34-TEN Year Anniversary
An open letter from the 34-TEN Principal, Josh Hutchison, reflecting on this ten year journey thus far
34-TEN has taught me a few things here are four lessons observed over the past decade:
Patience is required. Architecture is a slow-moving by nature. Our creative output won’t be visible to the outside world for years, quite literally. Just stay the course, ignore outside noise, and nurture an idea. It will eventually become a reality.
It takes a team. 34-TEN has achieved great things because it is a team and a sum of its parts. Building a team is the hardest aspect of running architectural practice. I’m happy to say that as we celebrate our tenth year, we are the strongest and most talented team to ever sit in the storefront.
Authenticity is important. As you roll down the 3000 block of N California Avenue, you might see the headbangers graphic on our storefront. This image speaks to our ethos and captures the spirit of uninhibited authenticity that is required to do this job successfully. Stay young, stay curious. Bang your head.
The practice of architecture is a gift. This profession of architecture gives us a unique perspective of the world around us, and it gets better with every passing year. I’m grateful that I’m still excited to go to work at this stage of my life.
A huge thank you to all our clients for your trust, we take it seriously. To the general contractors and artisans, we’ve collaborated over the years. Your care and dedication does not go unnoticed. To all the engineers, interior designers, and lighting designers we’ve with over the years, we appreciate your dedication and value your expertise. Thank you to the @aiachicago for your continued support of Chicago’s small practice community. I look forward to strengthening these relationships for decades to come.
With Gratitude,
Josh