Kotaro Nakamura is an Architect and partner in Roesling Nakamura Terada Architects in San Diego and Ventura, California. He is also a professor and currently the Interim Director of the School of Art and Design at San Diego State University. He has been a professor for over 30 years while also running his private design practice with his partners. The main focus for his firm is public works, especially schools. In our conversation we discuss the idea of building communities, resilient design, creating a stable business model, how Design Build is affecting Architects, and his philosophy on educating young designers.
Show Notes
Kotaro Nakamura – Architect/ Professor
AIA, LEED AP
Partner Roesling Nakamura Terada Architects
San Diego, California
http://www.rntarchitects.com/home.html
Interim Director and a professor of the School of Art and Design at San Diego State University
Education: San Diego State University Master of Arts in Environmental Design
Kanto Gakuin University Bachelor Science in Environmental Engineering
Size of Firm: 33
Project Types: Nature Center, Community Center, Schools, Transitional Housing, Public Utility
Topics we discuss in our conversation:
Founding philosophy; Create well designed projects for the general public
The importance of Interdisciplinary interaction
The importance of Construction Administration
How Teaching affects Kotaro’s design practice
Balancing mission with financial success
Young business strategy vs. mature business
How measuring time and cost supports better job pricing
Stability in the business through diversification of project types
The affect of Design-Build on Architects
The challenge of managing cash flow for the business
Recommended skills to develop for up and coming designers
Fees:
Fixed fees
Profit Generators:
Design & Construction documents
Construction Administration
Marketing Strategy:
Target public request for proposals and bids
Preferred Technology:
CAD
Links & Resources Mentioned: