Marc Kushner has earned himself the name “The Social Architect”. The co-founder of Architizer, a social media platform for architects, he has revolutionized the architecture community in a million ways. Between managing Architizer, and also being a partner at the architecture and concept design firm Hollwich Kushner LLC, Marc still found time to grant Base an interview. Here’s what he had to say.
B: Tell us about Architizer (in 100 words or less).
MK: Facebook for architecture. Bad, I know, but succinct and my Dad understands it this way.
B: Did you anticipate that it would turn into what it has become today?
MK: It has exceeded our expectations.
B: We’ve noticed that Architizer events are occurring all over the world: Los Angeles, Paris, New York, and other cities. What are these events and how do you ensure that what you’re doing, who you’re partnering with, what you’re featuring, and who you’re attracting all support the grand vision for Architizer?
MK: The grand vision is to completely change the way people find, buy and consume architecture. To do that we need all of the architects on Architizer. These events, or ‘launch parties’, are a way to introduce ourselves to important hubs of architecture. We show up with the right local partners, and we get throw events that are fun, casual, and filled with hundreds of eager architects ready to join the revolution.
B: How do you balance your time and focus between Architizer and HWKN?
MK: I am about 80% Architizer and 20% HWKN. Matthias runs the firm day-to-day and then I come in on important decisions and design critiques.
B: What’s the next step for Architizer? For HWKN?
MK: World domination. Is that so dorky?
B: What do you enjoy most about the field you’re in?
MK: Architecture truly is the intersection of art and reality. We are sculptors at the scale of the city and the payoff is fantastic. Seeing people interacting with something that you drew, or helped to conceive is a huge thrill.
B: What or who inspires you the most?
MK: My partners. Matthias, Alex, and Ben.
My mentor Juergen Mayer.
B: If you could have been involved in the creation and construction of any previously built structure, which one would it be and why?
MK: Whoah. tough. Einstein Tower by Erich Mendelsohn in Potsdam, Germany.
Why?
Total game changer. Impossibly complicated and articulate building that makes it seem carefree and easy. But most of all… it is one of those buildings that makes people smile.
B: What has been your greatest challenge in getting where you are today? What challenges do you foresee in the future?
MK: I really want to quit smoking. Does that count?
B: Describe the style of your apartment.
MK: Aspiring
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