How to Win Architecture RFPs Against Industry Giants as a Small Firm (with Andrew Lyon of Studio Lyon/Szot)

02/04/2025 46 min Episodio 22
How to Win Architecture RFPs Against Industry Giants as a Small Firm (with Andrew Lyon of Studio Lyon/Szot)

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Episode Synopsis


#22: Partner and Founder at Studio Lyon/Szot reveals how his eight-person firm went head-to-head with global giants – and won. This is the ultimate David vs. Goliath story, packed with raw insights, bold strategies, and the mindset shifts that made it possible. If you’ve ever wondered how a small firm can punch above its weight and land game-changing opportunities, this episode is for you.PS - If you’re a growth-minded firm owner or leader, apply to join us inside The Studio - https://growthitect.com/studioHere’s what you’ll learn in the episode: → The counterintuitive strategy Studio Lyon/Szot uses to stand out against industry titans.→ Why doing it all yourself is a trap, and how Andrew balances hands-on work with smart delegation.→ The secret to making clients see your value: Andrew’s take on selling architecture without selling.→ How to stay profitable while delivering a high-touch, personal client experience.→ The real reason fee negotiations go wrong… and why discussing scope adjustments upfront changes everything.→ Why being small is a superpower: the unexpected advantage that helps boutique firms land massive projects.→ The storytelling edge and how Studio Lyon/Szot turns narratives into winning pitches.(05:38) Swinerton partnership leads to New York opportunities(09:06) How to solve client problems in unexpected ways(11:29) The power of collaboration in design problem-solving(14:07) Why strategic problem-solving gives firms a competitive edge(16:50) How consistent staffing drives project success(24:53) Shifting how clients perceive an architect’s value(27:05) The key to building successful client partnerships(29:39) Balancing client value without undercutting(33:46) Managing expectations and adjusting fees effectively(37:13) Why design fees shouldn’t be tied to project costs(39:22) The smart way to prioritize client needs in negotiations(43:44) How a strong, authentic story makes small firms stand outGROWTHITECT RESOURCES→ Apply to join The Studio - https://growthitect.com/studio → Join thousands of architects on the free Growthitect newsletter - https://growthitect.com/join STAY CONNECTED→ Follow on LinkedIn→ Follow on Instagram→ Subscribe on YouTube→ Follow on Twitter