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Description In this conversation, Design:ED interviews Beka Sturges and Eric Kramer of Reed Hilderbrand about the evolving role of landscape architecture in contemporary design. They discuss the historical hierarchy between architecture and landscape architecture, emphasizing how current environmental and social challenges demand a more integrated, site-responsive, and collaborative design approach. Drawing on projects like Storm King and Powder Mountain, they highlight the importance of understanding place, scale, and ecological systems, and how landscape can enrich human experience and civic engagement. The conversation also explores the unpredictable, living nature of landscapes, the urgency of addressing climate change, and the potential of landscape architecture to foster inclusive, meaningful public spaces that reflect shared cultural values. Learning Objectives: Examine the evolving relationship between landscape architecture and traditional architectural practices in response to environmental and social challenges. Evaluate how landscape architecture contributes to site identity, user experience, and cultural narratives across various scales. Apply principles of ecological and civic resilience in the planning and design of contemporary landscape projects. Explore strategies for integrating art, community engagement, and environmental stewardship within large-scale landscape interventions.   Credits: 1.0 AIA LU/Elective Speaker: Beka Sturges and Eric Kramer

Description In a conversation with Design:ED, Andrea Steele of Andrea Steele Architecture (ASA) shared her perspective on the evolving role of architecture, emphasizing the importance of creating inclusive, community-centered spaces over simply designing buildings. She highlighted ASA's approach of questioning whether building is always the right solution and illustrated this with a modular kit-of-parts project for New York Restoration Project that empowered communities to build their own pavilions. Steele also discussed the L10 Arts and Cultural Center in Brooklyn as an example of cross-programming and shared civic space, underscoring the value of collaboration between diverse cultural organizations. Throughout, she stressed architecture’s role in fostering human connection, prioritizing flexibility, accessibility, and long-term relevance over image-driven design. Learning Objectives: Identify key design strategies discussed in the conversation that promote sustainable architecture.Apply insights from Andrea Steele’s approach to integrating community needs into project planning.Evaluate examples of adaptive reuse projects highlighted during the discussion.Differentiate between various stakeholder engagement methods shared in the conversation Credits: 1.0 AIA LU/Elective Speaker: Andrea Steele

Description In a conversation between Design:ED and Allan Poore of Chaos, Poore explains how Chaos’s visualization tools, such as V-Ray, Enscape, and the recently acquired Evolve Labs suite (including tools like Veras, Gly, and Morpheus), are reshaping architectural workflows. He emphasizes their focus on real-time rendering, AI-driven automation, and usability across devices, enabling faster design decisions and more accessible visualization. The discussion highlights the potential of AI to eliminate tedious tasks like dimensioning, while also noting the importance of retaining architectural understanding. Poore shares insights into Chaos’s strategy of integrating media and entertainment innovations into architecture, the collaborative future of design, and Chaos’s ongoing commitment to balancing realism with performance and flexibility. Learning Objectives: Identify how Chaos visualization tools, including V-Ray and Enscape, support decision-making in architectural design through real-time rendering and asset integration.Evaluate the role of AI-driven automation in streamlining repetitive tasks such as dimensioning and documentation within Revit-based workflows.Differentiate between the use cases for real-time and offline rendering tools in architectural and client-facing applications.Explore the intersection of architectural and media visualization technologies to enhance design accuracy, collaboration, and project efficiency. Credits: 1.0 AIA LU/Elective Speaker:   Allan Poore

Description In this Design:ED conversation, Rick Cook of COOKFOX Architects discusses his firm’s ethos, which centers on environmental stewardship, human connection, and biophilic design. He reflects on projects like the Terminal Warehouse and Google’s St. John’s Terminal, highlighting the transformation of historic buildings into sustainable, modern spaces while maintaining respect for their original materials and context. Cook emphasizes the value of site-specific design, craftsmanship across scales, and integrating nature into the built environment. He also shares insights into his partnership with Bob Fox, born from shared values rather than business strategy, and his growing interest in academic architecture aimed at benefiting future generations. Learning Objectives: Examine how principles of historic preservation and environmental stewardship can guide sustainable architectural design.Analyze strategies for integrating biophilic elements into urban projects to strengthen human-nature connections.Evaluate the challenges and solutions involved in adaptive reuse of large-scale historic buildings within dense urban environments.Explore approaches for maintaining design quality and craft across different building scales and typologies. Credits: 1.0 AIA LU/Elective Speaker:   Rick Cook

Description Listen in as DESIGN:ED features architect Peter Ruggiero of HOK discussing key principles in contemporary airport design, emphasizing passenger experience, spatial transparency, adaptability, and sustainability. He highlights the importance of designing for change, citing projects like LaGuardia, O'Hare, and the Dulles expansion. Ruggiero reflects on his design philosophy, advocating for functional, flexible, and civic-minded architecture that responds to evolving travel demands. He also addresses material authenticity, clutter reduction, and the role of infrastructure in shaping public spaces. The discussion concludes with insights into his career journey and aspirations to enhance infrastructure design in future projects. Learning Objectives: Describe key principles of passenger-focused airport design, including transparency, flexibility, and spatial fluidity.Analyze the impact of evolving air travel demands on airport architecture and long-term planning.Evaluate the role of material selection, environmental considerations, and visual clarity in enhancing airport user experience.Examine how civic identity and infrastructure design intersect in the creation of modern transportation hubs. Credits: 1.0 AIA LU/Elective Speaker:   Peter Ruggiero

Description In this conversation with DESIGN:ED, architects Jack Becker and Andrew Linn of BLD.US discuss their material-driven design philosophy, emphasizing the use of natural, locally sourced materials that weather gracefully over time. They explore the importance of craftsmanship, adaptability in construction, and the influence of historic buildings on their work. The conversation also touches on the challenges young architects face balancing creativity and financial realities, the need for material sensitivity in contemporary architecture, and their ongoing academic contributions through Virginia Tech, where they engage students in reimagining civic-scale projects in Washington, D.C. They conclude by reflecting on future opportunities, including expanding their material palette with brick in upcoming projects. Learning Objectives: Understand the role of material selection, climate responsiveness, and craftsmanship in creating enduring architectural designs.Analyze how direct involvement in construction and development processes can enhance architectural practice and project outcomes.Explore strategies for bridging academic research, civic engagement, and real-world architectural practice to drive meaningful design solutions.Evaluate the evolving role of natural materials, formal restraint, and sustainability in shaping the future of contemporary architecture. Credits: 1.0 AIA LU/Elective Speaker:   Jack Becker and Andrew Linn

Description In a wide-ranging conversation, with [Speaker Name] of Perkins+Will,  DESIGN:ED discusses the adaptive reuse of malls and office spaces in response to declining retail and changing workplace habits, focusing particularly on transforming such spaces into healthcare facilities. They highlight the Perkins+Will-designed Saunders Center in Rochester, a former Sears converted into a major orthopedic outpatient facility, emphasizing design strategies such as improving patient experience, maximizing daylight, and fostering community integration. The discussion also explores broader themes in healthcare design, including sustainability, adaptability for future needs, and the evolution of hospital typologies toward more flexible, community-centered environments. Learning Objectives: Understand the design and strategic considerations involved in adaptively reusing retail and office spaces for healthcare facilities.Explore how architectural design can enhance patient experience through improved accessibility, daylighting, and community integration.Analyze the challenges and opportunities of creating flexible, sustainable healthcare environments that can adapt to future needs.Evaluate the evolving role of mixed-use developments and decentralized healthcare delivery in shaping urban and suburban communities. Credits: 1.0 AIA LU/Elective Speakers:  Rob Goodwin and Scott Hansche 

Description In this engaging discussion, acclaimed architects Marion Weiss and Michael Manfredi share insights into their design philosophy, innovative projects, and the evolving landscape of architecture. They explore the intersection of art, infrastructure, and urban design, emphasizing the importance of creating spaces that inspire and connect communities. Through their collaborative approach, they discuss challenges, breakthroughs, and the future of architecture in a rapidly changing world. Their conversation offers a compelling look at the creative vision and thoughtful strategies behind some of their most celebrated works. Learning Objectives: Analyze the design philosophy of Marion Weiss and Michael Manfredi, focusing on their approach to integrating architecture with urban landscapes.Evaluate the challenges and innovative solutions presented in their architectural projects to enhance community engagement and functionality.Explore the intersection of art, infrastructure, and sustainability in contemporary architectural design as discussed in the conversation.Apply key insights from Weiss and Manfredi’s collaborative process to inform best practices in design thinking and project execution.   Credits: 1.0 AIA LU/Elective Speaker:   Marion Weiss & Michael Manfredi

Description Listen in as DESIGN:ED talks with Nico Keinzl, a sustainability consultant from Atelier Ten, a firm that evolved from a mechanical engineering background into a leader in sustainability and environmental design consulting. The conversation explores the firm's role in integrating sustainability into architecture through performance analysis, benchmarking, and resiliency planning. Keinzl critiques the overuse of the term "sustainability," emphasizing the need for measurable strategies rather than superficial greenwashing. Key challenges addressed include reducing carbon emissions in both building operations and material supply chains, designing for long-term adaptability, and shifting toward a circular economy. The conversation also highlights the firm's roadmap toward "absolute zero" emissions, advocating for deep reductions over reliance on carbon offsets. Additionally, the discussion touches on the industry's broader transformation, the importance of innovative yet practical architectural solutions, and the need for global cooperation in sustainable development. Looking ahead, Atelier Ten aims to expand its global impact, leveraging new resources and expertise to drive meaningful change in sustainability practices worldwide. Learning Objectives: Understand the role of sustainability consulting in architecture.Analyze strategies to reduce carbon emissions in buildings.Evaluate the limitations of carbon offsets and benefits of absolute zero.Apply adaptive and circular design for sustainable buildings. Credits: 1.0 AIA LU/Elective Speaker: Nico Kienzl

Description DESIGN:ED presents a conversation with Jonathan Mallie of Populous as he discusses the evolution of stadium and entertainment venue design, emphasizing the shift from purely functional spaces to immersive, memory-driven experiences. The discussion highlights how modern stadiums integrate technology, branding, and user-centric design to enhance engagement, referencing projects like the Buffalo Bills’ new stadium and the Barclays Center renovations. Jonathan, soon to be Managing Director of the Americas at Populous, reflects on the firm’s growth, the importance of community and storytelling in architecture, and the continued demand for innovative event spaces. The conversation also touches on personal career insights, leadership philosophies, and the future direction of Populous in the evolving entertainment industry. Learning Objectives Analyze the evolution of stadium and entertainment venue design, focusing on user experience, branding, and technological integration.Evaluate the role of architecture in shaping community engagement and fan experiences within sports and entertainment venues.Identify key considerations in designing multipurpose venues that accommodate diverse events, from sports to concerts and large-scale gatherings.Examine leadership strategies and best practices for managing large-scale architectural projects, fostering collaboration, and driving innovation in the industry.   Credits: 1.0 AIA LU/Elective Speaker: Jonathan Mallie

Description Join the conversation with Mat Cash as he explores the innovative design philosophy of Heatherwick Studio, emphasizing creativity, attention to detail, and a commitment to improving the built environment. Mat highlights key projects, including Little Island in New York, Zeitz MOCAA in Cape Town, and The Vessel, focusing on their unique design approaches and challenges. The studio prioritizes human-centered experiences, ensuring structures engage people emotionally and functionally. Additionally, the conversation touches on Heatherwick Studio's mentorship programs and the Humanise campaign, advocating for more thoughtful and character-rich urban spaces. The discussion underscores the studio’s dedication to creating lasting, meaningful architecture that enhances public interaction. Learning Objectives: Analyze Heatherwick Studio’s design philosophy to understand how creativity and problem-solving drive innovative architectural solutions.Evaluate the impact of human-centered design in major projects such as Little Island and Zeitz MOCAA to assess how architecture enhances public engagement and experience.Examine the role of adaptive reuse and sustainability in modern architecture by exploring the transformation of historical structures into functional contemporary spaces.Discuss the significance of mentorship and public engagement in architectural practice to promote diversity, accessibility, and meaningful urban development.   Credits: 1.0 AIA LU/Elective Speaker: Mat Cash

Description Listen in to this compelling interview discussing the recent AIA Student Forum in Austin, highlighting its decentralized approach that allowed students to engage with the city's culture and firms. Our guest, Jordan Luther is the sitting president of AIA Students (AIAS), and outlines the organization's mission to promote leadership, design, and service among students globally. The discussion covers key challenges in the architecture profession, including the disconnect between academic expectations and professional realities, work-life balance, and the need for meaningful equity and sustainability efforts. The guest emphasizes AIAS initiatives such as Freedom by Design, which encourages students to collaborate with communities on impactful projects. The importance of mentorship, professional networking, and advocacy for a healthier architecture culture is also explored, along with AIAS’s efforts to expand its influence and support students worldwide. Learning Objectives: Understand the mission and impact of AIAS in fostering leadership, design, and service among architecture students globally.Analyze the challenges of transitioning from academic studies to professional practice, including work-life balance and industry expectations.Evaluate the role of mentorship and networking in career development and the advancement of equitable and sustainable architectural practices.Explore the significance of community engagement in architecture through initiatives like Freedom by Design and its impact on local and global communities.   Credits: 1.0 AIA LU/Elective Speaker:   Jordan Luther

Description This conversation with Mike Armstrong, from NCARB, provides an in-depth look at the architectural licensure process, its history, and upcoming changes aimed at increasing accessibility and flexibility. Armstrong explains NCARB’s role as an advisory body to state licensing boards and outlines the three core components of licensure: education, experience, and examination. He discusses efforts to make the licensure process more inclusive, including alternative pathways for candidates without a NAAB-accredited degree and a shift toward competency-based evaluation. The discussion also touches on reducing financial barriers, improving the quality of continuing education, and modernizing the exam to better reflect professional practice. Armstrong emphasizes NCARB’s commitment to maintaining rigorous standards while creating more flexible and equitable pathways to licensure. Learning Objectives: Understand the role of NCARB in the architectural licensure process and its function as an advisory body to state licensing boards.Identify the three core components of architectural licensure—education, experience, and examination—and the alternative pathways available for candidates.Analyze the impact of competency-based licensure reforms on the profession and how they aim to create more flexible and inclusive qualification standards.Evaluate the financial and educational barriers to licensure and explore NCARB’s initiatives to improve accessibility, affordability, and professional competency development. Credits: 1.0 AIA LU/Elective Speaker:   Mike Armstrong

Description Join us for this insightful conversation with Jason Long of OMA New York, exploring his approach to adaptive reuse and affordable housing projects. The discussion begins with the Post Houston project, an innovative adaptive reuse of a post office, transformed into a multifunctional space with atriums, a living roof, and commercial programs. Jason emphasizes integrating existing architecture with modern needs while creating vibrant urban spaces. The conversation transitions to affordable housing in San Francisco, focusing on the 730 Stanyan Street project. He outlines the challenges of balancing community integration, architectural aesthetics, and practical constraints in creating housing that feels solid and welcoming. The dialogue also touches on lessons learned, collaboration dynamics, and career reflections, showcasing Jason’s dedication to meaningful, community-focused architectural design. Learning Objectives: Identify effective strategies for designing adaptive reuse projects that harmonize existing structures with contemporary functionality.Examine best practices for creating affordable housing that meets community needs while respecting neighborhood character and scale.Explore the role of interdisciplinary collaboration and stakeholder engagement in delivering impactful architectural solutions.Understand the importance of integrating flexibility and long-term adaptability in architectural designs to accommodate evolving uses. Credits: 1.0 AIA LU/Elective Speaker: Jason Long

Description This episode of DESIGN:ED features an insightful conversation with Joost Moolhuijzen from the Renzo Piano Building Workshop (RPBW), discussing the firm’s collaborative culture and iconic projects. Moolhuijzen highlights the unique generational mix within the team, emphasizing their non-hierarchical and iterative approach to architecture. Key projects such as The Shard in London and the Grand Montets Ropeway Station in the Alps illustrate the firm’s focus on sustainability, contextual design, and public integration. The dialogue explores challenges, including adapting to climate change and the interplay between architectural legacy and innovation. Closing reflections touch on architectural responsibility, the importance of creating spaces that evoke emotion, and dedication to timeless design principles. Learning Objectives: Examine the principles of team collaboration and iterative design methods, including the integration of diverse generational perspectives.  Learn how to incorporate sustainability and contextual responsiveness into architectural projects.Analyze the impact of public integration in architectural design, as illustrated in mixed-use and urban redevelopment projects. Develop an understanding of the importance of creating architecture that integrates responsibility toward community and environment.     Credits: 1.0 AIA LU/Elective Speaker: Joost Moolhuijzen