Fed up with the traditional way of procuring architecture, Qutaibah Al-Atafi joined forces with builder Ryan Underwood to create something different. And with Underwood, their Melbourne-based design-led design and build firm, that’s exactly what they’re doing.Immigrating from Iraq and growing up in the outer suburbs of New Zealand, Qutaibah was left questioning why some places felt like home and others didn’t.In this conversation, amongst other things, we discuss whether architecture is still worth it. With tight fees getting tighter, and AI rewriting the rules, what’s keeping architects going?0:00 - Intro1:40 - Why architecture?3:48 - Is architecture worth it?5:20 - Qutaibah's childhood and route into architecture9:27 - The importance of drawing and thoughts on AI16:37 - The design and build business model and philosophy31:01 - ADVICE - Seek out site experience!33:33 - Reimagining education and the role of an architect39:04 - The universal practitioner (always be learning)41:49 - Passive house, sustainable design, and an evidence based approach48:14 - Educating the client on sustainable design50:16 - Lessons learned and advice for architects53:36 - Mentorship (listen to older architects!)57:15 - Leave a job on good terms58:53 - Has your career turned out how you imagined?

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