In this week’s podcast, I was lucky enough to have a frank conservation with Petr Esposito about all things
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The bells of time past were invented and thrown on the floor as well as a few horns honked in the making of this podcast. Explicit language, best listen at home or on headphones!
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From Humble Beginnings to Architectural Heights: Petr Esposito’s Journey with Thirdway Architecture
In the competitive world of architecture, establishing a practice that thrives within three short years is no small feat. Yet, that’s precisely what Petr Esposito, alongside co-director Liam, has accomplished with Thirdway Architecture. Starting as a small operation in 2017, the practice has grown into a dynamic, 24-strong team, tackling significant projects with an emphasis on collaboration, risk-taking, and a willingness to challenge the norms.
Here, we explore Petr’s journey, his philosophy, and the lessons he has learned while building Thirdway Architecture.
Taking a Leap of Faith
Petr’s architectural career didn’t start with a clear vision to found a practice. A self-professed late bloomer in architecture, he found himself pursuing the field almost by accident after struggling through A-levels and taking an unconventional route into university. With persistence, he carved out a path in architecture, graduating and landing a role at renowned practices like Foster + Partners and the Bartlett School of Architecture.
Yet, Petr found traditional architectural practice stifling. His desire to break free from what he calls “architecture’s stuffy nature” led to a conversation with Thirdway Interiors, a design-and-build firm. What began as an exploratory joint venture soon evolved into Thirdway Architecture—a bold step into the unknown for Petr and Liam.
“We took a punt,” Petr recalls. “It was risky, but the opportunity was too good to pass up. At worst, we figured we’d learn and be able to go back to traditional roles. But at best, we’d create something meaningful.”
Challenging Tradition with a Fresh Perspective
At Thirdway Architecture, the team seeks to redefine what it means to run an architectural practice. Operating under a parent company, the firm benefits from access to established clients, enabling them to skip the competition grind typical for young firms. This collaborative approach has allowed Thirdway to grow rapidly, completing over 200 projects in just a few years.
Petr embraces this unconventional structure. “Traditional architecture often feels overly slow and insular,” he explains. “By working closely with other companies in our group, we’ve been able to move faster and create impactful work.”
Despite the practice’s rapid growth, Petr is quick to acknowledge that the journey has been far from easy. From the challenges of pitching against established firms like Gensler and Piercy & Co. to the long hours and late nights, Thirdway’s success has demanded resilience and adaptability.
The Strength of the Pack
Central to Thirdway Architecture’s philosophy is the belief in collective strength. A quote prominently displayed on their website—“The strength of the wolf is the pack”—encapsulates this ethos. Petr emphasizes that the practice’s success is not about individual brilliance but the collaborative energy of the team.
“We’ve been fortunate to attract talented people who share our vision,” Petr says. “Our focus is on giving team members autonomy to lead designs, work directly with clients, and grow. At the same time, we emphasize accountability and responsibility.”
This approach has created an environment where even junior team members are encouraged to step up and take ownership of their work. Petr highlights the importance of balancing autonomy with structured support. “Some people thrive with complete freedom, while others need guidance to reach their potential. Our job is to understand what each person needs and help them succeed.”
Competing with Giants and Learning from Losses
For a young practice, going head-to-head with established firms can be daunting. Yet, Thirdway Architecture has consistently proven its mettle, winning projects against industry heavyweights like Allies and Morrison and Piercy & Co. Petr sees these victories not as opportunities for boasting but as benchmarks of progress.
“It’s not about being better than others,” he says. “It’s about having the privilege to compete on the same stage as practices we admire. Every pitch is a learning experience.”
Petr is candid about the losses, too, noting that they are part of the process. “You don’t win them all, but every loss teaches you something valuable. It’s about refining your approach and coming back stronger.”
Lessons for Aspiring Architects
Petr’s journey offers a wealth of insights for architects at every stage of their careers:
1. Take Risks Early
Starting a practice is a daunting prospect, but Petr emphasizes the value of taking calculated risks early in your career. “We were young enough that failure wouldn’t have been catastrophic,” he reflects. “That gave us the freedom to experiment and grow.”
2. Build a Supportive Team
Thirdway’s success underscores the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people. “It’s not about hiring the most qualified person on paper,” Petr explains. “It’s about finding people who align with your culture and vision.”
3. Embrace Failure as a Teacher
In both pitches and projects, setbacks are inevitable. Petr encourages architects to view failures as opportunities for growth. “Every misstep is a chance to learn and improve.”
4. Redefine Success
For Petr, success isn’t about accolades or prestige—it’s about creating meaningful work and enjoying the journey. “Running a practice is challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. At the end of the day, we’re building something real, and that’s what matters.”
Looking Ahead
As Thirdway Architecture continues to grow, Petr remains focused on fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. The firm’s commitment to breaking architectural norms and prioritizing people—both clients and team members—has set it apart in the industry.
Whether you’re an aspiring architect or a seasoned professional, Petr’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, collaboration, and daring to do things differently.
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