John Clark (REDjay) | FS.008
Live life. Be bold. Listen.
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In this episode of Flying Solo, host Katie Kangas speaks with East Coast architect and solopreneur John Clark, founder of REDjay Architecture. John describes his practice as classic custom residential design with a modern twist, much like the bird behind his firm’s name—a cardinal reimagined as a REDjay. For John, architecture is about more than design; it’s about keeping it real. His firm reflects his own personality and interests, enabling him to connect authentically with clients and address the unique challenges they face in their homes.
Much of John’s work grows out of the relationships he builds in everyday life. Whether through his kids’ activities, hobbies, or simply meeting new people, he listens closely to the stories and struggles people share about their living spaces. These casual conversations often lay the foundation for trust—trust strong enough to invite an architect into the personal process of reimagining their home. By living fully in his own “backyard,” John has created a practice rooted in community, connection, and authenticity.
Katie draws out three important lessons from John’s approach. First, his ability to live life fully and show up for the people around him. This demonstrates how a firm can grow naturally out of genuine human connection. Like a cardinal returning to a reliable feeder, he shows up consistently and follows through—whether that means answering a potential client’s question or providing a referral. Just as importantly, John makes himself visible. His presence at school drop-offs, games, hikes, and professional gatherings serves as a reminder of who he is and what he does. His visibility never feels forced because it reflects who he is. Finally, John leads with curiosity. He doesn’t approach conversations as sales pitches but as opportunities to ask questions, listen, and understand what people truly need. As he puts it, it’s simply about “being a good human.”
Together, these qualities illustrate how a solo architecture firm can be an authentic extension of the architect behind it. By living fully, being visible, and staying curious, John has built a practice that doesn’t rely on traditional marketing, but instead on trust, connection, and problem-solving. Just as the cardinal’s bright red presence spreads through the neighborhood, John’s REDjay practice reminds us that being yourself can be the most powerful strategy of all.
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John Clark (REDjay)
To join this flying solo movement, you can follow Flying Solo Arch on Instagram where Katie posts content to encourage your business life. Find out which bird defines your marketing strategy with the Bird Quiz on the Flying Solo Website.
Listen to more encouraging content on the Gabl Media platform including podcasts with CEU and HSW credit towards your licensure renewal. Consider joining the EntreArchitect Network by becoming a member or joining the free EntreArchitect Community Facebook Group.
Mark R. Page, founder of EntreArchitect and Gabl Media, has been building a community of small firm architects who are having tough conversations to improve their professional practice and live their best life every day.
