Business of Architecture

1 LU Pending

Refreshments provided

About the Event

Running an architecture practice comes with challenges that extend well beyond design. Join fellow firm owners, principals, and practice leaders for AIA Santa Barbara’s Business of Architecture, an informal forum for honest conversation, shared experience, and practical insights on running a successful firm.

Together, we’ll explore the business decisions that shape our practices, from firm operations, business structures, contracts, and risk management to marketing, staffing, and growth. Whether you’re starting a firm, managing an established practice, or stepping into a leadership role, bring your questions, challenges, and lessons learned.

Connect with peers, exchange ideas, and help build a stronger, more collaborative architecture community in Santa Barbara.

Learning Objectives

1. Identify common operational challenges in architecture practices and discuss strategies for addressing them.
2. Explore approaches to staffing, workload planning, and project coordination that support efficient teams.
3. Discuss how budgeting, fee development, and financial reporting inform firm decisions.
4. Apply lessons shared by peers to improve day-to-day practice management.