Overworked and Undervalued: A Series of Traumatic Experiences In Architecture

Chris* faced a series of traumatic and unfair experiences over the course of his architecture career.

Despite his lifelong passion for architecture, Chris dealt with difficult bosses, excessive overwork, sexual harassment, lack of appreciation, and ultimately wrongful dismissal.

His story highlights the need for positive change in architecture's problematic power dynamics, management issues, and lack of work-life balance.

Three major incidents that happened to Chris were:

1. Early in his first job, Chris was berated and had his housing stipend removed for mentioning his rent in casual conversation (6:00)
2. A mentor made sexual advances; Chris went along but felt uncomfortable and taken advantage of by the power dynamic (22:00)
3. After taking medical leave for depression, Chris was not welcomed back to his firm as legally required and instead encouraged to resign (33:00)

*Not his real name

5 Key Takeaways:

1. Inappropriate sexual dynamics are common but rarely discussed in architecture firms.
2. Taking medical leave for mental health is often met with retaliation, not support.
3. Overwork culture leads to poor work-life balance and burnout.
4. Speaking up about unfair treatment is important despite being difficult.
5. Young architects should set boundaries and advocate for themselves early on.

Notable Quotes:

"I felt so disrespected and used in this moment. I really, I just couldn't believe that I had been so misled and it really just. I get emotional because of it, I just felt really, really disrespected."

"It doesn't have to be this way. If you're a young person, be very clear with your boundaries. Don't sell yourself short and give into the ethos of putting in the long hours."

Episode Quote:

"Making decisions based on whether it's the bottom line in their best interests and not in yours. And it's just very unfortunate because. Industry couldn't exist without the workers. we're being completely exploited for our passion and interest in this profession. it's just really unfair."

Relevant Links:

• The US Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/fmla
• Your Rights to Discuss Your Wages (US Specific) https://www.nlrb.gov/about-nlrb/rights-we-protect/your-rights/your-rights-to-discuss-wages
• Out of Architecture website: https://www.outofarchitecture.com
• Information on becoming an Out of Architecture Patreon supporter: https://www.patreon.com/outofarchitecture

If you have resources to share that you think may be helpful to what was discussed in this episode, please email us at: [email protected]