Publishing and PR for Architects: start here
I’ve put together several blog posts for architects about the process and strategy behind getting your work published, and becoming a spokesperson in the media for architecture issues and advocacy topics.
If you’re keen to improve your publishing smarts - and use publishing strategically to grow your brand awareness and to encourage new clients to make contact with your practice - these articles may help.
Profile of John Wardle - pictured at his own home - from an article by Rachael Bernstone. Published in Habitus magazine.
Photography by Marnie Hawson.
1. How to cut through publication frustration and connect with future clients
This article delves into the question of whether it’s still useful to seek publication in print magazines, in this age of digital everything. The answer is yes, and I explain why, and how to go about seeking publication, along with three insider tips from my 20+ years working as a journalist and editor.
2. What is Public Relations and how can it help my architecture practice?
This step-by-step article outlines how to create a media kit and frame your pitch for editors, and it even includes some sample email templates (swipe files) that you can customise to send with your projects.
3. Create a publication strategy to maximise coverage of your projects
This article explains the difference between print and online publications, and why you should attempt to secure the placement of new projects in print magazines before approaching any online platforms. It also outlines the various publication segments, and contains a link to a video in my Facebook group, that you can watch to gain added insights.
4. Do you have what it takes to talk about architecture in the media?
This article was prompted by the wide-ranging and controversial discussions about architecture in the Sydney Morning Herald in November 2020, when Treasurer Dominic Perrottet suggested 10 Sydney buildings should be demolished.
I’d love to see more architects confidently stepping into the media spotlight - as Kathlyn Loseby, Shaun Carter and Caroline Pidcock did - so this article provides tips on how to prepare for media interviews, or get the training you need to become a proficient media spokesperson.
5. Talking about architecture in the media: insights from Kirsty Volz
In this article (and accompanying audio recording in the Facebook group) Kirsty Volz recalls her first brush with the media, which prompted her to learn new media engagement skills. She also talks about how she now regularly appears on radio and in print, and offers insights for architects keen to enhance their media presence.
Australian House & Garden magazine. McIntyre House. Architecture by Greg Everding Architect. Interior Design by Ascot Living.
Photography by Maree Homer. Styling by Kate Nixon.
6. What is 'shareable content' and how does it fit into your architecture marketing strategy?
Once you master publishing, it’s time to start creating content that others will share to their networks, which helps spread your message further, for free! This article provides several recent examples from my own marketing activities, and some architects', and also contains details of a book that explains how to create posts that are more likely to be shared organically.
Keen to get some help from SLD around publishing your proejcts?
If you’d like help to develop a publication strategy for your latest project, you can book an Acupuncture Session here.
In this Session we can:
map out your goals around attracting new clients
determine which print and online publications are the best fit for your project and goals
work out a newsworthy “hook” for your pitches
and I’ll provide contact details for editors and insights around what they are looking for, and how to follow up, to give you the best chance of success.