Provide Self-Aware Leadership

by Rena M. Klein, FAIA - In the January 2013 edition of the CRAN Chronicle, I covered the importance of setting up systems and processes for routine work. In this article, I am switching gears from operations to leadership and the subject of job satisfaction, one of the critical elements in determining the success of a small firm. In organizations populated by creative professionals, there is a strong reinforcing relationship between job satisfaction and the bottom line. Improving morale and engagement can do more toward motivating people to do their best than any financial reward. Read More »

Online Snarking: Is It Libel Or Free Speech?

By Joy R. Butler - Libel claims generated by online activities are on the rise. With Facebook, Twitter, Yelp, online forums, and so many other digital venues in which to share our thoughts with the world, it is easier than ever to become the target or the perpetrator of libel. Defamation law varies from state-to-state but there are several general, common principles. You defame someone when you make a false statement about the person and the statement harms the person's reputation. Read More »

A CRANny's Guide to Houzz

By Bud Dietrich, AIA - Certainly Houzz has helped me, and many other architects, weather the Great Recession by expanding our geographic reach and giving residential architects a megaphone to tout our wares. Read More »

AIA/CRAN Discussion Forum Highlights

Curated by Brenda Nelson - The discussion forums have produced a significant number of potential publishing leads over the past few weeks. Our dedicated AIA staff use this vehicle to contact architects for specific projects when major publications need items for articles. The Wall Street Journal recently inquired about architects who could discuss luxury garage projects, high-end bachelor(ette) pads and courtyard designs. MSN Real Estate looked for designers who have two-story closets in their portfolio. Most recently, the CRAN leadership team has used the forum to call for projects which will be included in the first CRAN publication "Houses For All Regions." The discussion board is a great place to find these marketing opportunities. Read More »

►  The following articles are submissions from our emerging professional members.

Residential Architects and Technology

By Jared Banks, AIA - Probably the biggest barrier to residential firms using cutting-edge technology is that many residential firms already have systems that work well. That system might be based in hand drafting or CAD. It might be about client referrals and doing right by past and current clients. Regardless of the details, these methods are tested, repeatable, comfortable, and—ideally—profitable. Read More »

Man-Made And Nature

By Marcy Giannunzio, AIA - Working in an architectural firm that emphasizes collaboration—both within the firm and with our clients—has given me numerous opportunities to contribute to custom residential projects. Our two principals, Joseph E. Wnuk, AIA, and Steven L. Spurlock, FAIA, established WNUK SPURLOCK Architecture over 30 years ago, and have always encouraged emerging and young architects to learn the fundamentals of residential design while exploring their own innovative ideas. Our firm has experience in a number of residential project types, including projects as small as a kitchen remodel to as large as a multi-family condominium. Read More »

AIA Cincinnati CRAN...What A Local Committee Is Doing!

By Mark Demerly, AIA - Cincinnati's CRAN committee was started in 2005 by a small group of local residential architects who had a desire to connect and promote residential architecture in the area. Though the committee started as a component of CORA (the Congress of Residential Architecture), it transitioned to CRAN in 2011 in an effort to build on the National CRAN and AIA efforts. The AIA Cincinnati Chapter has been a strong supporter of the committee's efforts of promoting quality residential architectural design while conveying the value and benefits of residential design by licensed architects through monthly continuing education programs and an annual design awards program. Read More »

A Toolkit to Get You Organized Locally!

CRAN offers local chapters wanting to start a residential committee the tools to help establish a committee and a network of successful local groups from which to draw ideas and inspiration.
Download the Toolkit (PDF)

►  The following articles feature interviews and/or quotes from AIA CRAN members in national media.

Can an app replace your architect?

By Kelli B. Grant, Wall Street Journal | Read the article online »

Damian on Design [VIDEO]

By Damian Farrell and Lucy Ann Lance on 1290 AM | Watch the video online »

Look up to the attic for extra space

By Kari Richardson, Special to the Tribune | Read the article online »

Houzz Survey: Renovations Are Up in 2013

By Mitchell Parker, Houzz | Read the article online »

Generation Y Unfolding

By Jared Banks, AIA, Design Intelligence | Read the article online »

Save the Date: 2013 CRAN Symposium

The AIA's Custom Residential Architect's Network (CRAN) is hosting its sixth annual four day symposium "Elevating the Art of Residential Design and Practice" in Santa Fe, New Mexico from August 22nd-24th this year in 2013. The event will focus on the advancement of Residential Architects in the field of Residential Architecture, awareness within the AIA of the importance of Residential Architects, the sharing of best practices and the development of long lasting relationships within the profession and the field of Residential Architecture. This year's symposium will bring approximately 175 of the nation's foremost custom residential architects together for a home tour of Santa Fe's landmark residential architecture, to attend a diverse compendium of seminars, meet with the finest residential product vendors-suppliers and a engage in a host of social events tailored specifically for the attendees.

- James Walbridge, AIA
CRAN Symposium Chair

Join CRAN at AIA National Convention

Earn up to 7.50 AIA LUs at our pre-convention workshops or enjoy an evening with your peers in an intimate setting at a local venue for a Knowledge Community networking reception. Join us on Saturday as we honor and celebrate excellence in housing design.

Tools for Clients: How Design Works + You and Your Architect

Architecture is about people: how buildings can enhance people's lives. The process of design is also about people: clients and architects working together to realize the full potential of every project.

The following resources are to help you and your clients throughout the design process. From selecting an architect, to establishing a legal contract, these free tools can help make each stage a little easier. Read More