from mechanical engineering to the forefront of acoustic technology. He discusses his early career, innovations in active noise control, the role of digital twins in engineering, and the challenges of real-world testing. Dr. Vered emphasizes the future of acoustic technology in smart homes and the importance of adapting to environmental noise. The conversation concludes with rapid-fire insights and reflections on the potential of acoustic control in everyday life. Takeaways   Dr. Vered began his career at the Technion in Israel. His research focused on underwater acoustics and wave dynamics. Active noise control (ANC) technology has evolved significantly in recent years. Digital twins can enhance control systems in engineering. Real-world testing is crucial for developing acoustic technologies. The integration of ANC in buildings can mitigate environmental noise. Smart homes still have room for improvement in acoustic control. Dr. Vered emphasizes the importance of adaptability in technology. The future of acoustic technology aims to enhance living environments. Collaboration with construction companies is key for technology implementation.   Chapters   00:00 Journey into Acoustics: Early Career Highlights 05:38 Digital Twins and Active Noise Control Innovations 09:36 Building Technology: From Lab to Real-World Applications 14:04 Product Development: Integrating Technology into Construction 18:12 Advice for Founders: Navigating the Hardware Space 20:56 Future of Acoustic Control in Smart Homes   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/

In this conversation, Jay Shah, founder and principal of Kaizen AI, shares his journey from growing up in an architecture family to founding a tech-driven real estate optimization company. He discusses the challenges of integrating technology in architecture, the importance of mentorship, and a detailed case study showcasing the impact of their work on a major real estate project. Jay also elaborates on their innovative business model that aligns incentives with clients and the significant reduction in carbon footprint achieved through their projects. Takeaways   Jay Shah's journey began in a family architecture firm. Curiosity and mentorship played a crucial role in his career. Kaizen AI focuses on real estate optimization using technology. The company employs a unique human-AI model for project execution. Real estate projects can significantly reduce construction costs and time. Aligning incentives with clients is key to successful partnerships. Sustainability is a core focus, aiming to reduce carbon footprints. The impact of their work can be quantified in millions of dollars. Innovative business models can drive faster adoption of technology. The potential for scaling their impact on a global level is immense. Chapters   00:00 Introduction to Jay Shah and Kaizen AI 05:38 Career Journey and Early Influences 08:37 The Role of Mentorship in Success 28:42 Understanding Kaizen AI's Business Model and Impact   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/

In this conversation, Patrick Murphy, co-founder and CEO of Maket, discusses the journey of his architectural tech company, focusing on the challenges and innovations in generative AI, business models, go-to-market strategies, and the importance of product design. He shares insights on fundraising, the future of AI in architecture, and the exciting developments in their upcoming platform version.   Takeaways The goal is to democratize architectural design at scale. Understanding the market's needs is crucial for product development. Business models must adapt to different customer segments. Organic growth can be more effective than paid marketing. Product design plays a vital role in user experience and growth. Building a strong personal and company brand is essential for fundraising. Networking is key to opening doors in fundraising. The future of AI in architecture is promising but requires careful orchestration of technology. Customer feedback is invaluable for product improvement. Combining software and hardware could revolutionize the construction industry.   Chapters 00:00 The Genesis of Maket: A Vision for Accessible Architecture 01:51 Navigating Challenges: Overestimations and Underestimations 03:52 Business Models in Design: Understanding Market Dynamics 06:20 Go-To-Market Strategies: What Worked and What Didn't 09:25 The Importance of Product Design in Growth 11:50 Overcoming Tough Moments: Lessons from the Journey 13:11 Fundraising Tips for Design Tech Founders 17:16 The Future of AI in Architecture: What’s Next? 20:37 Navigating Innovation: Adapting to Rapid Changes 23:12 Proudest Moments and Future Aspirations 24:28 Reflections: What Would You Do Differently? 25:33 Rapid Fire Round: Quick Insights from Patrick Murphy   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/