Today we’d like to introduce you to Jordan Smith
Hi Jordan, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey as a business owner began directly out of college in 2019. I obtained my Master of Architecture degree, entered the workforce as a commercial associate architect, and almost immediately identified a need for more architectural visualization experts in the field. I started a business focusing on residential 3D renderings, which I ran in the off-hours while working my full-time job. I eventually left the commercial architecture firm I started at, and began working with another firm specializing in high-end, custom residential architecture. As I grew in my role as a residential architectural designer, I was able to also add drafting and design services to my own business. So far, I have been able to be a part of hundreds of residential and commercial projects across the country, including 29 states and Washington DC. My intent for the future, as a business owner and associate architect, is to place a higher focus on developing my own architectural designs and concepts.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Running a business of any sort is no small feat. The biggest struggle I have faced so far has been time management, particularly because I have maintained a full-time salaried position in tandem with my business. Other challenges include learning how to manage finances/taxes, learning how to become my own social media content creator, building and maintaining websites, and cold-calling businesses to offer services.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I produce high-quality 3D renderings, architectural drafting sets, and robust architectural designs. I specialize in developing, drafting, and rendering high-end residential concepts for homeowners, builders, developers, and more. I am able to simply draft/render a design that is crafted by others, or assist with project design from start to finish. This role is unique and rewarding because I have the opportunity to fulfill my own personal creative aspirations, but also work with other designers to learn and shadow. What sets me apart from the rest in my field is my attention to detail, the ease of communication I can provide, my expertise with design trends and styles, and my flexible work schedule and process.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I love taking inspiration from design pages online like the Local Project, ArchDaily, Est Living, Architectural Digest, and more. I am following a plethora of individual designers and firms so I can stay on top of the ever-evolving world of architecture and interior design.
Pricing:
- Drafting & Design: $100-$150/hr
- New Build Design: $2-$5 per square foot
- Interior & Exterior 3D Rendering: $400-$800 per view
- Aerial 3D Rendering/Site Plan: $800-$1500 per view
- 3D Floor Plan: $400-$800 per view
Contact Info:
- Website: https://TRACEKC.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trace_arch/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TRACE.KC.ARCHVIZ
Image Credits
All renderings are by me, but some designs are by other design studios.
