Listen to this insightful conversation between Melody Chen and Charmaine Kai, as they discuss the challenges and benefits of running your own business, the importance of playing to your strengths, and the foundational power of construction knowledge.
Our conversationalists for this episode are Melody Chen, co-founder of architectural practice A-CH; and Charmaine Kai, co-founder and director of 8i Architects.
In this fascinating episode, Melody and Charmaine share the genesis and evolution of their practices and the flexibility required to balance family, architectural projects and volunteer commitments. They discuss the challenges of running architectural businesses, balancing the passion for the work with efficient time management.
Design is always about refinement – and it’s infinite… How do you know when to put down your paintbrush?”
Melody Chen
They discuss the adversarial nature of some projects and the importance of getting on site as much as possible to build a strong foundation of construction knowledge. “Construction knowledge is one of the most powerful tools that we as architects have,” says Charmaine.
From the intimacy and joys of residential work to the technical complexity of IVF labs and day hospitals, from the increasing obligations of HR in practice to maintaining a separation between home and office life, this fascinating episode is well worth a listen.
This episode of Parlour POD was produced with the assistance of the Alastair Swayn Foundation through a Design Audio Grant. Thanks!
This episode was recorded live on Yuggerah and Turrbal Country at the 2023 Brisbane Winter Salon as part of the 2023 Asia Pacific Architecture Festival. Held at Vokes and Peters on 14 June 2023, the Salon was convened by Kelly Greenop. Photos: Alanna McTiernan.
