EA656: Jared Banks - The Unexpected Truth About Architect Led Development

The Unexpected Truth About Architect Led Development In this episode of the EntreArchitect Podcast, architect to developer journey takes center stage with Jared Banks, AIA, founder of Shoegnome Architects. Based in Seattle, Jared blends residential design, BIM expertise, and entrepreneurship to help architects build smarter careers. He shares how his path evolved from running a BIM consultancy to designing homes and launching a development company. Along the way, Jared breaks down what it really takes to step into small-scale real estate development. He explains financing strategies, partnership structures, and the realities of market timing. In addition, he offers honest lessons from his first townhouse project in Bothell, which was completed in 2025. These insights make the process feel more approachable for architects who want to expand beyond traditional practice. Jared reflects on his role supporting small firm architects through leadership with AIA Seattle and beyond. He shares practical advice for those curious about development but unsure where to begin. As a result, this episode provides both inspiration and a clear starting point. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn design skills into ownership opportunities, this conversation is for you. This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, The Unexpected Truth About Architect Led Development with Jared Banks. Learn more about Jared at Shoegnome (http://www.shoegnome.com/) , or follow him on Facebook (  / shoegnome  ) , LinkedIn (  / 645  ) , Twitter (  / shoegnome  ) , YouTube (   / shoegnomellc  ) , and Instagram (  / shoegnome_architects  ) . Referenced in this Episode EA550: Jared Banks – Your Business Journey as a Small Firm Architect (https://entrearchitect.com/podcast/en...) EA493: Jared Banks – Learning to BIM with Shoegnome (https://entrearchitect.com/podcast/en...) EA524: Jared Banks – Sharing a New Paradigm for the Profession of Architecture (https://entrearchitect.com/podcast/en...) Please Visit Our Platform Sponsors Arcatemy is Arcat's Continuing Education Program. Listen to Arcat's Detailed podcast and earn HSW credits. As a trusted provider, Arcat ensures you earn AIA CE credits while advancing your expertise and career in architecture. Learn more at Arcat.com/continuing-education (https://www.arcat.com/continuing-educ...) . WeCollabify helps small architecture firms build sustainable capacity through an insourcing model that integrates skilled BIM and technical professionals directly into your team—working in your time zone, inside your systems. Learn how to scale with intention at wecollabify.com/entrearchitect (http://wecollabify.com/entrearchitect) . Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects. Mentioned in this episode: Spaces (https://entrearchitect.captivate.fm/s...)