Architecture 5¢ we are all in this together

ARCHITECTURE 5¢

I'm aware that this article will probably not get picked up for the main page. Here is how I think this article could help other business owners.

After working for several architects and going through school I was lead to believe that Architecture was this high art that was somehow above this small business world. I came to a realization while attending a WASHINGTON CASH seminar;

“I provide a service, like any other service, mine just happens to be buildings.”

This enlightened me to all of the shortcomings of my predecessors, and made me realize that all the skills, knowledge and drive of a small business were not only a good idea but completely necessary for success in this new world of independent ownership. Without taking a step back and seeing the whole picture of my business and skills I never would of realized that the shortcomings of my previous employers was not embracing the whole small business picture. Not marketing, not managing and forecasting cash flow, not innovating.

By turning my assumed business model upside down I was able to see the requirements of all the needs of my new business are no different from the small yogurt shop, the life coach, or the handmade children's toy maker's. Not only can you gain valuable insight on how they run their business but a critical eye on how you can change the status quo of yours, for innovation and challenging the norm is how we all got out here in the first place.

Below is the “Manifesto” which came from this spent upside down and watching, hopefully you can look at your own business model and see some notions worth challenging.

Good night, and good luck..

“Architecture 5¢” is first a conversation about how you and your family live, and how you want your home to represent that. ““No project is too small for big ideas.” Whether it is a simple kitchen redesign or the addition of a second floor, it all starts with a conversation. Deposit a nickel into the cup and lets talk.

Now is the best time to build or remodel the home of your dreams. In this hard economy remodeling your home is the best investment you can make. With the prices of building materials falling, and contractors eager to work with you, your dream home is not that far out of reach.

“Architecture 5¢” believes in sustainable, eco-responsive design. Simple designs that nurture a harmonious balance between the way your family lives and how you engage with the outside environment. The goal; to provide intelligent, sustainable design solutions and connect with people who would benefit from professional design services but thought it was out of their reach.

Our mission is to connect home owners who may be starting this process for the first time with small, local, experienced architects, designers, and contractors to stimulate our local economy and build better homes and better lives in the process.

I am John Arthur Morefield, Principal of J Arthur Design. Since arriving in Seattle I have worked for small firms specializing in everything from residential design-build, to downtown green skyscraper design. Now I have ventured out on my own to bring innovative, sustainable, and budget conscious design to those who thought they couldn't afford to work with an architect, but deserve the best; in service, and environmentally responsive residential design.

“No project is too small for big ideas.”