Navigating Architecture: Chris Hartiss Reflects on Career, Challenges, and Change

Christopher Hartiss' architecture career is useful because it shows how drawings, communication, teaching, mentoring and leadership all build professional judgement over time.

Stephen Drew speaks with Christopher Hartiss about architecture career paths, mentorship, teaching, Squire and Partners, Chelsea Barracks, drawings, leadership, personal interests, teamwork, job-market advice, interviews and professional growth.

The conversation covers:

• How drawings and communication remain core professional skills
• Why diverse experience outside architecture can still shape a stronger career
• What candidates can learn from practice leadership and mentoring
• How interview preparation and professionalism affect career movement
• Why mistakes and changes can become useful career evidence

Read the episode on Architecture Social: Christopher Hartiss on an Architecture Career Path

Watch the video on YouTube: Chris Hartiss on career, challenges and change

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Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
• 00:54 Chris's Career Journey in Architecture
• 01:47 Mentorship and Teaching
• 03:30 Early Inspirations and University Experience
• 05:09 Navigating Career Challenges
• 06:11 Gaining Practical Experience
• 12:01 The Value of Diverse Experiences
• 24:22 Joining Squire and Partners
• 28:24 The Culture of Squire and Partners
• 29:27 Balancing Architecture and Personal Interests
• 30:04 The Journey to Becoming an Architect
• 34:08 The Importance of Teamwork in Architecture
• 41:57 Navigating the Job Market and Professional Growth
• 44:24 Interview Tips and Professionalism
• 57:39 Reflecting on Career and Mistakes
• 59:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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