Canan Yetmen

I am an independent architectural writer based in Austin, Texas. I have more than 16 years of experience working in communications and marketing for the architecture profession and have made it my own business since 2001. I am fortunate to work with exceptional architects all around the country and to have the opportunity to learn something new about the built environment every single day.

I am formerly Publisher of Texas Architect magazine, where I was responsible for its marketing and business management as well as the public outreach and communications efforts of the Texas Society of Architects. For six years I was also responsible for the TSA Design Awards program.

I received a Bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Texas and began my career working as an Editorial Assistant for Prestel Books in Munich, Germany. After returning to these shores I worked as a freelance German translator and book researcher focusing on art history and architecture texts. My first book, The Owner’s Dilemma, co-written with Barbara Bryson FAIA, was released in July 2010.

What I do and Why

Bill Caudill, the great architect revered for his wit and wisdom and remembered for his people-oriented approach to practice famously said, “If they haven’t understood you, you haven’t said anything.” CYMK was founded on the idea that communicating the value of architecture – good design in all its forms – is as important as the architecture itself. Not only do I speak architect, I translate it too, so your clients and the public can understand the worth of your ideas. I believe architecture is a woefully undervalued profession and hope that I can help bring to light its power to improve lives, businesses, and communities. In short, I am a fan.

I work exclusively in architecture and the design industry. Much of my business is devoted to working with AIA fellowship candidates in preparing their nomination packages, a job I enjoy immensely.  I am an active member of your professional community, and understand the challenges involved in developing communications strategies while managing a successful practice. To be flexible and efficient, I have also built partnerships with a group of talented and trusted colleagues to provide a wide range of marketing and communication services while maintaining the flexibility to tailor services to your very specific needs.