Renowned architect Nick Tobias shares his journey of building a successful firm specializing in luxury homes. He discusses starting young, developing a unique style, working with clients, and providing insights on costs and timelines for building high-end homes. A fascinating look into the world of premium residential architecture.
Starting a practice young requires persistence and hard work, essentialism in design creates timeless luxury, Client selection crucial for successful outcomes
Deep dives
Experience and Insight of Leading Architects in Australia
In the podcast, Nick Tobias, one of Australia's leading architects, shares his journey and insights. After starting his practice at a young age against conventional advice, he emphasizes the importance of persistence, hard work, and a strong network. Tobias discusses the significance of authentic client selection and avoiding clients who are not the right fit for the practice.
Architectural Style and Essentialism
Tobias describes his architectural style as essentialism, focusing on warm, contemporary designs with a timeless and luxurious appeal. He highlights the importance of creating designs that belong in the present moment and location, aiming for a fusion of authenticity and excellence in each project.
Lessons on Client Selection and Business Principles
Reflecting on past experiences, Tobias shares a valuable lesson on client selection, stressing the significance of working with the right clients for successful outcomes. He emphasizes the importance of a mindset of abundance over fear, perseverance, and a balance between kindness and firmness in business dealings.
Building Relationships and Marketing Strategies
Tobias underscores the importance of building relationships with clients and industry professionals, collaborating with builders, and gaining firsthand experience on building sites. He highlights the essential role of marketing readiness for architectural practices and the value of strong marketing strategies in business success.
Advice for Aspiring Architects
For aspiring architects, Tobias advises gaining practical experience on building sites for at least six months to understand construction processes and implications. He stresses the significance of perseverance, hard work, and effective marketing strategies for architectural success. Tobias emphasizes being tough yet kind and acting from a place of abundance rather than fear.
Gavin sits down with renowned Australian architect Nick Tobias. Nick shares the story of how he started his practice at just 22 years old and built it into one of the country's leading architecture firms known for bespoke luxury homes.
He discusses the process of designing high-end homes from concept to construction, getting projects approved, working with clients and more.
Nick also provides valuable insights into the costs involved in building a new home today. An insightful look into the world of premium residential architecture and development from one of the best in the business.
0:00-5:00 discusses starting his practice young and his journey to becoming an architect
5:00-10:00 talks about his early career experiences working for other architects and learning on building sites
10:00-15:00 explains how he developed his style and brand over the years through
his work and marketing
15:00-20:00 provides insights on the client selection process and lessons learned from difficult clients
20:00-25:00 outlines the typical design and approval process for a new high-end home
25:00-30:00 gives costs breakdowns for building a new home, including construction costs per sqm
30:00-35:00 discusses factors that influence construction timelines and costs, pushing design boundaries
35:00-40:00 provides more details on calculating total project costs, timelines, and furniture/interiors budgets
40:00-45:00 shares some of his most memorable projects and favourite styles to work with
45:00-end offers advice for those looking to enter the field and discusses qualities needed for success