FROM ARCHITECTURE TO PRODUCT DESIGN
Once again, ARCHCareersGuide.com is pleased to share the personal story of Irini Zendeli as she transitioned from architecture to product design. If interested in reading more about others who have transitioned, check out Careers in Architecture and Beyond. For more details on product design, visit the Industrial Designers Society of America.
“What do you do?”
“I’m an Archi… I’m a product designer.”
When asked about my career, I still find myself stumbling over my words even though it has been over two years since I transitioned from architecture to product design.
Architecture had become a significant part of my identity, and I had invested a considerable amount of effort into it. However, the switch provided me with an opportunity to reassess my career goals and redefine myself as a designer. Sharing my journey serves as a reminder that there are exciting opportunities beyond the traditional paths in architecture.
Like many architects, I had a passion for art and design from an early age. Pursuing architecture seemed like a natural fit—I was drawn to the idea of shaping spaces and making a tangible impact on the world around me. Plus, let’s be honest, the prestige associated with the profession made it an appealing choice, especially for my immigrant parents who saw it as a symbol of success.
Gaining admission in the architecture program at University of Maryland – College Park and later pursuing my Master of Architecture at Syracuse University were significant milestones. Graduate school was transformative, particularly in shaping my perspective on design’s role in addressing urban and social issues. I became deeply interested in data visualization and diagramming as tools for problem-solving.
Throughout my architecture career, I worked on diverse projects, from student housing to cultural planning. Leveraging my diagramming skills, I told design stories and sold creative spatial solutions to higher education clients. I earned my architectural license and gained recognition as a design leader within the firm. Despite these accomplishments, I began to feel a sense of restlessness. The demanding nature of architecture—long hours, constant travel, and relentless pressure—led me to question whether it was the right path for me.
A chance encounter with a product design boot camp opened my eyes to new possibilities. I was captivated by the emphasis on user-centric design, iterative processes, and rapid prototyping
A chance encounter with a product design boot camp opened my eyes to new possibilities. I was captivated by the emphasis on user-centric design, iterative processes, and rapid prototyping. It offered a refreshing change from the architecture world’s focus on buildings as objects, prioritizing instead the user experience. I interviewed for a position as a product designer at a construction management software company, where my architectural background proved beneficial. I presented my architectural portfolio from a UX perspective, highlighting its relevance to product design. I realized that both fields share a common goal: solving problems and enhancing the human experience. I discovered user journeys are akin to circulation diagrams—just in a different context.
One significant difference I have encountered between architecture and product design is the concept of design iteration. In architecture, projects often face budget constraints and client demands, limiting opportunities for refinement after construction begins. In contrast, product design allows for continuous improvement and adaptation based on user feedback, resulting in more agile and responsive solutions.
…encourage you to keep an open mind and embrace opportunities for growth and exploration.
To aspiring architects and designers, I encourage you to keep an open mind and embrace opportunities for growth and exploration. Your journey may take unexpected turns, but each experience will contribute to your evolution as a designer.
Irini Zendeli
