In this episode of the Power Talk Show, we sit down with serial entrepreneur and architect Lance Cayko, co-founder of F9 Productions and co-host of Inside the Firm podcast. What follows is not just an architecture story — it’s a masterclass in grit, entrepreneurship, systems thinking, and design-led innovation.
From the Farm to the Framework
Lance’s entrepreneurial spark ignited not in a design studio, but on a Midwestern farm and a summer job as a construction gopher at age 13. That early hands-on experience—and a pivotal conversation about profit vs. wages—shifted his mindset forever. Lance saw the difference between labor and leverage, and it planted the seed for a vertically integrated empire.
The DNA of F9 Productions
F9 Productions started amid the 2008 recession. While many feared the economic storm, Lance saw it as a pressure cooker for innovation. From the very beginning, Lance and his co-founder Alex placed client service above aesthetics, flipping the norm in the design world.
Today, F9 specializes in:
- Single-family residential (50%)
- Multi-family dwellings (25%)
- Boutique commercial projects (25%)
Their true edge? A hyper-responsiveness policy: every inquiry gets acknowledged within 1 business hour.
The Rise of Tech-Enhanced Architecture
F9 is no stranger to innovation. Lance integrates tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Grok into their daily workflows—not to replace, but to enhance the human voice in everything from client emails to RFPs.
“We don’t use AI as a starter. We use it as a polisher.”
Interestingly, it’s not just the architects bringing AI into play. Their clients are showing up with AI-generated concepts and visualizations. This collaboration is now reshaping how creativity is co-built between clients and designers.
Sushi, Sushi, and More Sushi
Ask Lance about what excites him most today? It’s building restaurants. F9 is currently in the midst of launching its first sushi restaurant build, with several more in the pipeline. A few years ago, it was homes. Now it’s boutique eateries. His north star? No regrets—professionally or personally.
Signature Projects
The standout project? The award-winning East Watch House. Featured in Dwell and Builder Magazine, it’s a shining example of how design, client collaboration, and craftsmanship can come together to create legacy
Scaling with Purpose
F9 isn’t interested in growing for growth’s sake. After watching peers lose their edge after crossing the 12-person threshold, Lance has learned that maintaining agility in service and quality often means staying lean.
“The more people you add, the harder it becomes to keep customer service at the level you want.”
Advice to Aspiring Architects & Entrepreneurs
Lance offers two clear takeaways:
- Architects: “Pick up a hammer. Know how your designs come to life.”
- Entrepreneurs: “Start in a recession. Your hunger will define your growth.”