The visualisation industry is evolving rapidly, and its talent pipeline is under as much pressure as its technology. In this interview, we sit down with Ellese Bye, Flood Studio's Business Manager to explore how recruitment, retention, and culture are shaping the next chapter for visualisation studios worldwide.
Architectural visualisation sits at the crossroads of art, design, and technology. From your perspective, what makes it stand apart from other creative industries?
Architectural visualisation sits at the intersection of art, design, and technology, which makes it uniquely versatile. Unlike other creative industries that may focus purely on aesthetics or entertainment, arch-viz tells a story about spaces and environments before they exist. It requires not just technical skill but spatial intelligence, an eye for design, and the ability to translate a client’s vision into an emotive experience. That combination of creativity and problem-solving is what sets it apart.
Every industry has its shifting trends. Which skillsets are the hottest right now — and which are starting to fade from demand?
Right now, there’s a big demand for people who can work with real-time rendering, VR and AR — skills that make projects more interactive and engaging. At the same time, we’re seeing less emphasis on purely static image-making. Clients expect speed, flexibility, and a more immersive experience, so the skillsets that combine artistry with new technology are the ones really standing out.
AI and automation are changing creative fields everywhere. How is it reshaping the kind of talent you’re looking for?
AI is both a tool and a game-changer. It can accelerate repetitive tasks, like material creation or asset generation, allowing artists to focus more on storytelling and design nuances. That shifts our talent focus on people who can leverage AI creatively rather than just execute software tasks. In short, conceptual thinking combined with technical adaptability is now the premium skillset.
From the outside, people might think arch-viz is all about software and pretty renders. What’s the biggest misconception you’d love to bust?
A common misconception is that arch-viz is “just about pretty renders.” In reality, it’s about communication — understanding client briefs, solving design challenges, and turning complex ideas into visuals that influence real decisions. Software is only the tool; the real value lies in the ability to interpret, problem-solve, and tell a clear design story.
With teams and clients spread across continents, how has globalisation changed the way you recruit, onboard, and build culture?
Our teams have always been a mix of people from different countries, so working across borders is nothing new for us. What has evolved is the way we connect — better digital tools mean smoother collaboration, faster onboarding, and more opportunities to bring in talent regardless of location. The real focus is on building culture that feels consistent no matter where someone is based.
Studios juggle artistry with brutal time pressures. How do you keep teams inspired without burning them out?
We keep people inspired by recognising creativity in every project, celebrating achievements, and giving artists some space to experiment. At the same time, careful planning and realistic timelines help keep the pressure from boiling over. It’s about finding the right balance between structure and freedom.
Competition for the best creative minds is fierce. What’s your secret to attracting top talent?
Attracting top talent comes down to culture, opportunities, and exciting projects. One thing that really helps is having amazing creative directors — our team gets to work alongside some of the most talented minds in the industry. Combined with growth opportunities and a culture that values creativity, that’s what draws the right people in.
Recruitment is one side of the coin — retention is the other. What makes people commit long-term to a studio like yours?
People commit long-term when they feel supported, trusted, and part of something meaningful. Working on large-scale projects and international jobs gives our team a real sense of purpose and pride, while opportunities to grow and collaborate keep them motivated. Loyalty comes from knowing the studio invests in you as much as you invest in the work.
Arch-viz requires both hyper-specialists and versatile creatives. How do you balance nurturing both groups under one roof?
We maintain a balance by fostering collaboration between hyper-specialists and versatile creatives. Specialists push the boundaries of craft, while generalists ensure workflow adaptability. Mentorship, cross-training, and inclusive project teams create an environment where both types can thrive without tension.
Diversity and inclusivity are big talking points across industries. What do they mean in the context of architectural visualisation?
Inclusivity means creating a studio where diverse perspectives are actively valued and where everyone can contribute fully. In arch-viz, this can translate into richer design narratives, innovation, and stronger client outcomes. It’s about more than numbers — it’s about building a culture where difference is an advantage, not an afterthought.
You’ve chosen HR in a creative industry — what pulled you into this space?
I started out in this industry about 10 years ago as an account manager, which gave me a front-row seat to both the client side and the creative side of projects. Over time I realised what I enjoyed most was supporting the people behind the work. That’s what pulled me into HR — it felt like a natural shift where I could use my industry knowledge while focusing on helping teams thrive.
What’s the part of your role that gives you the biggest buzz — and the part that keeps you up at night?
It's rewarding connecting with people from all walks of life and seeing teams bring ideas to life. The tricky bit? Putting faith in people in the moment, not always knowing how things will play out — but that’s also the most rewarding part when they rise to the challenge.
Can you share a moment when HR directly shaped the success of a big project or pitch?
When we’ve been hiring multiple new team members, we try to bring in two people at a time, so they have a “partner in crime” to navigate the studio with. That small change helps them settle in quickly, find their rhythm, and connect with the team. It keeps projects running smoothly and lets the creative energy stay focused on the work.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone breaking into this industry, what would it be?
Be curious, dive in, and don’t be afraid to try new things. Learn the software, yes, but also focus on storytelling, design, and teamwork — that’s what will really make you stand out. And enjoy the ride; this industry is full of opportunities to grow and be inspired every day.
Fast-forward a decade: how will people and culture redefine the way arch-viz studios operate?
In the next decade, people and culture will shape how studios succeed just as much as technology. The studios that prioritise wellbeing, diversity, and flexibility will attract and keep the best talent. Strong workplace culture will drive creativity, turning arch-viz studios into not just production houses, but places of innovation and collaboration.
