We are so excited to introduce you to Monica Jackiewicz-Langdon, our new Account Relationship Manager at ArchiBiz!
Based in Krakow, Monica brings a vast and varied range of experiences to ArchiBiz. In the past, she’s worked as a property marketing consultant, architect outreach specialist for Bowerbird, and held various roles at a London-based architecture practice. For the better part of two decades, she’s also worked as a freelance photographer who specializes in architecture, real estate and design. You may have even seen her work on Grand Designs or Good Homes!
As our Account Relationship Manager, she’ll be instrumental in connecting with more ambitious, talented architects from around the world who are looking to grow their business and ensuring they get the support they need. We had the pleasure of sitting down with Monica to learn more about where her love of architecture stems from, why she’s building a barn, and the books she currently has on her bedside table.
Where are you from & where do you currently live?
I was born in Tychy, Poland – a city famous for its XVII Prince’s Brewery, extensive 70’s estates, and well-designed public spaces.
Growing up, I was captivated by a few architectural icons in Silesia. For example, the Sun Gate – a postmodern-style apartment block designed by architects Zdzisław Łojewski and Kazimierz Wejchert, and pyramid-shaped Piramida Park Hotel designed by URBI – Barysz and Partners. This pyramid’s proportions mirrored those of the Egyptian Cheops pyramid, using a 1:5 scale. My favorite building was the 1971-built “UFO” – a unique sports and entertainment hall in Katowice, one of the icons of Polish post-war architecture.
As you can see, my fascination with arts, postmodernism, and architecture started there. After spending some time in different countries – Cyprus and the United States – I lived in London for two decades. In 2020, I moved to Krakow, the beautiful “city of kings and dragons” with its plethora of historical architectural gems. I’ve always been fascinated by this city, and I think I’ve found home, at least for a while!
What do you like to do in your free time?
Well, I don’t have much of it! But if I do, you’ll find me in nature, escaping the urban noise with a cup of matcha tea. I also enjoy yoga and architectural photography. I’ve been passionate about photography since finishing my diploma at London Metropolitan University.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
I’d love to explore the Amazon rainforest, specifically its unique, vanishing cultures and incredible landscapes. Modern luxuries can be found anywhere these days, so visiting this rugged part of the world is high on my bucket list. In the meantime, I’m lucky to be just a short flight away from Spain or Italy, where I can soak up Mediterranean culture and enjoy a siesta!
What is the one thing that surprises people about you?
I can’t sing at all! Also, I can stay still for hours, lost in thought, visualizing ideas and outcomes, which drives my husband mad since he’s a ‘let’s get up and go’ kind of person.
What were you doing prior to joining ArchiBiz?
I believe in trying anything once for the experience, so I’ve done quite a few things recently. Professionally, I’ve worked for Rafael Viñoly Architects’ London office in various supporting roles, reigniting my early passion for the built environment and my indirect love affair with architecture.
Since 2005, I’ve mainly been an interior photographer and enjoyed styling spaces, as interior design has always been a passion of mine… even before Instagram! I also worked in real estate, rescuing old homes from aesthetic mediocrity. This led to my recent project of building a modern barn just outside Krakow, which was a new, refreshing experience with a steep learning curve.
More recently, I worked remotely for Bowerbird, an Australian media tech platform that connects architects and journalists. It was an awesome experience.
What drew you to ArchiBiz?
It felt like a smooth transition from helping architects get published and sharing their amazing projects with the world to raising awareness of how important it is for them to feel at home running their practice.
In my past roles, I saw many architects leave big firms to start their own practices without the tools to run their business or find new clients in a saturated market. ArchiBiz provides these tools, helping architects achieve their business goals and maximize their potential, which made a lot of sense to me.
I joined ArchiBiz because it bridges that gap, allowing for a more balanced, holistic approach in their work. I saw how powerful transformations could be achieved through good mentoring, so I wanted to be part of this journey and contribute to an even better built environment for communities.
What excites you about architects and the design industry?
I have immense appreciation for how well-designed spaces make us feel and affect our lives. Since I couldn’t be an architect myself (my patience levels wouldn’t align with the intricate work of building design), I feel this is as close as I can get. I’ll never forget the feeling of stepping into Tate Modern in London for the first time, not knowing what to expect, and being blown away each visit.
As a photographer, I was always surrounded by fellow creatives from the design industry, so this feels like a natural space for me. Working with those who create for others, researching new designs daily, and engaging in conversations about art and architecture keeps me motivated and inspired. Reaching out to architects daily reminds me how big designs start with simple ideas and mundane work first.
What do you think is the impact of having business education on business owners?
It’s the parachute you never felt you needed! Once you’re in freefall, it’s comforting to pull the ripcord and know you are safe. Business education offers just that – a crucial tool you wish you had all along to achieve a better work-life balance without struggle.
Do you have a favorite show, book, or movie you couldn’t live without?
I’m not very original, but I could watch Grand Designs and Dragon’s Den one after another (especially the UK version). I also enjoy anything on ancient civilizations and archaeology. I don’t read fiction, so you’d probably find a stack of self-development books and interesting biographies on my bedside table.
Want to learn more about Monica? Connect with her on LinkedIn here!