Last week, we had the privilege of hosting the penultimate review for a second-year architecture studio from Iowa State University, led by our own Dakota Smith. The session brought students into our studio space, where they presented their design explorations to a panel of critics from regional architecture practices. This salon-style critique offered a dynamic, collaborative atmosphere that showcased the students’ creativity while encouraging thoughtful dialogue about their work.
At Substance, hosting events like this isn’t just about providing feedback—it’s about fostering connections and bridging the gap between academic study and professional practice. We see reviews as opportunities for students to engage with practicing architects, gaining insights into how their ideas might translate into the real world. For us, it’s a chance to give back to the profession by supporting the next generation of designers while staying engaged with fresh ideas and perspectives that energize our own work.
For the students, stepping into our professional environment offered a new lens through which to see their projects. For us, it was a reminder of why teaching matters: it’s not just about sharing expertise but about creating a space where ideas can be challenged, refined, and celebrated.
We’re proud to have played a small part in these students’ architectural journeys and grateful to the guest critics who brought their thoughtful feedback and diverse perspectives to the table. Events like this remind us that the heart of architecture lies in collaboration and learning—principles we strive to uphold every day at Substance.
By opening our doors to the next generation, we continue to honor our commitment to the architecture community: to teach, to mentor, and to inspire.
