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EP 02547 May 2026 · 1 hr 18 min

Running an Architecture Practice Isn't What You Think

1:17:47
Tim O'Callaghannimtim architectsPractice Growth & Fees
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About this conversation

Running an architecture practice is not just about design. It is fees, hiring, risk, clients, culture, profit and learning how to keep the studio moving without losing the work you care about.

Stephen Drew speaks with Tim, co-founder of nimtim architects, a design-led practice in South London, about starting a studio, building a team and dealing with the commercial reality behind architecture.

The conversation covers:

What it is really like to start an architecture practice

How nimtim grew from the kitchen table into a recognised design studio

Fees, profitability and the pressure of running a small practice

Topics in this episode

Transcript

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Opening of the conversation

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  1. Everyone. I'm in south London. I'm going back to architecture. I'm not drawing myself. I'm visiting Nympton. Let's go.

  2. It's not easy. One of the business in the UK. You always want to have your own architecture practice in the back of your mind. I mean, actually, it's quite personal story. So it's been a really long road and with lots of ups and downs. Every person in that process that you encounter wants to stop you to you get building.

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nimtim architects projects

The work behind the conversation.

  • South London, United Kingdom

    Hemp House

    A domestic rear addition that uses timber and hempcrete to support flexible family life and a low-carbon brief.

    View project →

  • South London, United Kingdom · 2018

    Cork House

    A South London Victorian terrace extension and loft conversion shaped around a stepped internal landscape and natural cork.

    View project →

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