It's hard to believe that this is episode number 300! What started in January of 2012 when I interviewed architect Oscia Wilson has continued on to today, almost 8 years later. During that time, I've had hundreds of architects and changemakers here on the show.
For this important milestone of episode 300, I bring you an interview with a titan of architecture, one of the most influential and unassuming individuals that has ever impacted the industry of architecture, both in terms of design, business and thought leadership.
Our guest today is M. Arthur Gensler, Jr., founder of the international architecture and design firm of the same name, Gensler.
Since its founding in 1965, Gensler has grown into the largest architecture firm in the world, with offices in over 14 countries, 48 offices and $1.4 Billion in total revenue for 2019.
In today's episode, we discuss Gensler's book, Art's Principles, released in 2015.
You'll discover:
- A summary of Art's notes that he kept over 50 years on how to run and grow a successful design firm
- The two keys he credits for the incredible growth and success of Gensler
- His “constellation of stars” framework, and how this approach helps him attract and keep the right people
- The one word that tells him someone doesn't belong at Gensler
- His strategy to grow his portfolio without giving away free work in design competitions
- And his answer to the question, “would it be possible to do what he did in 1965 today,” including his advice for young (and not-so-young) firm owners
