Being an architect. What's it like? | 'A Choice to Make' - Short Film

A short film about being an architect and my struggle to pursue a more creative life. This story is your story too because these are challenges we all face. How do we make the most of our short time here? How do we ensure we’re doing the work that makes us most happy? How do we reconcile our need to feel necessary, useful, and creative with the financial reality of making a life, supporting ourselves and our families?

Four years ago, I made the decision to part ways with the traditional practice of architecture in search of something more rewarding. I left behind a salary and good friends. I left a job that supported my family but left me creatively unfulfilled. Without a long client list or a rolodex full of contacts, and no familial connections to funnel work my way I began experimenting. I did anything and everything I could to feed my creative intellect.

I made things, each and every day. Most of what I made failed, but I took note of the ones that didn't and learned from them. I persisted and kept making. I continued to reevaluate what being an architect might look like; what it meant to me.

I found the traditional definition of practice stifling. I wasn’t content doing only one thing. Of course, I loved architecture deeply, but I also wanted to pursue writing and photography, video editing and sketching, model making and paper cutting, book publishing, marketing and interior design.

As my definition of what being an architect meant expanded to include all these things I discovered this deep well of creative freedom that traditional practice – for me - had been lacking.

Is my path the right one for everyone? Of course not. Is this expanded definition of a creative life perfect or unfailing? Hardly. But, experimenting has brought me closer than ever to my childhood vision of what a fulfilling life might look like.

Each day is a new experiment in making. And this short film? That's an experiment too. I made it with you in mind. To empower you to go find the things that make you feel most alive, most fulfilled, the things that bring you happiness.

This channel is possible because of you – my friends and viewers. I hope you’ll share your story in the comments below and together we can broaden the definition of what it means to live a fulfilling, creative life.

CREDITS:
video + editing: trent bell photography
written by: eric + laura reinholdt
story editing + direction: elise derosa
music: time traveler - big score audio (licensed for use here)

// GEAR I USE //

DSLR CAMERA:

LENSES:

AUDIO:

ARCHITECTURE GEAR:

STARTUP TOOLKIT:

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Please watch: "Making a Site Model - The Outpost Project"
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[addibesedic]

Anyone else feel intimidated by this because they didn't grow up building floor plans, but starting architecture school soon? now I'm stressed lol.

[davidkonevky]

The sims is what got me into architecture

[Loony_]

I'm 16 and I love seeing and sketching houses and buildings which drove me to be an architect and I watched some videos which really brought me down and I saw this video and it really inspired me to be an architect and hopefully one day I can be one, your video change my view towards architecture for the good

[Thomasfrank]

This was awesome, Eric. And that studio is amazing! Makes me wish I had some land to build on :)

[rbtbxoj]

this man lives in the perfect version of his self idealism, how incredibly fortunate

[chiarapalandra-brown]

Hi! I am 19 years old and just starting applications to study architecture. I have doubts whether it is the right thing. I loved maths classes and really enjoyed dimensional drawing in arts classes. However; I am struggling to bring images to paper. I need to practice and you just gave me power to believe. Thank you for your inspiration!

[nbela]

First time ever commenting on Youtube. I'm 6 years into my career as a structural engineer in bridge design. I've been on stress leave for 10 months now due to severe burnout. Over that time, the burnout has turned into depression. Both of these mental states I've never struggled with before. I've been searching for the changes I need to make to be happy. It's not a small task, and I find myself losing motivation too often. I cannot thank you enough for creating this video. The way you tell your story gives me so much hope and inspiration and it put a rare smile only face! I'm positive things will turn around. Cheers from Canada!

[ArchitecturalAesthetics]

Finally here. Great documentary, quality almost too good for YouTube. Genuinely happy to see that you're able to earn your creative freedom when your'e still at your prime age Eric. So this documentary culminates in the development of your studio, looking forward to a 'follow up' documentary in say 5 years.

[fatherhood]

My heart is genuinely eviscerated, to the point of tears. This is beautiful, I'm starting my journey down this road next month as an architect, and I'm thrilled to be a member of your community. Thank you

[kevinnegrete]

I've been wanting to be an architect since I was 6 or 7 watching bob the builder

[marcus.]

This is a work of art. As a “maker” I find myself have many similar thoughts and appreciations but find it difficult to formulate into words or routine and this video has actually helped me answer certain questions I have been asking myself. Best video yet!

[Skimo_]

Amazing video, really inspirational. I think I'll keep coming to this video every time i need a little push up to keep working on what I want, thanks for sharing.

[mycompasstv]

The very discipline of your routine is creatively freeing. Successful people / artists practice and embrace this concept of working effectively and efficiently. A terrific personal reminder of how to use your time well. Well done and much success.

[alone_]

I start trade school for masonry soon & this is giving me the chills. I spoke with the instructors about my goal to build an “architecture firm”. In my mind it’s vague & childlike & now your testimony is giving me a broader idea of what’s possible. Thank you

[mxbar]

I am in senior year in high school, I really want to become and architect, this video encouraged me to focus on my path and I will work hard to pursue this career. Thank you, and I hope everyone else here accomplishes their goals. God Bless all of you guys.

[shemquiban_]

Sir.. you earned my respect. I had the same feeling about facing the world after graduating college. I took Bachelor in Architectural Drafting Technology, it was great. But when I stepped in my "On Job Training" (OJT) to experience my line of work outside the school, everything that I have learned became dull on what I have expected. Most draftsmen were not following the ground basics of making models, there lots of flaws. It made me sad.
The statement you said, "Trading Time for Dollars" was a great impact.

Thank you so much for this, it really made me cry with a smile. :')
And same time made me hit the subscribe button.

[thechrisyoung]

I've only just stumbled across this video (and the channel) and I'm just blown away. I used to love drawing random buildings for fun when I was a kid but fell out of it all in high school due to a teacher. Slightly envious, Eric! You've got a clear love for what you do, freedom to create and your photo/video/edit skills are excellent. The channel and Instagram account are something to aspire to. Awesome work.

[pauldow]

that cleansing and renewal notion is a door we can pass through or know we can pass through.
thinkers often walk about in solitude of thoughts returning to things to be worked out.
in time your sculpture is formed.
appreciate your unique work.

[francescleoduran]

I've watched this before, but it still inspires me. One day, I may just have, and live the creative life I've always wanted for myself. But I've got to make the sacrifices first. Fighting!

[Therocky]

I love this. You have no idea how much others can relate to this. I hope to get where you are. Freedom from 9-5, freedom to reap the benefits of the hard work you put in, freedom to enjoy life. Thank you.