Loosetalk
Bob Fox
Publisher of Workspace Design Magazine
Co-Founder of FOX Architects
Washington, DC
How does the principal of an architecture firm wind up as a publisher of an online magazine?
I founded FOX Architects back in 2003 with my partners Sabret Flocos and Jim Alegro. From the start, we always looked at our profession from a very collaborative and multidisciplinary approach. The more people that view a project with unique and different perspectives, the better the ideas that emerge. Starting Workspace Design Magazine was a natural extension of this interest in collaboration. It’s the perfect place for me and others in my industry to talk about interesting topics, trends, etc. The whole concept was actually born out of a group of very bright interns last summer. I had received requests from numerous younger professionals to work, and, despite not having room for them, I felt an obligation to help mentor them. I started a discussion group, that quickly led to a research team, and then to an internal blog. At first, I thought this should be a newsletter, but Stephanie Hay, our editor, did a little research and said this should be an online magazine. We really wanted it to be a credible resource for the industry, so it’s independent from the firm.
Did you have an urge to include an actual fox in your firm’s logo? If so, how did you fight that off?
I haven’t, but it’s a good idea. I’ll keep that in mind.
Growing up, did you play with a lot of LEGO products?
Sure. I think everyone did. However, I spent more time with Tinker Toys. (Do they still make those?)
What’s one of your favorite designs that you dreamed up?
That’s a tough one. I’m way too critical of myself, but I think I would say my house. That was hard, but it’s just fun! And I was my own worst client. Now I have even more ideas, so I really hope I get a chance to do it over again.
Do you wear a captain’s hat when you sail?
Haha…ah…NO!
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