Business of Architecture Podcast

626: From Architect to Developer: A Dangerous Move or a Bold New Model? with David Cross of Skyhouse

Apr 7, 2025

David Cross, the founder of CODA and Sky House Co, dives deep into the challenges of the UK housing market, especially the missing middle. He recalls a childhood experience that ignited his passion for architecture and shares his bold transition from traditional practice to property development. Listeners will learn about a crucial planning hack for gaining early support and the common pitfalls architects face when launching their projects. Plus, a scooter crash sparks a unique design test and leads to insights on finding the right funding partners.

52:31

Creator website

Episode guests

David Cross

AI Summary

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

David Cross discusses the 'missing middle' housing issue in the UK, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions to meet diverse demographic needs.

Sky House adopts a comprehensive architect-developer model to enhance project control and communication, contrasting with traditional outsourcing practices.

The podcast highlights the importance of navigating financial complexities and forging partnerships to support small developers in a challenging market.

Deep dives

The Importance of Addressing the Missing Middle in Housing

The disappearance of starter and middle-income housing is a significant issue in the UK, often referred to as the 'missing middle.' This gap in the housing market affects first-time buyers and downsizers alike, making it challenging for many to secure affordable and suitable living accommodations. Developers like David Cross focus on creating innovative housing solutions that cater to these underserved demographics, striving to bring back various housing typologies, such as row houses and terraced homes, that can accommodate a range of residents. These efforts highlight the need for a housing system that doesn't solely rely on a cookie-cutter model but instead emphasizes architectural creativity and diversity.

Intro

3min

Addressing the Crisis of Missing Middle Housing

2min

From Architecture to Development: A Personal Journey

14min

Sky House: A Unique Housing Evolution

6min

Navigating Urban Development Challenges

16min

Strategic Insights in Construction and Real Estate

3min

Navigating the Housing Market Challenges

5min

Navigating Future Growth and Community Engagement

4min

Most architects dream of building their own projects—but when it comes time to raise money, navigate risk, and manage construction, many find themselves stuck. Without the right systems, support, or business model, those dreams quickly fade under the weight of complexity and cost.

David Cross joins Rion Willard to tell the story of how he left a traditional practice to tackle one of the biggest problems in UK housing. In this episode, David shares the bold move that started it all—and the surprising childhood experience that planted the seed. He opens up about the risks, the wins, and what it really takes to build a housing company from scratch.

They explore what’s missing in today’s housing system and how David’s team found a fresh way to solve it. He also talks about the turning point that made him sell his practice and start over. If you’ve ever wondered how an architect becomes a developer—and why you might want to—you’ll want to listen to this.

Discover the planning hack that helped David get early buy-in before he even had land
The little-known reason most architects fail at building their own projects
How a scooter crash inspired a key design test
What to ask before choosing your next funding partner

To learn more about David, visit his:

Website: https://sky-house.co/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SkyHouseCo/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/skyhouseco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skyhouseco/

► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/w4wRWmNItI8U-MvJt5bayqMBsD8?utm_source=copy_url

► Feedback? Email us at podcast@businessofarchitecture.com

► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/

► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call

► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates:

https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture

*******

For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/

Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt

Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch

Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926

Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast

Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz

*******

Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com

Carpe Diem!

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.

Business of Architecture Podcast

626: From Architect to Developer: A Dangerous Move or a Bold New Model? with David Cross of Skyhouse

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Deep dives

The Importance of Addressing the Missing Middle in Housing

Sky House: A New Model for Housing Development

Challenges Faced by Small Developers

Financial Strategies and Growth Challenges

The Role of Planning and Community Engagement

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts