This year’s Custom Residential Architects Network Symposium [CRAN] takes place in Cincinnati. Our venue is the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Hotel, a feast for the eyes and an inspiring setting in which to digest a full menu of topics pertinent to our practice as architects today. As usual, there will be a tour of homes, which always prompts vibrant discourse among the attendees. The speaker list continues to grow as of press time, so I’ll outline only confirmed presenters.
The keynote address will be given by Dan Rockhill, the J L Constant distinguished professor of architecture at the University of Kansas, executive director of Studio 804, as well as a distinguished professor with the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture. As a professor and director of the nonprofit organization, Studio 804, Dan has led his students in the design and construction of 11 LEED platinum buildings in Kansas.
Dan also helms Rockhill and Associates, which he describes as “tightly bound to the natural milieu and culture of the Kansas region.” It’s clear that the firm’s work is further informed by and benefits from the frugal minimalism of Studio 804’s pro bono achievements. This cross pollination enriches all of Dan’s enterprises, as demonstrated by his many awards and speaking engagements. This promises to be an uplifting launch for the symposium.
Also on the agenda, Marica McKeel, AIA, and Rena Klein, FAIA, join forces to discuss strategies for growing your firm. Rena Klein is a nationally recognized expert in small firm practice and author of “The Architect’s Guide to Small Firm Management” (Wiley 2010). Additionally, she serves as executive editor of AIA’s “The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th Edition” (Wiley, 2013) and has chaired the national advisory group for the AIA Practice Management Knowledge Community. Currently, Rena is the vice president of investment partnerships at Charrette Venture Group. Marica, previously profiled in this magazine for her social media savvy, brings an energetic drive and ability to her profession. Speaking from practical experience, Marica will trace the steps that have led to her young firm’s rapid growth in New York City and the Hudson Valley. Areas of special focus for the talk are the importance of establishing a firm culture, systems for success, identifying the right hires, and reliable financial metrics in an unpredictable market.
Marica McKeel
Rena Klein
Sebastian Schmaling, AIA, a founding partner of the award-winning firm Johnsen Schmaling Architects in Milwaukee, plans a talk titled “Highly Processed.” Through case studies, he’ll explore how the conceptual reading of context and program can serve as a source for generative design strategies. He’ll also discuss the use of a variety of media and methods to convey ideas to clients, in addition to the selection of materials and how they impact a structure and its surroundings.
Sebastian Schmaling
On the assembly side, Mark LaLiberte, co-creator of Construction Instruction, brings more than 30 years of passion and expertise in building science to CRAN with his talk, “Resiliency and Longevity.”
Mark LaLiberte
The symposium will showcase local talent as well with a panel of distinguished Cincinnati architects, including John Isch, AIA, a principal with RWA Architects; Paul Muller, AIA, Muller Architects; Terry Boling, AIA, Terry Boling Architect; and Martha Schickel Dorf, AIA, Schickel Design. The group brings an array of awards and stylistic interests to the discussion.
Martha Schickel
Paul Muller
Terry Boling
Other industry experts will share their specialized knowledge with the gathering. Bryan Mills, president of Mills Technologies in Chicago, spearheads a third-generation family business that works closely with clients to generate meaningful design requirements for technology systems. He’ll speak on “Successful Technology Integration,” a topic prominent in discussions with many custom home clients.
Bryan Mills
Jeff Echols is a creative and strategic digital communications and marketing professional who’s also the brand story consultant at echoEngagement. His focus on brand marketing will enlighten a good many of us who are weak in telling our own stories and conveying our strengths to potential clients.
Jeff Echols
Kevin Harris, FAIA, will speak on going “From Architect to Best-Selling Author.” Based in Baton Rouge, La., Kevin is a recognized expert and speaker on single-family residential and renovation design. His work has received numerous design awards and has been published in more than 50 books and national publications. His book, “The Forever Home,” outlines a “step-by-step process” for collaborating with clients to design successful and fulfilling custom residences.
Kevin Harris
Filling out the roster are Michael Imber, FAIA, principal architect of Michael G. Imber, Architects, PLLC, and John Senhauser, FAIA, of Cincinnati. Michael leads a modern classical design firm based in San Antonio, Texas, recognized for work that’s strong in historic sentiment yet modern in execution. Michael will speak on being “Drawn to Classicism.” John designs both modern new buildings and sensitive renovations “that are nationally celebrated for their craft, durability, wit, and poetic vitality,” according to one critic. He’ll talk on “Peeling the Onion and Other Musings.”
Michael Imber
John Senhauser
This reminds me that not only are the seminars rich and varied in content (be it traditional or contemporary design) at CRAN Cincinnati, but the food will be equally delectable and diverse in offerings—whether one prefers Cincinnati Chili with the works or strictly vegetarian fare. All in all, as with past CRAN events, beyond a full plate of food, fun, thoughtful conversation, and informative discussions, an intimate connection with vendors and peers in residential practice will be served.