What architecture school doesn't teach you.

Honest advice, tools and finds from Julie Palma Engels, architect, formerly at SOM London and Chicago, and founder of Studio P Architects since 2011.

About Julie

I've worked on everything from a NATO headquarters to private homes in Brussels. Along the way I learned the things nobody tells you in school: how to build a portfolio that gets read, which tools are worth your money, how to deal with clients, and how to survive deadlines without burning out.

Open Book is where I share all of it. Architecture school teaches you to design, but rarely how the profession actually works. Here you'll find practical advice, tested tools and a community of people going through the same thing. No fluff, just what I wish someone had told me.

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Short, practical videos on TikTok and YouTube.

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The tools, books and gear I actually use and recommend.

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For students and young architects


Starting architecture school, finishing your thesis or looking for your first job?

You'll find honest guidance, useful resources and people who get it. Everything I share comes from real projects and real mistakes.

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COURSES, TEMPLATES AND TOOLS

Save your valuable time – we've scoured the web to curate the finest selection of architecture-related tools, templates, and resources, all in one place

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Longer reads on the practical side of architecture: choosing your gear, managing stress, building a career that lasts.

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Every week I answer the questions I get most: clients, fees, portfolios, first jobs, life on site. Short, honest and straight from practice.

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