Studio CMK advises firms in the architecture industry on realizing potential, deepening relationships, and communicating value.
The studio is led by Christine Marsal, a thought leader in business development strategy and a lifelong designer.
Over the past decades, I have advised architecture firms on nearly every facet of professional practice – business strategy and promotion, communication and conflicts, beauty and love. I am both an objective observer and a deeply sympathetic one. That’s because prior to establishing Studio CMK, I practiced architecture for more than two decades. Ironically, leaving daily practice only brought me closer to the heart of the architectural profession.
Studio CMK is my way of staying close to the field I care deeply about, and to the creative, passionate people who are at its center. The studio is a node in a network of colleagues, of friends, of fellow-travelers, many of whom are also clients.
On the Road, Chicago Architecture Foundation, 2002 (image by Graham MacIndoe)
Professionally, I came of age in an environment of possibility.
My career began in New York’s contemporary art world, working to support extraordinarily talented artists. I witnessed the struggle of creative people as they approached the commercial market. And I was convinced of the key part played by their advocates – such as art dealers and curators – who help artists navigate their vocation.
After returning to graduate school to begin my own design journey, I practiced architecture for the next two decades, eventually becoming a partner in a prominent Philadelphia firm. While I was deeply enmeshed in design, I also saw myself in a “bookend” role – lending energy at the beginning of the project, as an approach was defined, and again at the conclusion, when the impact of our work was evaluated and communicated.
From my time as a design leader, I know intimately the anatomy of the design process, the cultural context, and the business pressures. But I keep returning to my formative experience in the arts, which taught me to value wildly different creative visions. At Studio CMK, I still think of myself as a kind of gallerist who cultivates a cohort of colorful, creative, talented, opinionated, and deeply passionate people.
100+
campuses
I have developed a deep familiarity with the institutional sector while working on campus and urban focused projects – be it universities, independent schools, government agencies, or municipalities, I’m on a constant quest to experience the spaces and places that shape our shared humanity.
25
years
My first project out of architecture school was the Racine Art Museum. It was an early opportunity to weave my art and architecture backgrounds, and I’ve remained deeply committed to cultural institutions in the years following.
1
story at a time
My clients are featured on coveted covers of magazines and celebrated at awards ceremonies. I help shape their stories and connect the dialogues that bring presence to the powerful work they achieve.
Who are our clients?
They are the familiar three-letter acronyms, they are boutique firms, they are among the world’s most respected and awarded designers, they are tenacious startups. They shape the contemporary landscape. They dream up the future of cities. They transmit generational knowledge. They are thoroughly unique and yet they — and we — are kindred spirits.
Realizing Potential
Identifying clients and projects that share firm values
Strategizing on firm transitions
Articulating business development goals
Mentoring junior staff members
Communicating Value
Leading strategy for pursuit of RFQs/RFPs
Developing and editing proposal content
Creating collateral to tell your story
Deepening Relationships
Setting a plan for development
Advising on outreach and community building
Recommending conference and presentation venues
Christine Marsal (image by Sahar Coston-Hardy)