Chris East is a principal at Cromwell and a licensed architect with more than 23 years of experience. He is one of the founders of studioMAIN, which has advocated for improved community planning to strengthen civic life and economic vitality. His recent work includes the Dr. Marian G. Lacey K-8 Academy, Philander Smith College’s Mabee-Kresge Science Center renovation and the Sherwood Public Works campus.
East is a graduate of the Fay Jones School of Architecture at the University of Arkansas and is an Accredited Learning Environment Planner (ALEP).
East is the president of the Arkansas chapter of the American Institute of Architects.
Have you seen a big increase in design-build contracts? How does that impact architects and clients?
We are experiencing a growing increase in design-build contracts. The primary impact is that the architect is retained by the contractor as part of an integrated team, rather than working directly for the owner. This structure streamlines coordination and accountability, but it also changes how design decisions are made and executed.
How are insurance costs and climate considerations changing building design?
We are seeing a significant effort to design resilient buildings that can withstand extreme weather while preserving our natural resources. Some improvements are driven by insurers, such as the quality of roofing, lightning protection and fire protection systems. Some changes are driven by policy, such as the requirement for all new public schools in Arkansas with 50 or more occupants to have a storm shelter.
How are architects using artificial intelligence?
AI is infiltrating the design world at varying degrees based on individual practice. We are seeing it used with everything from generating quick ideas and renderings to helping with writing proposals and code research. I look forward to seeing how it evolves and becomes more integrated into our practice.
Do you have any concerns about the impact AI will have on architecture? Do you think it will take jobs away from architects?
I hesitate to try to tell the future, but I believe AI will not take away jobs from those who embrace it. It will significantly change the practice of how buildings are designed and the role between architects, engineers and contractors. My hope is that AI can allow architects to spend more time on the high-value design decisions and automate the routine.
What’s your favorite building in the world? In Arkansas?
My favorite building in the world is the Pantheon. It is one of the greatest examples of beauty, ingenuity, civic significance and preservation. Michelangelo once described it as “angelic.” In Arkansas, it is Thorncrown Chapel by E. Fay Jones.
How can architects reimagine historic buildings?
Architects can reimagine historic buildings through adaptive reuse and preservation. Most of our historic buildings are in the oldest parts of towns, which were often more dense and walkable and where buildings were viewed as lasting civic investments. These characteristics are what maintain the buildings’ cultural value and make them attractive to communities.
What role should architecture play in downtown revitalization efforts?
Architects are critical and intrinsic to downtown revitalization. Architects focus not just on buildings, but also the spaces in between and the relationship with the person experiencing it. A building alone does not create a city; it takes intentional planning and generational commitment to create a great city. Architects are necessary to create and execute those efforts, and ensure the plan is not compromised by short-term decision-making.
How is adaptive reuse of older buildings penciling out compared to new construction?
It depends. Some older buildings are in great shape and well suited to their new use. Other older buildings require a lot of attention to repair or may not be well suited for their new use. Also, older buildings typically do not meet modern building codes and often need to be updated (for instance, adding an elevator to meet Americans with Disability Act requirements or updated mechanical systems to meet energy code). Each needs to be carefully considered for their intended use and how it will fit into the community.
If I’m a business executive who needs to hire an architect, what traits should I be looking for?
I would recommend an architect who can share the vision of the business executive and easily communicate concepts and ideas. Also, they need to have a passion for design and a commitment to the highest standards of practice (zero-carbon, resilient, healthy, just and equitable).
Why did you want to become an architect?
I always enjoyed building and experimenting with space. From an early age I would rearrange furniture in our home, paint walls, remove doors, remove window shades and find the perfect arrangement for that particular day. Meanwhile, I was learning how to build furniture with hand tools and scrap materials.
Sign up for Daily E-news
