In this episode of Made with Brilliance, I sit down with Alexander Harrow, Partner at Freyer Collaborative Architects (FCA), to explore the evolving world of architecture, from historic renovations to cutting-edge construction methods. Alex shares how his early exposure to architecture, travel, and hands-on design experiences shaped his career. We discuss FCA’s collaborative approach, the balance between preserving history and embracing innovation, and the challenges of building in New York City. From renovating iconic structures to designing new high-rises, Alex dives into the complexities of modern architecture, how technology like Revit and Rhino is reshaping the industry, and why teamwork is essential in bringing visionary projects to life.Key Takeaways:Architecture is About Collaboration: Successful projects require teamwork—between architects, engineers, contractors, and clients—to solve problems creatively and efficiently.Historic Buildings Hold Hidden Stories: Whether it’s uncovering artifacts in old walls or restoring architectural elements, working with historic buildings brings unique challenges and rewards.The Evolution of Architectural Tools: From hand-drafting and FedExing sketches to full 3D modeling in Revit and Rhino, technology has revolutionized design and construction coordination.New York City is One of the Toughest Places to Build: With strict zoning laws, historic preservation rules, and space constraints, designing and constructing in NYC requires strategic problem-solving.Sustainability and Energy Codes are Reshaping Design: New building codes push for greener materials, improved energy efficiency, and innovative solutions like green roofs and solar panels.Timeline Summary:[00:00] - Introduction to Alexander Harrow and his journey into architecture.[02:00] - Early influences: How travel, family, and curiosity shaped Alex’s career.[05:00] - FCA’s collaborative design philosophy and why it matters.[08:00] - The joys and challenges of working on historic renovations.[12:00] - The shift from hand-drafting to digital modeling in architecture.[15:00] - The challenges of building in NYC, from zoning to historic approvals.[20:00] - The future of architecture: sustainability, green design, and smart buildings.[25:00] - Final thoughts on teamwork, problem-solving, and pushing the industry forward.

Ver todos los episodios