We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Damian Roman. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Damian below.

Hi Damian , thanks for joining us today. Let’s start with a story that highlights an important way in which your brand diverges from the industry standard.

Within architecture, to become a licensed architect, the industry standard has been to obtain an architectural college degree through an accredited architecture program. However, for the past 8 years, I’ve undertaken an alternative path that has followed a more apprenticeship-type approach, with extensive hands-on experience and mentorship. This has required the navigation of challenges such as: finding architects willing to support and guide me and building a profitable business to financially support myself while pursuing licensure. So far, I haven’t come across another person who has achieved licensure in architecture without a degree, which has made this journey particularly hard but also rewarding and potentially groundbreaking. This alternative path has allowed me to develop a unique practical and client-centered perspective, that blends real-world problem-solving with the technical knowledge that I’ve gained through experience as well as preparation for the National Council of Architectural Registration Board exams and the California Supplemental Exam.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’m Damian Roman, and I’m on an unconventional journey to becoming a licensed architect in California. Unlike the traditional route that relies on a college degree, I’ve chosen to forge my own path, combining real-world experience, mentorship, and self-guided study.

Initially, I was unsure of what career path I wanted to take, given my love for music (late 1970’s punk), history, and industrial design; being mechanically inclined; and having a problem-solving mindset. I had always been fascinated by how thoughtfully designed spaces can transform lives, which led me to realize that architecture was the path for me. Notably, I’ve learned that the study of architecture also encompasses specialized knowledge within areas such as: policy writing, land use code, community activism, relationship building, and strategic problem solving.

I launched my own design business to provide creative, client-centered solutions in residential design projects. While building my portfolio, I’ve learned about the necessary endurance to have your own business. Having a foundation built on core values has set us apart from other design businesses. With every project we prioritize a relationship and results in which the client succeeds. Due to this service first vision, most of our clients have found our office by word of mouth and our businesses has grown in clientele and types of projects.

What sets me apart is my hands-on experience and resourcefulness. My non-traditional path has provided me the ability to think innovatively to overcome challenges. I’m proud of my meaningful relationships with clients and industry professionals who value my perspectives and dedication. My work focuses on creating spaces that are both functional and inspiring, and I’m committed to showing that passion, perseverance, and creativity can redefine industry norms. I would like potential clients to know that I approach each project with an open mind and a true desire to bring their ideas to life.

We’d love to hear the story of how you turned a side-hustle into a something much bigger.

When I made the decision to start my design services business, I was working full-time in an office. I always had the intention to start a business, but I wasn’t sure how to start. I attended workshops and read blogs from entrepreneurs whose businesses recently kicked off the ground and became their main source of income. Using this information, I began my side hustle. I started with smaller design projects on the side gaining experience, an understanding of the requirements, and an appreciation for the necessary time commitment. At first, I was working 60-70 hours a week, between my fulltime job and the side-hustle.

Eventually, I carefully calculated the profit I needed to earn to cover my expenses and set a goal to build a client base that would allow the business to be my only source of income. With experience and confidence, I realized it was possible to turn my side hustle into a full-time business. Word of mouth referrals and the expansion of my network of clients and associates have absolutely made the biggest impact to scaling up my business.

A key milestone was when my side projects brought consistently enough profit to transition completely into a full-time business. Over time, I learned how to prioritize both the creativity of design along with business operations, ultimately creating a sustainable model that allowed me to grow both professionally and financially. However, as most business owners will share, achieving this balance between the two is a continuous challenge as my design business grows. Furthermore, my path to licensure has provided me with a greater understanding of industry standards while I have learned extensively from my mentors who have coached me based on their own experiences.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

My ongoing journey through the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards’ rigorous testing process to become a licensed architect is a current example of my resilience. The exams are notorious for their difficulty, requiring an extensive understanding of architectural principles, construction, and project management. Without a college degree in architecture, I’ve had to work and study harder to fill knowledge gaps, dedicating what seem like endless hours of studying while balancing my business and real-life responsibilities.

To this day, I vividly remember the moments of doubt and frustration while preparing for the first exam that I passed. But I kept reminding myself of my end goal. When I passed that first exam, it was a turning point, proving to myself that I could overcome these hurdles and moments of self-doubt. I still have five exams to go (plus the California Supplemental Exam), but I remain determined to become a licensed architect. This process has taught me to reframe difficult challenges as opportunities for growth and to persevere even when the odds seem stacked against me. My resilience stems from knowing that every small victory truly brings me closer to achieving my dream that once felt impossible.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.processanddesignstudio.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/damian_pds/?hl=en
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damian-roman-b614112b/