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Julie Hardridge, founder of Architexture Interiors, brings a lifelong passion for history, craftsmanship, and design to every project. She began her academic journey at the Savannah College of Art and Design on scholarship before transferring to New York University, where she studied Architectural History and Decorative Arts with a minor in Urban Planning. Her studies, combined with time spent abroad in Italy and France learning from master artisans, shaped her distinctive design philosophy rooted in tradition, artistry, and innovation.

While the design world often prioritizes the “perfect” visual, this conversation dives into the structural and psychological foundations of creating a home. From the early stages of a career in Savannah and New York to the intricate details of a Miami penthouse, we explore how historical preservation, material intelligence, and even “imposter syndrome” shape the spaces where we live.

The Designer’s Identity Crisis: Even with decades of experience and degrees from institutions like SCAD and NYU, established professionals still grapple with imposter syndrome. The feeling of “not being there yet” is often exacerbated by the inflated realities presented on social media.

Archaeology in Design: Modern design is frequently an exercise in archaeology—digging into the history of a structure and the personal backstories of its inhabitants to create a cohesive narrative.

The Invisible Value Proposition: A significant portion of a project’s success lies in managing what the client doesn’t see: logistical pivots, fixing manufacturer errors (like ruined leather on a custom chair), and mediating between contractors and vision.

The “Jewelry” of the Room: Lighting is framed as the ultimate emotional regulator. The transition from harsh recessed lighting to personalized, AI-driven scenes and art-deco fixtures can fundamentally change how a person experiences their own home.

AI and Hyper-Personalization: The future of custom environments lies in “recognition technology,” where a home’s lighting, sound, and temperature automatically adjust based on which specific family member enters the room.

SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design): A foundational influence on the technical training for historic preservation and architectural drafting.

NYU Gallatin School of Individualized Study: Where the “forced reading culture” and study of great books helped bridge the gap between architectural history and philosophical design.

Lutron Lighting Systems: A cornerstone for creating “scenes” that allow homeowners to transition their environment from high-energy productivity to soft, elegant “candlelight” modes.

CEDIA (Custom Electronic Design and Installation Association): The go-to resource for understanding how smart home technology and integrators work alongside designers to build proactive environments.

Pinterest as a Sourcing Tool: Not just for “inspo,” but a legitimate deep-dive tool for finding global artisans, unique hardware, and vendors that aren’t found in traditional design centers.

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Sisters Olivia and Jenna Botrie of Dart Studio didn’t set out to build a design firm together, they grew into it. What started in a basement with a baby on the floor evolved into a highly structured, process-driven studio navigating growth, technology, and a post-pandemic design boom. Their story reveals how great design isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about systems, relationships, and knowing when to think bigger. From cottage culture and client psychology to AI workflows and generational shifts, the Botrie sisters unpack how Dart Studio scaled during the pandemic, why process is their secret weapon, and how they’re building a brand designed to outlast trends and even themselves.

Origins: A Basement, a Baby, and a Business

Olivia launches Dart Studio solo over a decade ago. Jenna joins organically during maternity leave. The now-famous “cottage pitch” that formalized the partnership. Sister dynamics: honesty, friction, and built-in trust as a business advantage

The Cottage Effect: Canadian Culture Meets Creativity

The uniquely Canadian concept of the “cottage” as creative reset Minimalism, disconnection, and family proximity as design influences How environment shapes both lifestyle and design thinking

Process Over Everything

Jenna’s role: operations, onboarding, hiring, and systems. Why structure—not style—is the firm’s foundation. Building scalable workflows for a growing team. The importance of documentation and repeatable processes

Pandemic Pivot: From Uncertainty to Opportunity

Initial fear: shutdowns, no site visits, stalled work. Sudden surge: waitlists, inbound demand, and client urgency. Strategic decision: say yes, scale fast, hire quickly. Long-term impact: bigger thinking, larger projects, expanded vision

The Post-Pandemic Client Shift

Movement away from resale-driven design toward personalization. Clients designing for themselves, not the market. More nuanced conversations around lifestyle, not trends. The home as a “backdrop for life”

Anti-Trend Thinking

Rejection of trend-driven design culture. Critique of “top 10 lists” and media-driven aesthetics. Designing from human cues: behavior, personality, daily rituals

Technology, Materials & the Reality Filter

Navigating rapid innovation in lighting, kitchens, and home tech. Balancing “cool” vs. “lasting”. Role of reps, trade shows, and industry relationships. The importance of practical function over novelty.

AI in Practice: Tool, Not Replacement

Current stack: ChatGPT, Midjourney, SketchUp, Enscape. AI for speed and iteration—not core design thinking. Client misuse of AI and the limits of prompting. Why human interpretation remains essential

The Experience Economy of Design

Design as a two-year relationship, not a transaction. Emotional experience vs. final result. Communication, trust, and job site culture as differentiators

Reactive to Proactive: Building a Brand

First 10 years: purely reactive growth. Year 11 shift: rebrand, visibility, social media presence. Expanding identity beyond Olivia to a team-driven creative model. Long-term vision: a legacy firm with multiple design voices

Generational Dynamics in Design

Different communication styles across clients and teams. Matching personalities: clients, designers, and contractors. “Boomer whisperers” vs. Gen Z workflows. Lifestyle-driven design considerations by age and stage

Designing for Climate & Context

Canadian winters and their impact on interiors. Storage, materiality, and seasonal living. Lighting as a wellness tool (circadian rhythm design). Creating emotional environments: cozy vs. open

The Through Line: Adaptability

Design as evolution, not static outcome. Balancing tradition and modernity within a single project. Embracing change as the only constant in both life and design

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between the two.

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The Studio Schickedanz founder is inducted into the Convo By Design Icon Registry, showcasing three decades of sustainable innovation, material intelligence, and integrated architectural practice.

This episode celebrates the installation of Mary Ann Schickedanz, founder of Carmel-based Studio Schickedanz, into the Convo By Design Icon Registry. Bringing a foundational Austrian perspective where buildings are crafted to endure for generations, Schickedanz has spent over thirty years pioneering sustainable architecture across the American West. The conversation highlights her holistic approach to environmental integration—combining high-performance building science with deep material intelligence to combat regional ecological pressures like drought and wildfire risks. The episode also revisits a poignant 2019 archival interview from the La Cienega Design Quarter (LCDQ) Legends event, where she discusses her creative process, storytelling, and the influence of Austrian modernist pioneer Josef Hoffmann on her multidisciplinary practice.

• The Icon Registry Induction: Recognized for achieving the highest tier of performance and intentionality in the design industry, proudly presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home.
• Material Intelligence & Eco-Integration: Schickedanz’s work prioritizes site-specific architecture, featuring native rooftop flora, local granite, and earth-toned integral plaster that allow structures to坐 sit seamlessly within their ecologies, achieving LEED certification and net-zero status.
• Modular Construction & Innovation: Her multi-family compound at the Santa Lucia Preserve demonstrates how high-end factory fabrication can deliver sustainable, all-electric, manufactured housing assembled on-site in just seven hours to minimize environmental disruption.
• The Integrated Studio Model: A key differentiator where architects, interior designers, and horticulturalists collaborate from project inception to ensure a fluid connection between the structural shell and the natural landscape.
• Honoring Heritage at LCDQ: The episode reflects on her 2019 window vignette at Mansur Carpets during the La Cienega Design Quarter Legends event, channeling the comprehensive maker-designer philosophy of Josef Hoffmann alongside collaborations with Shirley Robinson Wallpaper and furniture from Design Within Reach.

Designing for Generations: The Material Intelligence of Mary Ann Schickedanz

The contemporary architecture landscape frequently wrestles with the concept of “intentionality,” yet Mary Ann Schickedanz has quietly spent the last thirty years operationalizing it. Inducted into the Convo By Design Icon Registry, the Austrian-native and founder of Studio Schickedanz has permanently altered how the American West approaches luxury residential design by rejecting “disposable architecture” in favor of ancestral longevity.

Schickedanz’s design philosophy bridges a European reverence for multi-generational structural permanence with the acute ecological demands of California’s topography. Rather than treating sustainability as a surface-level checklist, her methodology relies on deep material intelligence and total environmental integration. From pioneering the first LEED-certified projects in Big Sur and Carmel-by-the-Sea to engineering net-zero contemporary estates, her structures are designed to function as living, breathing extensions of their native ecosystems.

This is achieved primarily through her firm’s integrated studio model. By seating architects, interior specialists, and regional horticulturalists at the same table from day one, she eliminates the traditional fragmentation of design. Structural concrete, local granite, and native exposed-root rooftop flora are specified in tandem, maximizing thermal efficiency and wildfire resiliency while anchoring buildings seamlessly into rolling topography.

Her forward-thinking mindset extends equally to modern building science and historic preservation. Whether rewriting the narrative around modular housing by assembling a luxury, all-electric compound at the Santa Lucia Preserve in a single day, or meticulously updating the performance of a 1948 Henry Hill midcentury landmark, Schickedanz proves that high design and strict environmental metrics are not mutually exclusive. Ultimately, her work champions a vital shift in the industry: shifting away from an architectural “etch-a-sketch” mentality and moving toward purposeful, permanent spaces built right the first time.

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Today is one of the most incredible episodes of the show I have ever produced. I don’t say this lightly. Today, you are going to hear about a new project called Shelter Republic, officially launching although if you are an avid listener, you have probably heard me talking about it as we prepared for launch. Well, it’s here, and it’s official. And You are going to hear from my co-founder…I’m sitting down with computer engineer and Shelter Republic co-founder Jack Cooperman to discuss the platform’s structural architecture, functionality, purpose, and the necessity for safe places to explore ideas amongst peers.

• The Genesis of Shelter Republic: Jack and I reflect on the evolution of the platform, tracking its roots back to when Jack and his sister first visited Josh on stage at the WestEdge Design Fair. The community was built to bridge regional gaps and provide a collaborative, peer-to-peer ecosystem for architects and designers.
• Designing UX for Geographic Context: Jack outlines the structure of the platform, which is divided into five nationwide micro-communities (including the Mountain Atlantic and Southwest regions). This allows for highly localized discussions on styles, culture, and business norms while keeping a unified national hub.
• Cultivating a “Safe Place to Fail”: The co-founders debate the nature of failure in school versus a creative career. Josh emphasizes that Shelter Republic is deliberately engineered as a vetted, invite-only environment to protect accomplished creatives from public “dogpiling” or algorithmic scrutiny when exploring new, untested concepts.
• Platform Features & Onboarding: Built to avoid user-data exploitation and ad clutter, the platform operates via direct invitation and QR codes. Features include text-based feeds, real-time messaging, direct networking via professional member bios, live video-conferencing rooms, and educational modules—including Josh’s masterclass, Podcasting for Creatives.
• Addressing Industry Disruptions (AI & Legislation): The conversation dives into how early-career junior designers are transitioning into technology facilitators due to AI studio integration. They also discuss how the platform serves as a “modern town crier” for critical industry news, citing a recent user post by a Southern California designer regarding the engineered quartz ban in California due to silicosis risks.
• Cooperation Over Competition: Drawing a contrast with the competitive nature of the design world, Josh shares a lesson from his time covering the Playboy Jazz Festival, where legendary jazz musicians prioritized mentoring the next generation to keep the collective genre alive. Shelter Republic aims to foster that exact cross-regional mentorship.

Thank you Jack. I know I have already said it, but I have enjoyed every moment putting this together and we are thrilled to share it. Note on Access: Shelter Republic is entirely free, and does not collect user data except when stated like the use of polls and prompts for professional input. To maintain community standards and security, entry is restricted to verified industry professionals via peer invitation or direct QR code scanning at upcoming events.

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moving and repurposing existing functional structures instead of demolishing them, was also discussed as a potentially more sustainable way forward for the industry, reflecting a broader trend toward more conscious and resourceful building practices.

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A former media executive trades corporate strategy for interior design, only to discover the same rules still apply. In a rapidly evolving industry shaped by AI, rising client expectations, and economic pressure, design has become as much about systems as it is about style. This conversation reveals how one designer is navigating that shift by treating every project like a campaign with outcomes that extend far beyond aesthetics. A conversation about reinvention, material intelligence, and why the most effective designers today think in terms of ROI, storytelling, and client experience.

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Integrating Sustainability in Heritage Design. Despite rigid preservation laws, the industry is gradually seeing a shift towards allowing sustainable upgrades, such as double glazing and improved insulation, provided they are sympathetic to the original design. Nick noted that older structures, with their thick stone walls and natural thermal performance, often offer inherent sustainability advantages over modern, thinner-walled builds. Modern Kitchen Functionality in Historic Spaces The pandemic has redefined the kitchen as a central social and functional hub, requiring more sophisticated appliance suites and technology. Adapting these modern requirements to historic layouts often involves creative solutions like building internal partitions to accommodate new plumbing and infrastructure without damaging the original building fabric. Applicable Elements

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In January, you heard from Rebecca MacDonald and Kyle Basilius, principals at Parkin Architects, …Parkin is a Canadian, employee-owned, award-winning architectural practice with roots dating back to the 1940s. Founded and established in Toronto, expanded to Ottawa, and Vancouver, the firm specializes in designing purposeful, beautiful, and functional buildings. Our commitment to collaboration has earned us a reputation for excellence, bringing clients’ visions to life through thoughtful, impactful design. With a focus on social impact, we take pride in creating spaces that are accessible, inclusive, and welcoming to all. Not my words, theirs.

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In this conversation with the principals of Tim Barber Architects, the discussion explores how architecture has evolved since 2020. The pandemic fundamentally changed how people live in their homes, forcing architects to rethink everything from spatial organization and material choices to health, resilience, and long-term adaptability.

The architects describe a profession balancing client desires, environmental realities, and community responsibility. Topics include aging in place, the shift away from open floor plans, rebuilding after wildfire loss, and the growing role of resilience and sustainability in residential design.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Shelter Republic – Request your membership invitation

The conversation also examines larger systemic issues—from the housing crisis and the loss of architectural criticism to concerns about deregulating the architectural profession and the future pipeline of architects. Ultimately, the discussion reveals architecture as both a creative discipline and a civic responsibility.

Tim Barber, Kelly Becker, David Stone, Ari Engleman, Katie Peterson-Hesketh

Post-Pandemic Spatial Design

Homes are now workplaces, classrooms, and wellness environments. Architects are designing more flexible, compartmentalized spaces rather than large open rooms.

The Reassessment of the Open Floor Plan

Open layouts are losing popularity as homeowners seek acoustic separation, privacy, and spatial hierarchy.

Healthy Homes

Clients increasingly ask about air quality, non-toxic materials, EMF concerns, and overall wellness in the built environment.

Aging in Place & Multigenerational Living

Homes are being designed for lifelong occupancy, with elevators, adaptable bathrooms, and secondary primary suites.

Housing Crisis Misconceptions

The problem is not a lack of housing overall but a shortage of affordable, well-located housing.

Sustainability Through Longevity

The most sustainable building is the one that already exists. Adaptive reuse and generational homes are key strategies.

Fire Resilience and Climate Adaptation

Wildfire rebuild projects are forcing architects to rethink materials, structural resilience, and building codes.

“Performance Spending”

Homeowners must choose between visible luxury and invisible resilience investments.

Architects as Client Advocates

Architects frequently guide clients away from poor decisions through education and alternatives rather than simply saying “no.”

Material Uncertainty and Construction Cost Volatility

Rapid cost changes and new materials create challenges for planning and specification.

Professional Deregulation Concerns

Removing architectural licensing protections could threaten safety, quality, and professional standards.

Education and Knowledge Sharing

The firm runs an internal “university” model to continuously train staff and share knowledge.

Loss of Architectural Criticism

The disappearance of critics and serious architectural journalism has created a cultural vacuum in evaluating design.

Adaptive Reuse and Density

Office conversions and moderate urban density may become major architectural trends.

Future of Residential Design

Homes may become smaller but more sophisticated—prioritizing performance, durability, and resilience.

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Architect Ben Kasdan and I explore the ethos of design, the importance of “innovation through experience,” and why architecture should be viewed as a living organism rather than a machine.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Shelter Republic – Request your membership invitation

Innovation vs. Practicality: The discussion begins with the idea of innovative design, citing Frank Gehry’s Walt Disney Concert Hall. While the building faced initial criticism for a “glare” issue from its steel facade, its true innovation lies in the acoustic experience and its purpose as a “living room for the city”.

Architecture as an Organism: Challenging Le Corbusier’s famous “machine for living” concept, Ben suggests that buildings are more like living organisms that must be nurtured, maintained, and allowed to evolve.

The “Ideas” Lab: Ben’s firm, KTGY, operates a dedicated R&D studio that explores “outside the lane” concepts—like 3D-printed modular housing and solutions for homelessness—without the immediate constraints of budgets or specific client demands.

Designing for the Inhabitants: A significant portion of the work focuses on student and senior housing. Ben emphasizes that while these spaces are often transient, they must be designed to support the mental, physical, and intellectual well-being of the people living there.

Architectural “Grafting”: Instead of the common practice of demolition, the conversation touches on the value of “grafting” or repurposing older structures, preserving their emotional and historical significance while adapting them for new use.

KTGY Architecture + Planning: The firm where Ben Kasdan is a principal, known for its diverse housing typologies. KTGY Website

Walt Disney Concert Hall: Referenced as a prime example of experience-driven innovation in Los Angeles. LA Phil – Walt Disney Concert Hall

The Broad: Mentioned in the context of downtown LA’s architectural landscape and public perception. The Broad Museum

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Price Tower: Discussed as a structure that, while visually extraordinary, struggled with functional longevity. Price Tower Arts Center

Marin County Civic Center: Cited as an early inspiration for Ben, showcasing how a building’s unique form can evoke a powerful emotional response. Marin County Civic Center

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Every now and then, I like to hop into the wayback machine and share a fresh listen to conversations that influenced our current times. The one you are going to register to today was recorded live in 2014 from DIEM, Design Intersects Everything Made symposium presented by the West Hollywood Design District featuring Frances Anderton, then with KCRW ad Jeff Denby, co-founder and then with Pact. A clothing brand you will be hearing more about.

The following conversation was focused on values based capitalism, an economic model with which places value on profit generation that also generates positive social impact.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Shelter Republic – Request your membership invitation

As you listen to this chat between Frances and Jeff, you might notice the “feel-good” vibes and high ideals that come from a focus on values based consumerism patterns. Buy well-made products that come from sustainably based materials and made by people who are valued to those producing the products and then by those who buy the product. At the time of this recording, this idea was catching on and even now, companies that have a value-system connected directly to products speak openly about the social capital being generated. I would argue we hear far less now because sustainability has been linked politically to DEI, and there is a group of people who see that has more of a social ill, than a societal benefit. I’m not here to change any minds, only share different perspectives. And this is one worth sharing with the hope that it will make a return, not just in fashion or consumer packaged goods, but in the home decor and architectural materials sectors.

Consumer Awareness Evolution

How Whole Foods and the food industry educated consumers about product origins.

Extension of that curiosity to body care and apparel: understanding what goes on the skin and into daily wear.

The role of design in making sustainable products attractive and desirable.

Philanthropy and Social Impact

Early collaborations with nonprofits through limited-edition collections and direct aid.

Shift toward improving the lives of workers within the supply chain.

Emphasis on economic, environmental, and social impact as part of the business model.

Challenges of Domestic Manufacturing

Difficulties of reviving large-scale apparel production domestically, including labor costs, fractured supply chains, and compliance issues.

Comparison with global supply chains and the decision to work where systems already exist.

Insights from attempts at localized production and the challenges of sustainable sourcing.

Product Expansion and Market Strategy

Focus on apparel basics for the emerging generation of socially conscious consumers.

Building a generational brand by appealing to evolving values.

Commitment to price accessibility while maintaining sustainability and ethical production.

Supply Chain Ethics and Certification

Working exclusively with certified factories and farms to ensure fair labor practices.

Ensuring worker protections and representation, including female supervisors.

Direct engagement with farmers and supply chain partners to secure market access and stability.

Sustainability and Waste Management

Recycling factory scraps and leftover materials into new products.

Finding secondary uses for garment remnants, including mattress filling.

Factories incentivized to reduce waste as part of both economic and environmental sustainability.

Consumer Education and Transparency

Educating customers about the human and environmental story behind clothing.

Leveraging social media, coalition branding, and events to communicate supply chain practices.

Positioning Pact as a non-toxic apparel brand with safe-for-skin products.

Research and Industry Collaboration

Participation in textile and sustainability coalitions with like-minded brands.

Supporting the growth of organic cotton farming and sustainable supply chains.

Promoting transparency in manufacturing practices and educating the public on chemical exposure in conventional apparel.

Ethical apparel requires intentional design, transparent supply chains, and collaboration across the industry.

Consumers increasingly demand products that are safe, well-designed, and socially responsible.

Philanthropy is most effective when integrated into the core business, benefiting both workers and communities.

Scaling sustainability in mass-market apparel is challenging but possible with careful planning, partnerships, and public education.

Conscious Basics: How Textiles Can Be Ethical, Sustainable, and Stylish

In an era when consumers increasingly demand transparency and ethical responsibility, Pact is reshaping the apparel industry by marrying sustainability, social impact, and thoughtful design. Co-founder Jeff Denby spoke with Frances Anderton in 2014 about the philosophy behind the brand, tracing a journey from organic cotton farms in India to certified factories in Turkey, all with the goal of delivering high-quality, accessible clothing that respects both people and the planet.

Denby notes that consumer awareness has evolved in stages. Shoppers first became curious about food origins, learning that groceries come from farms, not just shelves. This consciousness extended to body care products, as people began asking what they were putting on their skin. Apparel is the next frontier. “People want to know what they’re wearing every day,” Denby explains. “They want products that are beautifully designed, sustainable, and safe, without having to reinvent what underwear or socks should look like.”

Early in Pact’s history, the company experimented with philanthropic partnerships, designing collections that supported nonprofit causes. These initiatives provided aid to communities abroad, from distributing lanterns in Haiti to rebuilding community centers in Japan. However, Denby realized the brand could make a deeper impact by focusing inward—supporting the lives of the workers who create the products. By investing in stable, ethical supply chains, Pact achieves a triple bottom line: economic, social, and environmental benefits.

Reviving large-scale apparel manufacturing in the United States proved impractical for Pact. Labor costs, fractured supply chains, and limited domestic processing infrastructure made it impossible to produce affordable basics at scale. Instead, the brand partnered with existing factories abroad, ensuring they meet strict certifications such as the Global Organic Textile Standard. Denby emphasizes that these certifications guarantee fair labor practices, gender equity, and safe working conditions—factors often overlooked in conventional apparel production.

Beyond ethical sourcing, Pact prioritizes product safety and environmental responsibility. Cotton cultivation and traditional textile processing can involve significant pesticide use and harmful chemicals. Pact works with organic cotton farmers and certified dye houses, eliminating heavy metals and carcinogens from their products. Waste management is also integral; leftover yarn and fabrics are recycled into new garments or repurposed for other industries, demonstrating that sustainability extends from field to factory to finished product.

Denby envisions Pact as the “basics brand for the change generation,” appealing to consumers who value ethics, transparency, and design. The brand is part of a coalition with other sustainable apparel companies, collaborating to secure fair market access for farmers, grow organic cotton production, and educate the public on the human stories behind clothing. Social media and events provide direct channels to communicate these values, allowing consumers to engage with the brand and understand the people and processes behind the garments they wear.

For Pact, the mission goes beyond selling clothing. It is about proving that everyday apparel can be ethical, well-designed, and accessible, while creating meaningful social impact. By integrating philanthropy, sustainability, and consumer education into the business model, Pact is showing that the basics—underwear, socks, and t-shirts—can carry a powerful message: that fashion can be responsible, thoughtful, and inclusive.

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Industry experts discuss the shift from “The Triangle” to “The Zone,” the explosion of ADUs in Southern California, and why your Pinterest board might be lying to you.

Southern California builders, designers, and innovators to dissect the radical shifts in residential design since 2022. The conversation moves beyond simple aesthetics to explore how the “post-pandemic” home has become a multi-functional hub. From the technical complexities of “electrically heavy” kitchens to the rise of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) as multi-generational lifelines, this episode serves as a masterclass in the collaborative effort required to build a “forever home” in today’s market.

The Participants

Daniel Franco: DuMonde Builders

Denise Fernandez & Tanisha Johnson Monroe: Johnson & Fernandez Interior Design

J.R. Joseph Rodriguez: Joseph Interiors

Verzine Hovasapyan: Director of Innovation for Pacific Sales

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Shelter Republic – Request your membership invitation

The Great Post-Pandemic Kitchen Reset

Leading builders and designers discuss the demise of the “work triangle,” the rise of multigenerational spaces, and why clients must stop scrolling Pinterest and start budgeting before remodeling.

Summary of Key Concepts

• The Death of the “Work Triangle”: The traditional 1940s “work triangle” has been replaced by specialized “micro-zones” (e.g., breakfast stations, baking zones, “Mission Control” homework hubs) to accommodate multi-user and multi-generational households.
• The Intergenerational Anchor: As adult children and elderly parents move back, kitchens are expanding into living areas, becoming the specialized, central ecosystem that anchors the home.
• Specialization Over Cabinetry: Clients now prioritize hyper-specific, electrically heavy stations (like advanced smoothie stations with plumbing or complex water filtration for a coffee obsession) over a simple maximum quantity of cabinet boxes.
• Aging in Place & Wellness: Technology like steam ovens, induction cooktops (safer for both younger cooks and seniors), and automated, sensory lighting is being integrated to support lifelong wellness in “forever homes.”
• The Crucial Co-Lab: Designer + GC + Vendor: The most successful projects integrate the interior designer and the contractor from the discovery call, ensuring the client is educated on true procurement timelines and material realities before walls go up.
• The Death of the “Kitchen Triangle”: Designers are moving away from traditional layouts toward “zone-based” design. Modern kitchens now feature dedicated baking stations, “mission control” desks for homework, and professional-grade coffee bars.
• The Multi-Generational Shift: High interest rates and cost-of-living increases are bringing adult children and elderly parents back under one roof. This has turned ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) from optional luxuries into essential square footage for privacy and accessibility.
• Wellness & Innovation: A surge in “healthy home” awareness is driving the popularity of induction cooktops (reducing gas emissions) and steam ovens over traditional ranges.
• The “Team-First” Approach: Why engaging a contractor and designer before plan-check saves thousands. The panel explains how early collaboration prevents “alarmist” project meetings and ensures technical feasibility for heavy appliance loads.
• The Pinterest/AI Pitfall: Experts warn against the “social media expectation gap.” They discuss how to translate a “feeling” from an AI-generated image into a functional, buildable reality that fits a Southern California budget.
• Quality Disparity: A crucial lesson on “Trade vs. Retail” products—explaining why the same brand name can have vastly different internal components (plastic vs. brass) depending on where it’s purchased.

Resource Links & Applicable Elements

• Dumont Builders: Official Website – Specialty commercial and high-end residential construction.
• Johnson & Fernandez Interior Design: Portfolio & Services – Full-service design specializing in color and new construction.
• Pacific Sales: Kitchen & Home Innovations – A one-stop shop for premium appliances and plumbing fixtures.
• California ADU Laws: HCD Official Portal – Information on the updated regulations making garage conversions and ADUs easier in Southern California.
• Induction vs. Gas: Energy Star Guide – Research on the wellness and efficiency benefits of the induction technology discussed by the panel.

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Building Beyond Aesthetics in the Twin Cities

Residential architecture in the Twin Cities requires a unique blend of grit and intentionality. From the “Scandinavian tradition” of high-level craftsmanship to the technical demands of a 115-degree annual temperature swing, designing in this environment is an exercise in functional resilience. This conversation explores how extreme climates and a “Midwest mindset” shape the way we live and the ways homes must evolve to meet the needs of multi-generational families. The following conversation I had with PKA Architecture’s Kristine Anderson, Andrew Edwins and Ryan Fish was wide ranging and dove deep into;

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Shelter Republic – Request your membership invitation

The Architecture of Endurance

In the heart of the Twin Cities, architecture is less about making a statement and more about surviving a cycle. To design a home in Minnesota is to engage in a high-stakes negotiation with physics. When the mercury drops to -15°F and climbs to 100°F within the same calendar year, materials don’t just sit there—they breathe, swell, and contract at a cellular level. As the team from PKA Architecture notes, this environment serves as a rigorous training ground. If a design can thrive in the Twin Cities, it possesses the technical “confidence” to perform anywhere in the world.

This technical necessity has birthed a culture of craftsmanship that distinguishes the region. Rooted in Scandinavian cabinet-making traditions, local builders and architects push one another toward a level of precision where “half-assing” is not an option—the weather simply won’t allow it. It is a pragmatic form of beauty where the “Midwest mindset” rejects the flashy labels of coastal luxury in favor of quiet, intentional excellence.

Moreover, the modern home is being asked to do more than provide shelter; it is becoming a flexible vessel for the human lifecycle. The conversation highlights a significant shift toward long-term master planning. Homeowners are increasingly looking ten years down the road, asking how a space can adapt to adult children returning home or elderly parents moving in. By moving away from the “phantom buyer” of resale-focused design, architects are helping clients create homes that are deeply personal and functionally resilient. Whether it is through the seamless integration of invisible technology or the preservation of “ritual spaces” for calm, the goal remains the same: making life easier for those who inhabit the space, one season at a time.

• Resiliency as a Design Requirement: Extreme temperature swings expose construction flaws quickly, leading to a local culture that prioritizes performance and durability over surface-level trends.
• The Intentionality of “Midwest Modern”: A pragmatic approach to design that rejects “excess” but holds craftsmanship—rooted in the region’s Scandinavian heritage—to an incredibly high standard.
• Life Beyond the “Phantom Buyer”: A shift toward designing for the current inhabitant’s actual life rather than future resale, including planning for multi-generational living and aging in place.
• Integrating Technology Naturally: Embracing technology as a design layer—such as half-inch recessed lighting—that enhances daily life without overwhelming the home’s aesthetic.
• Materiality and the Seasons: The “one-year seasonal change” is a standard expectation in local construction, allowing wood and metal to settle through the intense humidity shifts of the Midwest.

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Designing for Life: Architecture, Emotion, and the Long View

Architect Cathy Purple Cherry challenges the idea that buildings are static objects, arguing instead that great architecture evolves with human behavior, emotion, and time.

From biophilic design and post-pandemic living patterns to aging-in-place and purposeful restraint, Purple Cherry shares how architecture can improve quality of life across generations—without chasing trends or perfection.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Shelter Republic – Request your membership invitation

In this episode of Convo By Design, I share my first conversation with architect Cathy Purple Cherry for a wide-ranging conversation on architecture as a deeply human, emotionally driven discipline. Purple Cherry discusses how architects must design for decades—not design cycles—and how shifts in technology, work culture, and climate have fundamentally altered the way homes and workplaces should function.

Everything that embodies a design icon… right here. The Convo By Design Icon Registry is presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home. An incredible partner in design.

The conversation explores the lasting impact of biophilic design, the realities of working from home at different life stages, and why many contemporary office environments fail to support collaboration or productivity. Purple Cherry also reflects on aging, accessibility, and the importance of designing homes that support real relationships, not social-media perfection.

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I sat down with Ron Radziner and Leo Marmol to dig into why building in Southern California feels like an uphill battle and how we can actually fix it.

After their talk at WestEdge, I caught up with Ron and Leo to process everything discussed. We’re at a major inflection point in Southern California, and I wanted to know how their perspective has shifted since they started back in ’89. We dove into the “fucking NIMBYs,” the skyrocketing costs of construction, and why our current zoning laws are essentially a slow-motion economic disaster. From the lessons of the Palisades fires to the potential of prefab, we explored what it actually takes to build a sustainable community when the deck is stacked against you.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Shelter Republic – Request your membership invitation

The Cost of Inequality: Ron shared his deep worry about the growing gap between the middle class and the ultra-wealthy, and how rising construction costs are making it nearly impossible to provide housing for anyone in between.

Zoning is the Real Bottleneck: We agreed that the talent and desire to build are there, but we lack the political will to let architects do their jobs. Our current planning and zoning laws are the primary hurdles to building quickly and affordably.

The Density Myth: Leo pushed back hard on the idea that density is the problem. He pointed out that 72% of our residential land is locked into single-family homes, which simply can’t support the housing volume we need.

Stopping the Sprawl: We talked about the need to stop sprawling into high-risk wildfire zones like Riverside County and instead focus on density and infill within the urban core.

Limits on Community Vetoes: While community input matters, Leo argued there has to be a point where the litigation stops. We can’t let individual voices stall essential progress like bike lanes and sustainable housing forever.

The Prefab Opportunity: With so many similar lots needing to be rebuilt in the Palisades and Altadena, Ron sees a massive opening for high-quality prefab construction to get people back into homes faster.

Lessons from Lortondale: I brought up my move to Tulsa and the Lortondale community—a whole neighborhood of mid-century modern tract homes that are still intact, in demand, and haven’t been commodified out of reach. It’s proof that mass-produced architecture can have a soul and stay accessible.

Applicable Elements and Links

Marmol Radziner: https://www.marmol-radziner.com/

WestEdge Design Fair: https://www.westedgedesign.com/

Lortondale, Tulsa: https://www.lortondale.com/

California Coastal Commission: https://www.coastal.ca.gov/

California ADU Handbook: https://www.hcd.ca.gov/policy-and-programming/accessory-dwelling-units

CEQA Overview: https://wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/CEQA

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The episode you are going to hear today was over a decade in the making. LuAnn Niagara is the host of A Well Designed Business. The podcast launched in 2016 and set the standard for what a business of design podcast should be. LuAnn’s focus was then and is today focused on helping designers up level their design studios. LuAnn was hosting a session for the KBIS Podcast Studio and we had some time during the show and I can’t remember who brought up the idea, I think it was me who suggested to LuAnn, that this would be a great time for us to record a conversation about our own journey and collaborate on a crossover episode. It could be fun!

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Shelter Republic – Request your membership invitation

Oh, it was fun. We talked about so much but what is really special about this… If you continue to listen here, you are going to get, I’m sure, a vastly different presentation. The exact same conversation will air on both feeds, but the context and philosophy is different. I have a tremendous amount of respect for LuAnn. She has done something special. If you are a designer, architect, maker, you know what I mean. She created something from nothing and every one of us here knows how hard that is.

In setting up this interview, I want to provide both context and a bit of storytelling. You are going to hear four very brief clips before we get to my conversation with LuAnn. It’s been a while since I shared this on the show, but in addition to my broadcast experience in music and sports, I was the general manager and program director for Playboy Radio. In that role, I hosted a show on the channel called the Playboy Radio Interview. She show was a one on one with guests that I thought would resonate by telling unique and personal stories about their journey. And what I want you to realize as you listen to these is that we all go through many of the same things, experience the same challenges and nobody in life achieves anything without a little luck and support. That support can come from family and friends, it can come from a trusted advisor and it can come in the form of hearing stories about others told by industry voices, like LuAnn or me. The first clip you are going to hear is US Mens National Hockey legend, Mike Eruzioni. You would up where you are due to a series of circumstances that aren’t always within your control. Guess what, nobody is. It’s what you do next and how you need to keep going because you never know where that big opportunity os going to come from.

The next segment you are going to hear is actor, Tom Sizemore. Sizemore has since past but he still has lessons to share. I’m not going to set this clip up too much because I think it speaks for itself. The concept is “challenge” and the friends and supporters who help us along the way.

It doesn’t get more real or powerful than that. Next up is George Lopez. He and I were speaking about community. That of the musicians playing the upcoming Playboy Jazz Festival and how creatives like musicians and comics help each other along the way. I share this with the hope that our industry continues to help each other in an ever chaotic and complicated world.

The final clip is legendary. It’s Henry Winkler on going with his instincts. Imagine when Henry Winkler was on set, day one, starting off as Arther Fonzerelli he was looking at TikTok and became influenced by what the trends were instead of being himself, going with his gut and trusting his authentic intuition? Things might be different.

These concepts; A strong work ethic matters, We all need help and a little luck, Support is as important as giving back and Trusting your gut and being authentic. Next up, you are going to hear my conversation with LuAnn Niagara recorded live from KBIS, right after this.

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From the show floor at CEDIA Expo 2025, three distinct voices reveal an industry in the midst of transformation—where technology, design, and business are converging in new and unexpected ways. What emerges is not a story about gadgets, but about integration at every level: systems, teams, and ideas. The future of the home is being shaped as much by collaboration and communication as by innovation itself.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Shelter Republic – Request your membership invitation

Jason Knott, Hagan Kappler, and Bob Schuppe each bring a different lens to the evolving world of residential technology, exploring how integrators, designers, and architects must align to meet rising expectations around performance, aesthetics, and long-term value.

Jason Knott | D-Tools

Integration Over Innovation
The industry has shifted from breakthrough moments (CDs, DVDs, early automation) to iterative refinement.
https://www.d-tools.com

Lighting as the Entry Point
Lighting design is now the gateway for integrators to engage at the earliest stages of a project.
https://www.lutron.com
https://www.ketra.com

Early-Stage Collaboration
Integrators must be involved during architectural planning to avoid conflicts with structure, HVAC, and design intent.
https://cedia.org

The Designer–Integrator Language Gap
Misalignment between aesthetics and performance leads to inefficiencies and compromised outcomes.

“Wall Acne” and Invisible Technology
The push to hide visible tech (switches, speakers, controls) has created a sub-industry of concealment solutions.
https://www.framemytv.com
https://www.futureautomation.net

Business Software as Competitive Advantage
End-to-end platforms improve efficiency, project management, and profitability (~13% increase).
https://www.d-tools.com/system-integrator
https://www.d-tools.com/cloud

AI in Integration (Early Stage)
AI is being applied to proposal generation and security analytics, though much of the market is still in hype phase.

Resistance to Change
Legacy workflows (Word, Excel) persist despite clear operational disadvantages.

Designing for Reality
Client preferences, budget, and compromise often override ideal technical execution.

Hagan Kappler | Daisy

National Integration Platform
Scaling a fragmented industry through acquisition and brand unification.
https://daisyco.com

Consistency Across Multiple Residences
Clients expect identical user experiences across homes in different locations.

Recurring Revenue Model
Quarterly service visits transform integrators from project-based vendors into long-term partners.

Builder/Designer-Centric Business Model
Majority of work driven through relationships with architects, builders, and interior designers.

Purchasing Power & Market Influence
Scale enables stronger relationships with manufacturers and influence over product development.

Industry Consolidation Trend
Integration is following other trades (HVAC, pest control) toward aggregation and higher valuations.

Workforce Development & Labor Shortage
Critical shortage of technicians is limiting industry growth.

Women in Integration
Expanding the talent pool through apprenticeship programs and leadership pathways.
https://cedia.org/education

Education Pipeline Development
Outreach to high schools and partnerships with manufacturers to build awareness of integration careers.

Client Lifecycle Expansion
Shifting from one-time installs to ongoing service, upgrades, and data-driven engagement.

Bob Schuppe | Resolute Design Group

Lighting as the New Frontier
Lighting has become the defining category in modern integration.
https://www.lutron.com
https://www.ketra.com

Decline of Traditional Recessed Lighting
Shift from large can lights to small aperture, modular, and precision lighting systems.

Integrator as Technology Guide
Role evolving into advisor/translator—helping clients discover what’s possible.

Authenticity vs. Aesthetic Perfection
Designers removing tech elements from photos raises questions about transparency in design.

Invisible but Functional Technology
Technology should disappear visually while remaining fully accessible and high-performing.

Reliability Over Innovation
“Bulletproof” systems are more valuable than bleeding-edge solutions that may fail.

Engineering-Driven Approach
Performance, redundancy, and consistency are core to successful system design.

Blurred Lines Between Trades
Increasing overlap between electricians, designers, builders, and integrators.

Manufacturer–Integrator Feedback Loop
Experienced integrators play a key role in shaping product development.

Audio Nostalgia & Tangibility
Resurgence of vinyl, CDs, and physical media reflects desire for tactile experiences.
https://www.sonos.com
https://www.mcintoshlabs.com

Emotional Connection to Technology
Technology is not purely functional—it shapes memory, identity, and experience.

Integration as a Discipline, Not a Layer
Technology must be embedded from the beginning of the design process—not added later.

Collaboration as Competitive Advantage
The most successful projects are built on shared ownership between designers, architects, and integrators.

Aesthetics vs. Performance Tension
Balancing clean design with technical requirements remains the central challenge.

Standardization vs. Customization
Clients want both highly personalized spaces and consistent experiences across properties.

The Rise of Service-Based Models
Recurring engagement is replacing one-time project delivery.

Technology Disappearing Into Architecture
The end goal is seamless integration—where tech enhances space without calling attention to itself.

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In the wake of the devastating January 2025 fires, the architectural community in Southern California is facing a reckoning. The conversation at the recent panel I hosted at Ganahl Lumber in Torrance made one thing clear: the old metrics of “durability” are no longer enough. The industry is moving toward a philosophy of resilience.

For Anthony Poon of Poon Design and Ben Ballentine of Ballaetine Architects, the challenge lies in balancing this need for hardened structures with the fundamental human desire for beauty and light. As Poon noted, a building could be made entirely fireproof, but if it ends up looking like a “bomb shelter,” the architecture has failed its purpose. The goal is now “kinetic” and “resourceful” design—structures that don’t just survive a disaster but facilitate the recovery of the families within them.

The panel also addressed the friction between rapid rebuilding and thoughtful design. With developers racing to fill the housing shortage by “plopping down” identical units, Luis Murillo of LMG Architecture Studio raised concerns about the loss of neighborhood character. Meanwhile, Jay Williams of TimberTech highlighted how material science—blending the aesthetics of natural wood with the fire-rated performance of advanced PVC and fiber cement—is bridging the gap between safety and style.

Ultimately, the consensus was that technology, from AI-driven detailing to digital twin visualizations, is shrinking the production timeline but cannot replace the human element. The architect’s role is evolving from a pure designer into a “civic leader” and “marriage counselor,” navigating a world where clients are armed with TikTok-sourced ideas and a desperate need for a sense of home in an increasingly volatile environment.

Key Concepts

• Resilience vs. Strength: The shift from making buildings “unbreakable” to making them “recoverable” and resourceful after a cataclysm.
• The “Bomb Shelter” Dilemma: The struggle to meet strict fire and safety codes (like hardening the building envelope) without sacrificing natural light and aesthetic appeal.
• Material Science Innovation: The rise of high-performance composites (James Hardie/TimberTech) that offer Class A fire ratings while mimicking the warmth of natural materials.
• Architectural Accountability: The increasing need for architects to provide highly specific, litigious-level detailing due to shifting contractor liabilities.
• The AI Influence: How AI is revolutionizing visualization and R&D, while simultaneously creating “educated but misinformed” clients.
• Rebuilding Ethics: The tension between the speed of rebuilding in burn areas and the opportunity to rethink density and multifamily housing.

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In this roundtable conversation, a diverse group of interior designers and kitchen specialists discuss how kitchen design has transformed in the post-pandemic era. Rising costs, shifting client expectations, and new technologies are forcing designers to rethink how kitchens function and how they are delivered to clients.

The conversation explores everything from appliance innovation and zoning strategies to the emotional role of kitchens as gathering spaces. Designers also confront difficult realities such as escalating budgets, supply chain issues, and the need to guide clients through increasingly complex decisions. We gathered at the Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home showroom in San Diego. A beautiful and well appointed space with so much to see and the room to enjoy it.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Shelter Republic – Request your membership invitation

At its core, the discussion highlights a broader truth about the design profession today: kitchens are no longer simply rooms for cooking. They are ecosystems that reflect lifestyle, culture, wellness, and the evolving way people live in their homes.

Ginger Rabe

“During Covid everyone was home all day. Now I design for what happens when people come home after being gone all day.”

“The hardest conversation now is telling clients that what cost $50,000 five years ago might be $185,000 today.”

“Sometimes the challenge of designing a luxury kitchen for $22,000 is actually fun—it forces creativity.”

“I build kitchens around how people really cook, not how kitchens are supposed to work.”

“Designers today are often the first people explaining what a project actually costs.”

Kendra Araujo

“Clients are overwhelmed by information now—our job is guiding them through the process.”

“The price conversation is happening much earlier than it used to.”

“People want their dream kitchen, but the cost realities have changed dramatically.”

“We’re constantly helping clients prioritize what actually matters most.”

“There’s so much analysis paralysis today that designers have become translators.”

Kaylee Blaylock

“Function comes first—our job is to make the kitchen work for the client before it looks beautiful.”

“We start with questionnaires because every person in a household uses the kitchen differently.”

“Appliances today allow us to personalize kitchens in ways we couldn’t before.”

“We’re designing zones now—smoothie stations, coffee stations, prep areas.”

“The kitchen has become much more individualized.”

Taylor Troia

“We usually start with appliances because they dictate the entire layout.”

“Once clients understand their appliance choices, the kitchen design almost begins to solve itself.”

“There are so many new appliance innovations that we’re constantly learning.”

“Travel and design shows open our eyes to things that haven’t even reached the U.S. yet.”

“Knowing what’s possible globally helps us serve our clients better locally.”

Rachel Moriarty

“Covid activated more users in the kitchen—people learned to cook.”

“I think about kitchens as stations—charcuterie stations, prep zones, cooking zones.”

“Circulation patterns are the first thing we think about when designing a kitchen.”

“Professional kitchen thinking is influencing residential design more than ever.”

“The best kitchens are ecosystems where people can work without colliding.”

Jules Wilson

“We try to let clients talk first because what they say initially is always the most important.”

“You learn far more by listening than by running through a checklist.”

“Many younger clients have huge wish lists—but they’re often unrealistic.”

“Part of our role is helping clients narrow their priorities.”

“Kitchen design today is as much about psychology as it is about layout.”

Nate Fisher

“Appliances have become central to how we design kitchens.”

“Technology is evolving so quickly it’s hard to keep up with everything available.”

“Every cabinet now has a specialized insert or storage function.”

“Clients want everything organized and hidden away.”

“A clean kitchen visually creates peace in the home.”

Concepts

The Post-Covid Kitchen Shift

Price Shock and the New Budget Reality

Kitchen Zoning and Multi-User Design

Appliance Innovation and Technology

Personalization Through Storage and Organization

Aging in Place and Accessibility

Outdoor Kitchens as Lifestyle Extensions

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New England designer Nicole Hirsch explains how the interior design profession evolved from service provider to brand identity, why craftsmanship still matters in a digital-first world, and how historic architecture shapes modern living.

Since launching her firm, Nicole Hirsch, principal of Nicole Hirsch Interiors, has witnessed—and helped shape—the transformation of the interior design profession. What was once a service-driven industry has evolved into one defined by recognizable brands, signature aesthetics, and curated storytelling. For Hirsch, success today requires far more than talent; it requires clarity of voice, visual identity, and trust built through consistency.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Shelter Republic – Request your membership invitation

Drawing from her marketing background, Hirsch has developed a design philosophy rooted in timeless, demure, and textural interiors that balance modern functionality with historical reverence. Working throughout Boston and New England, she specializes in full-scale renovations and new construction projects that preserve architectural heritage while adapting homes for contemporary family life.

In this conversation, Hirsch breaks down the realities of running a luxury design firm—from managing client expectations and navigating scope creep to understanding the evolving role of social media and editorial publishing. She also offers insight into the technical craftsmanship behind her work, revealing how thoughtful details—from custom millwork to concealed functionality—shape both the user experience and the visual narrative of a home.

The Evolution of the Designer-as-Brand

• How the industry shifted from service provider to identity-driven brand
• Why visual consistency builds trust and attracts aligned clients
• The strategic influence of Hirsch’s marketing background

Signature Style vs. Personalization

• Developing a recognizable aesthetic without creating repetitive projects
• The role of neutral palettes, layered textures, and timeless composition
• Why clients seek designers for perspective rather than replication

The Craftsman Approach to Interior Design

• Designing beyond furnishings and décor
• Full architectural collaboration including:
  • Millwork planning
  • Custom elevations
  • Stone and material specification
• The growing expectation for designers to function as technical project leaders

Designing Within Historic New England Architecture

• Working within strict preservation parameters in Boston neighborhoods
• Balancing modern family living with architectural authenticity
• Integrating contemporary amenities into historic shells

The Modern Press and Social Media Economy

• Why full-scale renovation projects drive editorial opportunities
• Social media as both marketing engine and creative liability
• Combating unrealistic client expectations and trend saturation

Managing Scope, Budget, and Communication

• Early and transparent cost discussions
• The collaborative triangle between designer, builder, and architect
• Educating clients on value versus cost

Designing the Invisible

• Functional elements that disappear visually but elevate usability:
  • Appliance garages
  • Hidden outlets and infrastructure
  • Custom stone fabrication
• Why technical precision supports aesthetic clarity

Project References

River Glen

A refined exploration of white kitchen design featuring advanced stone fabrication and layered material detailing.
🔗 https://www.nicolehirschinteriors.com

Miller Hill Road

A family-focused basement renovation highlighting creative ceiling articulation and flexible living spaces for a household with four children.
🔗 https://www.nicolehirschinteriors.com

The Weston Addition

A spa-inspired primary suite featuring a dramatic three-sided glass and steel shower enclosure and integrated wellness-driven design.
🔗 https://www.nicolehirschinteriors.com

Key Takeaways

• The modern interior designer must operate as both creative and brand strategist.
• Signature style attracts aligned clients but must remain flexible enough to personalize every project.
• High-level design now requires deep technical knowledge and full collaboration with architecture and construction teams.
• Historic architecture demands restraint, respect, and thoughtful modernization.
• Editorial press increasingly favors comprehensive renovation storytelling over single-room reveals.
• Invisible functional details often define exceptional design quality.

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A candid conversation with interior designers Arianne Bellizaire and Sara Malek Barney on navigating burnout, emotional labor, client management, and creative growth in today’s unpredictable design industry.

From boundary-setting to decision fatigue, social media pressures, and sustaining ambition, this episode explores the strategies and mindsets designers use to remain successful, resilient, and inspired amid market volatility and personal demands.

Identity & Evolution in Design

1. • Designers must periodically redefine themselves and their work to remain relevant.
   • Personal growth and evolving priorities shape professional identity and approach.

Burnout vs Ambition

1. • Burnout is not a badge of honor; it results from overextension and emotional labor.
   • Ambition aligns energy with superpowers and opportunities, creating sustainable growth.
   • Setting boundaries is essential to differentiate productive ambition from harmful overwork.

Emotional Labor & Client Management

1. • Design work involves managing client emotions, expectations, and second-guessing.
   • Designers act as liaisons between clients, contractors, and teams, absorbing invisible pressures.
   • Managing scope creep and change orders is a practical strategy to protect both energy and profitability.

Social Media & Comparison Culture

1. • Social media can amplify unrealistic expectations and unhealthy competition.
   • Designers often feel compelled to accommodate clients’ desires, sometimes overextending themselves to maintain a positive perception.

Decision Fatigue & Process Control

1. • Guiding clients with structured processes reduces decision fatigue and builds trust.
   • Transparent communication about costs, changes, and expectations protects both designer and client satisfaction.

Sustaining Creativity

1. • Exposure to new experiences, products, peers, and travel is vital for creative rejuvenation.
   • Nature, walks, and offline activities clear mental clutter and inspire problem-solving.
   • Intentional “point-to-point” efforts—committing to new experiences—promote growth despite discomfort.

Financial & Business Literacy

1. • Designers must balance artistry with business realities.
   • Collecting payments, understanding scope, and setting clear expectations are critical professional skills.
   • Empowering team members while maintaining accountability ensures operational efficiency.

Resources:

AJ Madison

KBIS

Arianne Bellizaire – Arianne Bellizaire Interiors

Sara Malek Barney – BANDD/DESIGN

In today’s unpredictable design industry, thriving requires more than talent—it demands resilience, strategy, and self-awareness. On this episode, interior designers Arianne Bellizaire and Sara Malek Barney dive into the complex landscape of professional design, sharing candid insights on burnout, emotional labor, client management, and sustaining creativity in chaotic times.

Designers often redefine their professional identity to adapt to evolving personal and industry priorities. As Bellizaire notes, “We are always changing, and how we describe ourselves now reflects our growth, our aspirations, and the life we’re building.” Similarly, Sara emphasizes the importance of aligning professional actions with personal values to maintain relevance, profitability, and balance.

Burnout, long treated as a badge of honor in design, is reframed here as a clear warning signal. Emotional labor—managing client expectations, facilitating collaboration, and resolving conflicts—often goes uncredited yet drives the success of every project. Both guests stress the importance of boundaries, scope management, and distinguishing between what one can do versus what one should do, emphasizing that ambition thrives when energy is strategically invested in core strengths.

Social media and comparison culture add another layer of complexity. Designers frequently face unrealistic expectations from clients influenced by curated online content, which can pressure them into overextending themselves. Establishing clear processes, communicating cost implications, and structuring client decisions effectively are key strategies for reducing stress while maintaining creative integrity. Decision fatigue, a common challenge in high-stakes residential projects, can be mitigated by guiding clients through structured choices while fostering trust.

Sustaining creativity amid chaos is a recurring theme. Arianne and Sara highlight exposure to new experiences, peers, travel, and even nature walks as essential methods to refresh the mind and spark innovative thinking. “A simple daily walk,” Arianne reflects, “can clear clutter, inspire problem-solving, and restore energy in ways that sitting at a desk never will.” Committing to uncomfortable but growth-oriented experiences, a “point-to-point principle,” is a subtle but critical habit for creative professionals.

Finally, the conversation underscores the business side of design. Designers must balance artistry with operational responsibility, from collecting payments to managing scope creep and training staff. Financial literacy and professional boundaries ensure that creative freedom does not come at the cost of personal wellbeing or firm profitability.

This episode offers an unfiltered look at what it takes to thrive in a chaotic, competitive industry. With honesty, humor, and hard-earned wisdom, Ariana and Sara provide strategies for navigating emotional, creative, and financial pressures while staying grounded, inspired, and relevant. For any designer striving to balance ambition with wellbeing, this conversation is both a blueprint and a call to action.

About Convo By Design: Convo By Design is the longest running podcast of its kind. The show is hosted, produced and published by Josh Cooperman. The podcast has been running since January, 2013. The show has published over seven hundred episodes, featured more than fifteen hundred designers and architects and has garnered over three million streams, downloads making it one of the most listened to design and architecture podcasts as well as being the first design podcast of its kind. For guest suggestions and show inquiries, please message us on Instagram @convoxdesign.

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Launching a design firm is hard. Launching one days before a global shutdown is something else entirely. In this episode of Convo By Design, I speak with interior designer Justine about building a solo practice during COVID, transitioning from sales to structure, and navigating the modern realities of design—from virtual collaboration and technical complexity to burnout, authenticity, and creative control. It’s an honest conversation about what it really takes to grow a design business today without losing yourself in the process. Designing Through Disruption | Convo By Design Podcast is hosted and published by Josh Cooperman.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Interior designer Justine shares how launching a solo firm during COVID reshaped her business, creativity, and approach to authenticity in modern design.

Interior Design Podcast, Solo Design Practice, Post-Pandemic Design, Interior Designer Business, Design Authenticity, Lighting Design, Residential Renovation, Convo By Design

Episode Highlights Launching a design firm at the onset of COVID—and adapting without a roadmap

• Transitioning from sales and jewelry to residential design and construction
• The rise of the “one-woman studio” and the cost of wearing every hat
• How virtual meetings expanded access while eroding design community
• Why lighting plans are foundational—not optional
• Designing with intention under real budget constraints
• Choosing authenticity over polish in social media marketing
• Burnout prevention, creative resets, and the cautious use of AI tools
• “I didn’t just start a business during COVID—I learned how to design without a safety net.”
• “Virtual meetings made design more accessible, but they took away the intimacy that built real community.”
• “Lighting is the difference between a room that looks good and one that actually works.”
• “Being a one-woman studio means freedom—but it also means you feel every decision.”
• “Not every project needs to be Instagram-perfect to be successful.”
• “Clients don’t need more trends—they need clarity.”
• “Scaling sounds great until you realize what you might lose creatively.”
• “Burnout doesn’t happen all at once. It happens quietly.”
• “Authenticity isn’t a brand strategy—it’s a survival tool.”
• “AI can help with process, but instinct still drives good design.”

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At KBIS 2026, Hearth & Home Technologies reveals how fireplaces are evolving from overlooked amenities into high-value, design-forward features that enhance both homes and builder offerings. We explore the emotional, aesthetic, and technological dimensions of modern fireplaces, from indoor-outdoor integration to bespoke U-shaped configurations. Designers, architects, and builders alike share insights on leveraging fireplaces for resale value, client engagement, and standout home experiences.

Mike Swanson – Director, Segment Marketing | Hearth & Home Technologies

Fireplaces are no longer just a cozy addition—they are strategic assets in home design, builder differentiation, and lifestyle storytelling.

Consumer Demand & Builder Value

1. • Fireplaces rank high on buyer wish lists; 77% of homebuyers desire a fireplace.
   • Adding a fireplace can increase home value by 10%, comparable to adding a garage.
   • Fireplaces differentiate homes and engage buyers beyond square footage, integrating lifestyle and personality into living spaces.

Design & Technology Integration

1. • Indoor and outdoor placement flexibility, including direct vent and electric fireplaces.
   • Heat management technology enabling safe TV placement above fireplaces.
   • Smart home integration, LED flame effects, and Wi-Fi connectivity.
   • Design-forward considerations: feature walls, proportion, architectural integration, and bespoke finishes.

Custom & Premium Solutions

1. • U-shaped, L-shaped, and multi-sided fireplaces offer signature focal points.
   • Customization options include firebox décor, decorative panels, and the Enlight Collection’s fireproof image panels.
   • Aligning fireplace sizing with flat-panel TVs and overall home layout for maximum impact.

Builder & Designer Partnerships

1. • Education and engagement through Pro Advantage series, continuing education (AIA, IDEC), and builder programs.
   • National distribution network ensures on-time delivery and installation support.
   • Strategies for integrating fireplaces into model homes, luxury projects, and production homes across price points.
   • Collaboration between architects, designers, and builders to maximize aesthetic, functional, and financial value.

Innovation & Future Outlook

1. • New electric and digital flame technologies (e.g., SimpliFire Allusion Edge, SimpliFire Allusion Heritage).
   • Product refreshes every three years to maintain style-forward, timeless appeal.
   • Continuing to expand placement possibilities and premium customization for design-forward homes.

At KBIS 2026 in Orlando, Hearth & Home Technologies showcased how the modern fireplace is evolving from a standard home feature into a high-value, design-forward element that serves builders, designers, and homeowners alike. The conversation revealed that fireplaces are not just a source of warmth—they are strategic tools for engagement, differentiation, and lifestyle storytelling in residential design.

Research consistently shows that fireplaces are among the most desired features in new homes, with 77% of buyers listing them as a priority. Beyond emotional appeal, fireplaces offer tangible value: they can add up to 10% to a home’s resale value—equivalent to a garage—while remaining relatively accessible, starting at approximately $2,000. For builders, fireplaces help differentiate offerings in competitive markets, enhance staging appeal, and align with buyer desires for personalization and interaction.

Modern fireplaces extend well beyond traditional living rooms. Hearth & Home Technologies’ portfolio includes indoor, outdoor, and indoor-outdoor configurations, allowing architects and designers to integrate fireplaces into kitchens, bathrooms, ensuites, and shared spaces. Electric fireplaces offer unprecedented placement flexibility, while gas units with direct vent technology allow designers to position flames virtually anywhere without compromising air quality. Heat management innovations also enable TVs to be safely mounted above fireplaces, merging functionality with aesthetic appeal.

Customization and premium finishes remain a hallmark of Hearth & Home’s strategy. Their U-shaped and L-shaped designs, multi-sided fireplaces, and the Stellar by Heat & Glo Enlight Collection’s fireproof image panels demonstrate the growing appetite for bespoke elements that reflect homeowners’ individuality. Proportion, scale, and feature integration—such as firebox décor, stone slabs, or quartz surrounds—allow designers to create compelling focal points that harmonize with the broader home environment.

Equally important is the company’s commitment to builder and designer partnerships. Their Pro Advantage program, continuing education courses through AIA and IDEC, and extensive distribution network ensure that both builders and designers have the knowledge, tools, and on-site support to incorporate fireplaces seamlessly. Builders benefit from reliable supply chains and flexible pricing options, while designers gain access to innovative solutions that align with client expectations.

Technology continues to play a central role in Hearth & Home’s product evolution. Wi-Fi-enabled fireplaces, LED rotisserie flames, and digital flame technologies like the SimpliFire Allusion Edge, SimpliFire Allusion Heritage allow homeowners to control ambiance remotely and safely. Wood-burning fireplaces adhere to EPA standards, ensuring environmentally conscious solutions for diverse markets. The company also emphasizes timeless design, prioritizing chic, intentional, and adaptable products over fleeting trends.

As KBIS 2026 demonstrates, fireplaces are more than decorative features—they are emotional anchors, value drivers, and design catalysts. By combining technology, customization, and education, Hearth & Home Technologies positions the fireplace as an essential component of modern residential architecture, offering builders, designers, and homeowners a tool to elevate both experience and value.

Learn More:

• Hearth & Home Technologies: https://www.hearthnhome.com
• Stellar by Heat & Glo: https://stellar.heatnglo.com/
• AIA Continuing Education: https://www.aia.org/education
• AJ Madison

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Transforming the Kitchen Experience: How Kitchen365 Streamlines Design, Specification, and Delivery

At KBIS 2026, Bhavin Patel and Hiren Modi of Kitchen365 discuss how their end-to-end technology platform is reshaping the kitchen cabinet industry—making design faster, orders more accurate, and showrooms more agile.

• Digitizing Kitchen Design: Kitchen365’s design service accelerates the process from field measurement to final kitchen plan, completing in hours instead of a week.
• B2B Order Management System (OMS): Streamlines dealer and distributor interactions, supports tiered pricing, multi-warehouse fulfillment, and integrates with existing design software like ProKitchen.
• Consumer-Facing Digital Tools: Price estimators and visualizers allow homeowners to explore and configure kitchens online, reducing showroom dependency.
• Reducing Scope Creep & Specification Drift: Digital twins and high-fidelity visualizations ensure designs align with customer expectations, lowering errors and change orders.
• Process Integration & Efficiency: CSV-driven workflows reduce manual data entry, freeing staff for higher-value work and increasing accuracy.
• Hybrid Showroom Model: Physical showrooms serve as inspiration hubs, while digital platforms handle design, ordering, and lead generation.
• Democratizing Information: Transparency across pricing, inventory, and specifications strengthens trust between showrooms, designers, distributors, and clients.
• Competitive Advantage Through Workflow: Beyond products and aesthetics, efficiency and integration of design, data, and delivery create the next edge in the kitchen industry.

At KBIS 2026, Kitchen365 is showcasing a transformative approach to the kitchen cabinet industry. Founded to address the fragmented workflows between designers, retailers, and manufacturers, Kitchen365 is more than a software company—it is a full-scale ecosystem that digitizes, automates, and scales the kitchen design process.

Bhavin Patel, President, and Hiren Modi, Co-Founder and CEO, shared their journey of identifying inefficiencies in the industry. From lengthy design cycles that could take a week to fulfill to manual order entry prone to costly errors, the opportunity for modernization was clear. Kitchen365 first tackled this by offering a kitchen design service that allows designers to focus on client interactions while the platform handles technical drawings, reducing turnaround times to mere hours.

The platform’s B2B Order Management System (OMS) revolutionizes distributor and dealer workflows. Tiered pricing, multi-warehouse inventory tracking, and CSV integrations with design software reduce manual errors and improve fulfillment speed. Retailers now have the ability to quickly provide quotes, place orders, and communicate with clients without extensive back-office staffing.

For homeowners, Kitchen365 offers interactive digital tools like price estimators and 3D visualizers, enabling them to explore kitchen options remotely. High-fidelity visualizations and digital twins reduce “specification drift,” ensuring that what is imagined in the design phase aligns with the final installation. This not only minimizes costly post-order changes but also enhances the overall customer experience.

Kitchen365 also empowers showrooms to evolve. Dealers gain enterprise-level digital portals with catalog management, lead generation, and design visualization, all accessible for a modest subscription. This hybrid model integrates physical and digital experiences, giving clients the tactile inspiration of a showroom and the efficiency of an online platform.

Underlying all these innovations is a commitment to transparency. By democratizing information across pricing, inventory, and specifications, Kitchen365 strengthens relationships between distributors, dealers, designers, and end clients. The result is a seamless, efficient, and more confident workflow—from first consultation to final installation.

Bhavin and Hiren emphasize that technology does not replace the human element but amplifies it. Designers become “complexity curators,” focusing on aesthetics and client experience while Kitchen365 handles data management, order accuracy, and process efficiency. The platform exemplifies how technology, when paired with industry expertise, can elevate every participant in the kitchen cabinet ecosystem.

In a market long defined by artisanal craftsmanship and manual processes, Kitchen365 demonstrates that the next competitive advantage isn’t just in style or materials—it’s in integrated, intelligent workflows that make the industry faster, more transparent, and more client-focused.

Guest: Brandon Drum, Owner | Prime Cabinetry

Learn more about Kitchen365:

• Kitchen365 Website

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From high-end residential “wealth” to AI-responsive environments, top designers discuss why lighting is the most under-recognized—yet essential—element of the built environment.

Lighting is often the ghost in the machine of interior design: when it’s perfect, you don’t notice it; when it’s wrong, it’s all you can see. In a wide-ranging discussion featuring architectural lighting experts and residential designers, the conversation shifts from the utility of “turning on the lights” to the high-stakes world of experiential design.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

For firms like Focus Lighting and their partners like GRADE, the challenge lies in the nuance of the environment. Whether it’s the high-octane spectacle of the Times Square ball or the restrained elegance of a Chelsea penthouse, the philosophy remains the same: lighting should highlight architectural moments and art without revealing the source. This “invisible” approach is what separates a standard renovation from a truly bespoke residence.

The dialogue also touches on the psychological divide between “rich” and “wealthy” clients. While some desire flashy, obvious fixtures, the most sophisticated projects utilize layers of light—integrated into millwork, hidden in suede-pedal ceiling features, or tucked behind undulating panels—to create a sensory experience that feels natural and inevitable.

Looking forward, the industry is on the cusp of a technological revolution. We are moving toward responsive homes where AI recognizes individual inhabitants, adjusting the lighting plan to their specific preferences and moods in real-time. As designers push into new frontiers like luxury yachting and “Zoom-ready” home offices, the goal remains human-centric: using innovation not just because we can, but to make life better through the deliberate application of light.

Today, you are going to hear from Focus Lighting’s, Mike Cummings and partners of theirs in GRADE NY’s Edward Yedid and Thomas Hickey. Were talking about lighting and how the skilled application in design makes a difference in not just beauty, performance but quality of experience.

Core Concepts:

• The Power of Layers: Effective lighting isn’t about one bright source; it’s about a “team” of layers (decorative, accent, and task) working in tandem.
• The “Wealthy” Aesthetic: High-end design is shifting away from flashy fixtures toward “restrained” lighting where the source is hidden, but the effect is transformative.
• Collaboration is Mandatory: The most innovative solutions—like lighting art with tiny bronze heads or illuminating glass tables with “water droplet” fixtures—come from the friction between a designer’s vision and a lighting engineer’s technical skill.
• The Future is AI-Responsive: We are moving toward a “switch-less” world where homes utilize motion sensors and machine learning to anticipate a resident’s path and preference.
• Residential vs. Hospitality: In hospitality, the light source is often a celebrated feature; in residential, the goal is for the lighting to disappear into the architecture.

Resources & Applicable Elements

• Focus Lighting: An architectural lighting design firm known for projects ranging from Times Square to private luxury residences.
• GRADE NY: Since GRADE’s founding in 2004, it has been our belief that integrating architecture and interior design from the outset creates the most beautiful, balanced and cohesive solutions.
• Lutron Systems: A leader in lighting control and automated shading solutions mentioned as a “hook” for homeowners entering the world of smart design.
• Carpenters Workshop Gallery: Mentioned for their innovative, reactive light fixtures that respond to sound and motion.
• KBIS (Kitchen & Bath Industry Show): The premier event for kitchen and bath design professionals.

The Highlight Reel

• “If someone hasn’t used a lighting designer before, they ask us why we need one. If someone has used one before, they can’t wait to use them again.” — Eddie
• “Lighting design is a double-edged sword. The better job I’m doing, the less you appreciate it.” — Michael
• “Rich people are flashier—they want to see the light fixture. Our clients are wealthy… to them, this is just their world.” — Thomas
• “I can come to your house… and like a doctor, diagnose why you don’t like [the lighting] and then use those words to create a new design.” — Michael
• “You never hear anybody say ‘no’ in New York, because somebody else will say ‘yes’ right behind you.” — Eddie
• “We’re not lighting designers. We’re definitely not structural engineers… when we push the boundaries of our design, we want to have teammates who can say, ‘Oh, I’ve never done that before. Let’s figure out a solution together’ instead of ‘No.'” — Thomas

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The emotional impact of our surroundings, the challenges of a multi-year global project, and why the perfect kitchen starts with the “mother archetype.”

Elana Tenenbaum Cline, architecturally trained-interior designer with a fascinating background rooted in both structured discipline and creative layering came into the virtual studio to share her journey from attending Syracuse University’s intensive architecture program to working on massive global projects like the Abu Dhabi Airport.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

The conversation explores the “practical creative” mindset, the importance of constraints in design, and the profound shift from large-scale architecture to the intimate human scale of interior design. Elana explains her philosophy that our surroundings completely impact how we perform and think, detailing how she uses personal narratives to craft spaces that truly resonate with her clients.

• The Architectural Foundation: Elana discusses growing up with a structured father and a creative mother, and how her five-year architecture degree informs her complex interior renovations today.
• The Emotional Connection: Why Elana pivoted to interior design to achieve a more intimate understanding of how people actually live—from how they serve coffee to their favorite childhood colors.
• We talk about running and The “Suck” of the Marathon: A unique analogy comparing the phases of a design project to running a marathon, specifically the “mile 20” moment where clients might lose the vision just before the finish line.
• Redefining Luxury: Why “luxury” in interior design might be as simple as a perfectly organized silverware drawer rather than just expensive materials.
• The Performance of Space: Insights into commercial projects like the West River Surgery Center, where the design’s primary goal is to evoke a sense of ease and calm for patients.

Elements & Links

• E: Explore Elana’s portfolio and the “all senses” approach to residential and commercial design.
• Syracuse Architecture: Information on the intensive five-year program that shaped Elana’s professional background.
• Convo By Design Archive: Catch up on previous episodes featuring architects and designers.
• The Soul of a House: A recommended read on the emotional impact of interior spaces.

“I call myself a practical creative. I love being creative, but I love having constraints.”

“What is so beautiful about architecture and interior design is… how do you actually live in the space? How do you think?”

“I believe that our surroundings completely impact how we feel, how we perform, and how we think.”

“Architecture, depending on the scale… can go on for a long time. There is a pace with interiors that keeps me going.”

“Luxury in architecture is a material choice… luxury in interior design might be a silverware organizer in a drawer.”

“In an interior project, mile 20 is when you’ve done all the work… you’re almost there, and the client doesn’t see the vision yet because they can’t sit on it or touch it.”

“I try to use plain speak with clients… even the wealthiest clients all have budgets and want to manage them extremely carefully.”

“You finish a renovation… and they put a pink Dove soap pump from Walgreens on the counter. It’s like a knife to the heart.”

“People want to be outside as much as possible; they want to connect to nature as much as possible while still having access to power and shade.”

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In a category often defined by tradition, Green Forest Cabinetry is applying data science, manufacturing discipline, and cross-industry thinking to challenge long-held assumptions about cabinetry. Their approach reveals how operational precision—not marketing—creates real value for designers, builders, and homeowners.

Green Forest Cabinetry’s leadership team including, CEO, John Morgan, COO, Nathan Boone and CIO, Michael Boone share how treating cabinetry as an information-driven business, not just a manufacturing process, has enabled dramatic gains in quality, efficiency, and affordability. From machine learning and performance-based compensation to packaging innovation and cultural transformation, their story illustrates how operational clarity creates competitive advantage.

Cabinetry has long been viewed as a static category—functional, necessary, but rarely innovative. Yet beneath the surface, a new generation of manufacturers is redefining what cabinetry can be by focusing not on materials alone, but on systems, data, and human performance.

In this conversation, Green Forest Cabinetry’s leadership explains how they built a manufacturing culture centered on measurable output, accountability, and continuous improvement. Their approach borrows heavily from industries like automotive manufacturing, Formula One racing, and technology, where precision, repeatability, and efficiency are essential.

By applying machine learning to packaging optimization, implementing transparent performance metrics across their workforce, and prioritizing supply chain flexibility, the company has achieved a damage and defect rate of just 0.69%—far below the industry average of 2.5–3.5%. These gains not only reduce operational costs but dramatically improve reliability for designers, builders, and homeowners.

Ultimately, this conversation reveals a powerful truth: cabinetry is no longer just a product. It is a system. And the manufacturers who treat it as such are redefining the future of the industry.

Cabinetry as an Information Business, Not Just a Manufacturing Business

Green Forest views cabinetry as a data and logistics challenge as much as a fabrication process.

• Accurate information flow is more valuable than machinery alone.
• Data governs production timing, quality control, fulfillment, and service.
• Reliability—not just product quality—defines customer satisfaction.

Why It Matters:
Designers and builders don’t just need beautiful cabinetry—they need dependable delivery and complete orders.

Relevant Links:

• Green Forest Cabinetry
• https://www.greenforestcabinetry.com
• https://nkba.org

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Bold Vision, Grounded Leadership, and the Relentless Pursuit of Purpose. In this deeply personal and strategic conversation, Corey Damen Jenkins shares the discipline, resilience, and intentional leadership behind his rise—from knocking on 779 doors to building a global design brand rooted in humility, creativity, and purpose.

Corey Damen Jenkins is widely recognized for his exuberant interiors—fearless color, rich materiality, and a joyful sense of aspiration. But behind the visual confidence is a disciplined leader, strategic thinker, and resilient entrepreneur who built his career through persistence, focus, and unwavering belief in his purpose.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

In this conversation, Jenkins reveals the principles that guide both his creative and business decisions. His “toy box philosophy” of time management emphasizes prioritization and clarity, while his belief in editing—removing distractions in both design and business—ensures that his work remains intentional and impactful.

Jenkins also shares the realities behind his success, including rejection, intellectual property challenges, and the pressures of leading a growing global brand. From licensing partnerships and product design to publishing and team building, every decision reflects his long-term commitment to protecting creative integrity and building something meaningful.

More than a story of success, this is a conversation about purpose. Jenkins explains how staying grounded, hiring with intention, and embracing humility have allowed him to build not just a celebrated design firm, but a life aligned with creativity, impact, and service.

Key Themes and Insights

Purpose-Driven Career Transformation

• Transitioned from automotive corporate buyer to interior designer after a layoff.
• Launched his firm during the 2008 recession—one of the most challenging economic periods.
• Persistence defined his early career, including knocking on 779 doors to secure his first major client.

The Toy Box Philosophy: Strategic Time and Energy Management

• Prioritize the most important commitments first.
• Apply discipline to protect creative energy and focus.
• Editing is essential in both design execution and business leadership.

Editing as a Creative and Business Discipline

• Great design is as much about restraint as expression.
• Strategic clarity requires removing distractions and excess.
• Focus strengthens creative voice and brand identity.

Leadership Through Humility and Intentional Hiring

• Values humility, integrity, and character over pure talent.
• Builds teams based on trust, collaboration, and shared values.
• Leadership grounded in humility creates resilience and longevity.

Protecting Creative Vision Through Licensing and IP Strategy

• Strategic licensing partnerships expand reach while protecting creative authorship.
• Collaboration with global brands strengthens business stability.
• Intellectual property protection is essential in today’s copy-driven market.

Designers as Emotional and Strategic Partners

• Designers serve as advisors, therapists, and trusted confidants.
• Design has emotional, psychological, and lifestyle impact.
• Interiors shape not only how spaces look—but how people live and feel.

Corey Damen Jenkins:

• “Success requires focus. You have to put the big priorities in first.”
• “Rejection isn’t failure—it’s part of the journey.”
• “Humility keeps you grounded and makes you a better leader.”
• “Design isn’t just about beauty. It’s about transformation.”
• “I didn’t just want a career. I wanted a purpose.”

Purpose Before Prestige: Corey Damen Jenkins on Building a Life—and Career—by Design

Corey Damen Jenkins has built a career defined by bold interiors, fearless creativity, and unmistakable confidence. But the true foundation of his success isn’t aesthetic—it’s discipline, humility, and purpose.

Long before his work appeared in books, product collections, and design publications, Jenkins faced the uncertainty of reinvention. After losing his corporate job, he committed fully to interior design, launching his firm during one of the most volatile economic periods in recent history. The early days tested his resolve. He knocked on 779 doors before securing his first major client—a defining experience that shaped his perspective on perseverance and belief.

Today, that same discipline informs every aspect of his work. Jenkins approaches both design and leadership with intentional focus. His “toy box philosophy”—prioritizing the most important commitments first—guides how he manages his time, his studio, and his creative energy. Editing, he believes, is essential not only to great interiors but to building a meaningful business.

As his influence has grown, Jenkins has expanded into licensing, publishing, and product design, carefully selecting partnerships that align with his values and protect his creative voice. Yet despite his success, he remains grounded in humility—a principle he considers essential to leadership, growth, and longevity.

For Jenkins, interior design is more than aesthetics. It is emotional, personal, and transformative. Designers shape how people experience their homes and their lives.

His journey serves as a reminder that meaningful success isn’t defined by visibility or recognition. It’s defined by purpose, resilience, and the courage to pursue a creative life with intention.

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Beyond Technology: The New Design Frontier of Integration and Experience. Recorded live at CEDIA Expo 2025, Dan Ferrisi of EmeraldX and Caitlin Stewart of Leon Speakers explore how integration is evolving from technical infrastructure into a design-driven discipline—where storytelling, collaboration, and intentional product design define the future of connected environments.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Integration X Design: Why the Future of Connected Living Depends on Collaboration

At CEDIA Expo 2025, two parallel conversations revealed a shared reality: the future of technology in the built environment will be defined not by innovation alone, but by integration—and integration, increasingly, is a design discipline.

Dan Ferrisi, Group Editor for EmeraldX, has a front-row seat to the evolution of the integration industry. Through his editorial leadership and involvement in industry events, he sees a clear shift underway. Integrators are no longer viewed simply as technical specialists installing equipment at the end of a project. Instead, they are becoming essential collaborators—professionals who shape how people experience their environments through sound, light, security, and automation.

This evolution mirrors what Caitlin Stewart sees from her position at Leon Speakers. The Ann Arbor-based manufacturer has built its identity around a simple but powerful premise: technology must serve design. Rather than forcing architecture to accommodate equipment, Leon develops audio and concealment solutions that complement materials, finishes, and spatial intent.

For Stewart, the challenge isn’t technical—it’s cultural. Designers have historically minimized or hidden technology in order to preserve aesthetic integrity. The opportunity now is to create products that belong within the design language of the space itself.

Trade shows like CEDIA play a vital role in accelerating this transformation. They provide a platform where manufacturers, integrators, media, and designers can align around shared goals. They foster dialogue, education, and partnership—critical ingredients in a rapidly evolving ecosystem.

The message from both conversations is clear: integration is no longer about devices. It is about experience. And the professionals who understand how to merge technology with design intention will define the future of connected living.

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Luxury appliances are no longer defined by visibility—they’re defined by intentional invisibility, precision performance, and seamless integration. At KBIS 2026, SKS reveals how thoughtful innovation, AI integration, and designer collaboration are reshaping the kitchen into a quieter, smarter, more intuitive environment. This is the emergence of a new user: the Technicurean.

John Russo explains how Signature Kitchen Suite is redefining luxury through purposeful technology, invisible induction, behavioral AI, and collaborative product development. The future kitchen doesn’t demand attention—it anticipates needs, enhances experiences, and disappears into the architecture.

At the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show, innovation isn’t simply introduced—it’s tested, challenged, and refined in real time. For Signature Kitchen Suite, KBIS functions as a live laboratory where designers, builders, and specifiers provide critical feedback that directly shapes future product development.

John Russo shares how SKS approaches innovation deliberately, prioritizing purposeful performance over novelty. From invisible induction cooktops integrated beneath countertops to AI-powered refrigeration that anticipates user behavior, the goal is not to showcase technology—but to integrate it so seamlessly that it enhances daily life without disrupting it.

This conversation explores the rise of the Technicurean—a new luxury consumer who values precision, connectivity, and design harmony equally. Through quiet luxury, behavioral intelligence, and deep collaboration with the design community, SKS is building an ecosystem where appliances become architectural infrastructure rather than standalone objects.

KBIS as a Live Product Development Environment

• KBIS functions as a real-world testing ground for future innovation.
• Designers provide immediate feedback that shapes product refinement.
• Concept products are introduced early to validate design direction.
• Direct interaction between engineers and specifiers accelerates innovation.

Quiet Luxury: The New Definition of Premium

Quiet luxury shifts focus from visual dominance to experiential excellence.

Core principles:

• Appliances integrate seamlessly into architecture.
• Minimal visual disruption supports design continuity.
• Performance becomes more important than appearance.
• Acoustic comfort is essential—refrigeration operating around 38–39 dB.
• Luxury is defined by how appliances make life easier, not how they look.

Invisible Induction and Architectural Integration

SKS is exploring cooktop technology that disappears completely into the countertop.

Implications:

• Cooking surfaces no longer interrupt architectural surfaces.
• Light-guided induction zones provide precision without visual clutter.
• Appliances transition from objects into embedded infrastructure.
• Product development includes multi-year concept validation cycles.

The Rise of the “Technicurean” Consumer

The Technicurean represents a growing demographic combining technological fluency with culinary passion.

Characteristics:

• Values precision cooking and performance.
• Expects seamless integration with digital ecosystems.
• Prioritizes experiential quality over feature quantity.
• Younger luxury consumers are accelerating this shift.

Purposeful AI: Technology That Anticipates Behavior

AI is being applied to solve practical problems rather than simply introduce novelty.

Examples:

• AI-powered refrigeration anticipates usage patterns and adjusts cooling.
• Oven cameras identify food and automatically adjust cooking parameters.
• Remote monitoring allows users to supervise cooking from anywhere.
• Automation reduces cognitive load and improves consistency.

Applicable Link:

• LG ThinQ

Precision and Performance as the Foundation of Luxury

SKS emphasizes engineering performance alongside design integration.

Examples:

• Induction ranges with 7,000-watt burners capable of boiling water in under a minute.
• Column refrigeration producing clear craft ice.
• Precision temperature management improves food preservation.
• Technology enhances outcomes, not just convenience.

Collaborative Design as a Product Development Strategy

Designers directly influence final product form and function.

Process includes:

• Design collective consultations.
• Specifier surveys and feedback loops.
• Prototype testing and iteration cycles.
• Cabinet alignment, integration, and architectural consistency driven by designer input.

Full Home Automation and the Appliance Ecosystem

Appliances are becoming integrated nodes within larger home ecosystems.

Capabilities include:

• Voice-controlled appliances.
• Integrated lighting, HVAC, and appliance automation.
• Recipe-driven automated cooking processes.
• Unified control across multiple home systems.

The Invisible Kitchen: How Quiet Luxury and Behavioral Technology Are Redefining Appliance Design

For decades, luxury appliances were designed to be seen. Professional-grade stainless steel, oversized handles, and bold visual presence signaled performance and status. But today, the most important innovation in the luxury kitchen may be its disappearance.

Signature Kitchen Suite is helping lead a shift toward what it calls quiet luxury—a design philosophy where performance is paramount, but visibility is optional. The goal is no longer to showcase the appliance itself, but to integrate it so seamlessly into the architectural environment that it becomes invisible.

This shift reflects a deeper evolution in how luxury is defined. True luxury is no longer about visual dominance. It’s about effortlessness.

Concepts like invisible induction cooktops illustrate this transformation. By placing induction elements beneath the countertop surface, cooking becomes fully integrated into the architecture. When inactive, the kitchen appears uninterrupted. When active, subtle lighting indicates where heat is applied. The appliance becomes infrastructure.

This philosophy extends beyond aesthetics into performance and intelligence.

Artificial intelligence is now being used to anticipate user behavior and improve outcomes. Refrigeration systems can monitor usage patterns and adjust cooling cycles to maintain temperature stability. Oven cameras can identify food and automatically adjust cooking settings. These technologies operate quietly, improving consistency without requiring intervention.

Importantly, this innovation is not happening in isolation.

Events like KBIS provide critical real-world validation. Designers, builders, and specifiers offer immediate feedback, allowing manufacturers to refine products before full release. This collaborative approach ensures that innovation aligns with how kitchens are actually designed and used.

It also reflects the emergence of a new consumer profile: the Technicurean.

This user values precision, connectivity, and design equally. They are comfortable with technology but expect it to serve a clear purpose. They prioritize performance and integration over novelty. For them, the kitchen is not simply a functional workspace—it is part of a larger lifestyle ecosystem.

This shift is also generational. Younger homeowners have grown up with connected technology and expect seamless integration across devices. Appliances must function as part of a unified system rather than standalone tools.

The ultimate goal is not to add complexity, but to remove friction.

Automation, behavioral learning, and architectural integration all contribute to this objective. Appliances anticipate needs, simplify processes, and reduce cognitive load. They enhance experience without demanding attention.

In this future, the most advanced appliances will not announce themselves.

They will disappear.

And in doing so, they will redefine luxury—not as something you see, but as something you feel.

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Innovation Under Pressure: Prefab, Modular, and the Future of Resilient Design Under Pressure. Architecture is evolving faster than ever, driven by natural disasters, technology, and client expectations—but how do designers balance innovation with risk, regulation, and lifestyle priorities? Josh Cooperman hosts an unfiltered conversation with Drew Davis, Brian Pinkett, Aaron Neubert, and Joseph Dangaran about prefabrication, modular construction, client programming, and the challenges of rebuilding communities in fire- and flood-prone regions. From the Palisades to Paris, they explore how architecture must adapt—or risk falling behind.

1. Introduction and Context

• Host introduction: Josh Cooperman, Convo By Design.
• Acknowledgements: Kim Gordon Designs (venue), Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home (sponsor and industry supporter).
• Why the discussion matters: natural disasters as a case study in architecture’s evolving role.
• Personal anecdote: Josh’s wildfire experience in 1983 highlighting the urgency of resilient design.

2. Guest Introductions

• Drew Davis, Partner, Kligerman Architecture & Design, NYC – Residential expertise nationwide.
• Brian Pinkett, Principal, Landry Design Group – High-end, global custom homes, with focus on innovation and sustainability.
• Aaron Neubert, Principal, Annex – Residential and hospitality projects in LA & Las Vegas.
• Joseph Dangaran, Founding Partner, Woods & Dangaran– West Coast single-family homes, high-end interiors.

3. Critical Thinking vs. Design Education

• Discussion of Brian Pinkett’s insight: architecture school teaches critical thinking, not design itself.
• How critical thinking shapes the conversation about innovation and client expectations.
• The influence of NIMBYism and cultural resistance on design risk-taking.

4. Client Literacy and Innovation

• How clients’ exposure to Instagram, travel, and boutique experiences shapes design expectations.
• Balancing aspirational ideas with practical constraints: budget, schedule, site conditions.
• Scenario-based design and programming as a tool to understand lifestyle priorities.

5. Prefabrication and Modular Construction

• Defining terms: prefabrication vs. modular, and their misconceptions in high-end architecture.
• Historical examples: Eiffel Tower (prefabricated in 1889), Wallace Neff bubble homes.
• Case studies: past Malibu prefab project, Arts District hotel project.
• Discussion of benefits (speed, quality, cost) and challenges (flexibility, client acceptance, perception).

6. Lifestyle vs. Shelter in Rebuilds

• How trauma and loss after disasters impact client priorities.
• The tension between rebuilding for necessity vs. recreating lifestyle and memory.
• Temporary housing solutions and lessons from disaster response (Shigeru Ban, Fresno pre-approved plans).

7. The Role of Regulation in Innovation

• Flood, fire, and safety regulations: both barriers and catalysts for creativity.
• Discussion of over-regulation and its impact on rebuilding efficiency, particularly in high-demand areas like Pacific Palisades.

8. The Future of Architectural Innovation

• Emerging materials, prefabrication, and modular design for high-end custom homes.
• How technology enables flexibility and quality at scale.
• The challenge of evolving architectural vernacular to reflect contemporary technology.
• The importance of balancing client desires, regulatory frameworks, and architectural creativity.

9. Closing Thoughts

• Necessity drives invention, but adaptation and education are key.
• Designers’ role in guiding clients through uncertainty and risk.
• Encouragement to rethink traditional paradigms: innovation in practice, materials, and process.

10. Callouts / Quotes for Social Media

• “Innovation isn’t about change for change’s sake—it’s about solving the problem you didn’t know existed.” – Brian Pinkett
• “Prefabrication isn’t a compromise. It’s a new way to design for speed, quality, and scale.” – Aaron Neubert
• “The goal isn’t just shelter. The goal is lifestyle.” – Joseph Dangaran

11. Links & References

• Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home: pacificsales.com
• Convo By Design: www.comvobydesign.com
• Kim Gordon Designs: kimgordondesigns.com
• Klingerman Architecture & Design: klingerman.com
• Landry Design Group: landrydesigngroup.com
• Anx: https://a-n-x.com/
• Woods & Dangaran: woodsanddangaran.com

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Calgary-based designer Stephanie Martin shares the story of launching her firm during the 2008 financial crisis, the gap between design education and reality, and why hand-crafted authenticity remains vital in the age of AI. She also takes us inside the Rideau Residence, a project blending modern aesthetics with sentimental family history.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Calgary Roots & Business Resilience

• Launching in a Recession: Stephanie discusses starting her firm in 2008 during the financial crisis, which heavily impacted Calgary’s oil and gas-driven economy. She attributes her early success to “door-to-door” marketing and building a reputation through exceptional service rather than just aesthetics.
• The “Cowboy Town” Reality: A look at Calgary’s diverse culture, strong job market, and affordable housing, countering its reputation as just a “cowboy town.”
• Service Over Style: Stephanie emphasizes that the core of her business is caring about the clients’ lives, a lesson she learned early on that differentiates her firm today.

The Evolution of Design Practice

• Education vs. Reality: A candid discussion on how design schools often focus on exaggerated creativity while overlooking practical skills like budgeting, timelines, and coordination.
• Post-Pandemic Expectations: Clients now prioritize emotional connections and functional spaces over mere aesthetics, seeking designs that actively enhance their well-being.
• Sustainability: The conversation touches on the necessity of sustainable building practices, including Stephanie’s experience with passive homes.

Technology & Authenticity

• The AI Debate: Stephanie and Josh discuss the rise of AI in design. While Stephanie is optimistic about AI for efficiency, she argues for maintaining “hand-crafted” creativity to ensure designs remain meaningful.
• Authentic Marketing: In an era of AI-generated content, Stephanie commits to keeping her social media presence true to her values by showcasing only authentic, human-created work.

Project Spotlight: The Rideau Residence

• Modern-Traditional Mix: A deep dive into the kitchen design which juxtaposes modern elements with sentimental details, specifically a brick backsplash sourced from the owner’s grandmother’s house.
• Space Transformation: How a formal dining room was reimagined into a dark, masculine office space that contrasts sharply with the rest of the light-filled home.

Links & Resources

• Stephanie Martin Interior Design
• Convo By Design

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How Behavior-Driven Design Is Defining the Future of the Home

KBIS Series 2026, findings and experiences from the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show, recorded live from the KBIS Podcast Studio presented by AJ Madison. This was the second year of this program and we built on last year’s show with even more experts in the industry sharing experience, findings and industry-leading insights.

KBIS Podcast Studio Resources:

KBIS

AJ Madison

NKBA

LUXE Interiors + Design

SubZero, Wolf & Cove

SKS | Signature Kitchen Suite

Hearth & Home Technologies

Kitchen365

Green Forrest Cabinetry

Midea

What happens when home innovation prioritizes real-world habits over flashy, unnecessary features? This conversation explores how a deep understanding of how people use their appliances every day leads to intentional solutions that fit every lifestyle.

Join Justin Reinke, Head of Product Marketing at Midea, and Ryan Shaffer, Sr. Technical Product Planning Engineer at Midea, to discuss how hundreds of hours of in-home observation drive breakthroughs in everything from acoustic comfort to specialized hygiene. By analyzing universal pain points—like the rise of sustainable drinkware and open-concept living—we examine the R&D required to make daily chores easier through practical, performance-driven design that works harder for the household.

For decades, appliance innovation followed a predictable formula: more features, more technology, more complexity. Digital displays replaced analog controls. Connectivity introduced remote operation. Artificial intelligence promised optimization. But somewhere along the way, innovation lost sight of its most important objective—serving the human being.

Today, that philosophy is changing.

At KBIS 2026, one of the most important conversations wasn’t about technology itself, but about behavior. Appliance manufacturers are increasingly recognizing that true innovation does not begin in engineering labs. It begins in homes—watching how people live.

This shift represents a fundamental evolution in product development. Instead of asking what technology can do, manufacturers are asking what people actually need.

Consider the refrigerator. It is opened dozens of times each day, often absentmindedly, during moments of distraction, urgency, or fatigue. Every movement—the height of a shelf, the accessibility of a drawer, the ease of filling a glass—shapes the user’s experience. These micro-interactions define whether an appliance feels intuitive or frustrating.

Similarly, dishwashers must now accommodate modern behavioral realities. Reusable bottles, travel tumblers, and complex accessories require flexibility that traditional rack designs never anticipated. Washing machines must operate quietly enough to coexist within open-plan homes, where appliance noise becomes part of the lived environment.

These are not technological problems. They are human problems.

The most forward-thinking manufacturers have embraced observation as their primary design tool. By studying real households, engineers and designers can identify friction points invisible in traditional research. The goal is not to add features, but to remove obstacles.

This approach also challenges the industry’s historical obsession with specifications. Feature lists do not guarantee usability. Connectivity does not guarantee convenience. Technology that requires explanation has already failed its most important test.

The future appliance must be intuitive.

It must integrate seamlessly into daily routines, supporting behavior rather than disrupting it. It must operate quietly, reliably, and predictably. It must reduce mental load, not increase it.

Perhaps most importantly, it must respect the reality that appliances are not aspirational objects. They are functional infrastructure. They exist to support life, not define it.

This shift toward behavior-driven design reflects a broader maturation of the appliance industry. Innovation is no longer measured by novelty, but by invisibility. The best appliances do their job so well that users never think about them at all.

In the end, the future of appliances will not be defined by how advanced they are.

It will be defined by how effortlessly they serve the people who depend on them every day.

Behavior as the Foundation of Innovation

• Product development begins with observing real-world habits.
• Behavioral insights reveal needs consumers rarely articulate.
• Design solutions prioritize intuitive use over technical novelty.

Practical Innovation vs Feature Saturation

• Most consumers use only a small percentage of available features.
• Simplification improves usability, adoption, and satisfaction.
• Innovation must solve real problems—not marketing problems.

Appliances as Infrastructure for Daily Life

• Refrigerators open dozens of times daily, making ergonomic design critical.
• Dishwashers, washers, and refrigeration now integrate into behavioral routines.
• Appliances increasingly support lifestyle efficiency, not just task completion.

Noise Reduction and Environmental Integration

• Open floor plans make acoustic performance essential.
• Quiet operation improves perceived quality and livability.
• Engineering focus has expanded beyond performance to experiential comfort.

Replacement Market Realities and Design Flexibility

• Most appliance purchases are replacements, not full remodels.
• Products must integrate visually and functionally with mixed-brand kitchens.
• Flexible, accessible design supports long-term usability.

Sustainability Through Longevity and Efficiency

• Sustainability now includes durability, waste reduction, and performance efficiency.
• Better storage and preservation reduce food waste.
• Long product lifecycles contribute to environmental responsibility.

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When interiors meet intention: a dynamic panel on how color theory, holistic living, sustainable materials, and design thinking come together to redefine residential spaces for 2025 and beyond.

Sherwin Williams set out to cover Earth with beautiful colors over 150 years ago. 1866, Henry Sherwin and Edward Williams founded the company in Cleveland, Ohio, on a mission really. And the result is a company dedicated to delivery of the best in paints, coatings and related products to discerning clients all over the world. That dedication was evident from the start with the hiring of Percy Neyman, the very first chemist employed by an American paint manufacturer. Sherwin Williams continues to set the bar high and provide the design community with the essential tools to create superior projects. Sherwin Williams is commitment to supporting the design community, which is why they sponsor programs, like this one. They are also dedicated to a betterment philosophical approach which is why they selected ‘wellness” as the topic for this talk.Thank you Sherwin Williams for your tireless support.

In this timely conversation, experts from across interior design and sustainable living explore what it means to design for wellness in 2025. Moderated by Sue Wadden and Ashlynn Bourque of Sherwin-Williams, the panel features voices from:

• Jeanne Chung (Cozy, Stylish, Chic) — known for crafting spaces that blend comfort, style, and emotional balance.
• Julee Ireland (Julee Ireland Design Studio) — bringing a refined, intentional aesthetic rooted in longevity and livable elegance.
• Greg Roth (CarbonShack) — spotlighting eco-conscious material sourcing, sustainable practices, and climate-aligned living environments.

Together they examine how interior design can be a catalyst for holistic living — from color palettes that promote calm and emotional balance, to spatial planning that supports aging in place, to circadian lighting and neurodiversity-friendly layouts. The discussion underscores a rising trend: residential interiors inspired by hospitality, wellness, and sustainability principles.

Listeners will come away with fresh ideas on turning their homes into future-proof sanctuaries — design-forward, earth-conscious, and emotionally attuned.

• Health span-focused design: Designing spaces that help residents live longer, healthier lives at home.
• Aging in place: Home layouts that accommodate long-term functionality and wellness.
• Home gyms, saunas, cold plunges: Integrating spa-level wellness amenities in private residences.
• Dual kitchens: Inspired by Italian family homes for multigenerational living.
• Collaboration with architects: Designers as integral contributors to maximize natural light and spatial flow.
• VR visualization: Helping clients experience proportion, scale, and sightlines before construction.
• Problem-solving as designers: Addressing unforeseen construction issues creatively while maintaining aesthetics.
• Circadian lighting: Lighting systems (e.g., Lutron Ketra) that mimic natural light patterns to support sleep and productivity.
• Plant-based fabrics (hemp, bamboo, kelp): Sustainable, high-performance materials.
• Evidence-based color design: Physiological effects of color on multigenerational inhabitants.
• Neurodiverse design considerations: Minimizing overstimulation in homes for ADHD, dementia, or sensory sensitivity.
• Hospitality influence on residential design: Bringing experiences from wellness hotels into private homes.
• Storytelling & provenance: Educating clients about material sourcing and sustainable practices.
• Sustainability education: Visiting factories, quarries, and trade shows to understand materials and processes.

Relevant Web Links

• Lutron Ketra Lighting: https://www.lutron.com/en-US/Products/Pages/WholeHome/ketra/overview.aspx
• Round Top Market (antiques & sustainability): https://roundtoptexasantiques.com
• Hemp & sustainable fabrics: https://www.hemp-trade.com

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I have a confession to make. I’m exhausted. In the best possible way after a week in Orlando, Florida for the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show. I have so much to share with you today!

My journey started on the Monday before the show began for a travel day, sound check and confirming the final details form the show. In addition to hosting the KBIS Podcast Studio again this year, moderating a panel on the NEXT Stage and recording conversations for the show, I wanted to help you prepare for the show next February in Las Vegas.

But Josh, next February is like 11 months away. That’s true, but here’s a secret. Come a little closer, it’s just us. KBIS is the essential American kitchen and bath show, full stop. It’s about learning, seeing, connecting and putting all of the pieces together to understand how the American market is setting up for the next year and the trending ideas that have staying power for the next 5-10 years.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

You can listen to Convo By Design for the conversations with industry insiders. If I were a designer, I would. I believe that this show tells the stories that you should really know to get a feel for directionality of the industry. Specifiers are the plus of the industry and the ideas emanating from the show this year covered the technology revolution taking place from an AI perspective, but there’s more. The kitchen is in the midst of a wholesale change. And it’s exciting to see it happen in real time.

Learning was a key theme this year. If you were not at the show this year, you are behind the curve. I don’t say this to scare you, I tell you this so you make the time to get to the show next year. All three days and plan to see as much as you can. But, I wanted to share some of the key ideas from the show this year. For additional details, check the show notes.

Luxury is the measurable outcome of thoughtful design—where performance, longevity, and relevance align to support the way people actually live.

• Luxury is the removal of friction from daily life.
• Luxury is durability aligned with intent.
• Luxury is design that continues to perform long after the purchase is forgotten.
• Luxury is confidence—in function, longevity, and fit.
• Luxury is not what you spend. It’s what you never have to rethink.

The Kitchen as the Primary Investment

• The kitchen remains the #1 homeowner investment nationwide.
• Homeowners are willing to exceed budget in the kitchen more than any other space.
• The kitchen is the most public and social room in the home.
• It represents identity: “I’m a cook,” “I entertain,” “I host.”
• Food equals memory; appliances enable those memories.

The Expanding Kitchen Ecosystem

• Kitchens are no longer singular spaces—they expand throughout the home.
• Secondary kitchens (sculleries, prep kitchens, butler’s pantries) are rising.
• Beverage centers, bars, and wine storage are increasingly common.
• Coffee stations and en-suite kitchenettes are viewed as lifestyle enhancements.
• Outdoor kitchens are now expected in many markets.
• Refrigeration appears in bathrooms (skincare), offices, and guest suites.
• Multigenerational living drives multi-kitchen design.
• Post-COVID entertaining shifted bar culture into the home.

Value Has Replaced Price as the Primary Decision Driver

• Consumers rarely regret investing more in appliances.
• Longevity, performance, and service support define value.
• Sustainability increasingly aligns with durability.

Human-Centric Design Is the New Standard

• Appliances must be intuitive without relying on manuals.
• UX consistency across appliances improves adoption.
• Technology must solve real problems—not create new friction.

Appliances Are Expanding Beyond the Kitchen

• Refrigeration, coffee systems, and specialty appliances now appear throughout the home.
• Multi-kitchen and multi-generational design is driving specification complexity.
• Flexibility and modular integration are essential.

Practical Innovation vs Feature Saturation

• Most consumers use only a small percentage of available features.
• Simplification improves usability, adoption, and satisfaction.
• Innovation must solve real problems—not marketing problems.

Appliances as Infrastructure for Daily Life

• Refrigerators open dozens of times daily, making ergonomic design critical.
• Dishwashers, washers, and refrigeration now integrate into behavioral routines.
• Appliances increasingly support lifestyle efficiency, not just task completion.

Quiet Luxury: The New Definition of Premium

Quiet luxury shifts focus from visual dominance to experiential excellence.

• Appliances integrate seamlessly into architecture.
• Minimal visual disruption supports design continuity.
• Performance becomes more important than appearance.

Identity & Evolution in Design

1. • Designers must periodically redefine themselves and their work to remain relevant.
   • Personal growth and evolving priorities shape professional identity and approach.

Burnout vs Ambition

1. • Burnout is not a badge of honor; it results from overextension and emotional labor.
   • Ambition aligns energy with superpowers and opportunities, creating sustainable growth.
   • Setting boundaries is essential to differentiate productive ambition from harmful overwork.

Emotional Labor & Client Management

1. • Design work involves managing client emotions, expectations, and second-guessing.
   • Designers act as liaisons between clients, contractors, and teams, absorbing invisible pressures.
   • Managing scope creep and change orders is a practical strategy to protect both energy and profitability.

Social Media & Comparison Culture

1. • Social media can amplify unrealistic expectations and unhealthy competition.
   • Designers often feel compelled to accommodate clients’ desires, sometimes overextending themselves to maintain a positive perception.

These core themes coming out of the show this year tell a story that cannot be ignored. The thought process is changing. More human-centric at a time when technology seems to be taking over. Interesting times.

Shifting away from that, I want to share two conversations from the show.

Brandon Kirschner | Azzuro Living – Control the Process, Control the Outcome: Inside Azzurro Living’s Design Advantage

Brandon Kirshner of Azzurro Living explains how factory ownership, material innovation, and hands-on experimentation are redefining luxury outdoor furniture—and why relationships and resilience matter more than ever.

Recorded live at the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show in Orlando, this conversation with Brandon Kirshner, Partner and VP of Design at Azzurro Living, explores what it means to design, manufacture, and deliver luxury outdoor furniture with complete control over the process.

Kirshner shares how owning and operating their own production facility provides a rare advantage in a crowded marketplace. This vertical integration allows Azzurro Living to oversee every step—from raw material sourcing to fabrication—ensuring performance, durability, and design integrity in extreme climates.

The conversation also explores the realities of modern product manufacturing: navigating global instability, breaking through to specifiers in an oversaturated marketplace, and the renewed importance of in-person relationships. At its core, this is a story about design leadership, material obsession, and maintaining optimism in a rapidly shifting industry.

Vertical Integration Changes Everything

• Full ownership of production facility ensures quality control
• Ability to experiment directly with materials and fabrication
• Eliminates reliance on third-party manufacturing limitations

Material Innovation Drives Luxury Performance

• Products engineered for extreme heat and harsh winters
• Hands-on experimentation with rope, wicker, and aluminum
• Performance and longevity are core to brand value

Design as the Core Differentiator

• Industrial design roots shape product philosophy
• Focus on original forms rather than “me-too” furniture
• Design enhances lifestyle, not just aesthetics

Relationships Still Drive Specification

• Trade shows like High Point Market remain essential
• Face-to-face interaction builds trust and long-term partnerships
• Education through sales teams and specifier outreach is critical

Resilience and Optimism in a Volatile Industry

• Navigating tariffs, supply chains, and global uncertainty
• Maintaining a solution-oriented mindset
• Viewing disruption as part of long-term growth

In luxury outdoor furniture, control isn’t just an operational advantage—it’s a creative one.

For Brandon Kirshner, Partner and VP of Design at Azzurro Living, ownership of the manufacturing process is the foundation of everything the company does. Unlike many competitors who rely on outsourced production, Azzurro Living operates its own factory, giving Kirshner and his team direct oversight of every detail, from raw materials to finished form.

This control allows for something rare in today’s manufacturing environment: true experimentation. Working directly with fabricators, Kirshner explores new weaving techniques, tests material durability, and refines structural details. The result is furniture engineered not just to look refined, but to perform in punishing environments—from desert heat exceeding 115 degrees to unpredictable seasonal extremes.

Kirshner’s path into furniture design began with industrial design studies, where exposure to iconic modernist designers revealed furniture as both functional object and artistic expression. That perspective continues to shape his work today, where innovation isn’t driven by trend cycles, but by material curiosity and structural integrity.

Launching Azzurro Living in 2020 presented immediate challenges, from supply chain disruption to economic uncertainty. Yet Kirshner views volatility as inevitable rather than exceptional. Experience has taught him that adaptability—not stability—is the constant in product manufacturing.

Equally important is maintaining strong relationships within the design community. Trade shows, in-person meetings, and direct engagement remain essential tools for connecting with specifiers and building trust.

In an increasingly crowded marketplace, Azzurro Living’s approach is clear: control the process, push material boundaries, and let design lead. The result is furniture that reflects not just luxury, but intention.

“Owning our factory gives us complete control—from raw material to finished product—and that changes everything.”

“Design is the reason people invest in luxury furniture. Performance just makes it last.”

“You can’t innovate from a distance. Being hands-on with materials is where real progress happens.”

“Trade shows and face-to-face interaction still matter because this industry runs on relationships.”

“No matter what challenges come—tariffs, supply chain, geopolitics—we’ll figure it out. That mindset is essential.”

This is Cathy Purple Cherry – Founding Principal | Purple Cherry, freshly installed in the Convo By Design Icon Registry, we caught up at KBIS for a fresh take.

Human-Centered Architecture, Resilience, and the Responsibility of Design

Cathy Purple Cherry reflects on architecture as a lifelong act of care—supporting people through turbulence, embracing multigenerational living, rejecting trend culture, and using design as a tool for healing, connection, and growth.

Recorded live at the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show, this conversation with Cathy Purple Cherry of Purple Cherry Architects explores architecture not as a moment of visual impact, but as a lifelong framework for human support.

Purple Cherry shares her philosophy that architecture must evolve alongside the people it serves, especially during times of societal turbulence and personal change. Her work is grounded in human-centered thinking, emotional durability, and the belief that design can create stability amid chaos.

The discussion moves beyond aesthetics into deeper territory—resilience shaped by hardship, the responsibility of creatives to provide clarity and options, and the importance of giving back. Purple Cherry also addresses the rise of multigenerational living, generational shifts in work culture, and the dangers of trend-driven design thinking.

At its core, this conversation reveals architecture as both a professional discipline and a personal calling—one rooted in empathy, long-term thinking, and service.

Architecture as Long-Term Support, Not Momentary Expression

• Design must serve people across decades, not just visual moments
• Architecture provides emotional stability during uncertain times
• Human-centered design is becoming essential, not optional

Growth Through Challenge and Adversity

• Personal and professional hardship builds resilience
• Lessons learned shape better architects and stronger leaders
• Teaching and mentoring are essential responsibilities

Multigenerational Living as a Cultural Shift

• Economic and social changes are reshaping American housing
• Families are staying connected longer
• Architecture must adapt to evolving family dynamics

The Responsibility of Creatives in Times of Tension

• Architects provide clarity and solutions amid chaos
• Design can serve as a “relief valve” for societal stress
• Creatives help people reimagine how they live

Rejecting Trend Culture in Favor of Lasting Design

• Trend cycles are often superficial and misleading
• True architecture transcends short-term aesthetic movements
• Enduring design comes from purpose, not prediction

Giving Back as a Core Professional and Personal Value

• Sharing knowledge strengthens the profession
• Service to others creates deeper meaning in creative work
• Design is both a gift and a responsibility

For Cathy Purple Cherry, architecture has never been about creating a moment. It’s about supporting a lifetime.

As founder of Purple Cherry Architects, with offices in Annapolis, Charlottesville, and New York City, Purple Cherry has built a practice grounded in the belief that design must evolve alongside the people it serves. Architecture, she explains, is not about solving for a single moment, but about creating environments that support human life over time.

That perspective feels especially relevant today. As social, economic, and cultural turbulence reshapes how people live and work, architecture has taken on a new role—not just as shelter, but as emotional infrastructure. Spaces must provide calm, clarity, and flexibility, particularly as multigenerational living becomes more common and families remain connected longer under one roof.

Purple Cherry rejects the idea that architecture should chase trends. While the industry often focuses on forecasting aesthetic movements, she believes true design transcends these cycles. Lasting architecture emerges from purpose, empathy, and a deep understanding of human behavior.

Her perspective is shaped not only by decades of professional experience, but by personal adversity. Hardship, she explains, builds resilience and strengthens one’s ability to serve others. That philosophy extends into her commitment to mentorship, service, and giving back—values she sees as inseparable from meaningful creative work.

For Purple Cherry, architecture is both discipline and calling. It is a lifelong process of learning, teaching, and refining. And in a world defined by rapid change, her message is clear: the most important role of design is not to impress, but to support the people who live within it.

“Architecture isn’t about solving for a moment. It’s about supporting people over time.”

“Through suffering, we become stronger—and that’s what allows us to better serve others.”

“Anything in the built environment that can calm us and organize our lives becomes essential.”

“Design should never be driven by trends. It should be driven by purpose and people.”

“The meaning of life is discovering your gifts. The purpose of life is sharing them.”

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The New Appliance Ecosystem: Translating Value, Technology, and Human-Centric Design

The modern appliance conversation has shifted beyond features and price into something far more consequential: value, usability, and human-centered design.

Designers, manufacturers, showrooms, and independent testing labs now operate as an interconnected ecosystem guiding consumers through increasingly complex decisions. The future of appliance specification belongs to those who can translate technology into meaningful, intuitive, lifestyle-driven solutions.

Featuring insights from Nicole Papantoniou of the Good Housekeeping Institute, Jeff Sweet of Sub-Zero Group Inc., and Christa Mallinger of AJ Madison, this conversation explores how appliances have evolved from commodities into lifestyle infrastructure—and why education, not persuasion, defines the next era.

KBIS Podcast Studio Resources:

KBIS

AJ Madison

NKBA

LUXE Interiors + Design

SubZero, Wolf & Cove

SKS | Signature Kitchen Suite

Hearth & Home Technologies

Kitchen365

Green Forrest Cabinetry

Midea

The appliance industry has entered a human-centric phase, where performance, intuitive use, and real lifestyle benefit outweigh raw features or price alone. Designers act as translators of lifestyle, manufacturers as problem-solvers, and showrooms as educators—collectively helping consumers navigate increasingly sophisticated choices.

Panelists discussed the shift from feature-driven sales toward performance-driven value, emphasizing longevity, ease of use, and frictionless integration into daily life. They also explored the growing role of education, testing standards, showroom partnerships, and post-installation support in helping consumers fully realize the value of their investment.

Technology remains central, but its success depends entirely on reducing friction—not adding novelty. The conversation revealed that the future of appliances lies not in more technology, but in better technology—technology that disappears into the experience.

The Appliance Ecosystem Is Interdependent

• Designers interpret lifestyle and aesthetic needs.
• Manufacturers engineer performance-driven solutions.
• Showrooms educate and guide decision-making.
• Independent testing organizations validate performance and usability.

Value Has Replaced Price as the Primary Decision Driver

• Consumers rarely regret investing more in appliances.
• Longevity, performance, and service support define value.
• Sustainability increasingly aligns with durability.

Human-Centric Design Is the New Standard

• Appliances must be intuitive without relying on manuals.
• UX consistency across appliances improves adoption.
• Technology must solve real problems—not create new friction.

Education Is More Important Than Selling

• Many consumers buy appliances only once every 10–15 years.
• Showrooms and testing labs bridge the knowledge gap.
• Post-installation education helps unlock full product potential.

Appliances Are Expanding Beyond the Kitchen

• Refrigeration, coffee systems, and specialty appliances now appear throughout the home.
• Multi-kitchen and multi-generational design is driving specification complexity.
• Flexibility and modular integration are essential.

Technology Adoption Depends on Familiarity and Trust

• Induction adoption accelerates when paired with familiar controls.
• Consumers embrace technology that feels intuitive and beneficial.
• Novelty alone does not guarantee long-term value.

The modern appliance is no longer just a tool. It’s infrastructure.

At KBIS, where the industry gathers annually to define its future, a clear shift has emerged. Appliances are no longer judged solely by features or price, but by how effectively they integrate into human behavior. The question is no longer, “What does it do?” but rather, “What does it enable?”

This shift has elevated the importance of collaboration across the appliance ecosystem. Designers serve as translators, interpreting the client’s lifestyle into functional requirements. Manufacturers act as problem-solvers, engineering solutions grounded in real user needs. Showrooms and retailers bridge the gap between technology and understanding, while independent testing organizations validate claims and ensure products deliver on their promises.

This ecosystem exists because appliance decisions have become more consequential—and more complex.

Unlike consumer electronics, appliances are purchased infrequently. A homeowner may go fifteen years between purchases. During that time, the category evolves dramatically. Induction replaces gas. Steam ovens expand culinary capability. Refrigeration becomes modular, flexible, and architectural. Appliances no longer exist solely in kitchens, but in offices, bedrooms, outdoor spaces, and wellness areas.

With that expansion comes responsibility. Technology must reduce friction, not create it.

Christa, Nicole and Jeff all emphasized that human-centric design now drives product development. Appliances must be intuitive enough to operate without instruction, consistent enough to feel familiar, and purposeful enough to justify their presence. Technology for its own sake has limited value. Technology that removes mental load, improves performance, or enhances daily living defines the future.

This is where education becomes critical.

Showrooms no longer simply display products; they contextualize them. Independent testing organizations evaluate not only performance, but usability, cleanability, and intuitive function. Manufacturers increasingly provide post-installation support, recognizing that the real product experience begins after installation, not at purchase.

Value, therefore, is no longer measured in features alone.

It is measured in longevity. In reliability. In the confidence that a product will perform consistently over time. In the reduction of friction between intention and outcome.

Perhaps most importantly, appliances have become emotional infrastructure. They support gathering, creativity, ritual, and identity. They enable the modern kitchen to function not just as a place of preparation, but as a center of living.

The future of appliances will not be defined by how advanced they are.

It will be defined by how invisible they become—seamlessly enabling life without demanding attention.

And those who understand that distinction—designers, manufacturers, and educators alike—will define the next generation of the built environment.

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The Accidental Empire: Marmol Radziner on Preservation, Prefab, and Fighting the Tyranny of the Nimby. Leo Marmol and Ron Radziner discuss the 36-year evolution of their design-build firm, tracing its roots in a student co-op to becoming a leader in modern residential architecture, restoration, and the urgent need for sustainable urban density in Los Angeles.

The conversation features Leo Marmol and Ron Radziner, co-founders of Marmol Radziner, detailing the firm’s history, their design philosophy, and their views on the current state of preservation and sustainability in LA.

• Origin Story and The Return to Modernism:
  • The co-founders met as students at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, living in “The Ark,” a condemned co-op. This environment of free rein to alter the building foreshadowed their later design-build approach.
  • They founded their firm in 1989 during the “dying days of postmodernism,” quickly committing to the modernist ideal of clarity, reduction, and the connection between design and craft (Bauhaus).
  • They attribute the firm’s early success to aligning with the eventual return to California modernism, driven by its rich history in the region.
• Milestone Projects and Preservation:
  • The first major flag-planting project was the Gutentag Studio (a small, pure concrete block and cedar studio), followed by the new Ward Residence.
  • Their watershed moment in preservation was the Kaufmann House restoration (1993) in Palm Springs. At the time, there was virtually no industry for modern restoration, forcing the firm to develop the roadmap for approaching these aging buildings.
  • They view restorations as “classrooms” that inform their new work, maintaining a healthy split of one-third restoration and two-thirds new construction.
• Preservation Today: The Fetish vs. Functionality:
  • Marmol and Radziner argue they are often at odds with the preservation community because they believe historic properties must evolve to remain functional and relevant, cautioning against a “fetish” that prevents necessary change.
  • They criticize the current situation where every modern building is deemed “sacred,” citing the contentious, successful fight to demolish the Barry Building on San Vicente as an example of overreach where the building’s significance did not rise to the level requiring preservation.
• The Problem of Scale (“McModerns”) and Efficiency:
  • They express concern over the proliferation of “McModerns” and elephantine houses, driven by high property values and the pressure to “max out the buildable area” on a site.
  • They emphasize that their modern perspective is less about style and more about the fundamental importance of connection—internal open plans and connecting the home to the landscape and exterior rhythm of nature (a concept that is lost when properties are overbuilt).
• Sustainability and the Nimby Problem:
  • While California leads the country in robust, fire-resilient, and energy-efficient building codes (which have been a success), they gave the state’s housing policy an “F.”
  • Leo Marmol asserted that the greenest thing the city can do is densify and allow more housing in the urban core, calling out the NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) mentality as the primary political failure that forces sprawl and long commutes.
• The Return to Prefabrication (Prefab 2.0):
  • Marmol Radziner initially experimented with prefab from 2004–2012 but stopped after the 2008 crash.
  • They are now returning to prefabrication—Prefab 2.0—as a response to the current “crisis of construction costs” and the need for quick, affordable, and sustainable housing solutions, particularly for fire rebuilds in Altadena and the Palisades.
• Design-Build Practice Scale:
  • The firm combines Architecture, Construction Services (design-build), Landscape Architecture, and Interior Design under one roof.
  • They support their construction services with their own dedicated cabinet shop and metal shop in El Segundo, allowing for control over craft and execution.
• Fire Resilience and Landscape:
  • The fires are affecting landscape rules, particularly regarding Zone Zero (the 0–5 feet immediately surrounding the building). They argue against the extreme position of “no planting” in Zone Zero, believing the right, well-irrigated planting can help against embers, which they identify as the biggest culprit in mass fires, more so than direct flame.
  • Home hardening (sealing every vulnerability) is considered the single most important factor, with modern energy codes being an accidental but highly effective form of fire hardening.

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This week on the show, you’re going to ride along with me from the incredibly comfortable and stylish VW ID.Buzz, which served as the mobile podcast studio at CEDIA Expo / CIX this September in Denver, Colorado. Were going back for more conversations from the show.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

CEDIA (Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association) is the global trade association for home technology professionals, specializing in smart home, automation, audio-visual, networking, and integrated systems. Its mission is to advance the home technology industry through education, certification, advocacy, and networking. Members include integrators, designers, manufacturers, and consultants who shape the connected environments we live and work in.

CEDIA Expo is the industry’s largest annual event for residential technology professionals. With hundreds of exhibitors, educational sessions, live demos, and global networking opportunities, it’s where new ideas and innovations in smart home and AV integration take center stage.

The Commercial Integrator Expo (CIX), co-located with CEDIA Expo, focuses on commercial integration technologies—from conferencing and IT infrastructure to building automation and emerging AV solutions—bringing together commercial integrators, IT pros, designers, and tech managers.

Jason McGraw | Group VP and Show Director, CEDIA Expo / CIX

• Scope of the Show: McGraw details the scale of CEDIA Expo 2025, featuring over 350 exhibitors and immersive demo rooms that showcase integrated audio, video, and control systems.
• Integration Meets Design: Discussion centers on the critical partnership between integrators and the design-build community (interior designers, architects, builders). McGraw emphasizes that technology—ranging from AI and energy management to lighting—must be a foundational element of the design process, not an afterthought.
• The Business Case: Designers are encouraged to view integrators as essential trade partners, similar to electricians or plumbers, to better service clients and protect home networks.

Dale Sandberg | Product Manager for Electronics, Sonance

• Aesthetic Performance: Sandberg discusses Sonance’s philosophy that sound should support the design of a space rather than dominate it. The focus is on blending high-fidelity performance with discreet aesthetics.
• New Innovations: Highlights include the compact UA Series amplifiers designed to fit behind displays or in tight spaces, and the integration of professional-grade Blaze Audio amplifiers into the Sonance family.
• Outdoor Living: The conversation covers the growing trend of outdoor entertainment, where amplifiers and speakers are used to create immersive environments in backyards and outdoor kitchens.

Jim Garrett | Senior Director of Product Strategy, Harman Luxury Audio Group

• Hidden Technology: Garrett addresses the challenge of eliminating “wall acne” through invisible speakers and design-integrated solutions that do not compromise acoustic performance.
• Pandemic Influence: The discussion explores how the pandemic shifted focus toward outdoor living and unconventional entertainment spaces, including garages and multi-generational gaming setups.
• Brand Portfolio: Insights into the product strategies for Harman’s luxury brands—JBL, Revel, Mark Levinson, and JBL Synthesis—and the importance of gathering direct feedback from integrators to drive R&D.

Links & Resources

• CEDIA Expo
• Commercial Integrator Expo
• NKBA – National Kitchen & Bath Association
• KBIS – Kitchen & Bath Industry Show

Show Topics & Outline

• CEDIA Expo 2025 Snapshot
  • Denver, Colorado Convention Center
  • 350+ exhibiting brands, 100+ conference sessions, 115 manufacturer trainings
  • Demo rooms showcasing integrated audio, video, and control systems
• The Wave Effect of Trade Shows
  • Innovation as unseen currents shaping the industry
  • Ideas incubated at CEDIA spreading across markets and returning as trends
• Integration Meets Design
  • Town hall insights with CEDIA’s Daryl Friedman & NKBA’s Bill Darcy
  • Bridging integrators with interior designers, kitchen & bath professionals, and architects
  • Untapped opportunities in collaborative smart home projects
• Technology as a Design Driver
  • AI, energy management, lighting trends, and seamless AV systems
  • Why technology must be discussed at the start of design projects
  • Case studies: motorized shades, outdoor AV, invisible speakers, custom veneers
• Outdoor Living & Luxury Spaces
  • Kitchens and backyards as multi-hundred-thousand-dollar investments
  • Expanding living spaces through technology
  • Luxury demo rooms and high-performance home theaters
• Why Designers Should Be Here
  • Missing out on competitive advantages without CEDIA exposure
  • Seeing products in person vs. static web images
  • Real examples of design-centric AV solutions and invisible tech
• The Business Case
  • Designers need integrators just as they need electricians, plumbers, and fabricators
  • Protecting networks and ensuring cybersecurity in the home
  • Service and maintenance as part of the client experience
• Looking Forward
  • Progress and serendipity at trade shows
  • Extending collaboration with KBIS and IBS (Orlando, 2026)
  • Building lasting bridges between integrators and designers

Links & Resources

• CEDIA Expo
• Commercial Integrator Expo
• NKBA – National Kitchen & Bath Association
• KBIS – Kitchen & Bath Industry Show

Dale Sandberg on Sonance, New Electronics, and Designing for Sonic + Aesthetic Experience

Dale Sandberg, new Product Manager for Electronics at Sonance, shares how the company is blending high-fidelity performance with discreet design solutions, introducing amplifiers and loudspeakers that elevate both sonic and aesthetic experiences in residential and commercial spaces.

At his first CEDIA Expo, Dale highlights Sonance’s latest innovations, from compact UA Series amplifiers designed to disappear behind displays to Blaze Audio’s professional-grade amplifiers now integrated into the Sonance family. With a philosophy that sound should enhance the design of a space rather than dominate it, Sonance is shaping how integrators and designers deliver immersive, comfortable experiences both indoors and out.

• Guest: Dale Sandberg, Product Manager for Electronics, Sonance.
• Background: from pro audio to Sonance, less than one year with the company.
• Context: first CEDIA Expo experience, excitement about Sonance’s direction.

New Product Highlights

• Loudspeakers
  • High Output Series (professional side).
  • Wedge speaker for outdoor/architectural blending.
  • Re-engineered Power Pipe subwoofers for stronger low-end performance.
• UA Series Amplifiers
  • Compact two-channel models (UA-125, ARC-enabled versions).
  • Mountable behind TVs, under tables, or in tight spaces.
  • Features T-slots for stacking/mounting other gear.
  • Energy-efficient design with minimal heat output.
• Blaze Audio Amplifiers
  • Sonance acquisition of Blaze Audio brand (Pascal, Denmark).
  • Range from 60W per channel up to 400W bridged.
  • Full DSP capability, rack-mountable, UL-rated.
  • Outdoor applications via weather-rated cases.

Design & Integration Perspective

• Compact electronics give designers freedom to hide gear while maintaining performance.
• Balancing performance and aesthetics: sound follows the design, not the other way around.
• Example: background music at parties that fills space without overwhelming conversation.
• Outdoor living trend: amplifiers and speakers enabling outdoor kitchens, theaters, and entertainment spaces.

Company Ethos & Philosophy

• Mission: deliver complete audio solutions—amplification, processing, and speakers.
• Philosophy: the sonic experience should support the aesthetic experience of a home or space.
• Growth vision: expand residential dominance while building commercial presence.
• Takeaway: not just about volume—it’s about creating the right experience.

Jim Garrett | Harman Luxury Audio

Jim Garrett on Harman’s Audio Innovations, Hidden Tech, and Pandemic-Inspired Entertainment

Jim Garrett, Senior Director of Product Strategy and Planning at Harman Luxury Audio Group, shares how the company balances high-performance audio with design aesthetics, explores emerging opportunities in outdoor and unconventional home entertainment, and highlights why integrator feedback is vital to shaping future products.

From invisible speakers to immersive home cinema solutions, Jim Garrett takes listeners behind the scenes of Harman’s engineering and R&D process, discussing product development for brands like JBL, Revel, Synthesis, and Mark Levinson. He explains how the pandemic inspired new entertainment spaces, how technology can be seamlessly integrated into interiors, and why CEDIA Expo remains an essential hub for innovation, collaboration, and awareness in the custom electronics industry.

• Guest: Jim Garrett, Senior Director of Product Strategy & Planning, Harman Luxury Audio Group.
• Role: Oversees product roadmap, development direction, and exhibition strategy.
• Context: Recorded in Volkswagen ID.Buzz at CEDIA Expo 2025.

CEDIA Expo 2025 Overview

• Largest booth shared with parent company Samsung.
• Opportunity to engage integrators directly and gather actionable feedback.
• Importance of listening to installation professionals to improve products.

Product Strategy and Brand Focus

• Harman Luxury Audio Group brands: JBL, JBL Synthesis, Revel, Mark Levinson.
• Focus at Expo: JBL Synthesis for home cinema and immersive audio.
• Solutions include invisible speakers, wall/ceiling installations, and custom home audio products.

Balancing Performance and Aesthetics

• Challenge: high-performance products that are visually unobtrusive.
• Goal: eliminate “wall acne” with invisible or design-integrated speakers.
• Inspiration drawn from evolution in lighting design to minimize visual clutter.

Engineering and R&D

• Harman’s science-based approach: performance must meet visual and acoustic demands.
• Innovation includes weatherproof outdoor speakers and displays for bright sunlight.
• Teams challenged to create high-fidelity systems that integrate seamlessly into homes.

Expanding Entertainment Spaces

• Pandemic influence: growth of outdoor living and unconventional entertainment areas.
• Multi-generational engagement: home theaters, garages, patios, bathrooms, and gaming setups.
• Flexibility of audio/video systems allows new experiences across the home.

Integration and Awareness

• Educating interior designers, architects, and end users about hidden tech.
• Raising awareness of capabilities beyond audio: lighting, shades, HVAC, security integration.
• Emphasis on simplifying life at home while elevating performance and experience.

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Luxury can be expensive, but it can also be subtle, practical, or deeply personal. Sometimes it’s about choice, sometimes restraint, sometimes the way a space or product simply works better for you. Through thoughtful discussion, the episode examines how luxury shows up in appliances and design—through performance, comfort, longevity, and everyday ease—and why it resonates differently for everyone over time

This nuanced conversation explores the evolving meaning of luxury through multiple industry perspectives, featuring Devoree Axelrod, General Manager at AJ Madison, alongside industry expert Jill Cohen, Editor-in-Chief, Luxe Interiors + Design.

KBIS Podcast Studio Resources:

KBIS

AJ Madison

NKBA

LUXE Interiors + Design

SubZero, Wolf & Cove

SKS | Signature Kitchen Suite

Hearth & Home Technologies

Kitchen365

Green Forrest Cabinetry

Midea

Luxury Isn’t a Price Point. It’s a Performance Standard.

At the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show 2026, leaders from AJ Madison and Luxe Interiors + Design reframing luxury as durability, intentionality, and the ability of design to support how people actually live.

The word “luxury” has become one of the most overused—and least defined—terms in the design industry. At KBIS 2026, a live conversation featuring Devoree Axelrod, General Manager of AJ Madison, and Jill Cohen, Editor in Chief of Luxe Interiors + Design, set out to recalibrate its meaning. What emerged was less about price and more about performance, longevity, and intent.

For decades, luxury was shorthand for premium brands, higher costs, and visual distinction. Today, that definition is insufficient. The modern homeowner isn’t simply buying a product; they’re investing in how their home supports their routines, relationships, and future. Luxury, in this context, becomes the elimination of friction. It’s the appliance that performs reliably every day. It’s the kitchen designed around how a family actually cooks and gathers. It’s the confidence that decisions made today will still make sense twenty years from now.

Cohen shared findings from Luxe’s upcoming national survey of 1,000 leading architects, designers, and builders, confirming that the kitchen remains the single most important area of homeowner investment. More significantly, appliances are often the first and most consequential decisions made in the design process. They establish the spatial, technical, and functional framework around which everything else follows.

Axelrod reinforced this from her vantage point inside one of the country’s largest appliance retailers. Appliance selection determines infrastructure—electrical loads, ventilation, plumbing, and spatial relationships—making it foundational rather than decorative. When clients prioritize performance and usability first, the rest of the design aligns more effectively, both functionally and financially.

The conversation also addressed the persistent myth of the fixed budget. In reality, budgets are fluid, shaped as much by emotion as by arithmetic. Homeowners may begin with a number in mind, but that number evolves as priorities clarify. The role of the designer and appliance advisor becomes essential: helping clients distinguish between what serves their lives and what merely satisfies aspiration.

This shift is evident in how kitchens are expanding beyond their traditional boundaries. Secondary prep kitchens, beverage stations, outdoor kitchens, coffee bars, and integrated refrigeration throughout the home reflect a broader redefinition of convenience. These are not excesses for their own sake; they are extensions of daily life, driven by multigenerational living, remote work, and a deeper integration between hospitality and residential design.

Perhaps most telling was the reframing of luxury itself. Neither Axelrod nor Cohen defined it by brand name. Instead, luxury was described as ease, time, and permanence. It is waking up and having what you need within reach. It is durability that eliminates the need for replacement. It is thoughtful planning that prevents regret.

In this light, luxury is not what something costs. It is what something enables.

And increasingly, what it enables is a home that works—quietly, reliably, and seamlessly—in service of the people who live there.

Luxury is the measurable outcome of thoughtful design—where performance, longevity, and relevance align to support the way people actually live.

• Luxury is the removal of friction from daily life.
• Luxury is durability aligned with intent.
• Luxury is design that continues to perform long after the purchase is forgotten.
• Luxury is confidence—in function, longevity, and fit.
• Luxury is not what you spend. It’s what you never have to rethink.

The Kitchen as the Primary Investment

• The kitchen remains the #1 homeowner investment nationwide.
• Homeowners are willing to exceed budget in the kitchen more than any other space.
• The kitchen is the most public and social room in the home.
• It represents identity: “I’m a cook,” “I entertain,” “I host.”
• Food equals memory; appliances enable those memories.

Appliance-First Design Strategy

• Appliances determine electrical, ventilation, plumbing, and layout requirements.
• Major appliance decisions must precede cabinetry and finish selections.
• Early appliance specification prevents costly redesigns.
• Designers increasingly plan around cooking infrastructure first.
• Professional appliance advisors play a key role in product education and innovation updates.

Budget Realities & Psychology

• Budgets are rarely fixed; they are often unstated or misunderstood.
• Clients frequently establish budgets before fully understanding what they want.
• Designers must define the intersection of “want” and “need.”
• Stretching budget in the kitchen feels justified because it is essential.
• Strategic trade-offs are common (invest in cooking, scale back secondary items).
• Transparency and cost clarity are critical in today’s climate.
• Surprises—especially tariff or pricing shocks—undermine trust.
• Professional designers protect clients from unrealistic expectations and long-term regret.

The Expanding Kitchen Ecosystem

• Kitchens are no longer singular spaces—they expand throughout the home.
• Secondary kitchens (sculleries, prep kitchens, butler’s pantries) are rising.
• Beverage centers, bars, and wine storage are increasingly common.
• Coffee stations and en-suite kitchenettes are viewed as lifestyle enhancements.
• Outdoor kitchens are now expected in many markets.
• Refrigeration appears in bathrooms (skincare), offices, and guest suites.
• Multigenerational living drives multi-kitchen design.
• Post-COVID entertaining shifted bar culture into the home.

Lifestyle-Driven Design Trends

• Hospitality influences residential expectations.
• Convenience and personalization outweigh pure status signaling.
• Aging in place is shaping appliance planning (drawer refrigeration, wall ovens).
• Durability is increasingly valued over trend-based aesthetics.
• Remote work drives integrated kitchenettes and beverage access in home offices.
• Multiple laundry setups reflect modern household logistics.

Status vs. Practicality

• Status still influences resale-driven decisions in some cases.
• However, emotional connection tends to be with category (cooking, entertaining) rather than brand alone.
• Longevity and service reliability often justify premium selections.
• Magazine-driven or editorial glamour exists—but practical function ultimately wins.

Role of the Professional Designer

• Designers provide budget discipline and scope management.
• They help clients make decisions faster, reducing cost creep.
• They balance aspiration with feasibility.
• Professional oversight protects long-term value.
• Design is positioned not as a privilege, but as a necessity.

Market & Cultural Influences

• COVID permanently shifted how homes are used.
• Entertaining moved inward; bar and pizza oven sales spiked.
• Multigenerational living increased spatial complexity.
• Social media informs but can distort expectations.
• Consumers increasingly research via reviews and digital channels.
• Clients are more cautious amid economic and tariff uncertainty.

Guiding Principle

• “Proper planning prevents poor performance.”
• Early, honest, and intentional planning reduces regret.
• Design is both a desire business and a service industry.
• The goal is not excess—it is alignment between space and life.

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The chill is still in the air as winter prepares to give way to spring. That time of year, depending on where in the world you happen to be, nature is beginning to remind us about the magic of renewal in small but familiar ways. We are reminded that the more things change, renewal is possible. Today’s Icon Registry episode celebrates our newest inductee, and those who have listened to the show for a while know her, and even though she left this world a few years ago, her spirit endures.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Christine Anderson was a SoCal based publicist with a dedication to her clients, friends and colleagues rarely seen anymore. I had the opportunity to work with Christine on many occasions and she hosted the show more than any other guest show. You might even recall her hosting the ICON Registry episode featuring Woodson & Rummerfield.

This is Christine’s well deserved induction into the registry. What you are about to hear is Christine’s conversation with Dora Epstein Jones Dr. Dora Epstein Jones is a prominent architectural theorist, educator, and administrator known for her rigorous interrogation of the discipline’s boundaries. She is currently a Professor of Practice at the University of Texas at Austin School of Architecture, having joined the faculty in Fall 2023.

The Convo By Design Icon Registry is presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home, a Best Buy company and avid supporters of the design community. They help designers become the very best version of their professional selves through advocacy, educational opportunities and professional support.

This wraps up another episode of the Convo By Design Icon Registry. A celebration and recognition of a true master in the art of design and the mastery of all that encompasses in the pursuit of making better the lives of those they serve. And, giving back along the way. Thank you Christine for your many years of friendship, partnership and collaboration, you are truly missed. Thanks for listening to Convo By Design. Thank you to my partner sponsors, Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home for presenting the Convo By Design Icon Registry and Convo By Design partner sponsors, Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home,TimberTech & Shelter Republic. And thank you for taking the time to listen. I couldn’t do this without you, wouldn’t want to. I hope this show helps you stay motivated, inspired and focused so you can rise above the chaos. -CXD

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Kitchen Revolution: Elevating Kitchens and Baths for Lifestyle, Wellness, and Technology. Designers and innovators discuss how kitchens and bathrooms have transformed into lifestyle-focused, wellness-oriented, and tech-savvy spaces, shaping the homes of today’s discerning clients. From pandemic-driven shifts to smart appliances, spa-like bathrooms, and open-concept living, this panel explores the evolving demands of homeowners and the strategies designers use to balance aesthetics, function, and innovation.

1. Introduction

• Host Virzine Hovasapyan, Experience Director of Marketplace of Innovation for Pacific Sales, introduces the panel and sets the stage: kitchens and baths are no longer purely functional—they are deeply personal lifestyle environments.
• Emphasis on the convergence of beauty, comfort, and smart technology to meet wellness-focused and tech-savvy client needs.

2. Panel Introductions

• Karen Rideau, Kitchen Design Group: three decades of experience, expanding from kitchen and bath to full interior architecture.
• Holly Hollenbeck, HSH Interiors: bi-coastal firm specializing in remodels and new builds, high focus on kitchen and bath.
• Lori Hafele, Hafele Design: luxury cabinetry-focused design, hard surfaces specialist.
• Pam Barthold, Poziom Designs: national remodels, holiday decor focus, wellness integration.

3. Pandemic and Post-Pandemic Shifts

• Kitchens evolving into living spaces for family interaction and entertaining.
• Movement from segmented to open-plan living; the kitchen is now the “heart of the home.”
• Rise of furniture-like cabinetry and hidden storage to maintain aesthetic beauty.

4. Collaboration Between Designers and Showrooms

• Importance of collaboration between designers, manufacturers, and showrooms.
• Need for continuous education on appliance and technology innovations (steam ovens, microwaves/air fryers, modular units).
• Designers as knowledge bridges for clients.

5. Wellness in Kitchen and Bath

• Bathrooms now spa-like: steam showers, infrared saunas, cold plunges.
• Kitchens adapting for wellness-conscious lifestyles: beverage centers, accessible hot water, herb gardens, indoor/outdoor cooking integration.
• Efficiency for tech-savvy clients: proximity solutions, outdoor entertaining, smart layout adjustments.

6. Technology Integration

• Challenges of over-technology vs. simplicity: balancing clients’ desire for tech with usability.
• AI and digital inspiration may introduce non-buildable concepts; designers interpret and adapt.
• Circuit breaker capacity and smart appliance integration considerations.
• Strategies to educate clients and ensure the right technology fits their lifestyle.

7. Translating Client Dreams into Practical Design

• Process includes space planning, 3D renderings, vendor collaboration, and creative problem-solving.
• Importance of editing ideas to fit space and budget.
• Budget discussions start early; expectations around pricing, lead times, and custom millwork.

8. Setting Expectations & Discovery

• Use of robust client questionnaires to uncover lifestyle, wellness, and usage patterns.
• Managing timelines, trades, and supply chain realities.
• Addressing dual-client decision-making and educating clients on care and maintenance of appliances and materials.

9. Audience Q&A Highlights

• Managing open-plan kitchens and sound/visual separation through back kitchens, secondary prep spaces, and innovative layouts.

10. Key Takeaways

• Kitchens and bathrooms are now multifunctional lifestyle spaces, blending aesthetics, wellness, and technology.
• Collaboration, client discovery, and education are critical for successful design.
• Designers balance aspirational visions with practical realities to deliver functional, beautiful, and personalized homes.

Links / Resources:

• Pacific Sales – West Coast leader in Kitchen, Bath, Outdoor, and Total Home solutions.
• Kitchen Design Group – Caren Rideau
• HSH Interiors – Holly Hollenbeck
• Hafele Design – Laurie Hafele
• Pazzam Designs – Pam Barthold

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Architecture education is often romanticized as a pursuit of pure creativity, but in reality, it serves as a masterclass in grit. The studio environment, characterized by sleepless nights and public critiques, builds a specific kind of resilience necessary for navigating a risk-averse industry. While sectors like lighting have undergone rapid technological revolutions—moving from incandescent to LED in a decade—commercial construction moves at the speed of a massive vessel, slowed by liability concerns and ingrained methods.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

This hesitation, however, is slowly giving way to data-driven sustainability. The industry has shifted from making purely economic arguments for energy efficiency to focusing on human health and wellness, a transition accelerated by the pandemic. Tools like the Healthy Materials Database now allow teams to bypass greenwashing, using empirical data to guide tradespeople who might otherwise resist new specifications. By framing material changes as collaborative problem-solving rather than top-down mandates, the industry can bridge the gap between high-concept design and practical application.

Nowhere is this practical application more evident than in the “Net Zero Trailer” project. Born from a desire to improve job site dignity and efficiency, this ten-week experiment successfully merged Passive House standards with trailer manufacturing. It proved that construction environments do not have to be uncomfortable energy hogs; they can be solar-powered hubs of productivity. This experiment serves as a microcosm for the industry’s broader challenge: how to scale innovation. Whether adapting to the massive energy demands of data centers or designing schools with a 100-year operational lifespan, the future of building requires looking beyond current codes. It demands a “green shoots” mentality where structures are designed not just for immediate occupancy, but for climate resilience and flexibility across generations.

• The Hedgehog Concept: A framework from the book Good to Great focusing on the intersection of passion, talent, and economic engines.
  • Good to Great by Jim Collins
• USGBC & Healthy Materials: Susan discusses her work with the U.S. Green Building Council and managing a database of over 2,500 sustainable building products.
  • U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)
  • Living Building Challenge
• The Net Zero Trailer: Pepper Construction’s experiment to create a solar-powered, Passive House-standard job site trailer in under 10 weeks.
  • Pepper Construction
  • Passive House Institute
• Trade Education & AGC: How general contractors are collaborating to educate tradespeople on green building methods and carbon tracking.
  • Associated General Contractors of America (AGC)
• Climate Risk & 100-Year Buildings: The shift toward designing K-12 schools and community structures to withstand climate changes and serve communities for a century or more.

Thanks for listening to Convo By Design, 13 years, over 700 episodes and 3 million downloads and listens to the show!

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The Phoenix Effect: Designers and Architects Lead the Innovative Rebuild of Fire-Impacted LA. An impassioned panel featuring William Hefner, Jamie Rummerfield, and Gwen Sukeena discusses architectural preservation, fire-resilient design, and community-driven efforts to shape a more thoughtful, resilient Los Angeles in the wake of the devastating wildfires.

The panel, moderated by Kelly Phillips Badal (Los Angeles Editor for Luxe Interiors and Design), focused on the challenges and innovative opportunities arising from the need to rebuild communities—specifically Altadena and the Palisades—after the recent devastating wildfires. The core themes were architectural preservation, fire-resilient building, and community collaboration.

• The Power of Preservation and Moving Homes (Gwen Sukeena):
  • Interior designer Gwen Sukeena shared her deeply personal and compelling story of losing her own Altadena home to the fire and, determined to avoid building a “soulless” new structure, decided to save and move a 1910 Craftsman bungalow marked for demolition.
  • The process was grueling, taking less than three months and costing approximately $400,000 (including move, deconstruction, and foundation work), saving about one-third of the cost of a new build.
  • A significant finding revealed the house was originally built by the Milwaukee Building Company (later Meyer and Holler), known for iconic LA structures like Grauman’s Chinese Theater and the Egyptian Theater.
  • Regulatory Advantage: Moving a pre-existing home allows it to be considered a remodel, exempting it from current Title 24 energy codes, which saves costs but requires creative fireproofing solutions (e.g., underneath shingles).
• Architectural Legacy and Community-Driven Guides (Jamie Rummerfield):
  • Designer Jamie Rummerfield, co-founder of Save Iconic Architecture (SIA), detailed the initial community response and the need to combat “soulless box” tract homes during the speedy rebuild phase.
  • In collaboration with the Design Leadership Network (DLN), SIA created a pattern language book called the Golden California Pattern Book.
  • This field guide documents and celebrates the distinct eras that shaped Southern California living (Spanish Revival, Colonial Revival, California Modern, Cali Card), serving as a free resource for the public to understand and reference authentic regional design.
  • The initiative launched recently at a town hall and is available online as The New California Classics.
• Fire Resilience and Replicating Character (William Hefner):
  • Architect William Hefner (Studio William Hefner), a fifth-generation Californian, emphasized the goal of building fire-resilient structures that still maintain the character clients lost.
  • His firm contributed plans to Case Study 2.0, focusing on variety, constructability, and designing for fire resistance using modern materials.
  • Solutions involve deep dives into materiality, such as using fiberglass-reinforced concrete that mimics subtle wood texture without serving as kindling, and designing eaves that do not trap embers.
  • He detailed a client who, after losing their 20-year-old California Italian Mediterranean Revival house, insisted on rebuilding it exactly as it was, underscoring how architecture is key to identity and emotional recovery.
• Concerns and Future Outlook:
  • Panelists expressed concern about the upcoming explosion of building activity leading to opportunism (“land grabs,” unchecked development) and a lack of mindfulness regarding neighborhood character and streetscapes.
  • The creative community’s response has been impressive, with architects and designers creating resources like the Foothill Catalog (in Altadena) and the New California Classics to provide high-quality, approachable options for rebuilding.

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Recorded live from CEDIA Expo 2025, this two-part episode of Convo By Design explores how technology, design, and infrastructure are converging to reshape the way we live. From the evolving role of integrators to the growing importance of energy resilience, the conversation examines what it takes to design spaces that are intelligent, responsive, and future-ready. Featuring insights from EmeraldX’s Dan Farrisi and Rosewater Energy founder Joe Piccirilli, this episode connects strategy, storytelling, and engineering into a single, forward-looking narrative.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Two conversations, one shared theme: the future of the built environment depends on collaboration, foresight, and systems thinking. From CEDIA Expo’s show floor to the electrical panel itself, this episode explores how design, technology, and infrastructure must evolve together.

This two-part episode of Convo By Design brings listeners inside CEDIA Expo 2025 for a wide-ranging discussion on where design, technology, and integration are headed—and why collaboration across disciplines has never been more important.

The first conversation features Dan Farrisi, Group Editor for EmeraldX, who joins the show from the show floor to discuss the evolving role of trade events and the growing convergence between design and integration. Farrisi explains how CEDIA has become more than a technology showcase—it’s now a critical meeting ground for designers, integrators, manufacturers, and educators navigating a rapidly changing industry.

He outlines how integrators are no longer simply installers but partners in shaping outcomes. As residential and commercial systems increasingly overlap, the conversation shifts toward experience design—how lighting, audio, controls, and infrastructure work together to support how people live, work, and interact. Farrisi also emphasizes the importance of storytelling, education, and advocacy in helping professionals communicate value in a crowded and often misunderstood marketplace.

The discussion then transitions to the second interview, featuring Joe Piccirilli, founder and CEO of Rosewater Energy. With a career spanning more than five decades—from building Sound Advice into a public company to founding AVAD and later Rosewater—Piccirilli brings a deeply technical and philosophical perspective to the conversation.

At the center of his work is a deceptively simple idea: most technology failures begin with power. Piccirilli explains how unreliable power, poor grounding, and inconsistent quality undermine even the most sophisticated systems. His solution, the Rosewater Hub, was developed to address these issues at the panel level—providing seamless backup, surge protection, and power conditioning in a single, engineered platform.

The conversation explores how energy resilience has become essential to modern living. From medical equipment and remote work to safe rooms and climate-related disruptions, power stability is no longer optional. Piccirilli explains how his engineering-first approach led to solutions designed not for convenience, but for certainty—systems that work when everything else fails.

Together, the two conversations form a complete picture of where the industry is heading. Farrisi frames the cultural and professional shift happening across design and integration, while Piccirilli provides the technical foundation required to support that shift. The result is a compelling look at how thoughtful design, reliable infrastructure, and interdisciplinary collaboration are shaping the next generation of built environments.

Part One: Dan Farrisi – CEDIA Expo & Industry Convergence

• First impressions from CEDIA Expo 2025
• Why trade shows still matter in a digital-first world
• EmeraldX’s role in connecting disciplines
• Integrators as experience partners, not installers
• Residential and commercial technology overlap
• Education, advocacy, and storytelling as industry drivers
• The future of collaboration between designers and technologists

Part Two: Joe Piccirilli – Engineering Resilience

• Early career and the founding of Sound Advice
• Lessons from entrepreneurship and distribution
• Discovering the real problem: power quality
• The engineering logic behind Rosewater Energy
• Panel-level energy management and backup systems
• Designing for medical, safety, and critical-use environments
• The role of resilience in future home design
• Why engineering thinking matters more than ever

Dan Farrisi, Group Editor for EmeraldX, joins Convo By Design from CEDIA Expo 2025 to share insights on the convergence of design, technology, and integration. He discusses the role of trade shows in shaping industry collaboration, the unique challenges integrators face, and the growing overlap between residential and commercial applications. Farrisi also explores why storytelling, education, and advocacy are critical to the future of connected experiences.

Recorded live at CEDIA Expo 2025, this episode highlights how the integration industry is evolving beyond technology into holistic experience design. Dan Farrisi explains EmeraldX’s role in connecting professionals across disciplines, the importance of dialogue between designers and integrators, and how new applications—from smart homes to immersive environments—are redefining the industry.

1. First Impressions at CEDIA 2025
   • Energy and innovation at the show floor.
   • Why CEDIA remains a barometer for industry health.
2. Role of EmeraldX
3. • How EmeraldX curates and amplifies industry conversations.
   • Trade shows as hubs for education, networking, and advocacy.
4. Integration Beyond Tech
5. • Moving from installer to outcome-driven partner.
   • Why integrators need to collaborate earlier in design projects.
6. Residential + Commercial Crossovers
7. • Lessons from commercial AV shaping residential expectations.
   • Case studies in immersive experiences and security applications.
8. Challenges & Opportunities
9. • Standards, interoperability, and client education.
   • The importance of storytelling in communicating value.
10. Looking Ahead
11. • The role of integrators in shaping future living spaces.
    • EmeraldX’s vision for connecting industries through shared dialogue.

Links & Resources

• EmeraldX → https://www.emeraldx.com/
• CEDIA Expo → https://cediaexpo.com/
• Convo By Design Podcast → https://convo-by-design.blubrry.net/

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The panel explored the intersection of natural and man-made materials in landscape design, highlighting the balance between aesthetic, sustainability, and functional concerns. Participants discussed how interior and landscape designers borrow nature to create cohesive environments, including outdoor “rooms” and hardscape features softened with plantings. Material selection — stone, metal, glass, composite decking, and synthetic turf — was debated, with attention to local sourcing, durability, environmental impact, and client expectations. The panel also emphasized the sensory experience of landscapes, touching on sight, sound, smell, and taste, and how design can evoke memory and emotion. Sustainability, fire safety, maintenance, and longevity were recurring themes, particularly in the adoption of synthetic materials that mimic natural ones while reducing environmental or upkeep costs.

• Borrowed landscape: Using surrounding natural colors and textures to inform material choices in hardscape design.
• Softening hardscape: Plantings and layered design to maintain depth without overwhelming the property.
• Context-appropriate material selection: Stone, metal, glass, gravel, and concrete chosen according to environment, use, and climate.
• Trend toward natural imperfection: Broken edges, less precision, biophilic design responding to a highly digital, precise world.
• Sustainability tensions: Balancing natural and synthetic materials for longevity, cost, and environmental impact.
• Synthetic decking and recycled composites: TimberTech and similar products for durability, low maintenance, and fire safety.
• Artificial turf considerations: High-use areas, water savings, lifespan, recycling challenges.
• Sensory-driven design: Sight, sound, smell, and taste incorporated into landscapes for holistic human experiences.
• Childhood memory and emotional recall: Design that evokes personal sensory memory for users.
• Fire and climate constraints: Materials must meet modern safety and insurance standards.

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Just in time for KBIS this year, I sat down with Jason McGraw from EmeraldX and Leanne Wood with Flying Camel to talk about the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) to preview the upcoming 2026 event in Orlando. This conversation dives deep into the strategic shifts for this year’s show, including the expansion of the floor plan to nearly 1.2 million net square feet and the introduction of a new editorial format for product debuts. A major theme for KBIS 2026 is the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across the industry. From the dedicated “Technology” track in the Voices from the Industry (VFTI) conference to live panel debates on AI’s role in luxury design, the show is positioning itself as the epicenter for modern design workflows. The team also discusses practical “pro-tips” for navigating the massive Orange County Convention Center, ensuring attendees maximize their time between the West, South, and North halls.

You still have time to register and prepare for a groundbreaking event that will shape the way you think about your design business and sharpen your specification skills. And if you are going to the show this year in Orlando, please make sure you stop by the KBIS Podcast Studio and say hello.

• The KBIS 2026 Footprint: With over 700 exhibitors and 100,000+ expected professionals, Jason McGraw explains the logistical expansion into the Discovery District (located in the Rosen Centre) and how to navigate the skybridges and shuttles.
• Innovation Hour: Replacing the traditional “Design Bytes,” this new fast-paced “show + tell” session at noon on February 17th allows brands to present tactile stories. The audience will vote live for “Most Innovative” and “Most Unexpected.”
• AI and Technology: Leanne emphasizes how AI is no longer a “future” concept but a daily tool. This year features a “Technology Activation” and sessions focused on AI-powered customer journeys and smarter design workflows.
• The Best of KBIS Awards: The awards have expanded to seven categories, including “Sustainable Standout” and “Wellness Trailblazer.” Winners will be announced live on the NEXTStage on February 18th.
• The KBIS Podcast Studio: Now relocated to the West Hall Lobby, the studio—hosted by Josh—will feature 12 live sessions covering leadership, luxury, and the “business of design.”
• Wellness & Sustainability: For the first time, these two tracks have been merged into a unified focus, reflecting the interconnected nature of healthy, resilient living environments.

Applicable Links & Resources

• Official Event Site: KBIS 2026 Registration & Info
• Educational Programming: Voices From the Industry (VFTI) Schedule
• Award Programs: Best of KBIS 2026 Categories & Finalists
• New Features: Innovation Hour Details
• Navigation: Interactive KBIS 2026 Floor Plan

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Rebuilding After the Fire: How Designers, Architects & Community Leaders Are Reimagining Livability in Southern California A panel of architects, designers, sustainability experts, and community advocates explore what the 2025 Palisades and Altadena fires taught us about resilience, materiality, community loss, rebuilding timelines, economic displacement, and the future of Southern California living. Moderated by Adam Hunter.

The 2025 Palisades and Altadena fires delivered a historic and deeply personal shock to Southern California communities, reshaping not only homes but expectations for safety, materiality, and resilience. In this WestEdge Wednesday conversation moderated by Adam Hunter, the panel digs into both the physical and emotional layers of rebuilding.

Architect Richard Manion contextualizes the fires as a “perfect storm”—a wind-driven event functioning like a flamethrower—requiring a more holistic approach to resilient construction. Sarah Malek Barney highlights the risks of long-standing industry shortcuts in material selection and emphasizes the renewed value of fire-resistant, performance-proven products. Marcella Oliver outlines actionable guidance from USGBC California and the Net Zero Accelerator, underscoring vetted building strategies and digital-twin modeling as essential tools for community education.

Stacy Munich brings forward the human consequences: underinsurance, temporary housing, and the emotional weight of rebuilding while navigating uncertainty. She explores prefab/precision-built housing as a potential solution for families priced out of traditional custom rebuilding. Todd Paolillo expands on the challenge of unifying a large number of well-intentioned contributors across agencies, nonprofits, and design sectors—and why true leadership must emerge to align them.

Throughout the discussion, key themes emerge:

• Holistic resilience (materials, landscape, climate risk, embers, structural vulnerabilities)
• Community cohesion vs. community erosion
• Education gaps for homeowners suddenly forced into complex architectural decisions
• Economic realities shaping who can return and who is pushed out
• Long rebuilding timelines and the risk of “enthusiasm fatigue,” as Adam Hunter notes
• Avoiding both prefab monotony and hyper-luxury displacement in the Alphabet Streets

The panel collectively reinforces a core message: rebuilding isn’t simply architecture—it’s long-term community-making. And it requires every discipline to show up.

PARTICIPANTS & WEB LINKS

(Links provided to official homepages or primary professional sites)

Adam Hunter — Moderator
https://adamhunterinc.com

Richard Manion, Architect
https://richardmanion.com

Sarah Malek Barney – Band Design
https://www.bandd.com

Stacy Munich – Stacy Munich Interiors
https://www.stacymunichinteriors.com

Todd Paolillo – CCA Design Group
https://www.ccadesigngroup.com

Marcella Oliver – USGBC California
https://www.usgbc.org
(Net Zero Accelerator) https://netzeroaccelerator.org

I. Opening Context

• Adam Hunter describes his own displacement in the Palisades fires
• Acknowledgment of community members who lost homes and businesses

II. Materiality & Rebuilding After Fire

• Shortcut culture in residential construction (Sarah)
• Fire-resistant materials, embers, and construction techniques (Richard)
• The “flamethrower” dynamic of the 2025 event

III. Community-Scale Impacts

• Rebuilding as a multi-block, multi-stakeholder challenge (Marcella)
• Community cohesion among displaced residents (Stacy)
• Education gaps for homeowners suddenly navigating design/architectural choices

IV. Leadership & Coordination

• Who should be leading discussions?
• The role of USGBC California and the Net Zero Accelerator (Marcella)
• Design community mobilization & town halls (Todd)

V. Economics, Insurance & Rebuilding Pathways

• Underinsurance and cost prohibitions (Stacy)
• Prefab/precision-built options
• Avoiding both tract-home rebuilding and ultra-luxury exclusivity (Richard, Adam)

VI. Visualization & Future Planning

• Digital twins for community workshops
• Landscape resilience
• Neighborhood-scale guidelines

VII. Psychological & Long-Term Impacts

• Rebuilding fatigue
• Multi-year rebuilding timeline (10+ years)
• Keeping optimism and community support alive (Adam)

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This program explores the collision of tariffs, sustainability, design business acumen and shifting client expectations, offering a roadmap for navigating the volatility of the 2026 design landscape. Recorded live at Design Hardware in Los Angeles, I gathered a panel of industry leaders to dissect the economic and social forces shaping interior design as we head into 2026. Featuring Eva Hughes (Black House Beige), Shelly Sandoval (The Lauzon Collective), Rachel Grachowski (RHG Architecture), and Priya Vij (Hapny Home), the conversation confronts the “chaos” of the current market—from tariff-induced supply chain disruptions to the critical shortage of skilled labor.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

The discussion pivots from the technical challenges of “designing for disaster” and uninsurability to the creative opportunities found in circular economies and intentional sourcing. The panelists argue for a shift away from “fast fashion” interiors toward a “friendliness” of durability, prioritizing materials that pass the “grandparent test” of longevity. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes that in a volatile market, the most valuable currencies are transparency, deep vendor relationships, and educating clients on the true cost of craftsmanship.

• The “Friendliness” of Durability: A move toward “legacy” materials—like solid brass hardware and high-quality hardwood—that age gracefully and avoid the landfill, countering the disposable nature of current trends.
• Supply Chain as Design Driver: How tariffs and stock volatility are forcing firms to adopt “high-low” budgeting and pre-purchase models (buying and storing materials early) to protect projects from price surges.
• Designing for Disaster: The reality of rebuilding in fire-prone zones (like Altadena and the Palisades) is driving a demand for non-toxic, fire-resistant materials and a “circular economy” approach where building products can return to the earth safely.
• The Labor Crisis: A candid look at the “graying” of the trades; as master craftsmen retire without a new generation to replace them, the industry faces a loss of institutional knowledge and execution capability.
• Intentionality Over “Modern”: The panel discusses abandoning vague buzzwords like “wellness” and “modern” in favor of deep-dive mood boarding and psychological profiling to align client expectations with reality.

Resources

• Design Hardware: designhardware.com
• Black House Beige (Eva Hughes): blackhousebeige.com
• RHG Architecture + Design (Rachel Grachowski): rgarchitecture.com
• Happy Home (Priya Via): hapnyhome.com
• The Lauzon Collective (Shelly Sandoval): lawsoncollective.com
• Convo By Design: convobydesign.com

Thank you, Eva, Rachel, Shelly and Priya for taking the time to share your thoughts. Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors; Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home, TimberTech and Best Buy. Their sponsorship of Convo By Design allows me to seek out sublime design, stories from beyond the work itself and showcase unique personalities chasing new ideas and changing the way we think about design and architecture.. And present it to you so please give them an opportunity on your next project.

Thank you for listening and sharing this journey of ours. 2026 marks thirteen years of constant publication of the podcast with over 700 interviews and three million downloads, streams, and listens. Please keep those guest suggestions coming as well as thoughts about where you would like the show to record live. Convo By Design at Outlook and on Instagram, Convo X Design, with an “X”.

Thanks again for listening, until next time, be well, focused and driven so you can rise above the chaos. -CXD

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This month’s Convo By Design Icon Registry inductee is architect, Peter Pennoyer, FAIA who shares his lifelong passion for architecture, tracing its roots to his upbringing in New York City and the rich urban fabric that shaped his design philosophy. From classical influences to modern interventions, in this conversation recorded in 2021, Pennoyer discusses how context, history, and creativity inform his work across New York, Miami, and beyond. This episode offers a rare glimpse into Pennoyer’s process, highlighting how tradition and innovation coexist in his projects.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

In this episode, Pennoyer explores the balance between respecting historic streetscapes and embracing contemporary design, sharing insights on notable projects including French modern townhouses in Manhattan, Adirondack retreats, and reimagined New England homes. Listeners will hear about his approach to materials, light, and functionality, as well as the lessons learned from urban and natural environments. From small creative spaces to sweeping estates, Pennoyer reveals how architecture can feel both inevitable and personal.

Show Topics / Outline:

1. Early Influences
   • Growing up in NYC, next to an architect’s modernized Victorian townhouse.
   • Father’s role on the Art Commission (Design Review Commission) and early exposure to civic architecture.
   • Walking through the Metropolitan Museum during new wing constructions and its impact.
2. Philosophy of Context and Streetscape
3. • Importance of buildings as parts of streets rather than standalone monuments.
   • Learning from historic architecture and urban fabric.
   • Balancing preservation with creative reinterpretation.
4. Firm Origins and Approach
5. • Founding Peter Pennoyer Architects in 1990, NYC and Miami.
   • Learning along the way; responding to each commission individually.
   • Miami as a freer design environment vs. New York’s strict urban constraints.
6. Design Inspirations and Innovation
7. • Interest in unusual historic ideas, color, and modern adaptation (e.g., Adirondack home with vibrant red windows).
   • Classical architecture as a living, evolving language.
   • Integrating modern functionality with traditional forms.
8. Key Projects
9. • Adirondacks Retreat: Rustic materials, vibrant accents, blending modern and traditional.
   • French Modern Townhouse, Upper East Side: Maximizing light in a constrained footprint; stair design, flow, and functionality.
   • New England House: Rebuilding a landmarked site with respect to site and history.
   • Fifth Avenue Maisonette: Reimagining space for luxury, comfort, and personal lifestyle integration.
10. Architecture and Society
11. • Lessons from pandemics and historical health-driven design.
    • Flexibility in modern living: home and work blending, privacy, and adaptability.
    • The balance of aesthetics, comfort, and livability in contemporary classical design.
12. Process and Collaboration
13. • Importance of team and long-term partnerships in shaping projects.
    • Working with interior designers and artisans to achieve cohesive spaces.
    • Creative problem-solving under structural, site, and regulatory constraints.

Links & References:

• Peter Pennoyer Architects – Official Website
• Adirondack Long Barn Project
• Upper East Side French Modern Townhouse
• New England Landmark House Rebuild
• Fifth Avenue Maisonette

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Beyond the Sketchbook: Mastering the Business of Design with Industry Leaders. Esteemed practitioners Keith Granet, Grant Kirkpatrick, Tom Stringer, and Louis Taylor share candid insights into the origin stories, critical business skills, and forward-looking strategies necessary to build and sustain a successful design practice.

Moderated by Cheryl Durst (EVP and CEO of IIDA), the panel focused on the transition from being a talented designer to running a thriving, resilient business, covering genesis, operations, talent management, branding, and future-proofing.

• Origin Stories and Industry Appreciation:
  • The panelists shared diverse paths into design. Some were drawn in early (Grant and Tom), while others arrived via finance and business consulting (Keith and Louis).
  • Louis Taylor (Finance, SchappacherWhite) noted that, coming from auditing various industries, design is “absolutely the best industry to work in by far.”
• The 80/20 Rule of Entrepreneurship:
  • A critical takeaway for design professionals is understanding that running a firm is primarily a business function. Keith Granet and Grant Kirkpatrick stressed that the time split is often 70–80% focused on business (HR, finance, marketing, systems) and only 20–30% on actual design work.
  • Keith Granet (Granet and Associates, Leaders of Design) emphasized that good systems and data tracking (like a monthly “executive summary” of financials) are “freeing” and allow for greater creativity by alleviating stress over payroll and rent.
• Infrastructure and Skill Development:
  • Hire Your Weaknesses: The consensus was to surround yourself with great consultants (finance, PR, marketing) and “hire your weaknesses” to empower the principal designer to focus on their “highest and best use.”
  • Future Talent Gap: Louis Taylor noted that junior staff coming out of school often require significant training in “soft skills” (people skills, professional email etiquette, presentation, listening) to bridge the gap between conceptual learning and the real-world practice.
• Branding and Storytelling:
  • Effective messaging must be authentic and focus on an idea bigger than the work itself.
  • Grant Kirkpatrick (KAA Design Group) detailed their use of “The Five Whys” to articulate a vision, which for his firm is the belief that “design elevates the human spirit.”
  • Tom Stringer (Tom Stringer Design Partners) built his brand around his personal value of adventure, which attracts clients who are “kindred spirits.” He emphasized that design is predicated on building trust over multiple generations.

• Future Proofing and Resilience:

  • AI and Technology: The panelists recognized AI as a powerful, unavoidable tool that will alleviate mundane tasks and enhance existing work, though it also presents a significant challenge (“scares the shit out of us,” noted Keith). Firms must embrace it.

• Talent Retention: Institutional knowledge is key to longevity. Firms are focusing on creating exceptional workspaces, competitive benefits (like sabbatical programs), and internal culture to recruit and retain the best talent.

• Mentorship: Mentoring should be a fundamental part of a firm’s culture, not a forced, rigid program. It is essential at all career stages, providing wisdom and long-term connections that help owners stay agile and resourceful.

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The design industry has changed more in the past five years than in the previous two decades. In this episode, Amy Courtney and I unpack how technology, social media, and shifting client expectations have transformed the way designers work, communicate, and create. From in-person collaboration to photography, craftsmanship, and professional credibility, the conversation explores what it really means to practice design today.

A candid discussion about design after 2020, the rise of digital culture, evolving client behavior, and why experience still matters more than visibility.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

I sat down with designer Amy Courtney and together, we are going to examine how dramatically the design industry has shifted since 2020—and what those changes mean for designers, clients, and the creative process itself. What began as a necessity during the pandemic has evolved into a permanent shift in how projects are managed, communicated, and perceived.

The conversation opens with how in-person collaboration has largely been replaced by screens, emails, and digital presentations. While technology has made certain aspects of design more efficient, it has also introduced new challenges: endless email threads, over-reliance on links and screenshots, and a growing disconnect between how spaces are discussed and how they are actually experienced. Both speakers reflect on the loss of face-to-face interaction and how it has altered everything from client relationships to decision-making.

From there, the discussion moves into how design has become more visible—and more misunderstood—than ever before. With social media and image-driven platforms shaping expectations, clients often arrive with highly specific visual references but little understanding of how those ideas translate into real-world construction. The conversation explores how designers now spend much of their time educating clients, explaining limitations, and helping them understand the difference between inspiration and execution.

Photography plays a major role in this shift. Where designers once photographed only select projects, today’s market pressures encourage constant documentation. The episode unpacks the financial and creative cost of professional photography, the tension between editorial standards and reality, and how images can sometimes misrepresent how spaces actually function. The discussion also touches on how publication expectations and sponsorships can influence what gets shown—and what gets left out.

Another central theme is the difference between designers and tastemakers. Courtney and I examine how social platforms have blurred professional lines, allowing anyone with a strong aesthetic to claim authority. We discuss the growing confusion this creates for clients and the importance of experience, education, and technical understanding in producing successful projects. While inspiration is everywhere, execution still requires training, judgment, and accountability.

The episode also dives into the influence of upbringing and mentorship. From growing up around construction and craftsmanship to learning directly from tradespeople, the conversation highlights how hands-on experience shapes a designer’s confidence and decision-making. This background, combined with curiosity and respect for process, becomes the foundation for meaningful work.

The conversation closes with a reflection on credibility, creativity, and the responsibility designers have to guide clients honestly. In a culture driven by speed and visibility, the episode argues for a return to thoughtful process, clear communication, and design rooted in real-world understanding.

• How design practice has changed since 2020
• The impact of remote work and screen-based communication
• Photography, social media, and shifting industry expectations
• The difference between designers and tastemakers
• Client education and managing unrealistic inspiration
• The value of construction knowledge and hands-on experience
• Navigating publication standards and editorial pressure
• Why credibility and process still matter

Design has never been more visible—or more misunderstood. As technology reshapes how people engage with spaces and professionals, the role of the designer has become both more complex and more essential. This episode makes the case for slowing down, valuing experience, and remembering that great design is built on knowledge, intention, and trust—not algorithms or aesthetics alone.

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At WestEdge, a panel of accomplished designers opened up about the emotional highs and lows of a career in creative design. The conversation delved into the toll that challenging clients can take, emphasizing that boundaries are not just beneficial but necessary for longevity in the industry. Panelists reflected on early career experiences, noting that optimism and the desire to see the best in clients can sometimes lead to depletion when projects are mismatched. These stories reinforced the idea that learning to say “no” and choosing the right clients is both a practical and emotional necessity. Beyond client challenges, the panel explored ways designers replenish their creative energy. Travel, flea markets, and tactile art projects, such as creating feathered artworks or doodling with Sharpies on rocks, were highlighted as powerful methods to reconnect with the craft. Attendees also shared experiences with artist dates, personal excursions that nurture inspiration outside work routines. For many, small, seemingly mundane moments—like walking barefoot on the beach or exploring museum exhibits—serve as vital opportunities to recharge. Central to the discussion was the notion of hope and intention in design. Designers are not only crafting spaces but facilitating transformative experiences for their clients. From arranging reveal days to curating details that clients cannot yet envision, designers play a key role in shaping both the aesthetic and emotional outcome of a home. These moments, when clients recognize the thought and care embedded in every choice, provide a profound sense of validation and joy for the designer. Technology emerged as both a boon and a challenge. Tools like Google Banana Nano and reverse image searches empower clients but can also accelerate expectations, requiring designers to continually adapt. To maintain balance, panelists suggested strategies such as phone lockboxes, one-word reset practices (e.g., travel, camping, art), and engaging in the tactile and analog experiences that digital feeds cannot replicate. Magazines were championed as a crucial resource in the digital age, offering tactile, spontaneous inspiration that cannot be algorithmically curated. They allow designers to explore beyond the bounds of client constraints and rediscover creative joy in a medium that encourages discovery and reflection. Ultimately, the WestEdge panel underscored the importance of integrating self-care, boundaries, and intentional creative practices into the professional life of a designer. Burnout is inevitable at times, but with mindfulness, grounding practices, and opportunities to reconnect with the joy of creation, designers can sustain their passion and continue to deliver transformative experiences for their clients. The panel left attendees with actionable insights and inspiration to navigate the demanding yet rewarding world of design. About: Convo By Design is a platform designed to share and promote the ideas of those shaping design and architecture today. We provide inspiration to the design and architecture community. In constant pursuit of sublime design. ©2013-2026 Subscribe to the podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/c… https://www.convobydesign.com

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Design is more than aesthetics—it’s about understanding how people live, move, and connect with their spaces. In this episode, Kristin Mullen and I explore how sourcing, observation, and thoughtful decision-making shape interiors that feel authentic and functional. From Round Top to kitchen design to client relationships, the conversation reveals why the best work begins with listening and ends with purpose.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

A thoughtful conversation on antiques, design philosophy, client trust, and why the most successful spaces are built on intention rather than trends. You are going to hear from designer Kristin Mullen. We’re exploring the deeper thinking behind successful interior design—where process, perspective, and human behavior matter as much as aesthetics. The conversation opens with a discussion of the Round Top Antiques Show, which Kristin describes as an essential destination for designers seeking character, craftsmanship, and pieces with history. While digital sourcing has its place, both agree that nothing replaces the experience of seeing and understanding objects in person. Round Top, in particular, offers an immersive environment that encourages discovery, education, and creative connection.

From there, the conversation turns inward, examining how a designer’s background and worldview shape their approach. Kristin shares how her early training in speech and language pathology sharpened her ability to read clients, recognize unspoken preferences, and interpret behavior—skills that now inform every project she takes on. That sensitivity, paired with her passion for antiques, results in spaces that feel layered, personal, and grounded in story rather than surface-level trends.

A central theme throughout the episode is redefining what “value” means in design. Josh and Kristin challenge the idea that good design is about price or status. Instead, they discuss how meaningful spaces come from clarity, intention, and thoughtful editing. The role of the designer, they explain, is often to simplify—helping clients focus on what truly matters and guiding them away from choices that don’t support how they actually live.

The conversation naturally moves into kitchens, where function and behavior intersect most clearly. From layout and stone selection to lighting and storage, Josh and Kristin explore how small decisions can dramatically affect daily life. They discuss the importance of planning for real habits rather than idealized ones, and how photographic trends often misrepresent how spaces are actually used. The evolution of kitchen design, they note, reflects broader changes in how homes function as multi-use environments.

The episode also touches on the business and sourcing side of design. Kristin shares insights into working with European antiques and the growing challenges presented by tariffs and shipping costs. Josh adds perspective on the potential return to small-scale, locally made craftsmanship, suggesting that the industry may be entering a period where quality, story, and intention carry more weight than volume or speed.

Throughout the conversation, one idea remains consistent: strong design is rooted in trust. Open communication, clear expectations, and honest dialogue between designer and client create better outcomes for everyone involved. When people feel heard and understood, the results are spaces that not only look good—but function beautifully over time. You are going to hear all about it, right after this.

Great design isn’t about excess or trends—it’s about intention, understanding, and care. When designers take the time to observe how people truly live and guide them through thoughtful decisions, the result is a space that feels authentic, functional, and deeply personal. This episode makes the case for slowing down, asking better questions, and designing with purpose at the center.

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Since areas of Los Angeles, entire communities burned to the ground in January, 2025, the world around us has jumped in with opinions on how to rebuild. Moderated by: Allison Holdorff Polhill, LAUSDFeaturing: Reza Akef, Polaris Homes; Sue Kohl, Pacific Palisades Community Council; Ron Marome, Fleetwood Windows and Doors; Rob Jernigan, Clayco; May Sung, SUBU Design Architecture; and Matt Talley , AECOM I made a promise to those in attendance that I would do my homework and find resources, phone numbers, contacts… And I have. It’s voluminous but you will find many of these links in the show notes of this episode. I will also continue to dig and share my findings on Instagram so please follow along. Convo X Design and email me if you would like more information and resource contacts. Convo By Design at Outlook dot com. Key Agencies & Contacts for Rebuild / Recovery in Pacific Palisades 1. City of Los Angeles Los Angeles City Planning Palisades Rebuild & Recovery Team — Email: Planning.PalisadesRebuild@lacity.org City Planning+1 One‑Stop Rebuilding Center (city permit center): 1828 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025 City Planning+1 Departments represented at the One‑Stop: LADBS (Building & Safety) City Planning Bureau of Engineering (BOE) City Planning StreetsLA / Urban Forestry City Planning LADWP (Water & Power) City Planning LADOT (Transportation) City Planning LAFD (Fire Department) City Planning LA Housing Department (LAHD) City Planning LA Sanitation and Environment (LASAN) City Planning Bureau of Contract Administration (BCA) City Planning SoCalGas (utility) City Planning Los Angeles Emergency Management Department For recovery inquiries: EmergencyUpdates@LACity.org L.A. Emergency Management Their 2025 Wildfire Recovery page includes resources for disaster‑rebuild. L.A. Emergency Management Mayor’s Office – Resilient Rebuild Advisory Committee Under Emergency Executive Order 5 (2025), a Resilient Rebuild Advisory Committee was established. Los Angeles Mayor’s Office 2. Los Angeles County (for areas in the County jurisdiction) LA County Recovers Main Recovery Website: recovery.lacounty.gov LA County Recovers Public Works Hotline (for rebuilding / debris): 844‑347‑3332 LA County Recovers+1 Fire Debris Removal Permit: call 888‑479‑7328 for fire debris removal help. LA County Recovers LA County Public Works – Building & Safety Contact for building, grading, and drainage issues: via their offices. LA County Public Works Geotechnical & Materials Engineering (soils, geology): (626) 458‑4925 LA County Public Works Fire Prevention (County Fire): LACoFD Headquarters (323) 890‑4132 LA County Public Works LA County Department of Regional Planning Zoning, planning, rebuilding permitting: (213) 974‑6411 LA County Public Works The “Road to Rebuilding” program provides one-on-one concierge appointments (Public Works / Planning / Fire / Public Health) for Palisades rebuilding. LA County Public Works LA County Environmental Health For septic system (onsite wastewater) approvals: contact the Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS) team via Public Health. LA County Public Works Water “Will‑Serve” letter (potable water) – Drinking Water Program: required for some rebuilds. LA County Public Works LA County Assessor’s Office For tax reassessment after fire damage (“Misfortune & Calamity”): call (213) 974‑8658. LA County Recovers State / Federal Agencies California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) As a major state-level emergency agency, they coordinate recovery resources. (Generic contact: via caloes.ca.gov) Gather ADU Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) For disaster assistance (debris removal, housing, financial help): contact FEMA at 1-800-621-3362 for general assistance. Gather ADU U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (for debris removal specifically): their LA mission office is reachable; per FEMA, call center 213‑308‑8305. FEMA Recommended Approach / Strategy Start at the One‑Stop Rebuilding Center (LA City or County as applicable) — this gives you a “concierge” experience with multiple departments in one place. Follow up with direct department emails (e.g., Planning, Public Works) for specialized issues (soils, septic, fire‑safety). Use FEMA / CalOES early — get registered for federal/state disaster relief. Engage community‑based networks (ENLA, local recovery groups) — they often have the most up-to-date, local practical advice. Document everything — keep track of all contacts, permit numbers, and correspondence. Additional Information will be posted to the Convo By Design website. Convo By Design is a platform designed to share and promote the ideas of those shaping design and architecture today. We provide inspiration to the design and architecture community. In constant pursuit of sublime design. ©2013-2026 https://www.convobydesign.com

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Late last year, I moderated an event hosted by Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home with the goal of breaking down kitchen desires and needs of todays well informed and demanding design clients. You would think this is an easy conversation to have. I assembled an all star cast of design and architecture talent for an incredible conversation. One that you might want to save and re-listen every now and then.

Late last year, I moderated an event hosted by Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home with the goal of breaking down kitchen desires and needs of todays well informed and demanding design clients. You would think this is an easy conversation to have. I assembled an all star cast of design and architecture talent for an incredible conversation. One that you might want to save and re-listen every now and then.

At Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home in Torrance, leading architects, designers, and industry specialists gathered to examine how pandemic-era shifts, rising client expectations, and rapid product innovation are reshaping the future of kitchens and baths. Their insights reveal an industry moving beyond trend talk toward highly personalized, wellness-driven, and performance-first design.

The kitchen is no longer just a workspace, and the primary bath is no longer just a retreat. Over the past five years, these rooms have become emotional anchors, wellness centers, hospitality zones, tech platforms, and reflections of how people believe they should live. At Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home in Torrance, a cross-section of the industry’s leading voices came together to discuss how the profession is adapting—and what clients now expect designers to deliver.

For Sayler Design Studio founder Beth Sayler (https://saylorstudio.com), the shift is rooted in emotion. After years of pandemic-related uncertainty, material shortages, and insurance-driven rebuilds, clients want spaces that feel personal, restorative, and meaningful. Her projects now lean into “experience design,” where primary suites might include refrigeration drawers, espresso stations, integrated audio, and hospitality-level details. Her biggest tool is expectation-setting—helping clients redefine what’s realistic, what’s essential, and what will ultimately make them feel at home again.

Architect Luis Escalera of LMD Architecture Studio (https://www.lmdarchitecturestudio.com) experiences the evolution through the lens of constraints. Small lots, stricter codes, and the ongoing battle between mandated electrification and client cooking preferences require tight onboarding, detailed questionnaires, and careful translation of desires to built form. The modern kitchen triangle now includes the deck, yard, and pool—one interconnected lifestyle zone that must function as a unified system.

For Jessica Nicastro Design (https://www.jessicanicastrodesign.com), the challenge is volatility. Pricing, tariffs, and supply chains remain inconsistent, making early builder involvement essential. Her firm works to recalibrate what clients think they want—often shaped by social media—into spaces appropriate to the home, lifestyle, and budget. Transparency and trust have become the designer’s most valuable currency.

At Laney LA (https://www.laney.la), designer Michelle Her sees a growing demand for wellness integration: whole-home RO systems, chromotherapy, therapeutic water pressure, and recovery spaces designed with the same rigor once reserved for kitchens. Their philosophy—“the best idea wins”—creates an environment where architecture, interiors, and engineering collaborate fluidly to support elevated living.

Representing the host venue, Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home (https://www.pacificsales.com) showcased the power of specialized knowledge. Trade leaders Verzine Hovasapyan and Juan Pantoja describe a client landscape with no single standard—making customization and education critical. Manufacturer immersion programs ensure staff can guide clients through increasingly complex appliances and smarter home ecosystems, offering a level of service no online retailer can match.

Designer Shanna Shryne of Shanna Shryne Design (https://www.shannashryne.com) emphasized lifestyle-first programming. Outdoor kitchens, in particular, require multi-disciplinary collaboration—interiors, landscape architecture, and systems integration—to achieve unified performance. Complexity, she argues, demands partnership rather than lone-wolf generalists.

Finally, RHG Architecture + Design founder Rachel Grachowski (https://www.rhgdesign.com) and Hudson Home Interior Design principal Shelly Hudson (https://www.hudsonhomeinteriors.com) highlighted biophilia, natural light, and personalized ergonomics as the next frontiers. From adjustable counter heights to dedicated recovery rooms, the home is becoming a hybrid of spa, laboratory, and living space.

Taken together, their perspectives reveal a profession not following trends but redefining standards—one kitchen, one bath, one wellness ecosystem at a time.

Design After Disruption: How We Live Now—and Why Process Matters More Than Ever

The pandemic didn’t just change where we work—it redefined how we live, gather, and experience our homes. In this episode, designers and industry experts explore how COVID accelerated shifts in lifestyle, technology, and client expectations, forcing a fundamental rethink of residential design. From wellness and personalization to process and trust, this conversation reveals why great design today begins long before materials are selected.

A wide-ranging conversation about how post-pandemic living reshaped residential design, why understanding behavior matters more than trends, and how slowing the process leads to better, more meaningful homes.

Today, we examine the profound shift in how people relate to their homes—and how designers have had to evolve in response. What began as a temporary adjustment during the pandemic became a lasting transformation: homes turned into offices, classrooms, social hubs, and sanctuaries, often all at once.

As a result, clients now arrive more informed, more opinionated, and more influenced by social media than ever before. But with that access comes confusion. The conversation explores how designers increasingly serve as educators and translators—helping clients filter inspiration, understand trade-offs, and make decisions rooted in how they actually live rather than how a space looks online.

The discussion moves beyond aesthetics into behavior: how families gather, how kitchens function, how storage works, and how subtle design decisions impact daily life. From kitchen planning and furniture layout to the psychology of comfort and the importance of workflow, the episode highlights why the smallest details often matter most.

A central theme emerges around process. Thoughtful design requires slowing down, asking better questions, and resisting the pressure for instant gratification. Whether it’s understanding how a family entertains, how they cook, or how they want to feel in their home, the best outcomes come from listening first—and designing second.

1. Life After COVID: A Permanent Shift

• How the pandemic changed expectations around home design
• The rise of multifunctional spaces
• Why the home is now both personal and professional

2. Social Media’s Influence on Design Culture

• The upside and downside of endless inspiration
• Why clients arrive more informed—but often overwhelmed
• Separating aspiration from practicality

3. Designing for Real Life

• Understanding how people actually use their homes
• Why square footage means nothing without function
• Designing for habits, not hypotheticals

4. The Role of the Designer Has Changed

• From decorator to strategist
• Educating clients through experience and data
• Acting as a guide through complex decisions

5. The Importance of the Kickoff Process

• Why the first conversations matter most
• Learning how clients live before proposing solutions
• Creating clarity through dialogue, not questionnaires

6. Kitchens as Behavioral Maps

• Storage, workflow, and daily rituals
• Why drawers often matter more than appliances
• Designing around how people actually cook and gather

7. Slowing the Process to Improve Outcomes

• Resisting the urge for instant answers
• Why design is both art and structured process
• Helping clients avoid regret through thoughtful planning

8. Trust, Education & Long-Term Value

• Helping clients understand what they don’t yet know
• Using experience and precedent to guide decisions
• Designing homes that evolve with the people in them

Great design isn’t about trends, finishes, or fast decisions—it’s about understanding people and tailoring functional design to their lifestyle. This episode reinforces a simple truth: when designers take the time to listen, observe, and educate, the result is not just a better-looking home, but one that truly supports the lives lived inside it.

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Let me start with a disclaimer—this isn’t a political editorial. It’s a conversation about ideas. Lessons from business, design, culture, and philosophy that might help us grow—individually and collectively. And if you disagree, email me at ConvoByDesign@Outlook.com. I welcome the debate.

As this year closes, I’m feeling a mix of frustration and optimism. This moment feels chaotic—as does most of life lately—which is why I often end the show with, “rise above the chaos.” We can’t eliminate it, but we can manage what’s within our control. The Stoics told us that long ago: focus on what you can control, release what you can’t, act with virtue, and let obstacles sharpen resilience. This essay is about taking back even a small amount of control through the work we do and the spaces we shape.

The Problem with Trend-Driven Design

This year, phrases and hashtags flew faster than ever—Quiet Luxury, Brat Green, Fridgescaping, Millennial Grey. Much like the “big, beautiful bill” language we’ve all heard tossed around in political discourse, design’s buzzwords can distract from what actually matters. They generate attention, not meaning. They look good on social media, not necessarily in the lived experience of a home, workplace, or public square.

So instead of centering our design conversations around fleeting edits, let’s pivot toward the global innovations that are transforming the built world in ways that truly matter.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Real Innovation Worth Talking About

Across the globe, designers, architects, and researchers are developing ideas that transcend buzz. These are the concepts with longevity—the ones shaping smart, resilient, human-centered spaces:

• Biophilic Design, rooted in the work of Edward O. Wilson, Erich Fromm, and Japanese shinrin-yoku, continues to reframe our relationship with nature.
• Net-Zero Architecture, pioneered in Canada, Germany, and Australia, redefines building performance through projects like Seattle’s Bullitt Center and Colorado’s RMI Innovation Center.
• Smart Homes and Invisible Tech, building on early Asian innovation, hiding circuitry and functionality behind seamless design powered by Apple, Google, and Amazon ecosystems.
• Prefab and Modular Construction, originally exemplified by structures like the Crystal Palace and the Sydney Opera House, now reimagined by firms such as Plant Prefab.
• Passive House Design, born in Germany but rapidly shaping U.S. projects in California, New York, and the Pacific Northwest.

And the list goes on:

• Self-Healing Concrete by Hendrik Marius Jonkers
• Guggenheim Abu Dhabi by Frank Gehry
• Bët-bi Museum in Senegal by Mariam Issoufou
• Powerhouse Parramatta in Australia
• Pujiang Viewing Platform in China by MVRDV

Landscape and biophilic approaches—Wabi-Sabi gardening, edimental gardens, climate-adaptive landscapes, and indoor biophilia—are redefining how we engage with natural systems in daily life.

Even infrastructure has become a site of innovation:

• CopenHill/Amager Bakke, Denmark’s waste-to-energy plant with a ski slope
• Urban Sequoias by SOM—skyscrapers designed as carbon sinks
• 3D-printed timber in Germany, Finland, and France

This is the work that deserves our attention—not the color of the week on TikTok.

Rethinking the Shelter Space

For years I described architecture as a language, design as a dialect, and landscape as the narrative. Mies van der Rohe famously introduced the concept of architecture as language. It caught on, and then the bandwagon effect took over. But today, the metaphor feels insufficient—especially for the shelter space, where people spend their lives, raise families, work, heal, and age.

The shelter space isn’t like a retail store or restaurant, where design is often intended for those who pass through briefly while the people who labor there navigate the leftover space. The shelter space must serve those who inhabit it deeply and continuously. And that shifts the conversation.

Design begins with the usual questions—purpose, function, users, goals, budget. But these questions don’t define design. They only outline it. There is no universal purpose of architecture or design, no single philosophy, no singular “right” answer. The shelter space varies as widely as the people living within it.

So instead of treating architecture and design as technical processes, we should approach them philosophically.

A Philosophical Framework for Design

Stoicism offers clarity:
Accept that budget overruns and changes will occur. Respect the expertise of the designer you hired. Invest in authenticity rather than dupes. Create environments that support health—clean air, clean water, noise reduction, resilience.

Utilitarianism reminds us that choices have consequences. If the design decisions you make are based on influencer content instead of expertise, the result is no surprise.

And now, a new framework is emerging that could transform our shared spaces entirely.

Sensorial Urbanism: Designing the City We Actually Feel

One of the most compelling movements emerging globally is Sensorial Urbanism—a shift from focusing on how the city looks to how it feels. It’s neuroscience, phenomenology, and inclusive design rolled into a multi-sensory toolkit.

Five Key Sensory Principles

1. Soundscaping
   Water features masking traffic. Acoustic pavilions. Designed sound gardens.
   Paris’ Le Cylindre Sonore. Soundscape parks in Barcelona and Berlin.
2. Smellscaping
   Native flowers, herbs, and aromatic trees restoring identity—especially critical after disasters like wildfires.
   Kate McLean’s smellwalks map a city’s olfactory signature.
3. Tactile Design
   Materials that invite touch and respond to temperature—stone, wood, water—connecting inhabitants to place.
4. Visual Quietness
   Reducing signage and visual clutter, as seen in Drachten, Netherlands, creates calmer, more intuitive environments.
5. Multisensory Inclusivity
   Design that accommodates neurodiversity, PTSD, aging, and accessibility through tactile paving, sound buffers, and scent markers.

Why It Matters

Because cities didn’t always feel this overwhelming.
Because design wasn’t always rushed.
Because quality of life shouldn’t be compromised for aesthetics.

Sensorial Urbanism reconnects us with spaces that are restorative, intuitive, and emotionally resonant. A city is not just a picture—it is an experience.

The Takeaway for 2026

Rising Above the Chaos: Lessons from 2025 for a Smarter 2026

HED (3-sentence summary):

As 2025 closes, the design and architecture world has experienced unprecedented chaos and rapid trend cycles. In this episode, Soundman reflects on lessons from business, culture, and global innovation, emphasizing resilience, purposeful design, and human-centered spaces. From Stoic philosophy to sensorial urbanism, this conversation offers guidance for navigating the next year with clarity and intentionality.

DEK (Expanded description):

Twenty twenty-five tested the design industry’s patience, creativity, and adaptability. In this reflective episode, we explore the pitfalls of trend-driven design, the enduring value of service, and the innovations shaping architecture globally — from net-zero buildings to multisensory urbanism. With examples ranging from TimberTech decking to Pacific Sales’ trade programs, we examine how designers can reclaim control, prioritize meaningful work, and create spaces that heal, inspire, and endure. A philosophical lens, practical insights, and actionable guidance make this a must-listen for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Outline of Show Topics:

1. Introduction & Context
   • Reflection on the chaotic year of 2025 in design and architecture.
   • Disclaimer: this is a philosophical conversation, not a political editorial.
   • Invitation for audience engagement via email.
2. Trends vs. Meaningful Design
3. • Critique of buzzwords like “quiet luxury” and “millennial gray bookshelf wealth.”
   • Emphasis on global innovation over social media-driven trends.
   • The gap between American design influence and international innovation.
4. Global Innovations in Architecture & Design
5. • Biophilic design and its philosophical roots.
   • Net-zero buildings: Bullitt Center (Seattle), RMI Innovation Center (Colorado).
   • Smart homes, modular construction, and passive house adoption in the U.S. vs. abroad.
6. Focus on Service & Professional Support
7. • Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home: Pro Rewards program and exceptional service.
   • TimberTech: innovation in sustainable synthetic decking.
   • Importance of performance, durability, and client-focused solutions.
8. Philosophical Approach to Design
9. • Architecture as experience, not just a visual language.
   • Stoicism, utilitarianism, and mindfulness applied to design.
   • Sensorial urbanism: engaging all five senses in public and private spaces.
10. Emerging Global Examples of Innovation
11. • Self-healing concrete (Henrik Marius Junkers), Copenhill (Denmark).
    • 3D printed timber in Germany, Finland, France.
    • Climate-adaptive landscapes, Wabi-sabi gardening, inclusive urban design.
12. Moving Beyond Social Media Trends
13. • Rejecting influencer-driven design priorities.
    • Returning to performance, resilience, and quality of life.
    • Practical guidance for designers in all regions, including overlooked U.S. markets.
14. Closing Reflections & New Year Outlook
15. • Encouragement to rise above chaos and focus on what can be controlled.
    • Goals for 2026: intentional, human-centered, and innovative design.
    • Call to action: share, subscribe, and engage with Convo by Design.
16. Sponsor Mentions & Callouts
17. • Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home
    • TimberTech
    • Design Hardware

If you enjoyed this long-form essay, share it with a friend. Subscribe to Convo By Design, follow @convoxdesign on Instagram, and send your thoughts to ConvoByDesign@Outlook.com.

Thank you to TimberTech, The AZEK Company, Pacific Sales, Best Buy, and Design Hardware for supporting over 650 episodes and making Convo By Design the longest running podcast of it’s kind!

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For the past 2 years, you have been hearing about the Convo By Design Icon Registry. My version of a hall of fame. I started this reluctantly. Reluctantly?

Yes, for one reason. I have shared my disdain for the click-bait lists that many of the trade pubs and outlets offer. I think it’s disingenuous to put designers and architects on a list because there is really no way of valuing one creative over another, especially when these lists often have absolutely no methodology for why someone is chosen. It’s like a MadLib, the “insert here” 100, the “insert” Top 50, 30 Under 30, 40 Under 40, The “insert” of Design, The “insert” of the Year… You get me, right? And the last thing I wanted to do was offer up the same thing but on the other hand, this show is entering its 13th year. 2-years ago in the shadow of an incredible year 10, I wanted to celebrate and showcase some of the amazing talent featured on the show, celebrate them and enshrine them for their work, their selfless pursuit of sublime design, giving back to the industry and for the intangibles that make them so special. That really is the criteria for why these incredible creatives are celebrated here. That is the criteria for enshrinement.

The Convo By Design Icon Registry is presented by a remarkable partner. A partner who imbues these very criteria into the work they do and why I am so appreciative to Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home, a Best Buy company, for being the presenting partner of the Convo By Design Icon Registry.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

We post a new Icon Registry episode on the third or fourth Thursday of every month with a whole new slate of inductees scheduled for 2026. And today, we are going to take a look back at each of the inductees from 2025 and allow you to hear from them again in this year end review. Right after this.

January – Adam Hunter

February – Leo Marmol

March – Cliff Fong

April – EYRC Architects

May – Joan Behnke

June – RAMSA

July – Jeff Andrews

August – Frances Anderton

September – Martyn Lawrence Bullard

October – The Novogratz

November – Sue Firestone

December – Woodson & Rummerfield

Thank you and congratulations to all of the 2025 Convo By Design Icon Registry Inductees. This is such an immense joy and privilege to share these scions of design and architecture with you. Thanks again to Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home for presenting this and making it possible.

Thank you for listening. If you liked this episode, share it with a friend or colleague who loves design and architecture like you do, subscribe to Convo By Design wherever you get your podcasts. And continue the conversation on Instagram @convo x design with an “x”. Keep those emails coming with guest suggestions, show ideas and locations where you’d like to see the show. Convo by design at outlook.com.

Thank you to my partner sponsors, TimberTech, The AZEK Company, Pacific Sales, Best Buy, and Design Hardware for supporting the publication of over 650 episodes and making Convo By Design the longest running podcast of its kind. These companies support the shelter industry so give them an opportunity on your next project. Thanks again for listening. Until next time, be well, stay focused and rise about the chaos. -CXD

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Creating Timeless Elegance: How Woodson & Rummerfield Bring Hollywood Regency into the 21st Century. From celebrity estates to curated collectibles, Jamie Rummerfield and Ron Woodson share their philosophy on bold, elevated design, preservation of iconic architecture, and the art of collaboration in Los Angeles.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

To celebrate this episode of the Convo By Design Icon Registry, Christine Anderson sits down with Jamie Rummerfield and Ron Woodson of Woodson & Rummerfield House of Design. The duo discuss their signature approach to interiors—melding the opulence of old Hollywood with sleek modern sensibilities for a discerning clientele. They share stories from celebrity projects, the thrill of collecting one-of-a-kind pieces, and the lessons learned from running a showroom on La Cienega. Jamie and Ron also discuss their nonprofit foundation, CA Projects, dedicated to preserving Southern California’s iconic architecture, emphasizing the importance of heritage in contemporary design.

Show Topics & Segment Outline:

1. Introduction & Guest Backgrounds
   • Christine introduces Jamie Rummerfield and Ron Woodson.
   • Overview of their design style: Hollywood opulence meets modern refinement.
2. Design Philosophy & Influences
3. • Hollywood Regency roots and modern adaptations.
   • Influence of Los Angeles history, old Hollywood cinema, and personal family heritage.
   • Fashion-forward client expectations and balancing boldness with timelessness.
4. Collaboration & Partnership
5. • How Jamie and Ron complement each other creatively.
   • Problem-solving, brainstorming, and the synergy of their partnership.
6. Career Highlights & Notable Projects
7. • Celebrity estates and high-profile commissions (without naming clients).
   • Influence of their La Cienega showroom as a “three-dimensional calling card.”
   • Philosophy on sourcing rare furniture, art, and collectibles.
8. Preservation & Advocacy
9. • Founding of CA Projects to save iconic Southern California architecture.
   • Importance of protecting historically significant homes and estates.
   • Public involvement and future plans for the foundation.
10. Personal Passions & Lifestyle
11. • Weekend hobbies, travel, research, and inspiration.
    • How personal passions inform design work.
12. Future Plans & Product Development
13. • Upcoming secret projects and product lines.
    • Speaking engagements and experiential presentations for design communities.
14. Closing Remarks
15. • How to connect with Jamie and Ron: WanderDesign.com, Instagram @WanderDesign.
    • Preview of CA Projects website: SIAPROJECTS.com.
    • Invitation for designers and architects to share projects with Convo By Design.

This wraps up another episode of the Convo By Design Icon Registry. A celebration and recognition of a true master in the art of design and the mastery of all that encompasses in the pursuit of making better the lives of those they serve. And, giving back along the way. Thank you Jaime and Ron for your many years of friendship, partnership and collaboration. This was the first time we met and the episode was hosted by Christine Anderson, I miss her.

Thanks for listening to Convo By Design. Thank you to my partner sponsors, Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home for presenting the Convo By Design Icon Registry and Convo By Design partner sponsors, TimberTech and Design Hardware. And thank you for taking the time to listen. I couldn’t do this without you, wouldn’t want to. I hope this show helps you stay motivated, inspired and focused so you can rise above the chaos. – CXD

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Architecture is evolving faster than ever, especially in healthcare, where design intersects with technology, patient experience, and operational efficiency. In this episode, principals Rebecca MacDonald and Kyle Basilius of Parkin Architects discuss the changing landscape of hospital design, from universal versus private healthcare systems to the integration of AI and robotics. Discover how architecture shapes outcomes for patients, families, and staff, while anticipating the healthcare challenges of tomorrow.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Join us for a deep dive into the world of healthcare architecture with Parkin Architects. Rebecca McDonald and Kyle Basilius share insights from decades of experience designing hospitals across Canada, the U.S., and Europe. From flexible master planning and lifespan considerations to advanced lighting, patient control systems, and automated logistics, they reveal how design can directly impact health, wellness, and operational efficiency. We explore how emerging technologies like AI, remote diagnostics, and robotics are beginning to influence design decisions and operational planning, creating safer, more adaptive, and human-focused healthcare environments.

Whether you’re interested in the philosophy of design, future-proofing healthcare infrastructure, or the intersection of technology and empathy, this conversation highlights the practical and visionary approaches shaping hospitals today.

Talking Points:

1. Introduction & Context
   • Host sets the stage: the evolution of architecture in healthcare, AI, and technology in shelter and commercial spaces.
   • Brief MIT course on AI and machine learning as inspiration for the discussion.
2. Guest Introductions
3. • Rebecca McDonald: 12 years at Parkin Architects, focus on healthcare planning, personal motivation from family experiences in healthcare.
   • Kyle Basilius: Design and planning across the U.S., Denmark, and Canada; current principal overseeing cancer hospital design, philosophy of integrating empathy into architecture.
4. Healthcare Systems & Design Philosophy
5. • Comparison: Single-payer/universal healthcare vs. two-payer U.S. system.
   • Operational implications: access, staff wellness, patient and family experience.
   • Budgeting and stewardship of public funds in large-scale projects.
6. Hospital Lifespan & Flexibility
7. • Typical hospital lifecycle: 50 years; planning for technological and programmatic changes.
   • Importance of flexible core and shell design to accommodate renovations, evolving patient care, and technology integration.
   • Master planning: phased renewals, mixed-use inpatient and outpatient strategies.
8. Technology & AI in Healthcare Design
9. • AI as a tool for operational efficiency and patient care improvement.
   • Automation: AGVs and AMRs for logistics and staff support.
   • Potential for remote surgeries, telemedicine, and hub-and-spoke care models.
10. Emergency Department Design
11. • Throughput and triage-focused planning: neighborhood-style zones for low, high, and trauma acuity patients.
    • Mental health challenges and patient volume impacts on design.
    • Opportunities for tech integration to improve patient flow and staff experience.
12. Lighting & Environmental Control
13. • LED and circadian lighting systems for patient comfort, sleep, and recovery.
    • Flexibility and control for staff and patients.
    • Integration with intuitive interfaces to improve operational workflow and care delivery.
14. Staff Wellbeing & Operational Efficiency
15. • Reducing injury through thoughtful design and automation.
    • Leveraging AI and technology to improve staff retention and productivity.
    • Supporting patient-centered care while optimizing building operations.
16. The Future of Healthcare Architecture
17. • Planning for technological advances, flexible programming, and patient-focused design.
    • Anticipating evolving care delivery models, population growth, and community needs.
    • Emphasis on human-centered design as the core of architectural innovation.
18. Closing Thoughts
19. • Key takeaways: design is as much about the people using the space as it is about the physical structures.
    • The evolving role of technology and AI as supportive tools rather than replacements.

Thank you Rebecca, thank you Kyle and everyone at Parkin Architects for craft special places with purpose.

Thank you for listening. If you liked this episode, share it with a friend or colleague who loves design and architecture like you do, subscribe to Convo By Design wherever you get your podcasts. And continue the conversation on Instagram @convo x design with an “x”. Keep those emails coming with guest suggestions, show ideas and locations where you’d like to see the show. Convo by design at outlook.com.

Thank you to my partner sponsors, TimberTech, The AZEK Company, Pacific Sales, Best Buy, and Design Hardware for supporting the publication of over 650 episodes and over 3,000,000 streams, downloads and making Convo By Design the longest running podcast of its kind. These companies support the shelter industry so give them an opportunity on your next project. Thanks again for listening. Until next time, be well, stay focused and rise about the chaos. -CXD

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From Halifax to the four Maritime provinces, Stil James founders share how timeless design, regional sensibilities, and entrepreneurial grit shape their work and new cabinetry brand, Loran. There’s a kind of quiet confidence in the design work coming out of Canada’s Maritime provinces—projects that don’t chase trends but instead reflect the rhythm of life shaped by weather, culture, and community. In this episode of Convo By Design, I’m talking with the founders of Stil James, a Halifax-based design studio that embodies this spirit of regional purpose. Their approach blends design restraint with deep practicality, and their new cabinetry brand, Loran, takes that philosophy even further.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

In this episode, we explore how two designers are navigating generational shifts in lifestyle, climate challenges, and a conservative market while building a business rooted in curiosity, learning, and partnership. From kitchens and mudrooms to cabinetry and color palettes, they reveal what it means to design for both function and future in Atlantic Canada.

We talked about how the pandemic reshaped design thinking in the Maritimes—how open spaces replaced formal dining rooms, and how designers are reimagining older homes to suit how families actually live. The team at Stil James described the region’s unique relationship with design: working “ten to fifteen years behind the trends” not as a limitation, but as an advantage that allows for timelessness and reflection. They draw more inspiration from Europe than North America, taking cues from craftsmanship, heritage, and texture rather than fleeting style cycles.

Our conversation moved into climate resiliency—a constant design driver in Atlantic Canada, where homes must withstand everything from coastal winds to heavy snowfall. Mudrooms become essential transitional spaces, designed for the reality of shifting weather and active family life. Clients are increasingly focused on systems, materials, and sustainable practices that ensure their homes can adapt with the climate.

We also discussed how lifelong learning has become central to the Stil James ethos. They encourage their team to attend design shows, seek global perspectives through digital tools, and value soft skills—resilience, empathy, and curiosity—just as highly as formal training.

Then came Loran, their new cabinetry venture, born out of a clear market need for design-forward millwork in Halifax. Partnering with an Ontario-based manufacturer allows them to maintain quality and scale while keeping exclusivity within the Maritimes. Loren’s mission extends beyond their own design projects, serving other designers and homeowners seeking elevated cabinetry built with longevity in mind.

Show Topics

• Shifts in design philosophy post-2020
• Retrofitting Maritime homes for modern living
• Working “behind the trends” as an advantage
• Designing for climate resiliency and functional living
• Building a culture of curiosity and continuous learning
• Launching Loren: a cabinetry company for the Maritimes
• Rejecting color trend cycles for timeless design
• Entrepreneurship, partnership, and the business of expansion
• The dynamics of collaboration and shared creative leadership

We closed with a conversation about color and timelessness—how they resist seasonal trend reports and instead design for relevance over the next decade or more. They balance enduring finishes with accents that allow for evolution and personal expression.

Entrepreneurship runs deep in their story, both having grown up in business-minded families. Their partnership was forged during the pandemic, when shared values and complementary strengths—operations and development—created a foundation of trust that continues to shape their design practice and the growing Loren brand.

This conversation is about more than design. It’s about purpose, perseverance, and how regional context can inspire innovation rather than restrict it. And that is coming up, right after this.

Thank you, Natalie and Victoria for taking the time to speak with me and sharing for sharing your insight.

Thank you for listening. If you liked this episode, share it with a friend or colleague who loves design and architecture like you do, subscribe to Convo By Design wherever you get your podcasts. And continue the conversation on Instagram @convo x design with an “x”. Keep those emails coming with guest suggestions, show ideas and locations where you’d like to see the show. Convo by design at outlook.com.

Thank you to my partner sponsors, TimberTech, The AZEK Company, Pacific Sales, Best Buy, LOME-AI and Design Hardware for supporting the publication of over 650 episodes and over 3,000,000 streams, downloads and making Convo By Design the longest running podcast of its kind. These companies support the shelter industry so give them an opportunity on your next project. Thanks again for listening. Until next time, be well, stay focused and rise about the chaos. -CXD

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In this episode of Convo By Design, I connect with London-based designer Juliette Byrne to explore how refined design adapts to different cultures and markets. From navigating international trade to redefining timeless interiors, Juliette shares how adaptability, craftsmanship, and collaboration drive her studio’s continued success across continents.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

One of the unexpected gifts of the pandemic was the opportunity to connect with remarkable designers around the world from my Los Angeles studio. My conversation with Juliette, principal of her namesake firm in London, highlights just how universal good design can be. We talked about the contrasts between Los Angeles and London—two cities with vastly different scales, materials, and architectural rhythms—and how exceptional design principles translate beautifully in any setting. Juliette described how American brands like Holly Hunt find their place in European homes, and how that exchange of ideas enriches both markets.

Our discussion naturally turned to the realities of global design, especially the political and logistical hurdles that come with tariffs and shipping. Juliette shared the challenges of importing products from across Europe and the U.S., explaining how her firm helps clients decide when an imported piece is worth the cost or when local craftsmanship is the smarter choice. Her story about a Dresden project—where customs required a fiber-by-fiber analysis of drapery fabrics—perfectly illustrated the level of complexity designers now face.

We explored how design has evolved from an architectural accessory into an independent philosophy rooted in creativity and collaboration. Juliette’s optimism stood out to me. She attributes her perspective to a “glass-half-full” mindset and the strong, talented team that supports her.

Juliette walked me through her design process, emphasizing her studio’s focus on sourcing from a broad network of suppliers rather than producing in-house. She compared interior design to fashion—forever changing, always inspired by color, material, and innovation. Her team’s regular visits to Milan and Paris for exhibitions, and Ria’s recent trip to New York to meet suppliers, reflect the studio’s commitment to staying curious and connected.

We also talked about her remarkable project in Dresden, where she transformed an 18th-century merchant’s house into an elegant, richly detailed home. Juliette preserved historical carvings and plasterwork while integrating modern amenities like carefully designed lighting and personalized baths. The project earned a major European design award and is now nominated for another in Capri—a testament to her thoughtful approach and respect for craftsmanship.

Juliette shared her perspective on kitchen and bath design, where timelessness is key. She favors natural materials—stone, wood, marble—and thoughtful lighting that elevates the everyday. She also noted how generational preferences shape aesthetics: younger clients in areas like Notting Hill often lean into playful colors and bold gestures, while others seek quiet, enduring elegance.

Finally, Juliette described a major residential project completed during the pandemic, which demanded creative adaptation to remote collaboration and shifting schedules. Her ability to balance practicality with beauty during that time underscored a central theme of our conversation—design as both necessity and art.

This conversation reminded me that design, in its truest form, is a global language. It’s about adaptation, discovery, and finding richness in every creative challenge. And you’re going to hear it all, right after this.

Show Topics

• Design adaptability between Los Angeles and London
• Navigating tariffs, customs, and global logistics
• The evolution of design as a standalone philosophy
• Maintaining creativity and team balance in challenging times
• Trade show networking and supplier collaboration across Europe and the U.S.
• Timeless principles in kitchen and bath design
• The Dresden Merchant House restoration project
• Managing international projects amid pandemic restrictions

Thank you, Juliette for taking the time to speak with me and sharing your insight.

Thank you for listening. If you liked this episode, share it with a friend or colleague who loves design and architecture like you do, subscribe to Convo By Design wherever you get your podcasts. And continue the conversation on Instagram @convo x design with an “x”. Keep those emails coming with guest suggestions, show ideas and locations where you’d like to see the show. Convo by design at outlook.com.

Thank you to my partner sponsors, TimberTech, The AZEK Company, Pacific Sales, Best Buy, LOME-AI and Design Hardware for supporting the publication of over 650 episodes and making Convo By Design the longest running podcast of its kind. These companies support the shelter industry so give them an opportunity on your next project. Thanks again for listening. Until next time, be well, stay focused and rise about the chaos. -CXD

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California native Sue Firestone reflects on five decades of creativity, resilience, and reinvention—from Malibu’s fires to Montecito’s rebirth, from model homes to hospitality design, and from Disney resorts to her namesake product lines. SFA Design founder Sue Firestone to explore how her lifelong relationship with nature, her passion for authenticity, and her intuitive approach to design continue to shape California’s aesthetic identity. From building one of the largest model home merchandising firms in the country to collaborating with Disney and launching her own collections, Firestone shares how creative intuition, empathy, and mentorship have guided her through the shifting tides of design and business.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

The Convo By Design Icon Registry is presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home, a Best Buy company. Pacific Sales is comprised of long time professionals who love design and architecture as much as you do. Which is why it is so fitting that they present this recognition of some of the worlds greatest design talent every month here on Convo By Design. You are going to hear all about hit, right after this.

Show Topics:

• Origins of a Designer: Growing up in Malibu, studying pottery, and finding her way into interior design.
• California’s Resilient Spirit: Reflections on natural disasters, community recovery, and the role of design in rebuilding.
• Design as a Learned Craft: Why intuition helps, but practice, empathy, and listening are key to mastering the art.
• From Model Homes to Hospitality: Building a design empire through flexibility, storytelling, and collaboration.
• Inside the Disney Experience: Working under Michael Eisner, defining narrative-driven environments, and lessons in leadership.
• Letting Go of Control: How to scale creativity—mentoring, trusting teams, and avoiding micromanagement.
• The California Look: Organic, sustainable, and casual-luxury living as an enduring influence.
• Product Design & Legacy: Transitioning from client work to her own branded lines with Kravet and A. Rudin.
• Business of Design: How retail and social media shifted client behavior—and why great design still requires professionals.
• The Next Generation: Why designers must remain storytellers, environmentalists, and lifelong learners.

This wraps up another episode of the Convo By Design Icon Registry. A celebration and recognition of a true master in the art of design and the mastery of all that encompasses in the pursuit of making better the lives of those they serve. And, giving back along the way. Thank you, Sue..

Thanks for listening to Convo By Design. Thank you to my partner sponsors, Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home for presenting the Convo By Design Icon Registry and Convo By Design partner sponsors, TimberTech and Design Hardware. And thank you for taking the time to listen. I couldn’t do this without you, wouldn’t want to. I hope this show helps you stay motivated, inspired and focused so you can rise above the chaos. -CXD

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This week on the show, you’re going to ride along with me from the incredibly comfortable and stylish VW ID.Buzz, which served as the mobile podcast studio at CEDIA Expo / CIX this September in Denver, Colorado. This is part two of The Ride Along Series recorded live at CEDIA Expo/ CIX.

CEDIA (Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association) is the global trade association for home technology professionals, specializing in smart home, automation, audio-visual, networking, and integrated systems. Its mission is to advance the home technology industry through education, certification, advocacy, and networking. Members include integrators, designers, manufacturers, and consultants who shape the connected environments we live and work in.

CEDIA Expo is the industry’s largest annual event for residential technology professionals. With hundreds of exhibitors, educational sessions, live demos, and global networking opportunities, it’s where new ideas and innovations in smart home and AV integration take center stage.

The Commercial Integrator Expo (CIX), co-located with CEDIA Expo, focuses on commercial integration technologies—from conferencing and IT infrastructure to building automation and emerging AV solutions—bringing together commercial integrators, IT pros, designers, and tech managers.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

LOME-AI.com, simple, inexpensive, text to video harnessing the power of AI to grow your firm, beautifully.

This road trip was a blast, and I’m excited to share these conversations with you.

Designing Sound: Caitlin Stewart on Leon Speakers’ Mission to Lead by Design

Caitlin Stewart of Leon Speakers joins Convo By Design to talk about design-first thinking in an audio-driven world. From Ann Arbor to the global design stage, Leon Speakers has carved out a unique identity—not as a technology company, but as a design company that happens to make exceptional audio and concealment solutions. Caitlin shares how Leon engages the architecture and design community, cultivates relevance in a shifting industry, and builds partnerships that challenge conventions of form, function, and beauty.

• Background & Role: Caitlin’s work as Director of Sales for residential at Leon Speakers, leading account managers and shaping residential market growth.
• Leon’s Identity: Founded in 1997, Leon is entering its 30th year as a design-first company—blending sound, aesthetics, and concealment with creativity.
• Design Integration: How Leon’s “Lead by Design, Leave Nothing Unfinished” philosophy drives the balance of form and function.
• Relevance in the Industry: Shifting influence from general contractors to architects and designers, and Leon’s effort to stay essential in conversations that shape environments.
• Inspiration & Missed Opportunities: Why designers need exposure to products at shows like CEDIA and ICFF, and the challenges of communicating AV in relevant, non-technical language.
• Partnership with A&D Community: Meeting designers where they are, co-designing products, and listening to their needs around fixtures, finishes, and materiality.
• Industry Challenges: Designers often photoshop out tech in portfolio images—highlighting the need for intentional, beautiful integration of AV.
• Educational Outreach: Designer visits to Leon’s Ann Arbor factory, engaging directly with materiality and finishes to bridge the language gap.
• Innovation at Leon: Hand-woven acoustic treatments, creative concealment solutions, evolving product frames for video walls, and form-function collaboration.
• Partnership Opportunities: Caitlin’s advice to designers—start casual, share ideas, reach out. Leon thrives on nimble, creative collaborations that spark innovation.

Lighting the Future: Tyler Hahn on Lutron, Designers, and the Evolving Spec Community

Tyler Hahn of Market Share, Pacific Northwest reps for Lutron, joins Convo By Design to share his perspective on CEDIA Expo, the shifting role of the specification community, and how Lutron continues to set the standard in lighting control and automated shading. As Lutron Concierge, Tyler educates and inspires architects, designers, and builders about intelligent lighting and shading solutions. From his unique role at CEDIA Expo—focusing on education, content, and networking—Tyler reflects on industry trends, the growing presence of women in tech and design, and how Lutron bridges aesthetic demands with uncompromising performance.

• Background & Role: Tyler Hahn’s position as Lutron Concierge with Market Share, focusing on education, inspiration, and building connections with the architecture and design community.
• Experience at CEDIA Expo: How Tyler approaches the show differently—capturing social content, attending classes, and networking to understand community conversations.
• Shifts in the Industry: Why more interior designers and specifiers need to be present at CEDIA, and how manufacturers must adapt booth design and product presentation for aesthetics and inclusivity.
• Women in the Industry: Record-breaking turnout at the Women in CEDIA Luncheon, signaling cultural and demographic changes in the channel.
• Catch-22 of Design Engagement: The challenge of attracting designers to CEDIA when booths and products still cater heavily to integrator and male-centric perspectives.
• Lutron’s Role: How Lutron recognizes the specification community as a critical link to homeowners, shaping why Tyler’s role exists.
• Communicating with Architects vs. Designers:
  • Architects: Focus on structural considerations, such as pockets for shades and keypad placement in plans.
  • Interior Designers: Start with aesthetics, then introduce education on zone vs. scene control, finishes, and stylistic options.
• Product Focus: Lutron’s leadership in automated window treatments, ultra-quiet shade technology, keypad design, and extensive finish options.
• Testing & Reliability: Military-grade product testing at Lutron headquarters in Coopersburg, PA—including sound chambers, stress tests, and automated button pressing machines.
• Design Aesthetics: Four primary keypad styles with an extensive range of finishes in metal, glass, engineered polymer, and beyond—providing universality across project types.
• Engaging Landscape Architects: Market Share’s expansion into representing Coastal Source and introducing lighting/shading solutions into landscape design.
• Universal Takeaway: The importance of bridging language gaps, presenting products aesthetically, and meeting design professionals where they are.

Designing with Light: Gina Colucci on Translating Technology for Designers

Gina Colucci of Market Share joins Convo By Design to discuss her role as a Lutron concierge, bridging the gap between high-performance technology and design-first thinking. From CEDIA Expo 2025, Gina shares insights on the growing role of lighting in the industry, how Lutron simplifies control for homeowners, and why being a “translator” between specifiers and integrators is the key to building trust. She explains how Lutron elevates both form and function while making advanced technology approachable for architects, designers, and builders alike.

• Background & Role: Gina’s position with Market Share as a Lutron concierge and specification specialist, focusing on direct engagement with architects, designers, custom builders, and lighting designers.
• Experience at CEDIA Expo 2025: Gina’s third year at the show, where she noticed a shift in emphasis from specs and hardware to aesthetic, experience, and lifestyle-driven solutions.
• Lighting’s Growing Role: The rise of intelligent lighting solutions and how Lutron is pushing beyond niche status toward mainstream adoption.
• Simplifying Lighting Control for Homeowners: Explaining benefits through experience rather than complexity—eliminating “wall acne,” offering one-touch keypads, zone vs. scene control, remote access, and intuitive app options.
• Breaking Through Objections: Why homeowners don’t need to program or “learn tech”—Lutron integrates seamlessly through the CI channel, with integrators tailoring solutions to client lifestyles.
• Specifiers vs. Integrators:
  • Integrators: Hands-on, technical, eager to dig into systems.
  • Specifiers (designers, architects): Billable hours, busy schedules, and competing demands—requiring clarity, brevity, and tailored communication.
• The Translator Role: Gina’s unique ability to reformulate technical content into designer-friendly language, meeting specifiers where they are without overwhelming them with jargon.
• Building Trust: Why approachable relationships, mobile demo kits, timely support, and honest answers (including knowing when to call in an expert) are essential to long-term partnerships.
• Market Share Approach: Supporting specifiers with the right tools, resources, and responsiveness—without overloading them.
• Personal Perspective: Gina’s background outside of tech makes her relatable to designers, allowing her to speak their language while still leveraging the strength of Lutron’s trusted brand.

Staying Ahead: Julian Cross on Integration, Innovation, and the Power of Simplicity

Julian Cross of Winnipeg-based integration firm shares how his journey from electrician to full integrator has reshaped his business and outlook on technology. From CEDIA Expo 2025, Julian explains how he balances product discovery with client-focused service, why keeping systems simple is key, and what he hopes to see from manufacturers as the industry grows. With insights on AI, product expansion, and evolving client expectations, Julian offers a grounded perspective on integration today.

• Background & Evolution:
  • Started as an electrician in 2006.
  • Entered integration in 2019 through Lutron, which transformed the business into a full integrator.
• Approach to CEDIA Expo:
  • Day one: scheduled meetings with sales partners.
  • Day two: free-flow exploration for new products and inspiration.
  • Day three: follow-up and wrap-up.
  • Balances structured planning with open discovery to maximize value.
• Why Shows Matter: Staying ahead of trends, accessing inside scoop from technical experts, and ensuring clients in Winnipeg receive cutting-edge solutions that differentiate his firm from others.
• Product Trends & Discoveries:
  • Strong presence of AI across categories.
  • More expansion of existing product lines rather than entirely new ones—a positive sign of refinement and usability.
  • Enhancements make it easier to integrate new features into client systems without starting from scratch.
• Client Priorities:
  • Clients aren’t asking for specific products; they want simplicity and consistency.
  • Key is learning client habits, past experiences, and frustrations to design systems tailored to their expectations.
• Language of Integration: Clients rely on integrators to translate industry jargon into usable, intuitive systems. Julian emphasizes ongoing education through forums, industry feedback, and active exploration of alternate products.
• Keeping It Simple:
  • Pushes back against product overload and SKU bloat.
  • Advocates for manufacturers to refine and strengthen existing lines instead of flooding the market with new SKUs.
  • Believes the KISS principle (Keep It Simple, Stupid) is still critical in integration.
• Education vs. Experience:
  • Attended classes at his first CEDIA, but realized the show floor offered greater value.
  • Prefers hands-on product interaction and conversations with technical reps.
• Wish List for CEDIA & Industry:
  • Maintain focus on refining core product lines.
  • More emphasis on addressing integrator pain points before releasing new gear.
  • And, humorously—more coffee stations.

Cinergy Spaces: Redefining Acoustics, Safe Rooms, and Specialty Living

Acoustics and security go far beyond home theaters. Eric Steers of Cinergy Spaces shares how specialty spaces are reshaping modern living. From theaters to libraries, safe rooms to yoga studios, Cinergy Spaces blends acoustical expertise with functional security design. Head of Operations Eric Steers explains how integrators, designers, and security consultants collaborate to create spaces that balance technology, wellness, and peace of mind.

• Guest: Eric Steers, Head of Operations / National Project Manager, Cinergy Spaces
• Company profile: LA-based, nationwide specialty integrator focusing on acoustics and secure environments
• Eric’s background: Irish-born, based in New York, extending Cinergy’s East Coast presence

Specialty Spaces & Acoustics

• Origins in home theaters, now expanded into recording studios, gyms, libraries, and whole-home acoustical wellness
• Role of acoustics in multifunctional living spaces
• Collaboration with AV integrators to optimize sound isolation, projection enclosures, and HVAC integration

Integration with Designers and Trades

• Working alongside interior designers, GCs, and acousticians
• Bridging the gap between design goals (high ceilings, hard surfaces) and acoustical performance
• Using creative materials like acoustical plaster to maintain aesthetics without sacrificing sound quality

The Evolution of Safe Rooms

• Transition from acoustical doors to secure environments
• Most safe rooms are hidden in plain sight: closets, bathrooms, master suites
• Balancing cutting-edge tech (retina scanners, biometric access) with practical simplicity (mechanical locks for emergencies)
• Challenges of penetrations (plumbing, HVAC) and importance of early-stage planning
• Security consultant partnerships for client-specific threat analysis

Industry Trends & Inspiration

• Video walls, immersive audio, and expanding equipment lines pushing acoustical design forward
• Growing demand for multifunctional spaces with wellness at the core
• Education gap: acoustics can’t be rendered on plans—clients must experience them
• Crossovers with lighting design: aligning mood, emotion, and sensory experience
• Acoustics and lighting as parallel disciplines in shaping emotion and experience
• Safe rooms as both practical necessity and evolving design challenge
• The future of specialty spaces as homes expand their functional and secure environments

Smart Power, Smarter Business: Inside LEA Professional’s Amplifier Innovation with Dan Augsburger

A deep dive into how IoT-enabled amplifiers, cloud technology, and Midwest engineering talent are reshaping audio integration. From South Bend, Indiana to projects nationwide, LEA Professional is building amplifiers that prioritize intuitive design, smart power, DSP, and remote cloud control. US Sales Manager Dan Augsburger joins from the 2025 CEDIA Expo in Denver—recorded from the VW ID.Buzz—to share how the company’s technology, flexibility, and philosophy are empowering integrators and raising the tide for the entire industry.

1. Company Introduction

• Dan Augsburger, US Sales Manager for LEA Professional.
• Company headquarters in South Bend, Indiana, near Elkhart—an unlikely hub for amplifier and RV technology.
• Specializes in IoT-enabled smart amplifiers with intuitive IT platforms, smart power features, and built-in DSP.

2. Core Technology + Features

• Smart Power: Flexibility with power bridging to double output.
• DSP: Optimizing speaker performance.
• Cloud Control: Robust two-way communication, remote adjustments, and diagnostics reduce truck rolls and save integrators significant time and cost.

3. Expo 2025 Atmosphere

• Denver, Colorado at CEDIA Expo.
• Positive industry sentiment despite macroeconomic pressures (tariffs, interest rates).
• Projects above $50,000 remain strong, while smaller projects feel more impact.

4. Market Forces + Industry Trends

• Tariffs and AI dominate conversations but remain unsettled.
• Integrators adapting by building contingency plans regardless of scenario.
• Midwestern advantages: lower costs, engineering talent pipelines (Purdue, Notre Dame, Rose-Hulman).

5. Company Philosophy + Differentiation

• Location advantage: central distribution, lower real estate costs, strong talent pool.
• Brand-agnostic: amplifiers integrate seamlessly with major control systems and speaker brands.
• Emphasis on collaboration and raising the tide for the whole industry.
• Multiple manufacturing partners for supply flexibility and reliability.

6. Big Picture Takeaway

• LEA Professional builds technology designed to simplify, empower, and save integrators time and money.
• Focus on foundational strength, product availability, and innovation through collaboration.

So, amazing, right? This was part two of our series called, The Ride Along from CEDIA Expo, CIX 2025 in Denver, Colorado. Thank you to all the amazing people at CEDIA, and Emerald for making this possible. Thank you VW for providing an incredible recording space in the all new VW ID.Buzz. Man, this seats were comfortable. Thank you Caitlin, Tyler, Gina, Julian, Eric, Dan and Jason. So much fun!

Thank you for listening. If you liked this episode, share it with a friend or colleague who loves design and architecture like you do, subscribe to Convo By Design wherever you get your podcasts. And continue the conversation on Instagram @convo x design with an “x”. Keep those emails coming with guest suggestions, show ideas and locations where you’d like to see the show. Convo by design at outlook.com.

Thank you to my partner sponsors, TimberTech, The AZEK Company, Pacific Sales, Best Buy, LOME-AI and Design Hardware for supporting the publication of over 650 episodes and over 3,000,000 streams and downloads. These companies support the shelter industry so give them an opportunity on your next project. Thanks again for listening. Until next time, be well, stay focused and rise about the chaos. -CXD

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It is very hard for me to believe it but the 2025 edition of WestEdge is almost here. This will be the 10th edition of the show and I am so excited to share the slate of talks taking place this year in the WestEdge Theater Presented By Pacific Sales! But, I’m not going to do it here because our time here is limited. But I have an idea.

I am going to link all of the programs and the times in the show notes. So, you can make your plans accordingly. Today on the show, you are going to hear from Megan Reilly, co-founder of WestEdge and my dear friend, Kim Gordon of Kim Gordon Designs. Kim is joined by Julia Demarco, who together designed the WestEdge Theater Presented by Pacific Sales. We talk about the inspiration that went into the theater design, the how and they why. You are going to love this.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

LOME-AI.com, simple, inexpensive, text to video harnessing the power of AI to grow your firm, beautifully.

Before we get into it, I have something really special to share with you. Something special with a WestEdge connection. My friend, and longtime friend of the show Anthony Laney of Laney LA sent me a copy of the new monograph, Poetics of Home; Essays and Spaces by Laney LA. And so, I want to share a special installment of BOOKLOOK.

BookLook – Anthony Laney, Laney LA: Poetics of Home

Avialable from Oscar Riera Ojeda Publishers: Order Here.

“ Laney LA’s work embodies a distinctly Southern California spirit – the blur between indoors and out, the layering of experiences, the quiet merger of minimalism and sensuality. – Sam Lubell . This is from the foreword of Laney LA’s book, Poetics of Home. The book is available through Oscar Riera Ojeda Publishers.

Before I tell you about the book, let me tell you about my friend Anthony Laney. Laney and I first bonded on the show over a project of his in Manhattan Beach, home for me. This project had a disappearing pool, which was very cool, but it was’t the cool factor of a pool that disappeared below a functional outdoor space. It was the “why” behind its installment. The South Bay in Los Angeles is known for very expensive homes on very small lots. The underground pool is very cool but more than that, it represents something very special about Anthony and his namesake firm. This was a solution to a challenge. The client wanted this space and the home designed for the site. But they also wanted a yard for the family to enjoy the very unique exterior environment. Mark Twain said it best, “Buy land, they’re not making It anymore”. It takes a very special mind to craft something that literally makes more functional space on the same site.

If you want to understand the thought process and the ethos of this unique firm, Poetics of Home shows you what’s behind the walls, and under the deck. But Laney LA has another challenge. This was their debut monograph and just like a smash hit record, it will be very difficult to match or exceed. So, let’s focus on this one.

“Craft is where intention becomes tangible” – Anthony Laney

My favorite quote from the book because it is so simple and true. 6 words that succinctly define the motive. If you are anything like me, with regard to design and architecture, the story behind the design is equally important to form and function. Because the industry still speaks about architecture in terms of form and function. Yeah, it’ important. However, when you minimize something to simply how it looks and why it does, you can’t fully explore the intangibles. The way a space makes you feel. If you’ve never been to LA’s South Bay, you don’t know what Manhattan Beach smells like in August. Sunscreen and salt air, the scent of grilled meat and citrus. Or, what it sounds like during the Charlie Saikley 6-Man Beach Volleyball Tournament. Or, what it feels like in December during the fireworks show off the pier when 125,000 people descend on this small beach town. A special home in this place needs to be build to accommodate all of the senses. And it takes a very special architecture firm to understand how a client wants to live and then deliver a space for all the feels, sights, sounds, smells and yet, a shelter from the very same when desired.

This is the superpower behind Laney LA and Poetics of Home defines it, showcases it, explains it in text and imagery. If you are a true devotee of architecture, you need this masterpiece in your library if for no other reason, than to remind you of the true importance behind exceptional architecture. That it’s not how big it is, how expensive it was to construct, what celebrity lives there, what trade magazine put it on the cover, but instead, how it was crafted for an individual, a couple, a family… Ideated in a completely holistic manner. The joy in this book is endless, not physically, that ends on page 300 with a group photo. But the ideas endure far beyond that. Anthony, congratulations and well done.

Thank you, Megan, Kim and Julia for the time, conversation and partnership. Can’t wait to see you at WestEdge.

Thank you for listening. If you liked this episode, share it with a friend or colleague who loves design and architecture like you do, subscribe to Convo By Design wherever you get your podcasts. And continue the conversation on Instagram @convo x design with an “x”. Keep those emails coming with guest suggestions, show ideas and locations where you’d like to see the show. Convo by design at outlook.com.

Thank you to my partner sponsors, TimberTech, The AZEK Company, Pacific Sales, Best Buy, LOME-AI and Design Hardware for supporting the publication of over 650 episodes and over 3,000,000 streams, downloads and making Convo By Design the longest running podcast of its kind. These companies support the shelter industry so give them an opportunity on your next project. Thanks again for listening. Until next time, be well, stay focused and rise about the chaos. -CXD

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I had the opportunity to sit with down with Nick McWhirter or SHM Architects to explore the nuances of transitional design, the delicate dance between modern and traditional elements, and the intentionality behind every architectural choice. From furniture-driven layouts to aspirational lighting strategies, Nick shares the thought process, research, and we discuss philosophy that transform houses into harmonious, living machines. Listeners will gain insight into how design, balance, and playfulness converge to create both beauty and functionality in contemporary residential architecture.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

LOME-AI.com, simple, inexpensive, text to video harnessing the power of AI to grow your firm, beautifully.

What makes a home truly exceptional isn’t just the materials or the finishes—it’s the careful orchestration of space, light, and style. In this episode, Nick breaks down his approach to transitional design, revealing how subtle choices like shutter placement, dormer adjustments, or color balance can shift a home’s aesthetic from modern to traditional. The conversation spans everything from lighting plans and hidden technology to furniture-first design principles and the philosophy behind architecture as a living, breathing machine. Of course, that idea comes from Le Corbusier and his thoughts on this very subject. We also discuss the role of photography, the tension between realism and aspirational imagery, and the evolving vernacular of form and function in modern homes. This episode is a masterclass in thoughtful, intentional, and style-agnostic design.

Topics and Ideas

1. Introduction & Context
   • Welcome and setup: Exploring transitional design
   • Nick’s philosophy: Style agnostic but deeply researched
2. Transitional Design: Modern vs. Traditional
3. • Subtle moves: Shutters, dormers, cut stone, and symmetry
   • Playfulness in design: How small details create balance
   • Color palette: Black-and-white schemes as intentional high-contrast statements
4. Design Process & Interior Layouts
5. • Inside-out approach: Furniture-driven architecture
   • Achieving balanced asymmetry
   • Experimentation and editing: Knowing when less is more
6. Lighting as a Core Component
7. • Invisible vs. visible fixtures: Philosophy of recessed lighting
   • Lighting as both function and art
   • Integration with technology: Wi-Fi, AV, and smart home systems
8. Photography, Aspirational Design & Reality
9. • Balancing reality and idealized imagery in marketing
   • Photoshop as a tool to highlight design intent
   • How photography conveys quality of light, space, and atmosphere
10. Form Follows Function & Architectural Philosophy
11. • Homes as “machines for living”
    • The role of beauty and human experience in architecture
    • Historical perspective: Corbusier, Frank Lloyd Wright, and modern vernacular
12. Outdoor Spaces & Technology Integration
13. • Creative solutions: Two TVs on a patio
    • LED walls and emerging tech as part of design storytelling
14. Closing Thoughts & Personal Insights
15. • The freedom in design: Few right or wrong answers
    • Nick’s passion for music, smoked meats, and lifestyle influence
    • Preview of future conversations and projects

Thank you, Nick for the time and conversation. Thank you for listening. If you liked this episode, share it with a friend or colleague who loves design and architecture like you do, subscribe to Convo By Design wherever you get your podcasts. And continue the conversation on Instagram @convo x design with an “x”. Keep those emails coming with guest suggestions, show ideas and locations where you’d like to see the show. Convo by design at outlook.com.

Thank you to my partner sponsors, TimberTech, The AZEK Company, Pacific Sales, Best Buy, LOME-AI and Design Hardware for supporting the publication of over 650 episodes and over 3,000,000 streams, downloads and making Convo By Design the longest running podcast of its kind. These companies support the shelter industry so give them an opportunity on your next project. Thanks again for listening. Until next time, be well, stay focused and rise about the chaos. -CXD

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Today, I sit down with EZ Gonzalez of Pacific Sales about how retail, design, and customer experience intersect in today’s market. Gonzalez shares how Pacific Sales’ culture of continuous learning and a customer first sales model has helped establish the company as the West Coast’s leading appliance retailer.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

LOME-AI.com, simple, inexpensive, text to video harnessing the power of AI to grow your firm, beautifully.

EZ and I explore long-term partnerships, wellness-focused design, and the importance of storytelling in shaping client experiences and how the brand’s people-first approach to retail sets it apart in the design industry. With immersive showrooms, a strong emphasis on education, and community partnerships that extend beyond the showroom floor, Pacific Sales is redefining what it means to support both trade professionals and homeowners. Gonzalez also unpacks timely challenges facing designers and clients—from navigating project uncertainty to incorporating wellness as a fundamental design principle.

Topics and Ideas

• Pacific Sales’ Culture & Philosophy
  How a non-commissioned, education-driven model creates trust and long-term value for customers and trade partners.
• Partnerships & Community Engagement
  Building meaningful relationships across KBIS, CEDIA, West Edge, and supporting organizations like Saint Jude.
• Wellness as a Design Standard
  From circadian lighting to functional home workspaces, why wellness is no longer a luxury but an essential part of design.
• Design in Uncertain Times
  Why informed decision-making, collaboration, and storytelling help clients and designers navigate long projects.
• Mentorship & Professional Growth
  Supporting the next generation of design professionals through education, rewards programs, and a culture of learning.
• Retail Meets Design
  How immersive showrooms and Pacific Sales’ connection to Best Buy combine to deliver expertise, installation, and ongoing support.

Thank you, EZ for the time and conversation. Thank you for listening. If you liked this episode, share it with a friend or colleague who loves design and architecture like you do, subscribe to Convo By Design wherever you get your podcasts. And continue the conversation on Instagram @convo x design with an “x”. Keep those emails coming with guest suggestions, show ideas and locations where you’d like to see the show. Convo by design at outlook.com.

Thank you to my partner sponsors, TimberTech, The AZEK Company, Pacific Sales, Best Buy, LOME-AI and Design Hardware. These companies support the shelter industry so give them an opportunity on your next project. Thanks again for listening. Until next time, be well, stay focused and rise about the chaos. -CXD

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Courtney Novogratz: Designing a Life of Creativity and Family Courtney Novogratz has spent her career reimagining spaces that celebrate individuality, family, and joy. Alongside her husband Robert, she’s built an iconic brand known for bold style, adventurous projects, and a commitment to living beautifully without pretense. In this conversation, Courtney shares her design philosophy, her family-first approach, and how she balances creativity with business. In this episode of Convo By Design, Courtney Novogratz opens up about her journey as a designer, entrepreneur, and mother of seven. From revitalizing historic properties to curating collections that reflect everyday living, Courtney brings her unique perspective on what it means to design with heart. We discuss the challenges and triumphs of building a brand, her take on authenticity in design, and why storytelling matters just as much as furniture and finishes.

Ideas and Topics discussed during our chat. What you will hear are universal concepts that are then executed to perfection. “Perfection” doesn’t mean perfect. That might sound strange, but often perfection is used to describe design but let’s be , there is no such thing as perfect in design. To me, perfection is a philosophical approach to blending the work with the story and The Novogratz do this expertly, which is why they are Octobers Convo By Design Icon Registry inductees presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Here are some of the reasons why and ideas you are going to hear explained:

• The Novogratz Design Journey
  Courtney on how she and Robert grew their design practice into a recognizable lifestyle brand.
• Balancing Creativity & Family
  How raising seven kids has shaped her outlook on interiors and informed her approach to livable, joyful design.
• The Power of Storytelling in Design
  Why personality and narrative are essential to creating meaningful spaces.
• From Renovations to Product Lines
  Expanding beyond interiors into retail, furniture, and collaborations.
• Lessons in Building a Design Brand
  Courtney reflects on resilience, reinvention, and staying true to your vision.

The Convo By Design Icon Registry is presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home, a Best Buy company. Pacific Sales is comprised of long time professionals who love design and architecture as much as you do. Which is why it is so fitting that they present this recognition of some of the worlds greatest design talent every month here on Convo By Design. You are going to hear all about hit, right after this.

This wraps up another episode of the Convo By Design Icon Registry. A celebration and recognition of a true master in the art of design and the mastery of all that encompasses in the pursuit of making better the lives of those they serve. And, giving back along the way. Thank you, Courtney and congratulations to you and Robert. Some of the things I truly enjoyed were the ideas with regard to your world-class story-telling skills. Your work is exceptional and the branding is masterful.

Thanks for listening to Convo By Design. Thank you to my partner sponsors, Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home for presenting the Convo By Design Icon Registry and Convo By Design partner sponsors, TimberTech and Design Hardware. And thank you for taking the time to listen. I couldn’t do this without you, wouldn’t want to. I hope this show helps you stay motivated, inspired and focused so you can rise above the chaos. -CXD

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This week, the Convo By Design studio went mobile inside the VW ID.Buzz at CEDIA Expo and Commercial Integrator Expo in Denver—bringing you candid conversations with leaders shaping the future of smart homes, design integration, and resilient technology.

From energy resilience to invisible lighting, European design influences to smarter tools, these ride-along interviews capture the pulse of the connected design and integration industry. Join Soundman in the VW ID.Buzz for a road trip packed with insight, innovation, and the people pushing design and technology forward.

CEDIA & CIX Overview CEDIA: The global association for home technology pros—advancing smart home, DenverDenverAV, networking, and integrated systems through education and advocacy. * CEDIA Expo: The industry’s largest annual gathering with hundreds of exhibitors, demos, and training sessions. * Commercial Integrator Expo (CIX)*: The companion event focusing on commercial AV, IT, and building automation solutions.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

LOME-AI.com, simple, inexpensive, text to video harnessing the power of AI to grow your firm, beautifully.

Buzz Delano | Delano Associates & Delano News Advance
Delano Associates

• From hi-fi beginnings to decades of consulting and media leadership.
• Why designers, integrators, and architects must align earlier.
• The transformation of lighting into an invisible design tool.
• AI’s role in personalized home automation.
• Designing smart homes for resilience against wildfires and disasters.

Eric Nakkila | Selective Design
Selective Design

• Bridging European manufacturers with North American design markets.
• The evolution of CI from intercoms to invisible audio and lighting.
• European influences: smaller spaces, longer product lifecycles.
• The rise of hybrid products—speaker-lights, invisible speakers.
• Tariffs, volatility, and what wireless power means for the future.

Joe Piccirilli | RoseWater Energy
RoseWater Energy | CE Pro Masters Profile

• A 50-year career spanning retail, distribution, and energy resilience.
• Power quality as the hidden factor behind system failures.
• RoseWater Hub: surge protection, solar integration, and backup power.
• Energy systems in safe rooms, healthcare, and aging-in-place design.
• Why the built environment needs an “engineering mindset.”

Andrei Matei | Robbox Tools
Robbox

• Reinventing power tools with digital intelligence.
• The touchscreen drill with depth automation.
• A digital measuring system that replaces multiple tools.
• Overcoming resistance from traditional tradespeople.
• The upcoming X-Trail drill and direct-to-consumer strategy.

Richard Charschan | AcousticSmart Home Theater Interiors
AcousticSmart Home Theater Interiors

• Building world-class home theaters for over 30 years.
• Post-pandemic resurgence of family theater spaces.
• Regional trends: why Dallas thrives and Houston lags.
• Dispelling the myth of six-figure-only theaters.
• Acoustics and music as the soul of immersive theater design.

Rushi Kumar | DMF Lighting
DMF Lighting

• Lighting’s evolution from incandescent to tunable LED.
• Warm dim, tunable white, and linear lighting as design tools.
• Balancing simplicity in control with intelligent systems.
• AI-driven predictive lighting for elder care and routines.
• Small, versatile fixtures reshaping design opportunities.

Ruslan Polinofsky | DMF Lighting
DMF Lighting

• Making lighting tech accessible to designers and integrators.
• Demystifying with clear, plain-language education.
• PhaseX (DMX over Romex) expanding retrofit options.
• The rise of lighting demo rooms in showrooms.
• The payoff of early collaboration on project outcomes.

Recorded live inside the VW ID.Buzz, this episode captures the energy and ideas driving CEDIA Expo / CIX 2025. From resilient energy to invisible lighting, these conversations remind us that design and technology are converging faster than ever—and collaboration is the bridge. Thank you to everyone and CEDIA, CEDIA Expo, CIX, Brand Definition, Julia, Dan, Ray, Irene, and everyone who helped make this an incredible experience. Thank you to VW. I enjoyed the ride and hope you did too! -CXD

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Today on the show, Mr. Alex Tate’s, Alex Alonso and I discuss the evolution of interior design, exploring how technology, client expectations, and personal vision shape today’s industry from AI integration to marketing strategies and maximalist design philosophy, this conversation examines how designers adapt to market shifts while staying true to their creative ethos.

I thoroughly enjoyed my conversation with Alex for a litany of reasons and I’ll share some of them with you, but first, know this… And, you are going to hear it. Alex is an unapologetic Maximalist. And as we begin to discuss it, you will hear him launch in about the idea of clutter and then demonstrate how it’s not what people say something is but what a talented creative can do with an idea. Listen for that because it was a really fun exchange. Here are some of the other ideas you will hear more about in the following conversation.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

LOME-AI.com, simple, inexpensive, text to video harnessing the power of AI to grow your firm, beautifully.

Design Industry Evolution: Discussion on how the past three years reshaped design business approaches, client expectations, and industry trends.

Budgets and Client Chemistry: Emphasis on project fit over budget size and navigating increased transparency due to social media.

AI and Technology: Exploring AI’s role in speeding processes, educating clients, and enhancing personalized design without compromising creativity.

Maintaining Design Vision: Importance of staying true to one’s aesthetic, turning down projects that don’t align, and creating layered, meaningful spaces.

Marketing and Brand Strategy: Leveraging SEO, SEM, PR, and controlled distribution to build visibility while maintaining authenticity.

Publications and Industry Platforms: Critique of celebrity-driven content and the responsibility of publications to support diverse talent.

Trends vs. Thoughtful Design: Conversation on biophilic design in bathrooms and balancing trend adoption with thoughtful creativity.

Maximalist Philosophy and Brand Extensions: Exploring potential ventures like curated retail spaces or historical renovation studios, all aligned with layered, maximalist design principles.

Ultimately, designers must balance business strategy with creative integrity, embrace technology judiciously, prioritize client alignment, and maintain a clear, authentic brand message. Loved this and I think you will too. It’s coming right up, after this.

Thank you, Alex for this Maximalist conversation. Loved it and appreciate the time. Thank you for listening. If you liked this episode, share it with a friend or colleague who loves design and architecture like you do, subscribe to Convo By Design wherever you get your podcasts. And continue the conversation on Instagram @convo x design with an “x”. Keep those emails coming with guest suggestions, show ideas and locations where you’d like to see the show. Convo by design at outlook.com.

Thank you to my partner sponsors, TimberTech, The AZEK Company, Pacific Sales, Best Buy, LOME-AI and Design Hardware for supporting the publication of over 650 episodes and over 3,000,000 streams and downloads. These companies support the shelter industry so give them an opportunity on your next project. Thanks again for listening. Until next time, be well, stay focused and rise about the chaos. -CXD

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This special two-part episode features Roman Alonso of Commune and David Calligeros of Remains Lighting in two distinct conversations exploring origins, philosophy, and the meaning of design partnerships.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

LOME-AI.com, simple, inexpensive, text to video harnessing the power of AI to grow your firm, beautifully.

From salvaging antiques to designing timeless interiors, David and Roman share stories of growth, collaboration, and craft. What began as a single interview turned into a richer double feature—a master class in design values, sustainability, and the essential philosophies behind two influential studios.

Part One: David Calligeros, Remains Lighting

• Origins and Influences: From antiques and architectural salvage to a design career shaped by an arts-influenced mother and an engineer father.
• The Birth of Remains: Starting in Manhattan in 1995, evolving from antiques into lighting design.
• Engineering Meets Art: Marrying technical precision with artistic intuition.
• Custom Work & Collaborations: Partnering with Commune, Robert A.M. Stern, Matthew Fisher, and others.
• IP, Dupes & Authenticity: Protecting design through integrity, storytelling, and craftsmanship.
• Sustainability & Craft: LEED Gold Brooklyn factory, solar array, stormwater recycling, and green production practices.
• Business & Market Challenges: Navigating the 2008 crash, tariffs, and the value of US-based manufacturing.
• Philosophy: Design as a question-driven, ethical practice rooted in long-term value and collaboration.

Link: Remains Lighting

Part Two: Roman Alonso, Commune

• Origins and Career Path: From Caracas to Miami, Boston, New York, and LA; a career spanning publishing, fashion, and interiors.
• Formation of Commune Studio (2003): Built around collaboration, essentialism, and quality.
• Studio Philosophy: Purposeful, small by design, focused on meaningful work and enduring value.
• Influences: Latin American upbringing, Isaac Mizrahi, Lisa Eisner, and lessons from fashion and editorial worlds.
• Product Development: Solving real design problems, prototyping in-house before release.
• Collaboration: Strategic partnerships (including Remains Lighting) to ensure usability and quality.
• Personal Philosophy: Stoicism, fairness, ethical production, and acknowledging imposter syndrome.
• Evolution of the Firm: Scaling deliberately—growing reach through products and partnerships while keeping the studio intimate.
• Quotes:
  • “Good design shouldn’t be a privilege—it’s a right.”
  • “Design is about editing, listening, and creating solutions that people might not even know they need.”

This episode illustrates how partnerships in design aren’t just about collaboration—they’re about shared values, craft, and philosophy. By hearing these conversations separately, you’ll gain insights into two distinct but complementary approaches to design, sustainability, and creativity.

So much to take in. This was a master class on how to structure, nurture and grow design partnerships. Make sure you check the show notes for links and notes about all of the topics covered. Thank you, David and Roman for doing this and being so willing to share your thoughts, ideas and practice. Thank you for listening. If you liked this episode, share it with a friend or colleague who loves design and architecture like you do, subscribe to Convo By Design wherever you get your podcasts. And continue the conversation on Instagram @convo x design with an “x”. Keep those emails coming with guest suggestions, show ideas and locations where you’d like to see the show. Convo by design at outlook.com.

Thank you to my partner sponsors, TimberTech, The AZEK Company, Pacific Sales, Best Buy, LOME-AI and Design Hardware. These companies support the shelter industry so give them an opportunity on your next project. Thanks again for listening. Until next time, be well, stay focused and rise about the chaos. -CXD

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When I spoke with Scott Richler, co-founder of Gabriel Scott, I quickly realized his design journey wasn’t linear but layered. With a background in architecture, jewelry and fashion Scott brings that same sense of structure and detail into furniture and lighting design. He explained how the precision of jewelry—where every small move influences the whole—mirrors his architectural training, allowing him to think critically on both macro and micro scales.

Lighting was a major theme. Scott and I discussed how LED technology has completely shifted design possibilities, freeing designers from the limitations of older systems. No longer about blasting a room with light, the new approach is about using illumination strategically—whether it’s enhancing a hospitality experience or subtly shaping a residential atmosphere.

We also tackled the often-overused labels in design—“modern,” “traditional,” and everything in between. Scott pushed back on the idea of rigid categories, noting that Gabriel Scott’s pieces live comfortably in both sleek penthouses and classic homes. The goal, he said, is timeless versatility, not chasing a label.

Scott also opened up about his creative process. His team of artisans develops intricate parts that are refined enough to feel bespoke but adaptable enough to be assembled by everyday people—a kind of design language built for universal assembly. It’s jewelry thinking applied to lighting and furniture.

Of course, no conversation about product design is complete without addressing knockoffs. Scott acknowledged the frustration of seeing his work duplicated but emphasized the importance of strong contracts, local representation, and participating in trade shows like Milan Design Week to establish authenticity.

We wrapped up talking the Triforium project in Los Angeles, reflecting on how lighting has evolved from mechanical systems in the 1970s to today’s AI-driven adaptability. For Scott, it’s less about chasing technology for its own sake, and more about how design—whether jewelry, furniture, or lighting—creates lasting experiences.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

LOME-AI.com, simple, inexpensive, text to video harnessing the power of AI to grow your firm, beautifully.

And that is where I lost the connection with Scott. He was in Ibiza. And the WI-FI dropped, so I thought it would be fun to conclude this conversation with a brief chat with the founders of the Triforium Project.

YACHT, Experimental Pop, and Reimagining the Triforium

The Los Angeles-based band YACHT (Young Americans Challenging High Technology) has built its reputation on pushing the boundaries of music, technology, and performance art. Founded by Jona Bechtolt and later joined by Claire L. Evans, YACHT blends electronic pop, punk energy, and conceptual art into a body of work that often doubles as cultural critique. With albums like See Mystery Lights and Chain Tripping—the latter created with the help of AI-generated lyrics and sounds—the band has consistently explored the edges of where music meets innovation.

One of their most intriguing projects is their involvement with the Triforium, a massive 1970s public art installation in downtown Los Angeles. Originally envisioned as a “polyphonoptic” sculpture, the Triforium contains 1,494 glass prisms designed to light up in sync with computer-generated music. Despite its futuristic ambitions, technical limitations of the era kept the piece from reaching its full potential, and it was largely dismissed as a failed experiment in civic art.

Enter YACHT. Alongside a group of artists and technologists, the band helped spearhead efforts to restore and reinterpret the Triforium for a new generation. They worked on updating its outdated systems with modern technology, enabling the sculpture to finally achieve its original goal of synchronizing light and sound in real time. For YACHT, the Triforium became more than a restoration project—it was a living metaphor for their own artistic ethos: finding new meaning in old technology, and using experimentation to transform limitations into possibilities.

The project reflects YACHT’s broader philosophy: music isn’t just something to listen to, but an evolving experience shaped by design, technology, and cultural context. Just as the Triforium has been reimagined for today, YACHT continues to show how creative vision can turn the discarded or overlooked into something vibrant, communal, and new. Be right back

Breathing New Life Into LA’s Triforium

In the heart of downtown Los Angeles stands a curious six-story structure that has puzzled, frustrated, and fascinated Angelenos for decades. It’s called the Triforium, a 60-ton public artwork created by artist Joseph Young in 1975. Designed as a “polyphonic musical instrument,” the piece features nearly 1,500 colorful glass prisms synced to a 79-note carillon. At its debut, it was billed as the future of civic art—an interactive sculpture that would respond to music and even the movement of passersby.

But the reality never quite lived up to the promise. Plagued by cost overruns, balky 1970s technology, and a skeptical public, the Triforium quickly earned nicknames like “Three Wishbones in Search of a Turkey.” The interactivity never fully materialized, the lights often failed, and what was supposed to be a beacon of futuristic optimism was mostly ignored.

Fast-forward a few decades, and the Triforium has found unexpected champions. A grassroots team—Tom Carroll, along with Claire Evans and Jona Bechtolt from the band YACHT—launched the Triforium Project to restore the work to its original vision. What began as a curiosity sparked by Carroll’s 2014 short documentary turned into a mission. With fundraising, public events, and a $100,000 LA2050 grant, the group has started planning a full restoration.

The updates won’t erase its quirky history but build on it—replacing bulbs with LEDs, updating the computer system, and even developing a smartphone app so visitors can program their own light and sound sequences.

For the project’s leaders, the Triforium isn’t just a relic. It’s an instrument, once played alongside the likes of Stevie Wonder and John Cage, waiting for a new audience. Reviving it isn’t about nostalgia—it’s about giving Los Angeles back a piece of its artistic imagination. You can’t learn more at triforium.la because that domain is now for sale. So, it’s probably safe to say it’s languishing again, but it’s still there so go check it out

Thank you, Scott. Ibiza sounds nice. Thank you Triforium Project for the refresher. Thank you for listening. If you liked this episode, share it with a friend or colleague who loves design and architecture like you do, subscribe to Convo By Design wherever you get your podcasts. And continue the conversation on Instagram @convo x design with an “x”. Keep those emails coming with guest suggestions, show ideas and locations where you’d like to see the show. Convo by design at outlook.com.

Thank you to my partner sponsors, TimberTech, The AZEK Company, Pacific Sales, Best Buy, LOME-AI and Design Hardware. These companies support the shelter industry so give them an opportunity on your next project. Thanks again for listening. Until next time, be well, stay focused and rise about the chaos. -CXD

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In a wide-ranging conversation, I sat down with Renée Gaddis, founder of Renée Gaddis Interiors, to explore Florida’s distinct design influences, the evolving role of designers in storm-prone regions, and the business of luxury interiors in uncertain times. Speaking from Naples, Florida, Gaddis compared her region’s design sensibilities to other parts of the state, noting a blend of Midwestern, European, and Southern traditions. While many of her clients lean toward transitional or traditional styles, she observed that Miami remains more open to modern aesthetics.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

LOME-AI.com, simple, inexpensive, text to video harnessing the power of AI to grow your firm, beautifully.

The discussion turned to real estate trends fueled by the pandemic, which brought an influx of new homeowners to Florida. Gaddis shared how this surge, combined with a major hurricane, reshaped her approach to client selection and project scope. She emphasized her boutique model, strong referral base, and commitment to seamlessly integrating interiors with exteriors to embrace Florida’s indoor-outdoor lifestyle.

On the financial side, she addressed rising costs and tariffs that have altered project budgets, leading to value engineering and sourcing U.S.-made products. Gaddis also reflected on the importance of partnerships with trades and vendors, especially during supply chain volatility, while advocating for transparent communication to maintain trust.

The conversation also touched on resilient building practices in storm-prone regions. Gaddis highlighted lessons learned from past hurricanes, from identifying flawed hurricane-rated windows to designing with better drainage, elevated platforms, and even safe rooms. Her insights underscored the need for long-term sustainability in luxury projects.

Beyond design, Gaddis shared her family’s advocacy journey with the American Heart Association, inspired by her daughter’s early diagnosis and treatment. This personal commitment, alongside her professional expertise, reflects her philosophy that resilience—whether in design or life—is built through experience, adaptability, and care. And you are going to hear the whole story, right after this.

Thank you, Renee. Amazing. Loved our chat and appreciate the time. Thank you for listening. If you liked this episode, share it with a friend or colleague who loves design and architecture like you do, subscribe to Convo By Design wherever you get your podcasts. And continue the conversation on Instagram @convo x design with an “x”. Keep those emails coming with guest suggestions, show ideas and locations where you’d like to see the show. Convo by design at outlook.com.

Thank you to my partner sponsors, TimberTech, The AZEK Company, Pacific Sales, Best Buy, LOME-AI and Design Hardware. These companies support the shelter industry so give them an opportunity on your next project. Thanks again for listening. Until next time, be well, stay focused and rise about the chaos. -CXD

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Welcome to the Convo By Design Icon Registry episode for the month of July, 2025. This month’s inductee is an icon, for sure, an international luminary and someone who has been as down to earth and kind as he could possibly be. I shouldn’t have to say that. Right? But, that is one of the things that differentiates Martyn Lawrence Bullard from many, really most creatives who have achieved Bullard’s level of success. I sat down with Martyn at the SOHO Home showroom on Melrose Boulevard in West Hollywood right before the 10th anniversary party for Convo By Design. SOHO Home, previously the Rose Tarlow showroom, with it’s storied history and exceptional lighting made for a truly unique experience for me and I hope that is one of the things you pick up in this conversation with the September 2025 inductee of the Convo By Design Icon Registry.

The Convo By Design Icon Registry is presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home, a Best Buy company. Pacific Sales is comprised of long time professionals who love design and architecture as much as you do. Which is why it is so fitting that they present this recognition of some of the worlds greatest design talent every month here on Convo By Design.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

LOME-AI.com, simple, inexpensive, text to video harnessing the power of AI to grow your firm, beautifully.

This wraps up another episode of the Convo By Design Icon Registry. A celebration and recognition of a true master in the art of design and the mastery of all that encompasses in the pursuit of making better the lives of those he serves. And, giving back along the way. Thank you, Martyn and congratulations Some of the things I truly enjoyed were the review of your 2019 Legends window and your experience in theater which speaks to your world-class story-telling skills.

Thanks for listening to Convo By Design. Thank you to my partner sponsors, Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home for presenting the Convo By Design Icon Registry and Convo By Design partner sponsors, TimberTech and Design Hardware. And thank you for taking the time to listen. I couldn’t do this without you, wouldn’t want to. I hope this show helps you stay motivated, inspired and focused so you can rise above the chaos. -CXD

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In this candid conversation, Poppy Bourg and Shannon McGough of Poppy McGough Design House unpack the evolving Dallas design scene, the challenges of modern publishing, and the importance of integrating architecture and interior design. They discuss how their unique backgrounds inform their approach, client expectations in a shifting market, and why authenticity and craftsmanship matter more than fleeting trends.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

LOME-AI.com, simple, inexpensive, text to video harnessing the power of AI to grow your firm, beautifully.

From the pitfalls of celebrity-driven design magazines to the nuanced demands of Dallas homeowners, Poppy and Shannon reveal how they balance creativity, technical knowledge, and client relationships to create spaces that are not only beautiful but built to last. They explore the impact of regional influences, climate challenges, and the expanding role of interior designers in shaping cohesive, livable homes.

1. The State of Design Publications & Celebrity Influence

• Shift in design media focus: from architecture to celebrity homes
• Challenges of magazines cutting back editorial staff and local flavor
• Dallas’s design culture: diverse, not pigeonholed into one “look”

2. Client Trends and Diversity in Dallas Architecture

• Clients influenced by wide range of styles via online exposure
• Resurgence of traditional styles alongside modern, Mediterranean, Santa Barbara influences
• Growing trend of lake homes post-2020 pandemic and its impact on local design culture

3. Modernism and Design Inspirations

• Experience visiting Modernism Week in Palm Springs
• Dallas’s limited mid-century modern presence compared to other cities
• Appreciation for maximalism and richly detailed interiors beyond minimalist trends

4. Backgrounds & Partnership Story

• Shannon’s hospitality design and hotel experience, focus on durability and build process
• Poppy’s real estate and builder project management background, deep builder and trade knowledge
• How their combined skills create a holistic approach to residential design and construction collaboration

5. Building Challenges in Dallas

• Impact of active soil, climate extremes, and shifting weather on construction and interiors
• Importance of realistic client expectations around timelines, soil testing, and permitting
• Regional differences in design challenges and neighborhood personalities across Dallas metroplex

6. Expanded Role of Interior Designers

• Growing client education on lighting, air quality, water filtration, and acoustics
• Increasing involvement in exterior design for cohesive indoor-outdoor flow
• Navigating intellectual property issues, brand extensions, and designer-led product lines

7. Photography, Styling, and Portfolio Strategy

• Not every project gets photographed due to client preference or cost
• In-house styling process balancing client personality with editorial needs
• Preference for showcasing recent projects and maintaining strong referral-based business

Thank you, Poppy, Shannon. Loved our chat and appreciate the time. Thank you for listening. If you liked this episode, share it with a friend or colleague who loves design and architecture like you do, subscribe to Convo By Design wherever you get your podcasts. And continue the conversation on Instagram @convo x design with an “x”. Keep those emails coming with guest suggestions, show ideas and locations where you’d like to see the show. Convo by design at outlook.com.

Thank you, Poppy, Shannon. Loved our chat and appreciate the time. Thank you for listening. If you liked this episode, share it with a friend or colleague who loves design and architecture like you do, subscribe to Convo By Design wherever you get your podcasts. And continue the conversation on Instagram @convo x design with an “x”. Keep those emails coming with guest suggestions, show ideas and locations where you’d like to see the show. Convo by design at outlook.com.

Thank you to my partner sponsors, TimberTech, The AZEK Company, Pacific Sales, Best Buy, LOME-AI and Design Hardware. These companies support the shelter industry so give them an opportunity on your next project. Thanks again for listening. Until next time, be well, stay focused and rise about the chaos. -CXD

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Austin-based interior designer Viki Chupik brings the city’s unique spirit into every project she touches. From its rolling hills and cultural quirks to its understated expressions of wealth, Chupik sees Austin as a place where authenticity and individuality still matter. In this conversation, she explains how to design for a city in flux. Like most of the cities people flooded to during and post-pandemic—balancing creativity, cultural heritage, and the realities of today’s economic pressures.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

LOME-AI.com, simple, inexpensive, text to video harnessing the power of AI to grow your firm, beautifully.

Viki Chupik of Chupik Design unpacks Austin’s evolving design landscape, from post-pandemic migration and rising costs to the homogenizing pull of social media trends. She shares how she navigates client expectations, resists algorithm-fed aesthetics, and champions designs that are rooted in nature, personal stories, and lasting quality. Along the way, Chupik explores functional planning, economic design strategies, and her vision for the future of the American home.

1. The Austin Effect
   • How Austin’s natural beauty and geography shape lifestyle and client priorities.
   • The city’s evolution from “hippie government town” to tech-creative hub.
   • Why “Keep Austin Weird” is about individuality and local culture, not just quirky aesthetics.
   • Understated expressions of wealth versus flash seen in other Texas cities.
2. Design Influenced by Lifestyle
3. • Incorporating travel, life experiences, and personal artifacts into home design.
   • Creating spaces that reflect a client’s narrative rather than a preset style.
   • Prioritizing true customization over formulaic trends.
4. Austin’s Cultural Capital
5. • Influence of UT, major festivals, and historic districts on the city’s identity.
   • Embracing quirks—bats, music, history—in design and urban character.
   • Post-pandemic migration: challenges and benefits of new creative influx.
6. Viki Chupik’s Design Fingerprint
7. • Calm, collected, nature-inspired aesthetic.
   • Timeless design choices: earthy palettes, organic materials, and visual serenity.
   • Rejecting trend-chasing in favor of enduring appeal.
8. Design vs. Trends
9. • Critique of social media–driven “trendification” and AI-generated design content.
   • Seeking out artisans, unique finds, and unexpected pairings.
   • Why individuality in design is harder—and more important—than ever.
10. The Budget Reality
11. • Impact of rising costs from tariffs, materials, and labor.
    • Emphasis on quality investments over disposable design.
    • Importance of involving designers early in architectural planning.
12. Functional Design in Changing Times
13. • Rethinking square footage for smarter, more livable spaces.
    • Evaluating the real utility of specialty rooms and features.
    • Applying the “Are you going to use it?” test to every decision.
14. Portable Kitchens & the Future of Home
15. • Considering modular, moveable kitchens inspired by European models.
    • How rising land values could shift the role of the house toward adaptability.
    • The tension between permanence and flexibility in residential design.

Thank you, Viki. Amazing. Loved our chat and appreciate the time. Thank you for listening. If you liked this episode, share it with a friend or colleague who loves design and architecture like you do, subscribe to Convo By Design wherever you get your podcasts. And continue the conversation on Instagram @convo x design with an “x”. Keep those emails coming with guest suggestions, show ideas and locations where you’d like to see the show. Convo by design at outlook.com.

Thank you to my partner sponsors, TimberTech, The AZEK Company, Pacific Sales, Best Buy, LOME-AI and Design Hardware. These companies support the shelter industry so give them an opportunity on your next project. Thanks again for listening. Until next time, be well, stay focused and rise about the chaos. -CXD

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Today, you are going to hear a deeply candid conversation with Phil Norman, principal of Norman Design Group, to explore the complex, often contradictory realities of luxury residential design. With over 25 years of experience crafting high-end interiors in Southern California, Phil brings both practical wisdom and an unfiltered perspective on the challenges designers face today. And part of exploring these ideas, is a willingness to be open and candid about the challenges as well as the solutions.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

LOME-AI.com, simple, inexpensive, text to video harnessing the power of AI to grow your firm, beautifully.

Honesty About Budgets: The Ultimate Luxury

Phil dives headfirst into one of the most taboo topics in interior design: the budget. He explains why being forthright—even when the numbers are higher than a client expects—is not just necessary, but an act of professional integrity. He shares strategies for diffusing tension around cost conversations and how client trust is forged in transparency, not fantasy.

“People can handle a bigger number. They can’t handle being blindsided,” Phil says. “The danger is in pretending it can be done for less.”

Educating the Client: Battling Pinterest, Misinformation & HGTV

Phil reflects on the modern design client’s double-edged sword: unprecedented access to ideas… and a flood of misinformation. Whether it’s misconceptions about pricing, timelines, or what’s even possible, Phil sees part of his job as “un-educating” clients before re-grounding them in real-world processes.

He describes the delicate balance of respecting a client’s inspiration while also anchoring expectations in logistical and structural realities. “Everyone’s seen a Pinterest kitchen,” he says, “but that doesn’t mean it works in their space, or within their scope.”

Home as Sanctuary: A Pandemic Shift

Phil shares how the pandemic permanently shifted his clients’ priorities—from “how it looks” to “how it feels.” There’s now an increased desire for tactile comfort, flexibility, and timeless quality. The home is no longer just a showpiece—it’s a retreat, a workplace, a classroom, a safe space.

He emphasizes the growing importance of durability and livability over trends, noting that luxury now means emotional connection, not just expensive finishes.

“Design has to feel like home—not just like a magazine spread.”

Kitchen as Mission Control: Designing with Precision

Phil also explores how kitchens have evolved into the emotional and operational hubs of the home. With every family interaction, from weekday breakfasts to weekend entertaining, passing through this space, it’s no longer just about cabinetry and counters—it’s about lifestyle programming.

He discusses layout strategies, appliance coordination, lighting zones, and how technology and wellness are being layered into the modern kitchen environment.

Design Leadership: Advocacy, Not Subservience

Phil argues that successful design professionals must step into the role of advisor and advocate—not order-taker. He calls out the danger of defaulting to client appeasement and encourages designers to protect the integrity of the design process, even if it means challenging a client’s assumptions.

“We’re not there to just say yes. We’re there to guide—to lead with experience.”

This conversation isn’t just about design—it’s about leadership, trust, and emotional intelligence in a high-stakes creative business. Whether you’re a seasoned designer, a rising star in the field, or simply someone dreaming of building a home that feels like home, Phil Norman offers a masterclass in how to do it right—with candor, clarity, and craft.

Thank you, Phil. Amazing. Thank you for listening. If you liked this episode, share it with a friend who loves design, subscribe to Convo By Design wherever you get your podcasts. And continue the conversation on Instagram @convo x design with an “x”. Keep those emails coming with guest suggestions, show ideas and locations where you’d like to see the show.

Thank you to my partner sponsors, TimberTech, The AZEK Company, Pacific Sales, Best Buy, LOME-AI and Design Hardware. These companies support the shelter industry so give them an opportunity on your next project. Thanks again for listening. Until next time, be well, stay focused and rise about the chaos. -CXD

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We’re heading South today to hear from Melissa Lee of New South Home. This Charlotte-based interior designer and former retail buyer pulls back the curtain on the real inner workings of running a design firm—from pricing strategy and client education to vendor relationships and market trends. Drawing from her experience in corporate buying, she has developed a clear understanding of profit margins, vendor management, and operational efficiency, which she now applies to her design business through practices like maintaining a vendor matrix and detailed time tracking. I don’t want you to think this is a business of design episode, it’s not. Sometimes these conversations go deeper into the business to further explain the work, this is one of those times.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

LOME-AI.com, simple, inexpensive, text to video harnessing the power of AI to grow your firm, beautifully.

Melissa discusses the challenges of pricing interior design work in a landscape full of conflicting advice—flat fee versus hourly models, for example—and how she has evolved her own “conceptually fixed with scope management” approach. Clients receive an upfront estimate based on hours, but additional fees apply when scope or decisions shift beyond agreed terms. This hybrid method offers flexibility while protecting the business from runaway labor costs.

Events like High Point Market and KBIS (Kitchen & Bath Industry Show) play a strategic role in how she sources vendors, stays inspired, and builds key relationships. She balances structured vendor meetings with looser time for discovery, realizing that over-scheduling stifles creativity. Her buying background taught her the value of planning, but in design, adaptability creates more opportunity.

The conversation digs into vendor relations in a shifting economic landscape, with concerns about rising tariffs, erratic pricing, and questionable fee increases. Thanks to long-standing relationships and proactive reps, her team has been buffered from the worst of it. Still, she builds flexibility into her contracts and transparently preps clients for potential 5% swings in final invoices due to supply chain or pricing changes—an approach appreciated in a world where nothing feels stable.

Managing client expectations is a recurring theme—from educating them on the unseen hours behind emails, revisions, and project coordination, to setting boundaries when projects creep beyond the original scope. Weekly check-ins, detailed proposals, and scope clarity help prevent misunderstandings and maintain trust.

Looking ahead, she sees potential challenges driven by economic uncertainty—rising tariffs, high interest rates, and general cost-of-living increases may stall some clients’ investment in their homes. But Charlotte’s rapid growth continues to fuel demand, giving her firm an edge in an evolving national market.

Melissa also hints at expanding service areas, including outdoor living design, and continues to explore how design firms can evolve—perhaps aided by AI or new business tools—to reduce burnout and reclaim creativity. At its heart, the conversation underscores the complexity of modern design businesses, where creativity, logistics, and business acumen must coexist. And you’re going to hear all about it, right after this.

Thank you, Melissa, loved our chat. Thank you for listening. If you liked this episode, share it with a friend who loves design, subscribe to Convo By Design wherever you get your podcasts. And continue the conversation on Instagram @convo x design with an “x”. Keep those emails coming with guest suggestions, show ideas and locations where you’d like to see the show.

Thank you to my partner sponsors, TimberTech, The AZEK Company, Pacific Sales, Best Buy, LOME-AI and Design Hardware. These companies support the shelter industry so give them an opportunity on your next project. Thanks again for listening. Until next time, be well, stay focused and rise about the chaos. -CXD

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When I was growing up, radio was my solace. I loved it so much that I chose it for my career. I can remember being 10 years old with my transistor radio listening to 10Q and KHJ. Later, it was KLOS, KMET, KNAC and KROQ. The call letters were cool, the music and bands remain bookmarks in my life. I can pretty much tell you how old I was, where I was and what was going on by the songs. But my friends were the dj’s. Jeff Goner, Steve Downs, Bob Coburn, Rita Wilde, Dangerous Darren, Richard Blade, Rodney on the Rock. It was the people who told the stories about the music, the bands and what was happening behind the scenes. Many of us love design and architecture in the same way. And on that rare occasion when there is a combination of the two, well that’s special. And this months induction into the Convo By Design Icon Registry is one such individual. This person is truly special and I have had the good fortune to work with her on a number of occasions.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

LOME-AI.com, simple, inexpensive, text to video harnessing the power of AI to grow your firm, beautifully.

Frances Anderton describes herself, “I tell stories and distill ideas about design, architecture and the cityscape of Los Angeles through print, broadcast media, exhibitions and public events.” All true, and she has the street crew to back that up. What Frances didn’t mention is that she herself is part of the zeitgeist of Los Angeles. Nor would she, that would be weird. But one of the most wonderful things about Frances is her willingness to get into a topic and chop it up, refine it, reorganize it and play with it until she has boiled it’s very essence into something consumable by anyone who with a modicum of interest. That is special.

To celebrate Frances and her induction into the Convo By Design Icon Registry, I want to reshare her moderating a panel conversation that aired on Convo By Design in 2015. Frances was a fixture for the 2-years that the West Hollywood Design District produced a wonderful event called DIEM, which stands for design intersects everything made. The programs were curated by Mallory Roberts Morgan, another remarkable LA gem of an individual. You don’t know this, but you will in a minute… Mallory and Frances were huge influences on me as I launched the show in 2013 and for the first few years. Quite simply, I wanted to make people think and question the way they did. To tap into curiosity the way they did. To come up with really interesting angles like Mallory and rip the niceties away so we could really chop it up the way Frances did and does. This panel from 2015 featured, Stephan Simpkowitz, Carolina Miranda and Steven Goldberg. As you listen to this conversation, notice a few things. First, the topic they were discussing a decade ago has since fully matured and blossomed as LA became the global art destination it always wanted to be. Notice too how Frances leverages the talents and skills of her guests in such an effortless way. Quite simply, due to the very nature of this topic, it could have gone a very different way. This conversation is as relevant today as it was then. And Frances is a treasure.

The Convo By Design Icon Registry is presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home, a Best Buy Company and best friend to designers and architects everywhere. The business has become more complicated and Pacific Sales reverses that, find out how by checking the links in the show notes.

So there you go, our newly inducted icon and a fantastic conversation from 2015. Thank you Frances, for all you do and all you have given back. Thank you to my partner sponsors, Design Hardware, TimberTech and Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home, a Best Buy company and friend to specifiers near and far. Thanks for listening to Convo By Design. I couldn’t do this without you, wouldn’t want to. I hope this show help you stay motivated, inspired and focused so you can rise above the chaos. –Convo By Design

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In this episode, I sit down with the incredibly insightful Rosa Santiago Zimmerman for a rich and wide-ranging conversation about the state of the interior design industry, the evolving nature of creative work, and the deeper values that guide us as professionals. Our dialogue spans everything from our recent experiences at major trade shows like KBIS and IBS to the strategic and emotional challenges that come with building and sustaining a design business today.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Rosa shares how she has navigated an often unpredictable industry landscape—from the 2008 financial crisis to the more recent impact of COVID-19—emerging stronger by focusing on clarity in communication, refining her client base, and anchoring her business in authenticity and trust. We explore her decision to operate by referral only, a bold move that allows her to take on projects that align deeply with her values while maintaining creative control and long-term vision.

One of the most resonant parts of our conversation is Rosa’s approach to client relationships and project storytelling. She believes that every project begins with truly understanding the people behind it—their story, lifestyle, and what brings them joy. Her philosophy goes far beyond aesthetics; it’s about designing spaces that are meaningful, personal, and connected.

We also dive into the practical but often overlooked aspects of the business: the need for strong contracts, the complexity of product sourcing in a globalized market, and the legal risks surrounding intellectual property. Rosa doesn’t shy away from hard truths. She emphasizes that every line of a contract must be intentional, and every expectation clearly defined to avoid the kinds of misunderstandings that can derail even the most promising projects. I couldn’t agree more. As we both acknowledged, there’s a growing need in our industry to better educate clients—especially those new to working with designers—so they can become thoughtful, empowered partners in the creative process.

Our talk also turns toward education, mentorship, and the next generation of talent. Rosa speaks passionately about the importance of showing children—and especially young Latinas—that the design industry can be a space for them. Her journey from a background in medicine to a thriving creative career is a powerful reminder that following one’s passion is not only possible, but necessary. We discuss the lack of business training in design schools, and how that gap often leaves talented creatives unprepared for the realities of entrepreneurship. Rosa’s upcoming book, which touches on the idea of discovering one’s “superpower,” promises to be an inspiring resource for aspiring designers and leaders alike.

Throughout our conversation, I was struck by Rosa’s clarity, generosity, and refusal to compromise on what matters. We also talk about future collaborations and visits—from potentially recording a future episode in Atlanta to attending next year’s KBIS event in Orlando. I’m hopeful for the opportunities ahead and grateful for the chance to share this honest, inspiring exchange.

This episode is for anyone who’s passionate about design, business, and the human stories that fuel creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, a student, or just curious about what it takes to build something meaningful in a fast-changing world, I think you’ll find a lot to take away from this one. And we’ll get to it, right after this.

Thank you, Rosa, loved our chat and grateful to have run into you at KBIS! And, of course, thank you to our amazing partners: TimberTech, Pacific Sales, and Design Hardware. These are incredible companies and true friends of the trade. Please keep them in mind for your next project.

Thanks to you for listening, subscribing, and sharing the show with your friends and colleagues. If you haven’t subscribed yet, go ahead and hit that button so you get each new episode delivered straight to your feed.

I always love hearing from you, so keep those messages coming—email me at convo by design at outlook dot com and follow along on Instagram, @ConvoXDesign (with an “X”).

Until next week—thank you for spending this time with me. Be well, stay focused, and now that it has really settled in… do your best to rise above the chaos.

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Design in the South is personal. It’s layered with heritage, shaped by hospitality, and built on relationships. Today, we travel to Starkville, Mississippi to explore the work and world of a designer who exemplifies what it means to design with heart.

The conversation begins with an emerging trend—dorm and sorority house design—not typically covered in design media, but a significant driver of business in Southern college towns. Sorority living, especially, has evolved into a lifestyle market, complete with high expectations, big budgets, and even bigger wear and tear. Designing for these spaces demands durability, performance, and style in equal measure. As the Mary Clair Cumbaa jokes, “Everything has to be spray-tan approved.”

Working on a sorority house for her own former chapter, she leans into color, symbolism, and storytelling. “I know the meaning behind things,” she says, weaving chapter colors, lighting, and fabric choices together to reflect both legacy and future needs. With girls living in two-year cycles, hundreds of members dining daily, and Zoom calls replacing quiet study sessions, the design must be not only beautiful but smart, emotionally supportive, and future-forward.

Storytelling is central to her work. “If I didn’t capture their real life, I’m not sure I would really be able to capture anything,” she says. Unlike many designers who stage photos with clinical precision, she leaves the coffee maker and the magnets on the fridge. There’s something refreshing—and intentional—about showing homes as they’re used. It’s real, approachable, and still inspiring.

That philosophy carries into her project portfolio, which is both colorful and cohesive. Take the Wetherbee Street kitchen: clean acrylic stools meet traditional cabinetry, a built-in bar peeks into frame, and the countertop hosts everyday appliances—because that’s how the client lives. “If the client can’t see themselves in the finished space, I haven’t done my job,” she explains.

Color is a consistent through-line in her work. While she began with a neutral palette, over time she’s become known for weaving multiple shades of the same hue across a room. Her nursery projects—some launched by acrylic cribs and butterfly wall art—bring this approach to life with playful purpose and emotional weight.

We also talk about historic preservation and transformation. Projects like Kirkwood Place and Greentree demonstrate her ability to revive storied homes with timeless flair. “We gutted it to the studs and brought it back to life,” she says of one home that once graced the cover of Southern Living. Another was the result of a seven-year client relationship that evolved into a deep friendship.

As the conversation winds down, she shares the dream project she’s still manifesting—a start-to-finish beach house in the 30A corridor. “I’ve done a condo, but I’d love to do a full house in Rosemary or Alys Beach,” she says with hopeful confidence.

And why not? Her story is one of evolution, rootedness, and authenticity. Mary Clair Cumbaa of Cumbaa Design Company, designs with empathy, leads with color, and listens deeply. It’s not just about beautiful rooms. It’s about making people feel seen, supported, and at home.

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As hard as it is for me to believe, it’s August. It’s hard for me to believe it’s August because it just felt like it was January. I was feeling a little tense about a number of things on the horizon at that time. Thank goodness none of the feared chaos materialized. (6SS)

Okay, perhaps a little… Perhaps a lot. It might surprise you to know that it wasn’t Kelly Clarkson who came up with that concept. It was German philosopher, Fredrich Nietzsche. It can be found in his book, from 1888 called Twilight of the Idols. It’s an expanded philosophical approach to post-traumatic growth. This year has been the most stressful since the 2020-2022 Pandemic Era. If you recall, those challenges made our industry stronger, made us stronger. It’s a challenge to talk about life and death in the context of design. But it’s not a stretch at all to discuss these concepts while framing the quality of life and design.

Today, you are going to hear from Barrie Sprang of Sapphire Pear.

Barrie shared her background in design, influenced by her grandmother’s interest in design school and her father’s work in high-end real estate in Cleveland. She expressed her lifelong passion for using color and bold textures in design, citing personal experiences with how colors can impact emotions and spaces. Josh praised her work for its use of color and texture but expressed a critique about her sometimes conservative approach, particularly given her background in the traditionally traditional Midwest.

Barrie and I discuss the challenges of balancing client preferences with personal design philosophy, particularly regarding color choices. Barrie explained how her firm was built around bold, colorful designs, though she still accommodates clients who prefer neutral tones by incorporating subtle pops of color. They explored the impact of design trends, including the “Color of the Year” phenomenon, with Barrie noting that while it can inspire, it often leads to over-saturation in the market and potentially regrettable choices for clients.

We talk about the influence of coastal trends on Midwest culture, particularly in Ohio, where different cities like Cincinnati, Columbus, and Cleveland have distinct styles. Barrie explained that post-pandemic, there has been an influx of people moving to Ohio from coastal cities, attracted by its affordable cost of living, lack of natural disasters, and the ability to work remotely. This migration has positively impacted Barrie’s business, allowing for more creative and custom design work at a lower cost due to lower labor and trade costs, as well as access to skilled Amish carpenters.

How the decline of traditional design centers, noting that the Cleveland Design Center has largely closed, and they now travel to Chicago for client meetings means to those affected. That the model has become less effective due to several factors, including the opening of design centers to the public, which made pricing confusing and diminished the special experience for designers and clients. They also observed that the proliferation of design houses and the ease of finding products online has watered down the quality of design experiences previously offered by these centers.

And how the challenges in the furniture industry, particularly regarding pricing, availability, and logistics are changing the way designers specify. How the pandemic and tariffs have affected supply chains, leading to long lead times and unexpected issues. Barrie emphasized the importance of maintaining strong relationships with manufacturers and showrooms to navigate these challenges. They also touched on the logistics of furniture production and distribution, noting the inefficiencies of the current point-to-point system in the U.S. and the potential benefits of a regional approach for some designers.

Barrie discussed several design projects, focusing on a colorful maximalist bedroom, a multi-color kitchen in Shaker Heights, and a whimsical bathroom in Rocky River. Barrie explained the design process and client preferences for each project, highlighting the use of custom elements and color palettes. Make sure to go to the show notes and click the link to see her work as she explains it.

I think these conversations can accomplish a few things that include; allowing you to hear how other creatives are experiencing the same thing you are and how they chose to address these issues. And you are going to hear all about it, right after this.

That was Barrie Sprang of Sapphire Pear. A magnificent kitchen designed for a thruple. That is a first on the show and I love that. Thank you, Barrie. Loved our chat. Since I opened with Nietzsche, I’ll close with a quote of his.

“And those who were seen dancing were thought to be insane by those who could not hear the music.”

While widely credited to Nietzsche, there is no evidence he actually said it. But there was no internet in the 1800’s, so I choose to believe he said it. And just how important this idea is. Being true to the ideals, morals and vision that drive you as a creative will always be challenge to maintain. As the philosophical force known a Steelers Wheel once pondered, “Clowns to the left of me, jokers to the right, here I am, stuck in the middle with you. Don’t let the clowns and jokers define you or your work. It’s easier said than done. I know.

Thank you for listening. If you liked this episode, share it with a friend who loves design, subscribe to Convo By Design wherever you get your podcasts. And continue the conversation on Instagram @convo x design with an “x”. Keep those emails coming with guest suggestions, show ideas and locations where you’d like to see the show.

Thank you to my partner sponsors, TimberTech, The AZEK Company, Pacific Sales, Best Buy and Design Hardware. These companies support the shelter industry so give them an opportunity on your next project. Thanks again for listening. Until next time, stay focused and rise about the chaos. -CXD

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I’m really excited about today’s episode because I had the chance to sit down with the incredible Corey Damen Jenkins. We covered a ton of ground—from how Corey manages multiple design projects and prioritizes what matters most, to his inspiring journey from starting his business in the mid-90s to becoming one of the most respected voices in interior design today.

Corey Damen Jenkins is one of the most vibrant and visionary voices in American interior design today. Known for his unapologetically bold aesthetic—full of lush textures, vivid color, and sophisticated pattern play—Jenkins brings more than just beauty to the spaces he creates. His work is joyful and aspirational, infused with a sense of personal integrity and a deep understanding of how interiors can enhance the way people live and feel. From best-selling books to international product collaborations, Jenkins continues to redefine what luxury and accessibility can look like when rooted in authenticity, resilience, and creativity.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

1. Trade Events & Time Management: The Toy Box Philosophy

The conversation began with Jenkins discussing how he navigates the demands of a high-profile career—balancing trade shows, media appearances, and client work. He shared a metaphor of a toy box to explain time management: putting the large “toys” (key priorities) in first ensures space for the smaller items to fit. It’s a disciplined approach to focus, and it reflects how he manages both his calendar and creative energy.

2. Editing as a Design and Business Principle

This prioritization isn’t just logistical—it’s philosophical. Jenkins draws a parallel between business decisions and the creative act of editing in design. Both require focus, clarity, and the willingness to strip away excess in pursuit of excellence.

3. Early Career & Industry Entry: Facing Doubts and Defying Odds

Jenkins reflected on his long journey in design, which began in 1996 and gained traction during the 2008 recession when he officially launched his firm. Entering an industry where Black designers were—and remain—underrepresented, Jenkins faced skepticism about his viability and visibility. But he persevered, fueled by vision and grit.

4. Corporate to Creative: A Risk That Paid Off

Before design, Jenkins worked as a buyer in the automotive industry. A layoff became the turning point. He left behind a secure but unfulfilling career and embraced the uncertainty of entrepreneurship. The decision marked a shift not just in vocation but in health, happiness, and purpose.

5. Rejection & Resilience: Knocking on 779 Doors

One of the most powerful stories he shared was about knocking on 779 doors before securing his first big client. That perseverance wasn’t just physical—it was emotional. Jenkins emphasizes that success has a price, and it’s often paid in rejection, humility, and endurance.

6. Creative Theft & the Reality of Dupes

As his profile grew, Jenkins became acutely aware of the challenges around intellectual property in design. He spoke candidly about how creatives are often vulnerable to idea theft and copycat culture—an issue particularly painful for designers who, like him, put years into building an original voice.

7. Licensing Strategy & Brand Diversification

To combat market volatility and scale his impact, Jenkins has smartly expanded into licensing and product partnerships. Strategic collaborations with brands that align with his values—such as Eichholtz—enable him to protect his vision while reaching broader audiences and creating new revenue streams.

8. Staying Hungry: The Myth of “Making It”

Despite his success, Jenkins operates with what he calls “ambition, not abundance.” The hustle doesn’t stop when you become visible—it shifts. Staying grounded and hungry is part of his ethos and keeps both him and his team striving for more.

9. Leadership & Team Building: Values Over Vanity

Jenkins’ approach to hiring is deeply intentional. He prioritizes humility, character, and shared values over pure talent. Potential hires go through multiple interviews to ensure cultural fit. As he puts it: “We design with the intent to make people jealous—but in the best way possible.” That aspirational quality extends to his leadership style—firm, fair, and focused on mutual respect.

On Design Reimagined: A Book—and Ethos—That Reflects Evolution

Jenkins’ latest book, Design Reimagined, represents a major evolution from his debut, Design Remix. While Remix was thematic and Midwestern in focus, Reimagined is bolder, more global, and even more daring in its expression. The projects span a wider aesthetic spectrum—from restrained and modern to exuberantly maximalist. That diversity reflects not only the range of his clients, but the creative depth of his team.

“We want our interiors to incite envy—not out of malice, but desire,” he said. “That feeling of, ‘I want to live like that too.’”

The book—and the ethos behind it—embody Jenkins’ belief that beauty belongs to everyone, no matter the scale or budget.

That’s a wrap on my conversation with Corey Damen Jenkins. I hope you found it as inspiring and insightful as I did. Corey’s journey is a powerful reminder that perseverance, humility, and a clear creative vision can carry you through even the toughest challenges.

Be sure to check out his upcoming book, Design Reimagined, launching on September 9th, and keep an eye out for the new season of his series as well as his lighting collection. Corey is definitely someone to watch, and I’m looking forward to reconnecting with him soon for a deeper dive into his portfolio and upcoming projects.

As always, thanks for tuning in. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who might find it valuable. Until next time, stay focused, keep pushing forward and rise above the chaos. -Convo By Design

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Welcome to the Convo By Design Icon Registry episode for the month of July, 2025. This month’s inductee is someone you certainly know, a West Coast design staple and someone with whom I have had a number of conversations. Jeff Andrews first appearance on the show was in 2019 and then again in 2020. Just before the world shut down. Jeff and I spoke form his Legends of LaCienega showroom window in May, 2019. He later appeared on a panel conversation at WestEdge in 2019. The last iteration of the show until 2022.

The Convo By Design Icon Registry is presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home, a Best Buy company. Pacific Sales is comprised of long time professionals who love design and architecture as much as you do. Which is why it is so fitting that they present this recognition of some of the worlds greatest design talent every month here on Convo By Design.

On the show today, you are going to hear from Jeff again. These were his appearances on the show from 2019. First, you will hear the individual conversation with Jeff from Legends and then, you will hear the conversation form WestEdge. I hope you enjoy hearing these again as much as I enjoy sharing them with you. Jeff, thank you for all you do for the industry and providing such joy through your work.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

This wraps up another episode of the Convo By Design Icon Registry. A celebration and recognition of a true master in the art of design and the mastery of all that encompasses in the pursuit of making better the lives of those he serves. And, giving back along the way. Thank you, Jeff and congratulations. Some of the things I truly enjoyed were the retelling of inspiration that led to his window design at Legends and the Doorbell story. It’s the little things, right?

Thanks for listening to Convo By Design. Thank you to my partner sponsors, Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home for presenting the Convo By Design Icon Registry and Convo By Design partner sponsors, TimberTech and Design Hardware. And thank you for taking the time to listen. I couldn’t do this without you, wouldn’t want to. I hope this show helps you stay motivated, inspired and focused so you can rise above the chaos. -CXD

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Today, we are getting in the way way-way back machine, back to February of this year for a journey to Las Vegas for KBIS, the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show. It’s funny to me that even though this was only a few months back, it feels like a lifetime ago. So much has happened this year. But if you recall, in February, before protests, riots, big bills, big balls, tariffs, and all the rest of the chaotic shenanigans, there was KBIS. It was an extraordinary show this year. Part of that were the conversations that took place. I am going to share three of them with you today:

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

One event over 3 days, 3 conversations in one episode of the show today and very different perspectives on the industry and design in general.

Sharon Sherman | Thyme & Place

Jamie Gasparovic | Studio Gaspo

Hannah Goldberg | Hannah Charlotte Interiors

Amazing, right? Thank you Sharon, Jamie and Hannah. Thank you to all of the incredible people from KBIS, NKBA, Emerald, Flying Camel, Leeann, Rachael and everyone else who made this experience possible, and made it possible for me to bring it to you. I want to thank my partner sponsors who help make this show possible: Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home, a Best Buy Company, TimberTech, and Design Hardware. Thank you for listening, subscribing, and sharing the show with your colleagues. Your support means everything, and it helps grow this conversation across the design community.

Make sure you subscribe to Convo By Design so you never miss an episode. We have more incredible guests, ideas, and conversations coming your way.

Please keep those emails coming. You can reach me directly at convoByDesign@outlook.com, and be part of the conversation on Instagram, @ConvoXDesign—that’s Convo X Design with an “X”..

These are complex issues that requires both deeper thought and immediate action. I want to thank every one of our expert guests for their insights, time, and passion. We are surrounded by complex issues, are we not? That’s why I have been encouraging you to manage these complicated times. Because it’s real. It’s exhausting. But, from transition, comes opportunity. It is just a matter of thinking about it differently and finding the shiny, glimmering opportunities amongst dark and ominous clouds. So, stay focused and rise above the chaos. – CXD

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This episode of Convo By Design is scheduled for the week of July 8th, 2025. Intentionally so we can begin thinking about what’s coming. It’s hard to forget trauma, like what we saw in Pacific Palisades and Altadena earlier this year. But not impossible. Traditionally, “fire season” in California begins in August and ends around the end of October. Over the decades, there has been a creep into July, then June on the front end and then into November and December on the back end. Sadly, now, there is no longer a fire season, only an ongoing threat. Part of a recent California tour that started in the Bay Area and ended in Pasadena, I got an earful, and, because the mics are always on, so will you. In this special episode, you’re going to hear an extraordinary panel conversation in its entirety—one that explores the very real and immediate design challenges and opportunities facing architects, builders, designers, and manufacturers when creating residential projects in fire-prone areas. This conversation was recorded live and it’s one of the most practical, informative, and emotionally resonant discussions we’ve had about fire-resilient design. This was recorded live from Golden State Lumber in Concord, CA. It features amazing professionals from design, landscape design and architecture. We have industry insiders and those on the front lines, literally.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Today, you are going to hear from;

Caroline Nassif | Studio Ovo

Mary Ann Schicketanz | Studio Schicketanz

Ian Cox | Devlin McNally Construction

Amy Wolff | Ceara Studio

John Davis | John Davis Architect

Robby Myer | Golden State Lumber

Jay Williams | The AZEK Company

Dustin Moore | Strata Landscape Architecture

This episode features the full conversation in four parts and here are some important ideas to listen for:

Setting the Context—Urgency, Evolution, and Mindset Shifts

We open with a candid discussion about the evolving nature of wildfire—how modern firestorms are not the slow-moving ground fires of the past, but fast, intense, and unpredictable events that demand a complete rethinking of how homes are sited, designed, and built.

• Listen for how the professionals on the panel are redefining “resilience”, not as a post-disaster reaction, but as a forward-thinking design responsibility.
• There’s discussion about the emotional component—how clients are now asking for homes that not only reflect their aesthetic desires but also protect their families and investment.
• You’ll hear the beginnings of a common theme: that collaboration across disciplines—architecture, landscape, materials, policy—is essential to progress.

Materials, Methods, and Design Strategy

This section dives into the specific building systems and material choices that can help defend a home against wildfire.

• Pay close attention to the comparisons between wood vs. non-combustible materials, and the increasing use of metal roofs, cementitious siding, and Class A-rated assemblies.
• There are valuable insights into decking, fencing, vents, and eaves—often overlooked but critical components in fire resistance.
• The discussion touches on building codes and certifications, and how understanding these nuances can inform smarter material selection and design detailing.

Design Solutions in Action

This is where we get into real-world case studies. Panelists share examples of how they’ve adapted fire-resilient strategies in current projects and how clients are responding to new realities.

• Listen for examples of reimagining exterior spaces—gravel moats, Mediterranean-inspired gardens, and drought-tolerant landscapes that are also fire-resistant.
• There’s a growing theme of creative compromise—how to design beautiful homes that meet code, earn insurance, and still feel like home.
• One of the strongest takeaways here is the growing influence of insurance companies as drivers of design decisions, often dictating what is and isn’t possible based on risk models.

Systems, Bureaucracy, and the Bigger Picture

The final section broadens the lens to policy, forest management, and societal responsibility.

• You’ll hear passionate commentary on how municipal red tape and lack of funding are holding back fuel reduction and prevention efforts on public lands.
• There’s a sharp critique of the conflicting policies surrounding water conservation versus the need to irrigate plants to keep them from becoming fire hazards.
• Perhaps most striking is the discussion about emotional decision-making in real estate—how people choose to build in beautiful, risky places and the evolving responsibility of design professionals to help guide those decisions.
• The panel ends with a moment of humor and honesty, reflecting on the risks of living in various climate zones, whether it’s fire, flood, tornado, or drought—and the universality of risk in a changing climate.

What you’re about to hear is the full conversation—raw, honest, and highly informative. It captures the crossroads where climate, design, policy, and personal responsibility meet. Whether you’re a designer, builder, municipal official, or homeowner, this discussion offers real, actionable insights into how we build safer, smarter, and more beautiful homes for a rapidly changing world.

That was the full conversation on designing and building for fire resilience—an important and timely topic that continues to evolve as our climate, policies, and expectations shift. Thank you to this amazing group; Mary Ann, Amy, Caroline, Jay, Ian, Robby, John and Dustin. I want to thank my partner sponsors who help make this show possible: Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home, a Best Buy Company, TimberTech, The AZEK Company and Design Hardware. Thank you for listening, subscribing, and sharing the show with your colleagues. Your support means everything, and it helps grow this conversation across the design community.

Make sure you subscribe to Convo By Design so you never miss an episode. We have more incredible guests, ideas, and conversations coming your way.

Please keep those emails coming. You can reach me directly at convoByDesign@outlook.com, and be part of the conversation on Instagram, @ConvoXDesign—that’s Convo X Design.

This is a complex issue and one that requires both deeper thought and immediate action. I want to thank every one of our expert guests for their insights, time, and passion.

Today, we learned:

• How climate change and wildfire risk are reshaping architecture and landscape design;
• What role new materials and building products play in safeguarding homes;
• How to design beautiful, fire-conscious landscapes that meet strict new codes;
• The ways insurance, regulations, and policy gaps are changing the game;
• And why client education and holistic collaboration across disciplines is more important than ever.

Huge thanks, as always, to you for joining the conversation and to our sponsors for supporting these meaningful stories.

If you found this episode valuable, share it with a colleague and subscribe to make sure you don’t miss what’s next. We’ll continue bringing you the people, ideas, and innovations pushing the design world forward.

Until next time, stay curious, resilient, focused and rise above the chaos. – CXD

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Today, we’re taking you into the heart of the home—and into the heart of a crisis. This is part three of our special series on kitchen design in the context of post-wildfire rebuilding. But this isn’t just about appliances and finishes. It’s about resilience, emotional healing, and how design professionals are redefining what a kitchen truly means in the aftermath of disaster.

In this episode, you’ll hear from an extraordinary panel of designers and industry pros tackling some of the toughest questions we face when rebuilding from scratch—often under pressure, always with purpose.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

We talk about the emotional weight clients carry into the design process and how trauma-informed planning can help ease that burden. You’ll hear how priorities shift when clients aren’t just dreaming up a dream kitchen—they’re reconstructing their lives. Function trumps flash, accessibility takes center stage, and the kitchen becomes more than a cooking space—it’s a symbol of comfort, safety, and a return to normalcy.

We’re also exploring how wildfires and insurance timelines are reshaping the design-build process itself. From tight ALE (Additional Living Expense) windows to panic buying and long lead times, designers are balancing empathy with efficiency, and creativity with constraint.

You’ll hear how technology—from induction cooktops to full home automation—is influencing new builds, and why education and trust are key when introducing these tools. We’ll talk about sustainable materials, fire-resistant solutions, and why regional design—from Altadena to the Palisades—is more influential than ever.

Finally, we examine the critical importance of early collaboration. When architects, designers, and contractors don’t align from day one, it’s the homeowner who pays the price—in money, time, and emotional energy.

This is a conversation for designers, builders, architects, and homeowners navigating recovery—or for anyone passionate about the evolving role of residential design in a time of crisis. It’s thoughtful. It’s raw. And it’s exactly the kind of dialogue that defines Convo By Design. The following program was recorded live form Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home in Pasadena, California. This group of amazing creatives had fantastic insights. The group included:

Emma DeRoche | Emma DeRoche Interior Design @derochedesign

Emma DeRoche of DeRoche Interior Design specializes in interior architecture with a deep emphasis on personalization. Her approach is highly client-centric—rooted in understanding who clients are, were, and aspire to be—and translating that into meaningful, livable design. Rather than adhere to a signature style, Emma’s work ranges from sleek, minimalist kitchens with hidden appliances to richly traditional spaces with detailed millwork and warm finishes. She designs kitchens that are not just functional, but deeply expressive—often including secondary prep kitchens, outdoor cooking spaces, and thoughtful additions like bathroom fridges or bedroom coffee stations. Her work reflects a shift in how we live: more casually, more connected, and more personally.

Eva Hughes | Black House Beige @blackhousebeige

Eva Hughes, founder of Black House Beige, leads a bi-coastal design firm based in Los Angeles with projects in both California and New York. Her work blends beauty and function, creating homes that evolve with families while reflecting their identity and lifestyle. Eva emphasizes regional lifestyle differences—such as LA’s car-centric, home-focused routines versus New York’s walkable, compact living—which directly influence design choices. Her approach involves keen observation and communication, especially when tailoring kitchens to client routines, from child-friendly layouts to chef-grade functionality. Eva is also a featured designer in this year’s Pasadena Showcase House, where she designed a powder bath—gaining insight as her own client and connecting deeply with the design community.

Gail Jamenetz | Soul Interiors Design @soul_interiors_design

Gail Jamentz is the principal of Soul Interiors Design, a firm deeply rooted in wellness-focused, sustainable design. Based in Altadena—where she also resides—Gail brings a personal and empathetic approach to her work, having lost her own home in the recent fires. Her mission is to help clients rebuild with intention, turning tragedy into an opportunity to create healthier, more fire-resistant, and joy-filled homes. Gail emphasizes education and advocacy, guiding clients through the complex rebuilding process while honoring Altadena’s character and community. She’s also a vocal supporter of thoughtful planning over rushed prefab solutions, and a believer in design as a tool for hope, healing, and community regeneration.

Neela Woodard | Neela Woodard Design @neelawoodarddesign

Neela Woodard is the founder of Neela Woodard Design, based in Burbank, California. With East Coast roots, Neela blends a personalized, human-centered approach with practical functionality—designing spaces that reflect not just her clients’ tastes, but who they are and how they live. Her work emphasizes the kitchen as the heart of the home, especially in contrasting communities like Altadena and the Palisades, where needs and styles vary widely. Neela brings a deep understanding of how lifestyle and regional context shape kitchen use, from indoor-outdoor living to evolving tech and storage solutions. She’s also navigating current supply chain and tariff challenges with creative problem-solving and a forward-thinking mindset—balancing urgency with long-term vision.

Tanya Paz | TAP Studio @tap.studio

Tanya Paz, founder of TAP Studio in Pasadena, integrates architecture, interiors, and wellness in her work across residential and institutional projects. The recent fires deeply impacted the Los Angeles area, reshaping designers’ roles to include client advocacy, emotional support, and practical assistance in temporary housing and rebuilding. The loss extends beyond structures to personal histories embedded in homes, prompting new conversations about functionality and client needs. Rebuilding spans diverse housing types and budgets, demanding inclusive design solutions. Inspired by historical mass-produced kitchens like the Frankfurt Kitchen, TAP Studio explores customizable prefab “kits of parts” to deliver quality kitchens within fixed budgets. Prefabrication offers speed and cost control, especially for ADUs and cabinetry, but must balance standardization with customization. Overall, the fires have expanded designers’ responsibilities, highlighting their role in supporting clients through trauma and rebuilding resilient, meaningful homes.

Verzine Hovasapyain |Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home @pacificsales

Verzine Hovasapyan is the Premium Manager at Pacific Sales, where she’s spent the past 25 years building deep relationships in the appliance industry. Based in Southern California, she oversees luxury sales, vendor training, and trade partnerships, with a strong focus on supporting the design community and staying ahead of appliance trends. Verlaine brings a relational, client-centered approach to her work—emphasizing continuity, care, and partnership, particularly in communities like Altadena, where many are rebuilding after fire loss. She champions the role of designers in grounding clients’ aspirations in reality, offering Pacific Sales showrooms and vendor spaces as hands-on resources. With ties to Best Buy, her team also offers financing programs, community incentives, and a designer rewards system—supporting both professionals and homeowners through every phase of the build or remodel journey.

Some of the topics covered in the following conversation include:

The Kitchen as the Emotional and Functional Heart of the Home

• Kitchens hold deep emotional significance—sites of daily rituals, memories, and togetherness.
• After a wildfire, the kitchen becomes a symbolic space for recovery and hope.
• Design decisions are highly personal and emotionally charged.
• Clients often want to recreate or reimagine their old kitchens with updated functionality.

Regional Differences in Design Expectations and Constraints

• Distinct design preferences and material palettes between regions like Altadena and the Pacific Palisades.
• Community aesthetic and architectural history influence rebuilding styles.
• Regulatory hurdles vary by area, with different zoning, setback rules, and historical preservation requirements shaping outcomes.

Evolving Client Priorities Post-Wildfire

• Clients are more focused on resilience, function, and safety than aesthetic trends.
• Many are embracing sustainability, energy efficiency, and adaptability.
• There is increased openness to modern design and materials, including induction cooking and engineered surfaces.
• Emotional trauma affects client engagement—many lean on designers to make decisions.

Role of the Designer in Trauma-Informed, Post-Disaster Projects

• Designers become part therapist, part advocate, and part project manager.
• Clear, compassionate communication is key.
• Emotional intelligence is just as important as technical design knowledge.
• Clients often need guidance to make rational decisions under emotional duress.

Integration of Technology and Customization in Kitchen Design

• Appliance integration is increasingly customized to lifestyle, with layouts tailored to how families live and cook.
• Tech choices (e.g., induction, smart appliances) must be balanced with usability and client familiarity.
• Over-customization can be a risk when designing from trauma—designers guide clients toward practical solutions.

Accessibility, Aging-in-Place, and Multigenerational Living

• Kitchens are being designed with long-term use in mind—features accommodate aging or differently abled residents.
• Appliance height, clearance, lighting, and ergonomic storage are now standard considerations.
• Design reflects changing family dynamics, including more multigenerational households post-disaster.

Supply Chain Disruptions and Construction Delays

• Long lead times for appliances, cabinetry, doors, and windows require early ordering—often a year or more in advance.
• Delays lead to warehousing challenges, lost warranties, and misaligned installation schedules.
• Designers, builders, and clients must constantly adapt timelines to product availability.

Financial Pressures: Tariffs, Budgets, and Insurance Deadlines

• Rising material and appliance costs due to tariffs force compromises in design.
• Insurance coverage for temporary housing (ALE) puts pressure on timelines and decision-making.
• Budget-conscious clients often opt for fewer or more affordable design elements.
• Designers must advocate for quality while respecting financial realities.

Collaboration Between Designers, Architects, and Contractors

• Misalignment between architecture and interior functionality often leads to design inefficiencies.
• Early collaboration is essential—especially in kitchen planning—to ensure layouts work for real-life usage.
• Clear role definition and respect for each discipline improve outcomes and reduce errors.

Educating Clients and the Public About New Technologies

• Induction cooking is gaining traction for its efficiency and safety, but requires client education.
• Misinformation and lack of awareness among electricians, builders, and homeowners can slow adoption.
• Designers play a key role in bridging the knowledge gap and driving sustainable choices.

That was the full conversation on designing for fire restoration and the ultimate functional kitchen.—an important and timely topic that continues to evolve as our climate, policies, and expectations shift. Thank you to this amazing group; Gail, Neela, Eva, Emma, Tanya and Verzine. I want to thank my partner sponsors who help make this show possible: Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home, a Best Buy Company, TimberTech, and Design Hardware. Thank you for listening, subscribing, and sharing the show with your colleagues. Your support means everything, and it helps grow this conversation across the design community.

Make sure you subscribe to Convo By Design so you never miss an episode. We have more incredible guests, ideas, and conversations coming your way.

Please keep those emails coming. You can reach me directly at convoByDesign@outlook.com, and be part of the conversation on Instagram, @ConvoXDesign—that’s Convo X Design with an “X”..

This is a complex issue and one that requires both deeper thought and immediate action. I want to thank every one of our expert guests for their insights, time, and passion. We are surrounded by complex issues, are we not? That’s why I have been encouraging you to manage these complicated times. Because it’s real. It’s exhausting. But, from transition, comes opportunity. It is just a matter of thinking about it differently and finding the shiny, glimmering opportunities amongst dark and ominous clouds. So, stay focused and rise above the chaos. – CXD

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New product discovery is one of the most important tasks designers face today. The challenge of simply working with the brands you know is hard enough. Today, we’re diving into a new brand to you and color, chemistry, culture—a whole new approach to what goes on your walls. You are about to hear from Maya Crowne and Price Latimer,, the visionary duo behind Alkemis Paint, a brand attempting to redefine the paint industry through sustainability, style, and substance.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Launched in 2023 after over three years of rigorous R&D, Alkemis was born out of the pandemic with a mission: to eliminate toxic chemicals from our living spaces and replace them with mineral-based, eco-conscious, air-purifying alternatives. But this isn’t just about cleaner paint—it’s about redefining how we think about surfaces, health, and design.

With a background steeped in creativity and a love for reggae and dub influencing their bold palette, Maya and Price are creating more than color—they’re creating a movement. We’ll talk about the science behind their unique formula, the challenges of launching a purpose-driven product in a tough market, and why education, authenticity, and collaboration are core to their growth.

This is a story about design with depth, color with conscience, and paint that actually breathes. Let’s get into it, right after this.

Thank you Maya and Price. Alkemis Paint, and if you’re like me, you’re walking away from this conversation with a renewed sense of what’s possible in the world of design materials.

Alkemis isn’t just making paint—they’re making a statement. One rooted in health, sustainability, and the kind of creative authenticity that sticks with you. From CO₂-absorbing finishes to culturally inspired hues, they’re bringing an entirely new mindset to the surface of modern interiors.

If you’re a designer, architect, or even a homeowner thinking about your next project, consider what Alkemis is doing. It’s more than a product—it’s a philosophy. And in a world where every choice we make leaves a mark, it’s refreshing to find a brand that’s thinking far beyond the brush.

Thanks for listening to Convo By Design. Until next time—be well, I hope this show help you stay motivated, inspired and focused so you can rise above the chaos. -CXD

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This is Convo By Design—where we explore the ideas, people, and projects shaping the future of design. But you know that, I imagine this is why you listen each week… To hear stories behind the design. One of the things I have been thinking about lately is how ideas, feelings and purpose can change over time. When I started CXD in January of 2013, I thought I was speaking to design and architecture clients. Homeowners who wanted to learn about the stories behind design. From the response I received, almost immediately, I realized it was the trade I was speaking to. Well, that’s who was listening. And it was that way for years. It was probably around 2015 or 2016 that homeowners were listening and speaking to their designers about imbuing their story into the work. Personalizing it which prior to that was still seen as a detriment to resale. That idea is pretty much gone now, and that’s a good thing.

Blueberry Jones Projects.

In this episode, I’m speaking with Lindsie Davis, the creative force behind Bluberry Jones, a design firm based in Texas. Lindsie’s story is rooted in authenticity—an interior designer who once felt uncomfortable in the spotlight, but found herself pulled into a public-facing role by the very nature of her work. Her creative journey weaves through fashion, art education, and eventually, full-scope interior design, fueled by instinct, passion, and an unwavering desire to build spaces with soul.

From her first unexpected design job at a paint store to launching a firm amid the uncertainty of 2020, Lindsie has leaned into change—and thrived in it. We talk about her evolution from the suburbs of Dallas to the creative haven of Wimberley, the cultural rise of Texas design, and the very real challenges and rewards of running a design business in a rapidly growing, ever-shifting market like Austin.

This conversation also dives deep into kitchens—yes, white kitchens, colorful kitchens, and how even the smallest design decisions can echo with intention and meaning. Lindsie’s perspective is one of quiet confidence, shaped by creativity, hard-earned business acumen, and a genuine love for making homes better, one thoughtful layer at a time.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

That was Lindsie Davis of Bluberry Jones. A designer with a sharp eye, a creative spirit, and a grounded understanding of how to make spaces work beautifully and meaningfully for the people who live in them.

Her story is a reminder that design is rarely a straight line—it’s a winding road of experiments, pivots, passion, and perseverance. Whether she’s reimagining a kitchen, collaborating with architects on multi-year projects, or navigating the changing landscape of Texas design, Lindsie brings intentionality and warmth to every corner she touches.

Thank you for listening. If you liked this episode, share it with a friend who loves design, subscribe to Convo By Design wherever you get your podcasts. And continue the conversation on Instagram @convo x design with an “x”. Keep those emails coming with guest suggestions, show ideas and locations where you’d like to see the show.

Thank you to my partner sponsors, TimberTech, The Azek Company, Pacific Sales, Best Buy and Design Hardware. These companies support the shelter industry so give them an opportunity on your next project. Thanks again for listening. Until next time, stay focused and rise about the chaos. -CXD

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This episode’s dropping in June—and if you’re listening the day, week, or even month it’s released, well, you already know that. I’ve been thinking about adding these time stamps to each episode moving forward. It just helps frame the conversation, especially considering how fast things are changing.

I just got back from a swing through California—starting up in the Bay Area and making my way down through Pasadena and LA. I met with some brilliant creatives and brand leaders to talk shop about the market, the mood, and where things stand right now.

And if there’s one thing we can all count on these days, it’s the unpredictability of… well, everything. Between extreme weather events, climate challenges, and an ever-shifting political landscape—again, not pointing fingers here—just acknowledging how these forces are impacting the shelter space in very real ways.

So, moving forward, expect more context in these intros, and more conversations focused on market dynamics—specification, supply chain challenges, and how brands are staying sharp with costs, design, and materials.

Today’s guest is Alexander Dornbracht, Vice President and General Manager of Kallista and Robern, both under the Kohler umbrella. Alex literally grew up in this industry—his family business was in the same space—so he knows it inside and out. And he’s here to give us an unfiltered look at what’s really happening out there.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

A big thank you to Alexander Dornbracht—great catching up, and I really appreciate the insight. And, of course, thank you to our amazing partners: TimberTech, Pacific Sales, and Design Hardware. These are incredible companies and true friends of the trade. Please keep them in mind for your next project.

Thanks to you for listening, subscribing, and sharing the show with your friends and colleagues. If you haven’t subscribed yet, go ahead and hit that button so you get each new episode delivered straight to your feed.

I always love hearing from you, so keep those messages coming—email me at convo by design at outlook dot com and follow along on Instagram, @ConvoXDesign (with an “X”).

Until next week—thank you for spending this time with me. Be well, stay focused, and now that chaos has really settled in… do your best to rise above it.

—CXD

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In a thoughtful and far-ranging conversation, architect Mitch Rocheleau sits down with me to discuss the deeper layers of architecture, the critical importance of reflection in design, and the challenges—and opportunities—presented by rebuilding in the face of disaster. Throughout our exchange, Rocheleau consistently returns to one core belief: architecture is not merely about aesthetics or function, but about the human experience.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

“I think architecture, if you study and reflect on it, write about it, think about it deeply, can be in some ways a storybook,” Rocheleau said early in the conversation. “You can read it and gain profound insights into the people that were building it.” Which is such a dynamic idea and one we just don’t often consider.

Thank you Mitch, Amazing. Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors, TimberTech, Pacific Sales, and Design Hardware. Amazing companies and great friends to the trade so please give them an opportunity for your next project. Thank you for listening, subscribing to the show and sharing with your colleagues. If not already subscribing, please consider that so you receive every new episode automatically to your podcast feed.

Please keep those emails coming convo by design at outlook dot com and follow the conversation on Instagram, @ConvoXDesign with an “X”.

Until next week, thank you for sharing this time together, until the next episode, be well, stay focused and now that it has arrived in earnest, try to rise above the chaos.

The Power of Writing in Design

Rocheleau has become known not just for his architectural practice, but for his written reflections on the field. These writings—available via Rust Architects—provide critical insight often missing from mainstream discussions of architecture.

What drives this urge to document and reflect? Rocheleau sees it as an essential part of the creative process.

“As I’ve gone through that process [of creating], I’ve begun to feel the intuition or this need to reflect,” he explained. “To say, okay, what am I actually doing? Where is this coming from? What is the work I’m putting into the world?” Such purposeful cogitation creates the framework for managing creative ideas for a greater purpose.

This emphasis on writing as a reflective tool, rather than simply a vehicle for promotion or analysis, places Rocheleau in a tradition of architectural thinkers who seek deeper meaning in their work. He draws inspiration from historical figures such as John Ruskin, seeing the built environment as both a product and reflection of civilization.

Bridging School and Reality

A particularly compelling moment in the interview, for me, came when Mitch and I discuss a comment from architect Brian Pinkett: that architecture school doesn’t teach students how to design, but rather how to think critically. Rocheleau agreed, but pointed out a troubling disconnect between that training and the professional world.

“It seems to me that there may be in the path of architecture… a primary path, and then along the way, a series of possibly distractions,” he said. These distractions include software, rendering techniques, and other technical tools that—while valuable—can steer young architects away from their original, human-centered purpose.

Rocheleau’s concern is that without conscious reflection, the architectural process becomes reactive, not intentional. He views writing, philosophy, and psychology as tools to reconnect with that original path.

“At its essence, it all can come back to the idea of the human and what’s going on in the human’s mind as we’re walking through space.”

A Lens on the Farnsworth House

Mitch and I discuss one of his recent writings on the Farnsworth House by Mies van der Rohe. While often seen as a minimalist icon of modernism, Rocheleau sees it through a more emotional and humanistic lens.

“There was this really maybe sensitive approach from Mies van der Rohe about the human experience,” Rocheleau explained. “Which is a strange thing, because I think he often doesn’t really get credit for that type of thinking.”

He views the Farnsworth House not just as an object of design, but as a symbol of a new, more transparent way of living—one that connects people more directly with their surroundings. The building, in his view, represents not only architectural purity but emotional vulnerability.

“It’s massively freeing to think that it’s possible to live that way,” he said of the open, glass-walled structure.

Lessons from the Past: Venice as a Living Artifact

Turning to another of Rocheleau’s essays, I highlighted a piece on the architectural history of Venice—an improbable city that, as the architect pointed out, “shouldn’t exist.” The challenges Venice faced gave rise to unique solutions, like the Venetian chimney, which doubled as both an artistic feature and a fire safety measure.

“It’s this confluence of beautiful art and necessity,” Rocheleau explained. “Somebody’s in a challenging place, and they’re problem solving.”

For Rocheleau, Venice exemplifies how constraints and adversity often lead to innovation. He contrasted this with the top-down, utopian visions often proposed by urban planners—visions that may be beautiful but are often divorced from lived reality.

“Without those challenges, that city would not be what it is today,” he noted. “There’s a bit of hollowness in a plan that hasn’t faced resistance.”

Rebuilding After Disaster: Southern California’s Moment

Los Angeles and Southern California in the wake of wildfires that have devastated communities. With the surge in rebuilding efforts provide both risk and an opportunity.

Rocheleau sees parallels with Venice’s resilience—suggesting that, just as hardship led to innovation in the past, today’s crises could inspire smarter, more human-centered urban planning.

Rocheleau agrees that now is a time to reflect deeply on what kind of environments truly serve humanity—not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually.

“I think we should reflect as a collective society… to help us get a better compass for how to proceed with architectural work in the future.”

The Takeaway: Thought Before Form

Throughout the discussion, Mitch Rocheleau makes a compelling case that architecture is as much about thought as it is about form. His writings, rich with philosophy, psychology, and historical insight, aim to bring intentionality back into a profession often overwhelmed by trends and tools.

In a world dealing with climate disasters, urban sprawl, and shifting cultural values, his voice is a reminder that architecture has always been—and should remain—a human art.

Rebuilding Los Angeles: Balancing Urgency, Legacy, and Vision for the Future

In the wake of disaster, the urgency to rebuild is often overwhelming. Families are displaced, communities fractured, and infrastructure shattered. It’s entirely human to want to move quickly—to restore normalcy, provide shelter, and begin again. But what if moving fast risks missing the chance to do something truly transformational?

This tension is especially evident in places like Los Angeles—a sprawling, layered urban environment that defies easy categorization. To understand LA is to understand that it’s not one unified city but a complex mosaic of neighborhoods, each with its own identity, architecture, and community fabric. In a region so rich in diversity and history, rebuilding isn’t just about putting walls back up—it’s about deciding how we live, why we build, and what legacy we leave behind.

The Dangers of Rebuilding in Haste

The instinct to rebuild quickly is understandable, especially after catastrophe. But speed can come at the cost of quality, thoughtfulness, and long-term resilience. As one architect reflected, there’s a real risk in responding with haste: the impulse to recreate the same structures, to replicate familiar patterns without taking the time to reflect on what worked, what didn’t, and what could be improved.

Rather than defaulting to “build back the same,” there’s a compelling argument for pausing—just long enough—to ask deeper questions. What are the values of the community? How should infrastructure serve people today, and tomorrow? And how can the rebuilt environment contribute not just to housing needs, but to culture, identity, and connection?

Preservation vs. Progress: A Los Angeles Dilemma

Los Angeles faces a unique architectural paradox. On one hand, it houses some of the most iconic mid-century and modernist structures in the country. On the other, it is a living, breathing organism that constantly evolves—one that doesn’t (and arguably shouldn’t) preserve everything for the sake of nostalgia.

Take the example of Eichler homes. Built as part of the post-World War II housing boom, these homes reflect a critical shift in how Americans thought about suburban living. With open courtyards, indoor-outdoor flow, and modern materials, Eichlers weren’t just houses—they were a statement about a new way of life. They marked a philosophical and aesthetic evolution, one that mirrored broader changes in society.

But here’s the irony: while Eichlers are celebrated today as architectural gems, they were once just part of a larger tract housing movement—one often dismissed for its uniformity and lack of design rigor. This contradiction highlights the challenge of preservation: how do we decide what is “worth” saving? What makes one tract home a heritage site, while another is fair game for demolition?

A Moment of Opportunity

Today, Southern California has a rare opportunity—perhaps the greatest since the postwar boom—to reshape the urban landscape for generations to come. Disaster, as tragic as it is, presents a unique chance to not just restore, but to reinvent.

It’s a chance to take what we’ve learned—about materials, sustainability, equity, and design—and apply it at scale. To create housing that isn’t just affordable, but beautiful and dignified. To craft public spaces that foster connection. To reimagine density not as a threat, but as a solution to sprawl, climate strain, and social isolation.

This isn’t about tearing down the past. It’s about learning from it—and building a better future because of it.

The Role of Architectural Language

Architecture is a language, and like any language, it evolves. Styles shift, materials change, needs adapt. Yet at its core, good architecture speaks to the human experience. It tells a story—about how we see ourselves, our values, our aspirations.

In the absence of nuanced architectural criticism, however, these stories are often lost. Today’s social media environment favors snapshots over substance, impressions over inquiry. A photo of a sleek facade might go viral, but who explains the deeper design choices? Who critiques whether a building works—not just visually, but emotionally, functionally, and socially?

This is why thoughtful architectural voices are needed now more than ever. Not just to defend preservation or promote innovation, but to interpret, contextualize, and push the conversation forward.

Learning from the Masters—And Moving Beyond Them

Even the most revered architects had blind spots. Visiting Frank Lloyd Wright’s Price Tower in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, one is struck by its grandeur and ambition—but also by its shortcomings. The dramatic design includes soaring glass expanses and rich materials, but also narrow hallways and impractical living spaces. One secretary’s desk was placed beneath a half-wall that blocked her view, despite floor-to-ceiling windows nearby. It’s a reminder that architectural vision can sometimes ignore human needs.

These imperfections don’t diminish Wright’s legacy—but they do highlight the importance of designing not just for expression, but for experience. Today’s architects must balance vision with empathy, aesthetics with usability.

Toward a New Los Angeles

What does the next Los Angeles look like? That depends on the questions we’re willing to ask—and how brave we are in answering them.

Can we build faster and better? Can we honor the past while embracing the future? Can we move beyond labels—“modernist,” “traditionalist,” “preservationist”—and simply strive to create environments that work for people?

The answer lies not in one master plan, but in many conversations—among architects, planners, community members, and leaders. It lies in resisting the pressure to rush, and instead seizing this moment to do something deeper.

Los Angeles is not static. It never has been. But it can be intentional. And in that intention lies the hope of a more resilient, equitable, and inspiring city for the next generation.

– CXD

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Twenty-twenty-five will definitely go down as a chaotic year. But listen, I am not going to complain because it’s not productive. Productivity, very difficult to achieve in any field without the freedom of creativity. Creativity is suppressed when worry and doubt are present. I read an article in Psychology Today recently called, How Anxiety Harms Creativity (And What to Do About It). You can find a link in the show notes. The article draws a correlation between anxiety and creativity that outlines why and how fear, exhaustion and doubt can hinder creativity. And how creative types can struggle from this. As a creative who speaks to other creatives, and for you, as a creative listening, we are in the same headspace, think about that for a minute.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

We are all alone, together in the pursuit of meaning, creative expression, love and satisfaction. If you are in constant state of chaos and worry, how can you do your best work. We can’t. Think about Convo By Design as a respite from the external chaos and a place to reconnect with others who are likeminded and in pursuit of the same things you are. And in that effort, today, you are going to hear from Dan D’Agostino, founder and principle architect at Plan Architecture. Dan and I talk about creative freedom and we go into the work they are producing at Plan Architecture. We go into it and one of the things I find so interesting about Dan and his firm is that the work is complex and covers multiple styles and influences. From traditional to modern and much in between.

In addition to external factors complicating the creative process, often, creative types will become fixated on signature style and often, it’s not intentional. It just happens. Creative flexibility is a gift and one you will hear Dan and I explore along with a number of other topics. All in an effort to inspire you, spur creative thought and get you out of your head for a little while. So, let’s get to it. Right after this.

Thank you, Dan. Enjoyed this immensely. Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors, TimberTech, Pacific Sales, and Design Hardware. Amazing companies and great friends to the trade so please give them an opportunity for your next project. Thank you for listening, subscribing to the show and sharing with your colleagues. If not already subscribing, please consider that so you receive every new episode automatically to your podcast feed.

Please keep those emails coming convo by design at outlook dot com and follow the conversation on Instagram, @ConvoXDesign with an “X”.

Until next week, thank you for sharing this time together, until the next episode, be well, stay focused and now that it has arrived in earnest, try to rise above the chaos. – CXD

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How’s your weeK? If its anything like every week of 2025 so far, you are probably exhausted from all of the chaos in the world and the industry. But for the next hour or so, take a break and listen to someone who I am absolutely sure will calm you and help get you focused for what’s next. This is the Convo By Design Icon Registry for May 2025 featuring a remarkable creative who has appeared on the show not once, but twice. During her first appearance in February 2019, here is what I had to say about this months inductee, Joan Behnke…

“Joan Behnke founded her namesake design studio in 1999. Since then, she has been trailblazing a path studded with interior design gems from LA to DC. Joan views interior design as a fine art and an exercise in self-expression. It’s both intimate and created for the world to see based on the unique personality of its inhabitant.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

I met Joan at her studio and we sat for quite a while. She is in a really good place. The firm has enjoyed international recognition and while that is important, she has built her firm on her own ideas of what makes the work, good and worthy. I enjoyed my time with Joan, she is soft spoken but her words have tremendous impact and she is fierce in her ideas about design and the personal nature by which she connects it to her clients. We talked about exquisite craftsmanship and lasting beauty, both of which are key elements to her design philosophy. This is Joan Behnke.”

I vividly remember sitting with Joan in the conference room of her studio. Joan is soft spoken, disarming and intentional. I read a quote from her years prior in an article from Forbes that resonated with me then and has stayed with me some six years after our first meeting. The quote was, “ I don’t want my clients to just own a personalized piece for their home; I want them to experience it.” This could mean a chandelier, work of art, furnishings but it stems form a broader philosophy that the home itself is to be experienced as a part of their lives and not simply a box one lives in regardless of how expensive or lavish that box might be. That quote in Forbes was from 2013, a full 7 years before the pandemic and an instant rush to find experiential fulfillment in spaces. And it’s not meant for just the uber-wealthy. Joan’s philosophical approach to design can be applied to any budget, any style and any locale.

I think to explore her thoughts and ideas puts those in the industry in an interesting place, one that can lead to exploration of client needs and desires, removing the hype and finding the true essence of what the client needs. Then a talent like Joan can ignore the tariffs, the supply chain and use her exceptional skills to work with what she has available to her. I would love to see what Joan could create with nothing more that flea market finds, big box close-outs and garage sale treasures. I might have to put something like that together, but that is for another day. Today, we are celebrating Joan Behnke, our latest addition to the Convo By Design Icon Registry. And were doing it by looking back to my first conversation with Joan from 2019. Right after this from the presenting sponsor of the Convo By Design Icon Registry, Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home.

Congratulations Joan on your enshrinement into the Convo By Design Icon Registry and thank you for your calm reassurance and impeccable application of skill. Thank you for taking the time to speak with me and sharing your story. Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors; TimberTech, Design Hardware and to the Convo By Design Icon Registry presenting partner, Pacific Sales for your dedication to making our industry better, faster, stronger!

And thank you for listening to Convo By Design each week and sharing the show with your colleagues and friends who love sublime design. Until the next episode, be well, stay focused and rise above the chaos. -CXD

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I imagine you and I are similar in many ways. When creating my editorial calendar, I try to craft a broader narrative of the design and architecture industry. I view this show as a time capsule being both created and consumed in real time. But if you go back and listen to episodes from 2013 when this podcast was started until now, you will discover an illustrative exposition that both narrates in real time and looking forward to demonstrate where the industry is going by examining where we are. It’s a futuristic approach to the built environment. To be transparent with you, that is the part I enjoy most. Every now and then, like the impact of a meteor, something happens to make us all think about the industry as we know it. As we approach the work. These days, it feels like we are experiencing an unending barrage of meteor strikes which is turning our industry upside down. And, believe it or not, I’m not even talking about tariffs, government chaos, wildfires or the supply chain!

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

We will be reviewing all of these, but not today. In 2018, you might have heard a conversation I published from the LA Design Festival on the topic of intellectual property rights, IP law and how it was affecting the industry. In the following episode, I will be introducing you to Andrew McBride, Partner @ Adams & Reese and Carter Pope, Associate @ Adams & Reese. I found Andrew and Carter while on a journey of exploration, there is a case moving it’s way through the legal system called Aaron and Samantha Judge v. Drew Designs, LLC. This is a case about a design relationship gone wrong rife with communication issues, contract issues and a litany of other things that make for a messy professional relationship that winds up in the courts. McBride and Pope authored an article called, “Hidden Ball Trick” – Yankees’ Aaron Judge Case Involving Deception Carries Lessons for Contractors. I’ve added a link in the show notes and I highly recommend this for contractors, architects and designers. The following conversation covers a number of issues that led to both parties winding up in court and as you are going to hear, much if not all of this could have been avoided. In addition to this case, we also explore, the Judd Foundation v. Clements Design, Inc. in a case that will surely affect the future of dupes as well as another case winding it’s way through the courts like a medieval knight moving through the digestive tract of a money guzzling dragon, Gifford v. Sheil. Perhaps the metaphor is too graphic, I’ll rethink that one. But it fits. The law is a complicated knot of ideas and it seems to me the best way to avoid legal entanglements is to do good business in the first place and when disagreements come up, and they will, you work hard to find common ground and squash it. And this is why. You will hear the whole conversation with Andrew McBride and Carter Pope of Adams & Reese, right after this.

Thank you, Andrew and Carter. Enlightening. Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors, TimberTech, Pacific Sales, and Design Hardware. Amazing companies and great friends to the trade so please give them an opportunity for your next project. Thank you for listening, subscribing to the show and sharing with your colleagues. If not already subscribing, please consider that so you receive every new episode automatically to your podcast feed.

Please keep those emails coming convo by design at outlook dot com and follow the conversation on Instagram, @ConvoXDesign with an “X”.

Until next week, thank you for sharing this time together, until the next episode, be well, stay focused and now that it has arrived in earnest, try to rise above the chaos. – CXD

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We have come to a tipping point in the business of design. The point of no return. There has been a debate about form following function since architect Louis Sullivan coined the term. A protege named Frank Lloyd Wright once said, “Form follows function, that has been misunderstood. Form and function should be one, joined in a spiritual union.” This will most likely not go over well with the most ardent FLW supporters and fans, but I believe Wright misunderstood this as well. Sullivan suggested that form following function meant the design should speak to the intended purpose of a structure and not simply be reflective of historical design, ornamentation or precedents. I won’t speak for anyone but myself when I say that I have toured a number of Wright’s works and I don’t agree with his take on form following function. This will and should be debated, but not today. Today, we are going to focus on how form must follow function, or the project won’t perform.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Today, you are going to hear from Parini Mehta, AIA LEED AP, Tanner Clapham, AIA and Michael Stebbins, AIA from CO Architects. CO Architects, a firm dedicated to perpetual innovation and continual improvement through collaboration. This is a firm dedicated to creating lasting impact through design and the following conversation is evidence of that. This conversation is about the collaborative nature of an architecture firm that allows their architects to work on different types of projects and share their typology specialty while learning new ones in real time. We are discussing; education architecture, healthcare, medical facilities, laboratory architecture, research and exploring the idea of future-proofing structures from affects of both seen and unseen factors. I’m so appreciative for this opportunity to explore these ides with the incredible creatives. Since 2017, Convo By Design has been featuring peer-to-peer conversations from showrooms across the country. This one was recorded live from Design Hardware in Los Angeles.

There has always been a deep divide between residential and commercial architecture. While I won’t rant about it today. Since the days of Julia Allison focused on the rise to celebrity through internet fame, we as a society have been discussing design and architecture through social value, not performative value. When you see your favorite design publication of website feature the latest celebrity home, you fill find that not much attention, if any has been focused on the performative value of the space. Much of what we see is about materiality, aesthetic, brands and it’s usually focused on a celebrity. And that’s fine. Design porn is not new, but it also doesn’t do much for moving the conversation forward. What conversation? How do top tier architects and the firms that employ them focus on commercial design, and create form that follows function in an environment where the function not only matters, but is critical to the success of the project? That is the conversation we should be having. And we are. You are going to hear it, right after this.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Thank you Parini, Michael and Tanner for taking the time to visit. Thank you to all of the professionals at CO Architects for your skill and willingness to share. Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors, TimberTech, Pacific Sales, and Design Hardware. Amazing companies and great friends to the trade so please give them an opportunity for your next project. Thank you for listening, subscribing to the show and sharing with your colleagues. If not already subscribing, please consider that so you receive every new episode automatically to your podcast feed.

Please keep those emails coming convo by design at outlook dot com and follow the conversation on Instagram, @ConvoXDesign with an “X”.

Until next week, thank you for sharing this time together, until the next episode, be well, stay focused and now that it has arrived in earnest, try to rise above the chaos. – CXD

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This is the final installment of KBIS Confidential Creative Conversations LIVE from KBIS 2025 and for this one, we enter the Business & Trends track from the programming from the NextStge. In this session, we explore strategies for balancing client expectations with tight budgets and turn challenges into opportunities for growth in today’s ever-changing and challenging economy.

I moderated this program which was an honor and a joy for a number of reasons and the best part was the incredible group of creatives empaneled for this really important talk; Arianne Bellizaire, Owner & Creative Director, Arianne Bellizaire Interiors LLC, Kim Gordon, Lead Designer, Kim Gordon Designs and Lisa McDennon, Principal, Lisa McDennon Design. Because you are the amazing listeners and friends of the show, you have heard from Lisa and Kim on the show previously and while Arianne is new to the show, it will not be the last time you hear from her.

This conversation was extraordinary for so many reasons that you will hear for yourself. If you are a design professional trying to:

• Navigate the daily changes in levels of consumer confidence
• Upgrading your clientele
• Matching the energy of your clients
• Creating strategic partnerships
• Putting your face, firm and story into the public to gain notoriety and promotion of your work
• Prepare for wild price and changes in product availability
• Future proof your business

Well, the following conversation was created just for you. Enjoy

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Things are changing. Can you feel it? I can. The mood in the design, architecture, built space is changing in response to external factors. Those external factors are being felt in numerous ways. I’ll give you an example and we don’t about this much, not nearly enough. Hardening of the enclosure in architecture is leading to new ways architects are approaching the exterior envelope of projects to address the threats brought on by climate change. Remember ‘global warming’? That was a misnomer, it’s climate change. Design has and in large part is still focused on aesthetic, but that too is changing. Are you changing with it?

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Change is hard. All change is hard. But without change, there is no evolution. Without evolving, we do the same things over and over regardless of the outcome. I have changed, Convo By Design has changed. Seemingly everyone has a podcast now, and it feels like every editorial headline is ‘something’ by design. 12 years ago, neither was that way. I see how my own editorial approach has changed, these conversations we share each week have changed and the industry is changing as well. Not by choice, but because, as the quote from Moneyball goes, “Adapt or die”. Today, you are going to listen in on my conversation with Steph Schlegelmilch, founder and chief creative director of Studio Seva. This Westport, Connecticut based creative blends a holistic approach with technical application. Steph shares her thoughts on a number of ideas affecting the business of design today, and these ideas are not going away any time soon. They include;

• An appreciation of and learning form failure
• Experience and collaboration
• Exploration of style, techniques and materials
• Styling and photography
• Trend translation , modification and the edit process
• Home styling challenges
• Lighting design
• Partnerships

All of these ideas should be taught in a formal design education. Sadly, they are not. But you can find them explored here. So, enjoy this episode with Studio Seva’s Steph Schlegelmilch.

Thank you, Steph. Enjoyed this. Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors, TimberTech, Pacific Sales, and Design Hardware. Amazing companies and great friends to the trade so please give them an opportunity for your next project. Thank you for listening, subscribing to the show and sharing with your colleagues. If not already subscribing, please consider that so you receive every new episode automatically to your podcast feed.

Please keep those emails coming convo by design at outlook dot com and follow the conversation on Instagram, @ConvoXDesign with an “X”.

Until next week, thank you for sharing this time together, until the next episode, be well, stay focused and now that it has arrived in earnest, try to rise above the chaos. – CXD

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This year, KBIS brought a whole new energy. This new energy and vibe was brought on by a number of issues on the minds of both design creatives, their clients and the brands that hope to be included in future projects. I think it was also fueled by a discomfort. One that many if not most of us are feeling by the political chaos created by this new administration. Now listen, before you get tribal on me, hear me out. Regardless for whom you voted, when a new administration comes in, they get to make the changes they see fit. And it doesn’t really matter if you agree or disagree, it is a fact of life and elections have consequences. That was the topic of discussion that elevated above all others and I believe that this discomfort being felt has motivated many creatives to reengage in their business and recommit to to their craft despite the head winds headed our way. And you are going to hear some of those conversations! KBIS, the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show, in partnership with the National Kitchen and Bath Association is one of the few “must attend” shows. The event itself is 3 days of brands, talks, programming, events and happenings while combined with the International Builders Show in the same footprint of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Every first-time attendee to the show is gobsmacked by the sheer volume of people and product. Even those who are veterans of the event seem annually surprised by the amount of walking, talking and lack of physical preparedness required to fully navigate this show.

KBIS is on my list of annual must-attend events for specifiers, designers, architects and design-build firms. Why? There are a few reasons for this and following is a comprehensive, possibly incomplete, but significant nonetheless.

• Networking – If there is someone in the industry that you are hoping to meet, there is a very good chance that they are at KBIS. Even if they aren’t, you will certainly meet others with whom you can find strategic opportunities. The event itself is optimally conducive to unplanned “run ins”, scheduled meetings and introductions.
• Surprise and Delight – Finding new products, materials and services are what makes the idea of a trade show so enticing. You don’t know what you don’t know and an event of this size makes the process of discovery fun and effective. The amount of product interaction over 3 days in over 1 million square feet of convention space is certainly an opportunity to find new products to incorporate into your designs.
• Learning and Education – The amount of programming that takes place over these three days is significant. There are opportunities to learn a great deal about a vast number of topics in a short period of time making this one of those rare opportunities that matches your preparedness and willingness to learn equal to the number of opportunities available. In other words, there are more available to you than you could possibly attend.

We explore what’s cooking at this year’s KBIS. John shares what SKS is most excited about, the can’t-miss products from the brand, and even reveals which SKS products he has in his own home. Plus, we dive into the future of SKS, discuss creative design installations, and get John’s take on the latest trends in kitchen innovation. Topics discussed include;

• The SKS advantage
• What is a Technicurean
• Advantages to cooking with modern appliances
• Product design
• How SKS supports the design community through opportunity and education
• Benefits of a national service team
• Technological approach to cooking

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Application and practical application of tools and techniques. These are just a few of the topics discussed in today’s conversation with designer Maggie Griffin, founder of eponymous firm in Gainesville, Georgia. We are discussing more than design today. A lot more, actually. The changing landscape of the industry and staying ahead of the curve. Oh, that pesky curve.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

The trouble with the curve, and staying ahead of it is that if you don’t actively stay ahead of it, it passes you by before you know it. Like AI for example. Many designers fear it, most don’t really understand it. Those choosing to ignore it, or simply dabble won’t lose their clients because of AI. They will lose their clients to designers who adapt and understand how to best use AI in unimaginable ways that will take costs down, increase specification of better products and materials, shrink the timeline and make the absolute most of every designable opportunity. It’s true. Maggie and I are chopping this up along with a number of other ideas like;

• Exploring AI tools in practice
• AI and interior design application
• Industry trends and challenges
• Achieving balance of technology and residential design
• Kitchen design
• Product specification and client trust
• Bathroom design concepts
• Achieving functionality without sacrificing aesthetic

Thank you, Maggie. Enjoyed this. Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors, TimberTech, Pacific Sales, and Design Hardware. Amazing companies and great friends to the trade so please give them an opportunity for your next project. Thank you for listening, subscribing to the show and sharing with your colleagues. If not already subscribing, please consider that so you receive every new episode automatically to your podcast feed.

Please keep those emails coming convo by design at outlook dot com and follow the conversation on Instagram, @ConvoXDesign with an “X”.

Until next week, thank you for sharing this time together, until the next episode, be well, stay focused and now that it has arrived in earnest, try to rise above the chaos. – CXD

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This is the Convo By Design Icon Registry episode for April 2025. I love these Icon Registry episodes for a number of reasons. At the top is the opportunity to show some gratitude for those who have made the time to share their stories, process and work with us on Convo By Design. They transcend design and architecture and their work is both inspiring and transformative. This episode is desiccated to and celebrates the creatives, all who make up EYRC Architects. Ehrlich, Yanai, Rhee, Chaney, the names on the door and all those behind the badge who craft such extraordinary work. Over the past 12 years, Steven Ehrlich, FAIA, Takashi Yanai, FAIA, Mathew Chaney, AIA, Brynn Garrett, AIA, have all appeared on the show in various forms. It could be live at the EYRC headquarters in Los Angeles, on-site at a project in Rancho Mirage, California, it could be online via Zoom or live at WestEdge. Their work is wonderful, creative and forward thinking. Their creatives or thoughtful, immensely talented and open with their talents and willingness to give back to the design community, for these reasons, they are the Convo By Design Icon Registry Inductees for April 2025.

In celebration of them and their accomplishments, I am replaying two conversations for you this week. Presented by Pacific Sales a Best Buy Company, partner sponsor of Convo By Design and friends to the designers and architects who trust them with their business. First, you are going to hear my very first conversation with Takashi Yanai from 2016 and then you will hear my chat with Steven Ehrlich from one of my very favorite site visits and live remote conversations from Ridge Mountain in Rancho Mirage recorded in March of 2018. I hope you enjoy listening to these as much as I did having them. Steven, Takashi, thank you and thank you to the entire team at EYRC Architects on your incredible work. You are going to hear it all, right after this.

Congratulations EYRC Architects, every single one of you from the E, the Y, the R, the C to the associates and everyone that makes this firm so special. Congratulations on your enshrinement into the Convo By Design Icon Registry. Thank you for taking the time to speak with me and sharing your story. Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors, Pacific Sales, TimberTech, Design Hardware and to the Convo By Design Icon Registry presenting partner, Pacific Sales for your dedication to making our industry better, faster, stronger! And thank you for listening to Convo By Design each week and sharing the show with your colleagues and friends who love sublime design. Until the next episode, be well, stay focused and rise above the chaos. -CXD

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Outdoor living, the new frontier for everything from maximizing enjoyment of external spaces, outdoor entertainment and outdoor kitchens. New modalities generating a renewed interest in cultivated design of said spaces by some of the most talented creatives working today. From entertainment spaces to full blown ultra-luxe outdoor kitchens and everything in between with opportunities available for just about any (realistic) budget. Outdoor design is changing rapidly due to a number of factors. Those factors include modified use due to changing circumstances, client desire, increased cost of goods all in an outdoor spaces that are not as predictable as they used to be. So, we are going to chop it up a little bit and provide some practical solutions for designers, architects, landscape architects and design-build firms looking to up their outdoor entertainment game.

This conversation features; Jessica Petrino Ball, Director of Trade and Education | AJ Madison, Robert Bell, Landscape Architect | Bell Design

• Outdoor living
• UL Rated appliances for outdoor use
• 4-season living
• Appliance finish combinations
• Multi-functional outdoor covered spaces
• Project approach and design application
• Partnerships and industry partnerships
• Managing expectations
• Understanding winterizing and appliance upkeep
• Zones for outdoor living applications

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If you are listening to this episode the week it’s published, that would be the week of April 22nd, and you are planning on attending the Spring High Point Market, lucky you… You are going to hear from Victoria Holly, founder of her eponymous firm and one of this years Style Spotters at High Point Market, the Spring 2025 edition. What does it mean to spot style, differentiate emerging style from trend and further differentiate trend from trendy? Trendy, ugh.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Something can be trending and have lasting impact on design, but that separation of lasting impact vs ephemeral interest has been dogging the industry for quite some time. Victoria and I talk about this in detail as well as how she prepares for a show like High Point Market and what conversations she will be having as it relates to supply chain, pricing, tariffs and potential brand partnerships. The following is a master class on event prep. A conversations that was a joy to participate in and that I am incredibly proud to share with you in the hopes that you can prep if your going this time or perhaps in the fall. This conversation is absolutely jammed with actionable ideas for design talent at every level because Victoria knows her industry well. It is clear that she has studied her craft and knows how she wants that knowledge and insight to serve her. An idea that we don’t talk about nearly enough. But we do today and you will hear it all in the next hour.

Thank you Victoria, loved this. Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors, TimberTech, Pacific Sales, and Design Hardware. Amazing companies and great friends to the trade so please give them an opportunity for your next project. Thank you for listening, subscribing to the show and sharing with your colleagues. If not already subscribing, please consider that so you receive every new episode automatically to your podcast feed.

Please keep those emails coming convo by design at outlook dot com and follow the conversation on Instagram, @ConvoXDesign with an “X”.

Until next week, thank you for sharing this time together, until the next episode, be well, stay focused and now that it has arrived in earnest, try to rise above the chaos. – CXD

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The kitchen rEvolution is here…But is it more evolution or revolution. Are designers developing contemporary kitchens based solely on new ideas or looking to the past for inspiration? Is it a wholesale revolution or a patchwork of ideas creating a whole new set of ideas and opportunities?. How is the evolving nature of kitchen design changing the way we think about the heart of the home? How are changing technologies and desired functionality reshaping the modality of kitchen use and design. We explore how new opportunities in appliances and technology have evolved the programming of a kitchen suite. How sous vide, various mode appliances, Wi-Fi enabled appliances, water saving faucets and features combined with revised floor planning have forever altered these spaces making the kitchen, once again the place where everything happens and from which life takes shape.

This conversation features; Christine Vroom | Christine Vroom Interiors, Arianne Belazaire | Arianne Bellizaire Interiors, Jonah Kilday | MK Workshop. Topics of conversation include;

• Multi-Kitchen homes
• Resurgence of butler’s pantry, scullery, wine bar, coffee bar
• Increased appliance packages and programming
• Programming changes in kitchen spaces
• What defines luxury and how does that manifest itself
• For show or hidden?
• Definition of “luxury”
• Triangle Vs. Zones
• Inside out and the rise of luxury outdoor kitchens
• Modern definition of function
• En suite kitchenette

What a remarkable experience. I believe that KBIS is one of the annual must-attend events. Not just for all the reasons listed above, but so many others as well. KBIS is the pulse of the industry in America. It represents a true cross section of disciplines. You will see architects, landscape architects, designers, contractors, design-build firms, hospital, education, prison design specialists all looking for new products to specify and unique ways to use them.

Thank you to the NKBA, KBIS, Emerald, Flying Camel, AJMadison and all of the amazing creatives who came on the show. The KBIS Podcast Studio was just extraordinary.

Thank you for listening to Convo By Design Presents KBIS Confidential. As always, please join in the conversation on Instagram @convoXdesign with an “X” and, if you would like to reach me with a note, show or guest suggestion, please do. Email me, convo by design @ outlook.com.

Until next time, stay focused and rise above the chaos. – CXD

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Topics that keeps bubbling up in conversations industry wide is burnout. Exhaustion. Dealing with the daily and unrelenting chaos. These feelings are coming from the stresses caused by the constant price increases, subscription increases, the lost art of customer service and yes, the overall chaos caused by a litany of factors and you know what I’m talking about.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

I say, “you know what I’m talking about” instead of saying it, because, yeah, I’m sick of talking about it. Sick of thinking about it. I want to feel like I did back in 2022. That was a good year. The pandemic was behind us and blue skies ahead. So, your tired. Yeah, me too. The thing that recharges my batteries? The interpersonal conversations that you hear on the show. I started Convo By Design to tell the stories behind design. To showcase the very design that makes me happy. It’s that feeling I used to get when a new issue of Metropolitan Home arrived in the mail. It would be sitting there in the mailbox. I would spend a minute just looking at the cover, through the poly bag. I would spend a minute trying to imagine what will be in there. Then I would save it. Force the anticipation to build. Then put it down for a while and come back when I had a full hour or more to really dig in, read the Editors Letter, Pub Note, the Masthead, scour the ads. Did you know the advertising is really the best way to determine the forthcoming trends? The marketing, not the editorial is where you learn about future-thought. But the editorial is what has been happening for the past 3 months to 2-years while the projects were in process.

I don’t think I have ever spoken with you about how I hope you use Convo By Design. This show is offered as both product and service. My hope is that you will take me with you on your walks, runs, trips to discover at local design centers or at the airport as you are on your way to the next big event.

I tell you this in support of the conversation you are about to hear with Lauren Reyes Lim, principal and founder of LVR Studios. Lauren’s work, and that of her firm is both throwback and futuristic in thought and delivery. Pattern, color, texture, styling and presentation. That is very much how this chat goes as well. I hope you enjoy it. It’s coming up, right after this.

Loved this. Thank you Lauren. Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors; TimberTech, Pacific Sales, and Design Hardware. Amazing companies and great friends to the trade so please give them an opportunity for your next project. And, thank you for listening, subscribing the show and sharing with your colleagues. If not already subscribing, please consider that so you receive every new episode automatically to your podcast feed. Until next week, thank you for sharing this time together, until the next episode, be well, stay focused and now that it has arrived in earnest, try to rise above the chaos. – CXD

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Many if not most clients will confess that the reason they employ the services of a designer, architect and landscape architect is because the way they live is not congruent with the way they wish to live. What many clients don’t realize is that a superpower great designers bring to every project is the ability to reduce costs through product knowledge and application of skill. Explore the rapidly changing design space and learn how to craft that perfect environment on a budget through strategic choices, waste reduction, strategic customization and an understanding for how the industry is changing. Stay ahead of the curve and thrive. We will explore how tariffs, supply chain snags and inflation continue to drive costs as well as specification strategies to value engineer every project and achieve that desired look for less.

This conversation features Alena Capra, Certified Master Kitchen & Bath Designer | Alena Capra Design, Jessica Petrino Ball, Director of Trade and Education | AJ Madison and Tony Disilvestro Topics of conversation include;

• Providing a Bespoke Experience
• Value Engineering & Building Value Through Strategic Specification
• Does Luxury REALLY mean Expensive? Breakdown strategic approach
• Activating the Designer/ Showroom/ Manufacturer Partnerships
• Brand Loyalty Vs. Mixing to Achieve Expectations
• Psychological Approach to Design
• Appliances Beyond the Kitchen
• How Appliances Spark Joy
• Using these and other strategies to raise design to meet expectations for less

What a remarkable experience. I believe that KBIS is one of the annual must-attend events. Not just for all the reasons listed above, but so many others as well. KBIS is the pulse of the industry in America. It represents a true cross section of disciplines. You will see architects, landscape architects, designers, contractors, design-build firms, hospital, education, prison design specialists all looking for new products to specify and unique ways to use them.

Thank you to the NKBA, KBIS, Emerald, Flying Camel, AJMadison and all of the amazing creatives who came on the show. The KBIS Podcast Studio was just extraordinary.

Thank you for listening to Convo By Design Presents KBIS Confidential. As always, please join in the conversation on Instagram @convoXdesign with an “X” and, if you would like to reach me with a note, show or guest suggestion, please do. Email me, convo by design @ outlook.com.

Until next time, stay focused and rise above the chaos. – Convo By Design

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Patience. It’s hard to navigate around because everything is seemingly delivered almost overnight. Actually, it’s more like two days thanks to Amazon. So, after I return from a show like KBIS, I have hours and hours of content to cull through and produce. I want to share some of my process with you. While there is an overwhelming urge to publish everything right when I get back, I have found that a more deliberate approach to content deployment. I have actually found it similar to how many design professionals stage their work on projects. Interesting and something we will be exploring further in the future.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Today, you are going to hear from two incredible designers and long time friends of the show.While at KBIS, I had the opportunity to speak with Breegan Jane and Kim Gordon. We discussed a number of topics that every working designer today should hear. It’s also not just about the work, the business or trade shows. Life lessons from two of the most honest and authentic people I know. And you are going to hear all about it, first from Kim and then Breegan right after this.

Loved this. Thank you Kim and Breegan. Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors; TimberTech, Pacific Sales, and Design Hardware. Amazing companies and great friends to the trade so please give them an opportunity for your next project. And, thank you for listening, subscribing the show and sharing with your colleagues. If not already subscribing, please consider that so you receive every new episode automatically to your podcast feed. Until next week, thank you for sharing this time together, until the next episode, be well, stay focused and now that it has arrived in earnest, try to rise above the chaos. – CXD

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The series is called KBIS Confidential – Creative Conversations LIVE from KBIS 2025. This 7-week series will be published every Wednesday.

Many of the worlds most innovative brands began with an “aha” moment. Moen’s “aha” moment came in 1937, Seattle when Al Moen’s old fashioned handle broke off in his hand. That moment led to the inspiration for the single-handed faucet, a revolutionary moment in plumbing and the beginning of a story that continues to evolve. It’s been said that industrial designers are a combination of engineer, therapist, artisan and sales professional.

Where does the next big idea come from, how is it ideated, modeled, rendered and selected for production? How are aesthetic, functionality and materiality selected. And how do these ideas relate to trends and market data?

This is the story of brand evolution through product development. Where science and engineering collide with the playful mindset. The anatomy of brand attraction and the importance of design while respecting the products that deliver our most valuable resource, water. featuring; Sam Cahill, Lead Industrial Designer, Moen and House of Rohl Alisha Snyder, Sr. Industrial Designer, Moen. Concepts discussed include:

• Anatomy of the Moen brand
• The value of Trends and market data
• Selling an idea
• How designs are ideated, modeled, rendered and selected
• Market data sets
• Geographic influence
• From draft to showroom. The process.
• Working with the design community
• Generating a reaction
• Brand evolution. What’s next?

Thank you KBIS for allowing me the opportunity to host the KBIS Podcast Studio presented by AJ Madison! Loved this experience. -CXD

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One of my favorite places in the world is the Coachella Valley. Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, Indian Wells. The valley is thriving as new residents move in, the are is mountainous and arid desert blended in an oasis of mixed architectural styles blended with cultural influence from music to fashion and everything in between. I love the Coachella Valley because as a teenager, I would go to Palm Springs for spring break. Something then mayor, Sonny Bono did not care fore and eventually drove us out. Then it was the architecture, followed by Coachella Music Festival combined with Stagecoach. La Quinta Resort remains my personal favorite place to recharge and reflect.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

I am really pleased to share my conversation with Elyssa Contardo, SoCal native and Coachella Valley based designer. She actually has two offices, one in Palm Desert and the other in Park City, Utah. And we discuss both locations and their emerging status as design forward locales. Check the show notes for links to Contardo’s work. Especially as we walk through some of her projects. You are going to hear all about it, right now after this.

Thank you, Elyssa.Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors; TimberTech, Pacific Sales, and Design Hardware. Amazing companies and great friends to the trade so please give them an opportunity for your next project. And, thank you for listening, subscribing the show and sharing with your colleagues. If not already subscribing, please consider that so you receive every new episode automatically to your podcast feed. Until next week, thank you for sharing this time together, until the next episode, be well, stay focused and now that it has arrived in earnest, try to rise above the chaos. – CXD

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There are some guests that you hear on the that transcend design. You will usually find those guests here, on a very special episode of the show called the Convo By Design Icon Registry. These episodes air Thursdays toward the end of each month and feature past conversations with those who so deservedly receive enshrinement into the Convo By Design hall of fame.

This months inductee is Cliff Fong. Cliff has been on the show twice. The first time was in May of 2016 and the most recent was his appearance at WestEdge Design Fair in 2023 where he and I sat for a one on one conversation in front of a live audience. It is that conversation I want to share with you as we add Cliff to a registry that features some of the most amazing creatives in the business today. Fong runs his design firm Matt Black, Inc. and has an emotional gallery of his own called Faire du Vert.

The Convo By Design Icon Registry is presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home, A Best Buy Company and partner sponsor of Convo By Design. I am incredibly appreciative to Pacific Sales for their continued support of Convo By Design and the design industry. And again, congratulations, Cliff. You are going to her my conversation with Cliff form the 2023 edition of the WestEdge Design Fair right after this.

Congratulations Cliff on your enshrinement into the Convo By Design Icon Registry. Thank you for taking the time to speak with me and sharing your story. Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors, ThermaSol, TimberTech, Design Hardware and to the Convo By Design Icon Registry presenting partner, Pacific Sales for your dedication to making our industry better, faster, stronger! And thank you for listening to Convo By Design each week and sharing the show with your colleagues and friends who love sublime design. Until the next episode, be well, stay focused and rise above the chaos. -CXD

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Part One – Pitch to Published: Best Practices and Strategies to Get Your Projects Published

Learn what the pros know about getting projects published and how professional photography, narrative creation and knowing your audience can set you apart. Learn how can brand partnerships help get your designs promotion and exposure to potential new clients as well as new branding and revenue generating opportunities.

Featuring: Vanessa DeLeon – CEO & Principal Designer | Vanessa DeLeon Associates, Kathryn Given – Style Director | LUXE Interiors + Design and Amy Chernoff – VP of Marketing | AJ Madison

This is a comprehensive conversation for design and publicity professions that details and outlines ways to get designers projects into the public media. Topics include;

• Process (prep)
• Strategy – Photography, story, client approvals, art clearances, etc.
• The Pitch
• Creative deliverables, photography, re-shoots, etc.
• Promotion
• Expectations

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In a bygone time, we had celebrated architecture critics, historians and thought leaders like; Ada Louise Huxtable, Lewis Mumford, Jane Jacobs and Vincent Scully. These were gifted thought leaders with a willingness to share their views, good or bad, but never indifferent. They and others influenced the manner in which we looked critically at the shape and purpose of the spaces where we live work and play. Arch Daily wrote a piece in 2012 called The Architect Critic is Dead (just not for the reason you think). Is it. Is it, really?

I don’t think the architect critic is dead, it has changed. It’s like Syndrome’s quote from The Incredibles. That when everyone has superpowers, no-one will be a superhero. It’s this dilution of meaning through social media where everyone has an opinion and no hesitation about sharing it. Very little self-awareness and a platform, then everyone is a critic but without the critical thinking or communication skills to articulate their ideas effectively. Enda Donagher and I chop this idea up a Biot and he shares his experience in the business over the past 30-years plus. Enda and I talk about the business and his work.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Donagher’s firm addresses the architecture and interior design and his work is nuanced through a personalized approach and sensibly modern in look and feel. The ideas regarding the architect critic is relevant for a number of reasons, not the least of which is the opportunity to deconstruct the ideas that go into creating amazing work. If the work can be deconstructed, it provided a forum for critical thought to better our architecture and design. If we can apply critical thought, share ways to improve, then Syndrome was wrong. Everyone truly can be a super because everyones work is better and the level of expectation is raised. I enjoyed this conversation and I hope you do too. You’ll hear all about it, right after this.

Thank you, Enda. Loved our chat. Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors, ThermaSol, TimberTech, Pacific Sales, and Design Hardware. Amazing companies and great friends to the trade so please give them an opportunity for your next project. And, thank you for listening, subscribing the show and sharing with your colleagues. If not already subscribing, please consider that so you receive every new episode automatically to your podcast feed. Until next week, thank you for sharing this time together, until the next episode, be well, stay focused and now that it has arrived in earnest, try to rise above the chaos. – CXD

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Californians have perfected outdoor living, largely due to the favorable climate. As weather patterns change, the design industry has adapted with sustainable materials, inventive building practices and creative use of space including outdoor kitchens, theaters, plunge pools, functional landscapes, and unique approaches to sport courts. From pickleball to a pickle martini, design meets entertainment with the new innovations in outdoor design.

All of these programs took place in the WestEdge Theater presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home. The stage was designed by Julie Beuerlein of JKB Home Design. This program was sponsored by TimberTech. A fantastic partner/ sponsor of Convo By Design.

As a busy professional designer, you know how important it is to find the right partnerships. Partnerships that allow you to specify the right products for every project. Professionals like you just don’t have time to waste. Let me tell you about one of my partnerships. Pacific Sales is here to serve you with expert, knowledgeable and non-commissioned professionals to help you specify the right product for all your projects. Non-commissioned. That means their only incentive is your satisfaction. Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home, a Best Buy Company has just that with over 60 years of service in Southern California. Pacific Sales is your destination for exploration, advice and inspiration. And here’s the cherry on top, access to exclusive Builder Trade Incentives from top brands like Monogram. Visit a Pacific Sales Showroom today to learn how you can unlock additional savings and benefits.Don’t miss out on the opportunity to work with the best of the best. Visit Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home today and elevate your projects to new heights!

At the highest level of design, the absolute best specifying designers, architects and landscape designers are all highly focused on the technology and performance of products and materials today. You have to because the products you specify for your projects have to perform and they have to last. That is one of the reasons why I am so proud to be working with TimberTech. Their focus on the technical renaissance of synthetic decking is literally changing the conversation about innovation and performance. It pulls focus on three priorities homeowners have and expect from the products their designers and architects specify for their luxury projects; 1. Aesthetics must match the overall design and fit visually. 2. Durability and maintenance. I’ve told you my board-flipping stories about my own wood decks. Clients not only want beauty, but they want ease of use and they want it to last for decades. 3. Sustainably made. Clients are more conscious of the environment and they want the same of their materials. TimberTech hits each one of these elements with a product that not only meets expectations, they exceed them. TimberTech makes a synthetic decking that looks just like wood, color and embossed wood grain for a natural appearance. Their composite decking is technologically superior as it has been created to last for decades, and it is manufactured with up to 85% recycled material. Their Advanced PVC Vintage and Landmark Collections have a Class A Flame Spread Rating making these products an amazing choice for wildfire prone areas, which unfortunately continues to grow on a risk-map. Check the show notes for more information about this and to find the nearest showroom or lumberyard. You can also check them out directly TimberTech.com.

Moderated by: Josh Cooperman, Convo By Design

Featuring: John Feldman | Ecocentrix Landscape Architecture, Sam Toole | AZEK Co. Erik Peterson | PHX Architecture, Scott Specht | Specht Novak, Dustin Moore | Strata Landscape Architecture

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Words matter. They are important not just for the sake of clear communications but to showcase the specific skillset one has in an effort to attract a suitable client. Suitability. If you are a regular listener to Convo By Design you know what I am talking about. If not, first, hopefully you will be a regular listener, second, the idea of suitability in all endeavors is more important now than ever before. Suitability means vibing and open to new ideas through a mutual trust. A mutual trust allows someone to communicate with another, without having to masque every idea under the veil of “correctness”, in whatever form that may take.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

No, we are not going to be talking about politics or anything that might make anyone uncomfortable. Today, you are going to hear my conversation with Paulina Hospod with Aha!Interiors about design vs. renovation and subtle details. Sometimes, subtle details make all the difference between the overused, overplayed looks you can find while doomscrolling on the socials. Design should make us happy, and were going to explore that idea with Paulina, right after this.

Thank you, Paulina. Loved our chat. Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors, ThermaSol, TimberTech, Pacific Sales, and Design Hardware. Amazing companies and great friends to the trade so please give them an opportunity for your next project. And, thank you for listening, subscribing the show and sharing with your colleagues. If not already subscribing, please consider that so you receive every new episode automatically to your podcast feed. Until next week, thank you for sharing this time together, until the next episode, be well, stay focused and now that it has arrived in earnest, try to rise above the chaos. – CXD

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For the past 12 years, it has been a mission to bring you voices and stories of talent in design, architecture and the arts. There have been so many twists and turns over these past 12 years and many of you have been with me since the early days of the show. A few ideas that often come back to me when presenting these conversations. Two major themes are authenticity and suitability. Two words that you don’t hear often. The first being authenticity in design and the other, which you never hear, except here is suitability. Were going to drill down on both this week.

Today on the show, you are going to hear from Bailey Todd of White Cliff Studio. Bailey and her Midwest minded, Illinois based firm deals in authenticity in all her projects and we will dig in a bit. It’s the suitability idea that I have been focused on lately. For years, I have been non-plussed by the trades, magazines and social media prognosticators alike and this is the perfect way to draw the correlation between the influencer and the influential. The influencer will tell you just how great they are and because they know, here are the things with which you should surround yourself. Influentials on the other hand, this is experienced based knowledge shared with you by people who know because they have experience. I really enjoyed my conversation with Bailey and I think yo will too. She knows her industry, she understands her business and she is willing to chop it up and share. Love that. And, it’s coming up, right after this.

Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors, ThermaSol, TimberTech, Pacific Sales, Monogram and Design Hardware. Amazing companies and great friends to the trade so please give them an opportunity for your next project. And, thank you for listening, subscribing the show and sharing with your colleagues. If not already subscribing, please consider that so you receive every new episode automatically to your podcast feed. Until next week, thank you for sharing this time together, until the next episode, be well, stay focused and now that it has arrived in earnest, try to rise above the chaos. – CXD

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What makes an architectural work worth saving from the bulldozer? The architect? The style? The age? A famous past resident? How are preservation decisions made when historical considerations are in conflict with the rights of the current owner? What is the responsibility of the city and what municipal rules/regulations help address such discussions? Join this conversation with industry insiders as we explore preservation and progress.

All of these programs took place in the WestEdge Theater presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home. The stage was designed by Julie Beuerlein of JKB Home Design.

As a busy professional designer, you know how important it is to find the right partnerships. Partnerships that allow you to specify the right products for every project. Professionals like you just don’t have time to waste. Let me tell you about one of my partnerships. Pacific Sales is here to serve you with expert, knowledgeable and non-commissioned professionals to help you specify the right product for all your projects. Non-commissioned. That means their only incentive is your satisfaction. Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home, a Best Buy Company has just that with over 60 years of service in Southern California. Pacific Sales is your destination for exploration, advice and inspiration. And here’s the cherry on top, access to exclusive Builder Trade Incentives from top brands like Monogram. Visit a Pacific Sales Showroom today to learn how you can unlock additional savings and benefits.Don’t miss out on the opportunity to work with the best of the best. Visit Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home today and elevate your projects to new heights!

Moderated by: Josh Cooperman | Convo By Design

Featuring: Jaime Rummerfield | Jaime Rummerfield Interior Design, Chris Goddard | Goddard Design Group, Anthony Laney | Laney LA, Paul McClean | McClean Design, William Hefner | Studio William Hefner

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We often talk about luxury, the idea of luxury has so many different connotations, ideas and meaning. If I asked you to describe luxury in interiors design, what would you say?

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

If I asked 10 designers what the word luxury meant, I am quite sure that I would get 10 different definitions. And you know what, that is exactly how it should be. I believe that luxury is more of a state of mind than a place or thing. Socrates had something to say about luxury. “He is richest who is content with the least, for content is the wealth of nature.” But he also said, “The only true wisdom is in knowing that you know nothing.” And, things didn’t end well for Socrates. But as a philosopher, one of the best. I think there are people who are very happy with the ultra-luxurious lives they live and love the wonderful and expensive things with which they surround themselves. And I also think there are people who would tell you that the feeling of luxury is comes when they are immersed in an environment that is conducive with the way it makes them happy, or content. Isn’t that what home is supposed to do?

Today, you are going to hear from Brittany Farinas from House of 1. We are going to be discussing luxury, Miami, Florida and other places where you can find her work. We will be discussing the work itself and I invite you to follow along. Checking the show notes, you will find a link to her work. So let’s catch up with Brittany, right after this.

Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors, ThermaSol, TimberTech, Pacific Sales, Monogram and Design Hardware. Amazing companies and great friends to the trade so please give them an opportunity for your next project. And, thank you for listening, subscribing the show and sharing with your colleagues. If not already subscribing, please consider that so you receive every new episode automatically to your podcast feed. Until next week, thank you for sharing this time together, until the next episode, be well, stay focused and now that it has arrived in earnest, try to rise above the chaos. – CXD

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The recent wildfires have shaken Angelenos to their core and rightly so. I imagine it is not dissimilar from those who have experienced fires in Hawaii, other parts of California or elsewhere. Or those who suffered through hurricanes, floods, wind events or any other major natural disaster. I think this was different.

I’ve shared this story with you but for the sake of those new to the show, I’ll share it again to make a point. That point is that while wildfires in Southern California are not new, nor are earthquakes, floods, or civil unrest. The wildfire is an emerging threat that has taken decades to reach this point but has now reached year round catastrophic status. After spending a week plus watching this unfold from half the country away from Los Angeles, I find myself asking a question that probably isn’t really that original. Why is this happening over and over with very little changed. Fires in Southern California. Hurricanes in Texas and Florida. Tornados in the midwest. Flooding in the mid Atlantic and southern U.S., Because that is the natural way of things in these parts of the country. In Southern California, the Santa Ana winds are nothing new. The manner in which they spread embers is not new. Droughts in this area are new. Much of this area is a dessert. Always has been. Earthquakes have ALWAYS been a part of the region. The question that I see so many asking is, “why does this keep happening?” For the reasons listed above. And, probably the most important reason, greed and an overwhelming urge by public officials to build more, grow faster… A few statements we should probably retire include, “we’re going to build back better” and “our thoughts and prayers are with the victims.” I believe that everyone would be better off if those who know nothing about a subject would be quiet about it.

It was 1983, my family was living in the far Southeast corner of Chatsworth in the San Fernando Valley. As far back as you could get without being in the mountains that separated the San Fernando Valley from Simi Valley. We raised horses, Arabians. My sister showed them and I cleaned up after them. It was a crappy deal and the reason I still don’t like horses. It was a Saturday, just came back from a Pop Warner football game. By the time we smelled smoke, it was too late. I had on a pair of board shorts and cowboy boots when I made it down to the barn. Hopped on one horse, had another in tow, my sister had the same and by the time we made it to the gate, the ridge behind our house was on fire.

My mom drove the f-350 with a four horse trailer to get the more skittish horses out and my dad stayed back to do what he could to save the structures. I rode that horse for 23 hours straight. When it was safe to return, the fire burned right up to the door. But no further. My Dad had several stories from that day, it included the car full of guys that drove up to the driveway and told him they were the owners, there to pick up their belongings. The way my dad told the story, they got out of the car, four of them and started to walk up on him. He drew his .38, informed them that ‘it was his home and he and his 6 friends we going to keep it safe.’ At which time the left.

Later that year, my father removed brush around the perimeter of the house and installed rain birds on the roof of the house and the barn. This was my first experience with anything like that. Sure, earthquakes, I have always be accustomed to those, but fires, floods, that’s different.

We now find ourselves in a state of constant emergency across California and beyond. Fires are no longer seasonal in California, nor are floods. Nor do they happen in places where they have in the past. Natural disasters are showing in the form of fires, floods, cyclones, hurricane, tornado, derecho, like the one I told you about that hit us here in Tulsa in 2023.

I think most people have mistakenly placed their faith and hope in leaders and politicians to pass legislation and craft an organized response to natural disasters. In California, if you haven’t heard about this yet, you will. Check the show notes for a link showing Mayor Karen Bass getting peppered by a reporter about being out of the country as the fires ravaged Pacific Palisades and surrounding areas as well as cutting 17 million from the annual LA Fire Department budget. The water tanks in the Palisades were reportedly not full and it is really hard to understand how this can happen in a place like Southern California where fires are a regular occurrence.

My point is this. If you put your faith in the fire department to put out a wildfire, they can’t. If you put your faith in the police to prevent crime from impacting your life and those you love, they won’t. I believe in, and appreciate the work of our firefighters and police, I do, full stop. Fire and police are responsive not proactive. They can only react after there is something to react to. And, they are completely at the will of politicians for funding and it’s never enough. Compound this with the insurance companies refusing to write policies in areas that are prone to extreme weather events. Which is different now than it was even 5 years ago. I predict that this insurability trend will not only continue, but accelerate. In line with the acceleration of extreme weather events. I also think this is the next iteration of the residential and commercial architecture and design renaissance that began during the pandemic. Things are changing.

If you want to look to someone for help, to save you and your treasures. To fortify your personal environment. To make you as safe as possible using every proactive tool in their arsenal, someone to future proof your home, look to the designers, architects, landscape architects. Architects evaluate topography, surroundings and elevations. They can predict best paths for water to move away from the structure in cases of flooding, they specify the right materials to best defend against fire, they make structures fortresses against those who might try to break in. Look to landscape architects who will plant the right materials for the present and the future be it drought tolerance or fire resistance. They too can help design exteriors for a safer and a more impenetrable environment. Look to designers to craft spaces that allow for internal safety and comfort. Materials that are less likely to burn and more likely to protect your investment. Check the show notes for a link to an eye opening report from my friends and partner sponsors of the show, TimberTech. It features flame spread and ignition resistance information.

I believe the days of blanket trust in our public officials to effectively protect and serve are over. We should wish those we vote into office the best. Pay our taxes and expect them to do what’s right for the entire community. If I sound jaded, I’m not. I’m optimistic because I know what exceptional designers and architects can do. There are some exceptional products out there that speak directly to issues like this. But I also believe that the next level of luxury, that aspirational state that is hard to define but recognized when seen is the feeling of safety and security. I’m really saddened to see my hometown burned, flooded and looted. Protections, safety and security are an issue of self determination. It’s up to each of us, individually to find the level of protection that makes us feel secure. If that is what you’re looking for, look to a designer or architect.

Let’s understand the economics of this. Perhaps city leaders and elected officials want their names on plaques and “credit” for all their good deeds. Or, maybe they want immortality that comes from building big things. There is probably a combination of things. But civic leaders direct city staffs and direct policy that in many cases includes density ratios, zoning and building policy. I was a commissioner for the city of Manhattan Beach for 6 years. The library commission was responsible for overseeing the Manhattan Beach library branch of the County of Los Angeles. During my 6-year stint, we went from a dilapidated, outmoded branch to the completion of a brand new, modern structure that served the people of Manhattan Beach. I saw first hand the inner workings of a city government that wanted big, beautiful things. What municipality doesn’t. I also witnessed city council members fight the budgetary demands up and until the project was completed and then the elbowed each other and everyone else out of the pictures memorializing the opening of the new library.

This is the Build Back Better paradox. You’re not building back better, but it sounds good. Makes a tight headline. It’s certainly clickable. The idea of building back with the same if not greater density is equal to believing you can beat Mother Nature. You can’t. Believing we are going to become a safer society, we won’t. I was on a ride here in Oklahoma last year, with a friend who was raised here. We passed a large plot of land, it had to be at least 15 acres that I could see. A small neighborhood, with dozens and dozens of raised foundations and nothing more. They clearly had been there for a while. I asked what the story was and he explained to me that they built this particular neighborhood back multiple times after tornados repeatedly tore the area apart. They kept building and tornados kept coming. Sound familiar? But they finally stopped building. As will those in Southern California, at some point in the future. Near or far, who is to say?

Don’t build back better. Build back smarter. You cannot change the climate back, this is not something that will happen in our lifetime. We can only adapt to the changing environment and those who can make this transition successfully are the designers, architects, landscape architects, engineers, futurists and visionaries. No amount of tax revenue in the hands of elected officials will make it happen.

To those who have lost everything, I’m so sorry. To those in office who continue to allow this to happen. Shame on you, you should be voted out of office in favor of creative people with real, quantifiable solutions. And I hope that happens during the next cycle.

By the time you hear this episode, you will have been inundated with stories and reports of lack of leadership, civic mismanagement, relentless self promotion, politicization of the situation specifically by a out-of-state and feckless politicians who have no understanding of the situation but will still call for holding of emergency funding and the like. What you most likely won’t hear are practical solutions. Good, bad, unfeasible. Doesn’t really matter because what’s missing right now are ideas. Because this is the time of year where most in the media are asking design and architecture talent what the big design trends of 2025 are going to be. It’s absolutely asinine and if you think about it, it’s completely pointless. So here are some of my ideas for rebuilding smarter. These are concepts that I have seen in practice and learned through the conversations you hear on Convo By Design. These are being thrown out as thought starters in the hope that as we move forward, we can build back smarter. Not better, not faster, smarter.

1. Every home within the high fire risk area should have it’s own water supply. Years ago, you heard from architect Anthony Laney of Laney LA. He was telling you about a swimming pool that disappeared when a raised deck was lifted from the bottom of the pool and again submerged to reveal the pool. I believe every home in these areas should have something of this nature capable of providing the homeowner with at least 5,000 gallons of water available in case of emergency.
2. I think this same personal aquifer should be connected to both a rain collection system as well as grey water collection, further connected to water the landscape. By doing this, it would serve as rainwater collection, grey water repurposing and be available in case of fire emergency. Years ago, you heard a conversation with the USGBC and Grey Water Corps on the idea of a grey water collection system, which is already available was discussed.
3. If you find yourself in the midwest, you will see storm shelters. Many homes that don’t have basements have them. They save lives. I have immense respect for firefighters and law enforcement. It’s important to realize that they are not there for prevention, they are there to react. It’s unfortunate because many believe that the police are there to protect you, it says so on their vehicles. It’s a misnomer. Police cannot be everywhere. Nor can they read the minds of criminals. We must protect ourselves. A while back, you heard from Saferoom.com. I believe there needs be a return to the concrete basement in residential construction, especially in fire prone areas. Yes, we need to consider earthquakes. That is what engineers are for. Across the U.S. in the 1950’s, in reaction to the ratcheting up cold war, bomb and fallout shelters were built under and around homes. These shelters were concrete and built for around $1,000 or so in 1950’s dollars. Many in Southern California fight against “the basement” and I think that should change. With current material and engineering advancements, building a walkout or full basement could address both security and property damage/ theft in cases of fire emergencies. And, in many cases, basements are NOT counted towards a homes square footage when they are completely below grade. I can imagine a basement to secure valuables and provide security during extreme weather event or home invasion. I would like to see the State of California incorporate tax incentives into basement construction. Instead of building more above ground, build below grade which would provide more open spaces and less density above grade. This space could serve as firebreak against spreading flames.
4. Leave the past in the past. I have been hearing from some in the industry that they want to return the Palisades and Altadena to their former glory in architectural style and detail. And that they want it done quickly. And that the environmental review process needs to be bypassed. These are really terrible ideas. Yes, we need to build back. And we need to re-home those who have lost everything. But if we got into this situation by cutting corners, bypassing safeguards and overbuilding in areas that are not conducive to this amount of development, what do we think will happen. If past is prologue, it’s going to happen again. Not if, but when. Let’s remove the insanely high cost of permitting, remove the layers of bureaucracy. Pause and review the overly stringent codes associated with Title 24 and get back to reasonable and practical building methods.
5. Review zoning guidelines. We have overbuilt these communities because with great wealth comes great influence and politicians and city staffs love to increase the tax base. But when there are no resources to serve the community, it ceases to function. We have reached the breaking point in many cases. Do we really need to build lot line to lot line save for mandatory easements? Does a family of 4 or 5 really need a 10,000 square foot home? Show me where that is a right? Or better yet, show some civic responsibility.
6. Obscure requirements and zoning. In 2020, the IHO went into effect. The Inclusionary Housing Ordinance. This states that in LA County, this requires low-income housing units or affordable housing units be required as a percentage of residential housing units built. Now before all the NIMBY’s praise this and the bleeding heart decry it, can we be honest about this? You can put low income housing in the Pacific Palisades and the low income residents will not have the financial means to afford patronizing local businesses. That hurts business, it puts the low income residents in an unfortunate situation and it hurts the city’s tax base. Instead, look to infill projects in areas that need it. The CA Governor’s Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation (did you even know that existed) refers to California’s “Infill Development” as “building within unused and underutilized lands within existing development patterns, typically but not exclusively in urban areas. Infill development is critical to accommodating growth and redesigning our cities to be environmentally and socially sustainable.” When you look at burn-scarred Southern California and demolished cities, what is the goal? If the goal is to build back “better” which has no real meaning, only to say that it will be built back even bigger, then you are destined for the same results at some point. Or, you can build back smarter. According to realtor.com , the home’s for sale in Pacific Palisades, CA. range from $290K to $40M. According to ATTOM Data, in Q4 2024, there were 8,960 residential properties in Pacific Palisades, average age was 59 years and the average square footage was 2,977 for a single family residence. There are a number of estimates out there, but USA Today puts the number of homes destroyed in Pacific Palisades at 1,200 with another 200 other structures damaged or destroyed. These 1,200 homes are where real people lived, loved, gathered and where they kept their most cherished belongings. We are talking about this now, and many are going to say it’s too soon. Perhaps, but it’s always too soon, until it’s too late. There will be those who try to come in, scoop up lots and develop big, massive and expensive residential projects. These homes will command big prices and big tax returns for the municipalities and the state. Some will look at combining lots and build back bigger! Others will say there should be a preservation of older styles to match what the city looked like before. I don’t believe you can look back. But you can look forward to building back with purpose, respecting Pacific Palisades and Altadena.
7. Thoughtful approach to the future. Some of the easiest ways to approach this now? How about reconfiguration, under grounding of utilities, adding solar installations for residential, commercial and municipal applications? Why not underground fiber while you’re at it? Municipal solar and hydrogen charging stations?
8. Community approach to emergent groups. An emergent group is a collective of individuals coming together to address a particular issue. When I was living in Manhattan Beach, California, I was recruited by some of my neighbors to join Neighborhood Watch, later, I became block captain which led to an invitation to join CERT, the Community Emergency Response Team. You have heard the stories of neighbors coming to each others aid in times of disaster or emergency. Traditionally, some communities without an organized police or fire have taken the initiative. But we are living in a more complicated, highly dense community environment and it is time for every community that falls in emergency zones (which is just about everyone) to come together in this type of neighbor to neighbor shared assistance partnership. Most police and fire departments welcome the help and usually, it only takes one person to organize it through the city. Doesn’t even have to be a resident and I believe this is a place for the design community to step up. Design professionals are keenly aware of the local regulations, neighborhood differences and this could be an opportunity to not only increase business, which would be a perk, but to help protect your work and that of other creatives in the process. We will be discussing more about this in the future.
9. Manufactured, Fabricated and Modular Stock. This just might be what changes the future of housing. As one might imagine, this manufactured homes got it’s start on wheels, a natural way of adding to new freedoms brought on by the advent of the automobile. Then, kick the wheels off and you have the same mobile coach, but as a stationary dwelling. That led to a period of time when manufactured homes were advancing and addressing housing issues in real time. Just as the tract home created much needed housing units for retiring GI’s after WWII, so did the Manufactured home industry by providing housing in manufactured home communities. Since the very start of the manufactured home industry, this was viewed as affordable and a lower cost of building for those with lower incomes. We have come a long way in construction and manufacturing. Prefabricated vs. stick built, we could probably bring experts in to debate for weeks, but we don’t have the time for that. What we do have are some companies out there prefabricating and assembling on site which is capable of turning traditional construction upside down. Check out a few of these companies: Stillwater Dwellings, DVELE, Turkel Design. The idea that one could order a prefabricated home, prep the lot and assemble onsite can do a number of things that speak to issues we are trying to address like sustainability, material shortages, out of control costs, and
10. Price of good are going up at a time when the demand for more goods is again on the rise. In 2020-2022, the international and domestic supply chains froze up due to the crush of demand due to the pandemic. From 2022 through 2024 many of the costs came down. But as we enter 2025, the costs are once again on the rise due in part to a number of factors. Brands like Thermador, Bosch and SubZero/ Wolf have already announced price increases between 3 and 8 percent. Other brands are evaluating their price increases as we speak. There are a number of factors to consider as we move cautiously forward. China has been dumping cheap steel which then makes it’s way into U.S. manufacturing and lowers overall manufacturing cost, at the expense of U.S. made steel and others. The Trump administration is cracking down which will increase costs. There is a very real possibility that the immigration crackdown will also affect those who work on and assemble appliances. That will cause cost increase and a lack of individuals to do the work. This will most likely create a shortage of finished appliances. This in turn will create emergency pricing and delays. Tarfiffs aren’t new, you know that. But did you know that the Biden administration bumped Canadian lumber tariffs to 14.5%? An article from freightwaves.com showcased a number of ways tariffs and will continue to affect costs to American purchasers. If this continues as it is likely to do, these costs will continue to rise. This creates a very uncomfortable situation for the design/ build professionals who are going to be tapped with the responsibility of designing and building the homes that not only replace the ones lost in this disaster, but all of the homes not yet destroyed in future disasters. The way we specify, purchase, deliver and install building materials has to change. The supply chain needs to be condensed, organized and strategic. In California, the first Franciscan mission was built in 1796 and a total of 21 were constructed between 1796 and 1833. They were constructed about 30 miles apart for a relatively easy one day journey between each. These outposts needed to be self sufficient. If industry specific supply chains were built in this manner, delivery estimates would be precise, delivery costs would drop, it would be environmentally responsible by cutting the amount of miles product is transported, it could increase local jobs and spur localized product assembly. This is already happening, Amazon has already learned this lesson and you can see these massive fulfillment centers from space. In California alone, there are over 35 current or planned centers for product distribution. This is a longterm objective but one that needs to happen. In the meantime, what would happen if designers were hired sooner, plans approved faster and product could be specified and ordered sooner. What if materials could be staged locally. Ready and waiting for crews to begin work. This would expedite the design build process exponentially, and I predict that it would lower costs significantly. It’s like getting your designer paid for through efficiency offsets.
11. Front Running Vs. Specify-As-You-Go: If we have learned nothing from the great toilet paper shop
12. Expect Exceptionalism. I don’t mean this in the way you hear about it constantly used in political rhetoric. I mean it as stated. Seek exceptionalism in the products and services you purchase both those in the trade and clients alike. Designers really should stop this endless fascination with the pursuit of “trend”, celebrity design and whatever the latest “influencer” is peddling on anti-social media. Designers are professionals who specialize in design. Many designers hold degrees in this, all architects do as well. Landscape architects possess an understanding of what goes where and what it should look like over time. Product manufacturers absorb the cost for research and development to produce a product that the market can then choose, or not. But buying things based on number of followers, not the success of your project.

I am so sorry everyone that has been affected by this tragedy. I hope the recovery is seamless and easy. I hope this never happens again. Let’s be thoughtful in the way we build back by looking to the design professionals first, making our elected leaders earn their jobs by thinking of their constituents first, respecting the true value of fire fighters and law enforcement by looking inward to protect our homes smartly. Let’s return to an era of innovation through new materials and design experience. If we can eliminate the waste, greed and mismanagement, this presents an exceptional opportunity to not only regain former glory, but establish the new paradigm for what a well design, well run fully functional city looks like. If we can do that, were in a good place and who doesn’t want that. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is a special edition of Convo By Design featuring all of the programming from the 2024 edition of the WestEdge Design Fair. We call these entries WestEdge Wednesday, a programming concept that will allow those of you who either didn’t make it to the show this year or, those who made it and are taking me up on my promise to share It with them again on Convo By Design.

All of these programs were shared in the WestEdge Theater presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home, a Best Buy company. On a stage designed by Julie Beuerlein of JKB Home Design. An amazing space that served as the backdrop for our conversations. Over the next 10 weeks, you are going to hear talks, panels and conversations from the show, so I wanted to open this up with a teaser, a sample of some of these conversations like this one.

As a busy professional designer, you know how important it is to find the right partnerships. Partnerships that allow you to specify the right products for every project. Professionals like you just don’t have time to waste. Let me tell you about one of my partnerships. Pacific Sales is here to serve you with expert, knowledgeable and non-commissioned professionals to help you specify the right product for all your projects. Non-commissioned. That means their only incentive is your satisfaction. Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home, a Best Buy Company has just that with over 60 years of service in Southern California. Pacific Sales is your destination for exploration, advice and inspiration. And here’s the cherry on top, access to exclusive Builder Trade Incentives from top brands like Monogram. Visit a Pacific Sales Showroom today to learn how you can unlock additional savings and benefits.Don’t miss out on the opportunity to work with the best of the best. Visit Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home today and elevate your projects to new heights!

The following panel discussion hosted by Sherwin-Williams, where they explore color and its many applications, from evoking emotion and enhances spaces, to creating balance that dramatic wow factor! Sherwin-Williams shares insight from their recently announced 2025 Color Capsule Collection, featuring not just one but nine hues as part of its color trend forecast. A panel of industry pros share practical insights on how to best incorporate these colors (and others), from bold statements to subtle accents. Whether you’re a design enthusiast or a professional, this conversation will equip you with the knowledge to stay ahead of the color curve and enhance your color potential!

Moderated by: Ashlynn Bourque, Sherwin-Williams and Ro Almira, Sherwin-Williams
Featuring: Breegan Jane, Breegan Jane; Kerrie Kelly, Kerrie Kelly Studio; Patrick Ediger, Patrick Ediger Interior Design; and Eddie Maestri, Maestri Studio

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The expectations many designers have don’t necessarily result once their careers begin. Often times, designers find their way into the business by starting in another field. And that makes for an interesting journey. I remember being in college and thinking about all of the things I wanted to do once I started my career. If you would have asked me during my time at Washington State University what I was going to be doing in 2025, this would not have been anywhere in the conversation. But I really cannot imagine myself doing anything else. And I’ve been doing this since 2013. Prior to that, I had a first career in radio and broadcast media. Funny how life works, isn’t it.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

I have a unique process of writing and prepping for the conversations you hear on the show. I have the types of conversations with creatives that I want to have with them. Meaning, I find your in discovering what makes designers, artists, makers, architects and creatives work. What drives them to do what they do and what inspires them to reach the high levels they have achieved. Many of the conversations you hear on the show start with, “so, what are we talking about today” or you simply hear my response to that question in a cold open. I don’t edit that out, nor do I edit the chats we have because I want you to hear the stream of consciousness. What you don’t know is the amount of prep I do for each conversation. As a matter of fact, the guests you hear don’t see that either. I decided to model this show on the conversations that I have at trade events. The individual interactions that take place that make the trade events so truly special. You cannot recreate the vibe, I know that. But, I want you to feel like you are in Vegas, LA or Paris at KBIS, WestEdge or Maison y Objet, with a cocktail in your hand and listening in on a conversation between two peers and know that what you are about to hear is going to enrich you in some special way. Perhaps its hearing how someone else built their practice. Maybe it’s what discovery led them to design the way they do or even how their previous career led them to where they are today. To inspire you to perhaps pivot, reorganize your firm or employ a new technique. Because that’s fun. It’s inspiring. It’s motivating. And who couldn’t use a little more of that. Well, I hope you can because that’s what your getting today as you listen in on my chat with New Jersey designer, Allison Handler of Allison Handler Design.

Thank you Allison, loved our chat and appreciate the time.

Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors, ThermaSol, TimberTech, Pacific Sales, Monogram and Design Hardware. Amazing companies and great friends to the trade so please give them an opportunity for your next project. And, thank you for listening, subscribing the show and sharing with your colleagues. If not already subscribing, please consider that so you receive every new episode automatically to your podcast feed. Until next week, thank you for sharing this time together, until the next episode, be well, stay focused and now that it has arrived in earnest, try to rise above the chaos. – CXD

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You have been hearing the WestEdge Wednesday episodes since the beginning of the year and I do hope that you’re enjoying them. This months addition to the Convo By Design Icon Registry was heard on the WestEdge Wednesday series in 2024 following his appearance on a panel at the show in 2023. It is fascinating for me to have incredible creatives individually on the show and equally amazing to hear them in concert with other talented creatives. In 2023, Marmol was on the podcast as part of a panel that also featured Sara Malek Barney, Christine Vroom and was moderated by Frances Anderton. The panel was called All Roads Lead to SoCal: Long Live the Creative Experiment. It seems even more interesting now than in November of 2023, no?

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Leo’s participation in this panel was extraordinary. He is a remarkable creative who brings a level of skill and talent wherever he goes and shares it willingly. Marmol is the managing partner of Marmol Radziner and has been since the firm was founded in 1989. Leo earned his Bachelor of Architecture from Cal Poly SLO. He also earned a minor in Philosophy. Which I think speaks volumes. Philosophy, as a discipline seeks to create more questions than answers. And when you are dealing with the concept of existence and other fundamental issues, it can be a challenge to navigate. Just like architecture. I find the architecture/ Philosophy combo really interesting. Leo is a painter, a fisherman. He is also something of a raconteur and lucky you… You get to hear him in action as we induct him together into the Convo By Design Icon Registry for February 2025. Enjoy.

Congratulations Leo on your enshrinement into the Convo By Design Icon Registry and your extraordinary studio. Thank you for taking the time to speak with me and sharing your story. Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors, ThermaSol, TimberTech, Design Hardware, Pacific Sales and Monogram for your dedication to making our industry better, faster, stronger! And thank you for listening to Convo By Design each week and sharing the show with your colleagues and friends who love sublime design. Until the next episode, be well, stay focused and rise above the chaos. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is a special edition of Convo By Design featuring all of the programming from the 2024 edition of the WestEdge Design Fair. We call these entries WestEdge Wednesday, a programming concept that will allow those of you who either didn’t make it to the show this year or, those who made it and are taking me up on my promise to share It with them again on Convo By Design.

All of these programs were shared in the WestEdge Theater presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home, a Best Buy company. On a stage designed by Julie Beuerlein of JKB Home Design. An amazing space that served as the backdrop for our conversations. Over the next 10 weeks, you are going to hear talks, panels and conversations from the show, so I wanted to open this up with a teaser, a sample of some of these conversations. Like this one.

As a busy professional designer, you know how important it is to find the right partnerships. Partnerships that allow you to specify the right products for every project. Professionals like you just don’t have time to waste. Let me tell you about one of my partnerships. Pacific Sales is here to serve you with expert, knowledgeable and non-commissioned professionals to help you specify the right product for all your projects. Non-commissioned. That means their only incentive is your satisfaction. Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home, a Best Buy Company has just that with over 60 years of service in Southern California. Pacific Sales is your destination for exploration, advice and inspiration. And here’s the cherry on top, access to exclusive Builder Trade Incentives from top brands like Monogram. Visit a Pacific Sales Showroom today to learn how you can unlock additional savings and benefits.Don’t miss out on the opportunity to work with the best of the best. Visit Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home today and elevate your projects to new heights!

When it comes to sustainability in residential design and architecture – whether renovating or new build – the impression can be that you either have to do everything sustainably, or not even start down that path. Increasingly, many consumers/clients want to make a positive impact by making sustainable choices. How does one choose, do you have to, and which choices make the most impact?

Moderated by: Degen Pener, Writer/Editor
Featuring: Lori Dennis, CEO, Lori Dennis Inc.; Dan Brunn, Dan Brunn Architecture; Hanna Li, Creative Director and Designer, Hanna Li Interiors; and Greg Roth, CarbonShack Design

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In one week from today, KBIS will be hitting Las Vegas with the force and impact you might expect from the worlds greatest kitchen and bath show. Yes, there are others. And, yes, they are great… But this one is my favorite. And you’re about to find out why.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

I have a personal connection to KBIS, the kitchen and bath industry show. The NKBA does a magnificent job presenting this event each year. For me, this is a homecoming, an opportunity to network with friends, colleagues, past guests and meet future guests, and partners. It’s an important show for the industry because designers, architect, builders, contractors, remodelers, all specifiers really get the opportunity to see what’s new, next and on the horizon. They have the opportunity to hear about ways the most innovative creatives in the industry are using these products in new and unconventional ways. Its a time for innovation and discovery. Surprise and delight in over one million square feet of convention space when combined with the Industry Builders Show.

Today, you are going to hear from Brian Pagel, Executive Vice President at Emerald. He oversees the residential and commercial connections portfolio which means he oversees the production of KBIS, which you will see, is an extraordinary feat that brings together the most influential brands in the world from appliances, lighting surfaces, plumbing… Basically, if it goes in a kitchen or bath, you’ll find it represented at KBIS. You also find some exceptional programming, I’m honored to be a part of that this year on the next Stage as well as the podcast studio. So when you are at the show this year, please do come by and say ‘hello’. You are going to hear all about the show, why you should attend and how to make the most of the experience. Right after this.

Thank you Brian for taking the time to talk, I’m looking forward to catching up with you at the show!

Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors, ThermaSol, TimberTech, Pacific Sales, Monogram and Design Hardware. Amazing companies and great friends to the trade so please give them an opportunity for your next project. And, thank you for listening, subscribing the show and sharing with your colleagues. If not already subscribing, please consider that so you receive every new episode automatically to your podcast feed. Until next week, thank you for sharing this time together, until the next episode, be well, stay focused and rise above the chaos. – CXD

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There are stories, you have no doubt heard them or seen them for yourself on Instagram or the websites offering dupes of almost everything for less. There are many reasons why the copy-market thrives and why some creatives feel that they are entitled to change it a small detail and call it their own. Is the value in the look of it for less, or paying a bit extra and knowing you have an original? Perhaps the copy-market, while always present, only thrives during crisis-pricing for the real thing. We explore the value of original work and how knock-offs are changing the nature of creative design.

All of these programs took place in the WestEdge Theater presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home. The stage was designed by Julie Beuerlein of JKB Home Design.

As a busy professional designer, you know how important it is to find the right partnerships. Partnerships that allow you to specify the right products for every project. Professionals like you just don’t have time to waste. Let me tell you about one of my partnerships. Pacific Sales is here to serve you with expert, knowledgeable and non-commissioned professionals to help you specify the right product for all your projects. Non-commissioned. That means their only incentive is your satisfaction. Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home, a Best Buy Company has just that with over 60 years of service in Southern California. Pacific Sales is your destination for exploration, advice and inspiration. And here’s the cherry on top, access to exclusive Builder Trade Incentives from top brands like Monogram. Visit a Pacific Sales Showroom today to learn how you can unlock additional savings and benefits.Don’t miss out on the opportunity to work with the best of the best. Visit Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home today and elevate your projects to new heights!

Moderated by: Kelly Phillips Badal, LUXE Interiors + Design

Featuring: Jen Samson | Jen Samson Design, KimGordon | Kim Gordon Designs, Candice Quinn | London Pierce Design and William Zhang | EMTEK

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It feels like every week we are dealing with a new emergency. A new disaster. Is that true, I don’t know, probably not but it feels that way.What we don’t do often enough is review what led up to events and strategically discuss ways to alter behaviors to keep them from happening again. In many cases, it’s because you can’t keep a major catastrophe from occurring, but you can address your individual response to it to better prepare for the next time. Or, if you are a design professional, prepare your clients to better prepare for and whether the next one better than the first. That is why you still hear conversations about the pandemic. The lessons learned will be be long forgotten by many when the next one hits, and there will be a next one. Some of these ideas are so simple, and incorporated into the everyday work of extraordinary creatives, creatives like Liz Williams of Liz Williams Interiors.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Liz is from Atlanta, Georgia. She has a BA in history from The College of Charleston and a BFA in Interior Design from Georgia State University. Liz has developed a unique approach to the work and one she employs in her projects that allow her to draw on her love of history as well as modern techniques and strategies. This combination makes for a successful practice and one that allows her to learn from history, like a global pandemic and apply those lessons learned to making better the spaces she creates for the people who will use them. And you are going to hear all about it, right after this.

Thank you Liz for taking the time to share your thoughts.

Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors, ThermaSol, TimberTech, Pacific Sales, Monogram and Design Hardware. Amazing companies and great friends to the trade so please give them an opportunity for your next project. And, thank you for listening, subscribing the show and sharing with your colleagues. If not already subscribing, please consider that so you receive every new episode automatically to your podcast feed. Until next week, thank you for sharing this time together, until the next episode, be well, stay focused and rise above the chaos. – CXD

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Connected vs. Unconnected: The Future of the Home The debate rages on… The fully connected home where all can be automated vs. the unconnected environment and the return to the beauty of form, function and simplicity. We’re not Luddites, but if we look at the experiential nature and convenience of a connected space, we must also consider what it means to have a space that is intentionally unconnected. The removal of screens, tech, automation, phones, and tablets can create calm and allow opportunities for true reconnection with self and others. Offline. Join this compelling conversation about AI, automation and the pros and cons of a fully connected home in a complicated world.

All of these programs took place in the WestEdge Theater presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home. The stage was designed by Julie Beuerlein of JKB Home Design.

As a busy professional designer, you know how important it is to find the right partnerships. Partnerships that allow you to specify the right products for every project. Professionals like you just don’t have time to waste. Let me tell you about one of my partnerships. Pacific Sales is here to serve you with expert, knowledgeable and non-commissioned professionals to help you specify the right product for all your projects. Non-commissioned. That means their only incentive is your satisfaction. Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home, a Best Buy Company has just that with over 60 years of service in Southern California. Pacific Sales is your destination for exploration, advice and inspiration. And here’s the cherry on top, access to exclusive Builder Trade Incentives from top brands like Monogram. Visit a Pacific Sales Showroom today to learn how you can unlock additional savings and benefits.Don’t miss out on the opportunity to work with the best of the best. Visit Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home today and elevate your projects to new heights!

Moderated by: Erika Heet – Interiors Magazine

Featuring: Kristi Nelson | KM Nelson Design, Adam Hunter | Adam Hunter, Inc., Ginger Curtis | Urbanology Designs, Jaqui Seerman | Jaqui Seerman Designs

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Before we get to our featured conversation this week, I feel compelled to share my annual grievance with you. Again. What is this annual grievance you may ask. It is the endless and ridiculous list of “trends”that many love to create and share at the end of and into the beginning of every new year. Did you see them this year? They looked a lot like last years didn’t they?

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

They did. They always do. Now listen, I’m not trying to call anyone out. Embarrass anyone. And, while I am going to point out a few of the ones that caught my attention, and post links in the show notes so you can see them for yourself, I am going to say this again so you understand why I am so non-plussed by the annual barrage of opinions and predictions. It’s because they are based on no real data, only conjecture. Here are a few examples;

House Beautiful and their Design Trends of 2025 article dated 12.30.2024. Some things you will see in 2025 include…

• Kitchens Packed with Color
• Sculptural Lighting
• “Drenching”
• Dramatic Drapery
• Art Deco Era Antiques
• Moody Hues
• Cottage Core Gardens
• Immersive Bathrooms

This all sounds fine, right? But keep in mind that what ends up happening is that clients who are new to this will now ask push designers for this because it came out in a well-respected magazine. The people who pick up on this are “influencers”, those with a large following and very little industry knowledge. Just to break this down a bit, “kitchens packed with color” sounds great until a skilled designer has to employ this strategy with a lifespan of 15-20 years. With a “color of the year”, promoted by 5-6 different companies, all with different ideas as to what that color of the year will be, this is not really feasible. And let’s all just remember for a moment that Avocado Green and harvest Gold owned the 1970’s and reviled in the 1980’s. But, for every season, am I right? There was even an article written in May of 2021by the BBC touting the return of Avocado Green to contemporary interiors. The interesting thing about this, the article I’m referencing was incredibly well written, sourced and delves deep into the science and theory of color choices. But the headline… “Why ‘avocado green’ is back for interiors” does imply that the color was back en vogue in 2021. I don’t think is was and if it did pop up here and there, not many are still touting it today. And if a client says to their designer that they are going all-in on this and buy Avocado Green appliances, cabinetry or tile, they will be living with it for quite some time. This idea of “drenching” seems completely misaligned with the very nature of interior design. From a vernacular stand point, “drenching” means to get something completely wet, yet color drenching is described as painting every surface in the same shade. Sooooo, monochromatic. Why not just say that? It’s funny really, monochromatic ideas have been in popular design styles for centuries and can be referenced back to the Greek word, monochromos, meaning, to have one color. While I have read articles that source the French word envelopper, or “to wrap” with the idea for color drenching. And yet, every year there are many who also tout the end of the white kitchen. But white kitchens also appear on many of the trends you will find for every coming year. The white kitchen is also a sort of “drenching”, is it not?

Just to put a finer point on this idea, in November, 2023, an article appeared in Vogue entitled, “2023’s Latest Interior Design Trend? Matchy-Matchy Rooms”. The article showcased a Kip’s Bay Dallas room designed by, Mark D. Sikes that featured a floor to ceiling blue and white checkered wallpaper in a style called, Vogue quotes unnamed designers as Mono-Print.

I believe that the prevalence of social media, that creating a value system where “influencers” gain status by the number of followers instead of by the level of their expertise has created an environment for ideas to be promoted not by their true design value but how ‘buzzy’ they can get and how many clicks they receive. That’s not how great design is created, nor enjoyed.

If you want to talk about emerging trends, that’s great. But let’s make this less about ephemeral design looks and styles, and more about functional relevance. Here are some thought starters;

• Integrated Technology, mixed-fuels and materials
• Safe rooms/ Security
• Purposeful Connectivity
• Advanced Kitchen Design
• Tech Focused/ Spa Inspired Bathrooms
• Smartly Designed Outtdoors
• Outside in / Biophlic Design, indoor grow rooms and healthy spaces

Why the rant? I’ve been shining a light on this very subject for a few years now because after having so many conversations with exceptional designers, it makes zero sense to me why media outlets would just speculate about what the developing trends are. And yes, I know that most contributors to the design pubs do cite designers regarding these trending ideas, because they are not in the context of a specific project with individual clients, it doesn’t make any sense, iit’s not really actionable and further confuses clients about how they can best communicate with their designer, assuming they are working with one or they are using this information to circumvent the need for a designer. Look back at each of these “trends” listed and tell me if you think any of them are new and compelling or just click-bait. That’s my rant, now, the great part of todays episode, a full conversation featuring, Debbie Mathews.

Debbie Mathews launched her design business in 2013, the same year I launched Convo By Design. It’s been a minute. Debbie is a Nashville based designer and watched the world move in around her as Nashville became a world class music, sports and entertainment destination. During that time, Debbie built her firm and focused on antiques, which she credits for adding a unique charm to her work. It’s in the layering and as you are going to hear, she really has mastered the process and by doing so, has created a truly unique look all her own. What is really interesting about Debbie and the following conversation is how it’s juxtaposed against my previous rant. As you listen to this episode, please check the show notes and click on Debbie’s portfolio as we go through some of her work. You will find many of the ideas espoused as upcoming trends when in reality, these ideas have been in Debbie’s work for many years. Trends? Please. You are going to hear all about it, right after this.

Thank you Debbie, for your time and willingness to share your experience and craft.

Thank you to my incredible partner/ sponsors; ThermaSol, Design Hardware, Pacific Sales, Monogram and TimberTech for your support for the show and the industry as a whole. We are a stronger because of industry partners like you. And of course, thank you for listening to the podcast, subscribing to the show and sharing it with friends and colleagues. Please keep the show and guest suggestions coming, I do appreciate them and do my best to respond to every one. Convo By Design @ Outlook dot com and on Instagram, convoXDesign, with an “X”. Thanks again for listening. Happy New Year, make this the year you’ve been hoping it would be. Until the next episode, Stay focused and rise above the chaos.

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No matter who wins, changes are coming. How can the business of design adapt to these changes, and thrive at the same time? Will additional tariffs change the pricing model of goods? How will new regulations affect transportation, fuel usage and household appliances? During these uncertain times, we’re all looking for a bit more stability and direction. Learn how to best navigate the changing landscape and better prepare your design firm and clients for the future.

All of these programs took place in the WestEdge Theater presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home. The stage was designed by Julie Beuerlein of JKB Home Design.

As a busy professional designer, you know how important it is to find the right partnerships. Partnerships that allow you to specify the right products for every project. Professionals like you just don’t have time to waste. Let me tell you about one of my partnerships. Pacific Sales is here to serve you with expert, knowledgeable and non-commissioned professionals to help you specify the right product for all your projects. Non-commissioned. That means their only incentive is your satisfaction. Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home, a Best Buy Company has just that with over 60 years of service in Southern California. Pacific Sales is your destination for exploration, advice and inspiration. And here’s the cherry on top, access to exclusive Builder Trade Incentives from top brands like Monogram. Visit a Pacific Sales Showroom today to learn how you can unlock additional savings and benefits.Don’t miss out on the opportunity to work with the best of the best. Visit Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home today and elevate your projects to new heights!

Moderated by: Josh Cooperman, Convo By Design

Featuring: Scott Specht | Specht Novak, Erik Peterson | PHX Architecture, Shirry Dolgin | ASD Interiors, Joe Carline | Kligerman Architecture & Design

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It’s a challenge and I’m not going to pretend that it isn’t. Often times, I will be producing an episode of the show as there are unspeakable tragedies happening around the world and in my own backyard. As I produce this episode of the show, I am still in contact with many of my industry friends as well as family who have been directly impacted by the wildfires in and around the Los Angeles area. Thoughts and prayers just are not an acceptable response any more. And let’s be honest, that hasn’t been a suitable response for a very long time. As we get into our episode today with Erika Cross, I would love for a few things to happen. First, if this podcast can serve as a respite for those who are suffering, even if it’s only for a few minutes to think about something else and second, to provide an opportunity to think differently about what we know and what is possible. What do I mean by that?

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

I believe that we need to reimagine what we know if we want to change things for the better. I also believe that creatives are the ones who manifest it, create it and make those changes real for the rest of us. A while back, you heard an episode of the show discussing Venetian chimneys. These were crafted centuries ago by creative types who suffered the types of fires that demolished entire communities. Beautifully crafted chimneys that also served as spark arresters in the highly dense communities of Venice, Italy. Is art going to keep California from wildfires or floods, or landslides that follow fires and floods? No. But looking to creative types allows us to think differently about things which often puts us in the right mental space to address new ways to approach these challenges. It’s certainly not going to be the politicians. SO, for a few minutes, sit back, drive carefully, enjoy your workout or whatever you’re doing while you listen, do it safely and we’ll be right back with artist, Erika Cross.

Thank you, Erika. Loved our chat, love your work. Thank you to my incredible partner/ sponsors; ThermaSol, Design Hardware, pacific Sales, Monogram and TimberTech for your support for the show and the industry as a whole. We are a stronger because of industry partners like you. And of course, thank you for listening to the podcast, subscribing to the show and sharing it with friends and colleagues. Please keep the show and guest suggestions coming, I do appreciate them and do my best to respond to every one. Convo By Design @ Outlook dot com and on Instagram, convoXDesign, with an “X”. Thanks again for listening. Happy New Year, make this the year you’ve been hoping it would be. Until the next episode, Stay focused and rise above the chaos.

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As hard as it is to believe, this is our second year recognizing amazing creatives and enshrining them in the Convo By Design Icon Registry. This month’s inductee is the incomparably talented, multi-hyphenate creative, Adam Hunter It’s almost not fair just how talented Adam is. But it didn’t come easy, it only looks that way.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

In addition to being an extraordinary talent as designer, he has sharpened his skills in business whereby taking his talent and moulding it around his eponymous firm. As if that wasn’t enough, Adam started out in theater. From Les Mis to Dreamgirls, Adam’s experience in the theater has no doubt led to his ability to seek drama in design and play with materials to achieve the feeling, mood and scene he seeks. Adam described one of his recent projects as, “the perfect collision of contrasts.” I think that perfectly describes Adam as well. When you explore his work, you find fantasy, aspirational spaces, many of which push and pull to create balance simultaneously, perfectly balanced. Just like Adam who is both the dazzling performer and consummate professional making sure each mark hi hit and punching the important lines just right. Please don’t just take my word for it. Check the show notes and find links to his work and keep listening and hear so you can both see and hear for yourself. Adam Hunter, the January 2024 Convo By Design Icon Registry inductee.

Congratulations Adam on your enshrinement into the Convo By Design Icon Registry and the extraordinary studio you created. Thank you for taking the time to speak with me and sharing your story. Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors, ThermaSol, TimberTech, Design Hardware, Pacific Sales and Monogram for your dedication to making our industry better, faster, stronger! And thank you for listening to Convo By Design each week and sharing the show with your colleagues and friends who love sublime design. Until the next episode, be well, stay focused And rise above the chaos. -CXD

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Hosting, producing and publishing Convo By Design has been an incredible journey, 12 years in now. At the beginning of the show, I wasn’t really sure with whom I was speaking to. I set out to reach consumers interested in design, then after a year or so, I realized that it was designers and architects listening and interacting with me. I met so many creatives and that informed the shows development and the storylines. Then, something amazing happened… I heard from more design clients, for a few reasons. They were looking for a designer, architect, landscape designer, products for their own projects. Since 2020, there has been a transformational shift in what both the trade and consumer side are looking for from me, Convo By Design and the design industry. I believe we are entering a new phase in design. One with far more well educated clients and the trade is responding. Through these conversations, clients have a chance to get to know these creatives. Get a chance to vet them for their projects. And, designers can hear what other highly functional and successful creatives are doing to not just get more business but evolve this amazing industry. It is in that vein that I share my conversation with Tima Bell of the Bell Design Group. A firm with offices in Los Angeles, Colorado, Madrid and Argentina. A firm built with diversity and sustainability in mind, but when you hear how Bell puts these ideas into practice, I think you find it as fascinating as I do.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Tima shared details about his architecture firm, emphasizing its meritocratic and egalitarian nature, with decisions ultimately by him. Hehighlighted the benefits of a diverse workforce, including effective communication with clients from various backgrounds, and the use of Archicad, a BIM modeler popular in Europe. Tima also mentioned the company’s support for staff with visas and the low turnover rate, attributing it to the strong friendships formed among diverse staff members.

Tima and I, both native Angelenos, discussed the importance of embracing failure and trying new things in design and architecture. They acknowledged the issue of perfectionism in American, California, and Los Angeles exceptionalism.

Thank you Tima for taking the time to share your thoughts. Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors, ThermaSol, TimberTech, Pacific Sales, Monogram and Design Hardware. Amazing companies and great friends to the trade so please give them an opportunity for your next project. And, thank you for listening, subscribing the show and sharing with your colleagues. If not already subscribing, please consider that so you receive every new episode automatically to your podcast feed. Until next week, thank you for sharing this time together, until the next episode, be well, stay focused and above the chaos. – CXD

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As a busy professional designer, you know how important it is to find the right partnerships. Partnerships that allow you to specify the right products for every project. Professionals like you just don’t have time to waste. Let me tell you about one of my partnerships. Pacific Sales is here to serve you with expert, knowledgeable and non-commissioned professionals to help you specify the right product for all your projects. Non-commissioned. That means their only incentive is your satisfaction. Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home, a Best Buy Company has just that with over 60 years of service in Southern California. Pacific Sales is your destination for exploration, advice and inspiration. And here’s the cherry on top, access to exclusive Builder Trade Incentives from top brands like Monogram. Visit a Pacific Sales Showroom today to learn how you can unlock additional savings and benefits.Don’t miss out on the opportunity to work with the best of the best. Visit Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home today and elevate your projects to new heights!

Something that has taken hold globally is the idea that living small doesn’t have to be spartan and without enjoyment. The ADU Revolution is real and nowhere else has it evolved to fully capture the California Style than in Southern California. But the beauty here is that these ideas, once explored don’t just stay in California. Those ideas are exported for the benefit of others.

Small Space Big Style: The ADU Revolution and Popularity Behind Living SmallThe Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) has become an amazing opportunity for those wishing to add additional space to a property. ADUs have also changed the way many think about living within a smaller footprint. Whether a first home, guest house, income generating space, home office or other functional space, a small space can still offer big impact. The Cato Institute tracks the stratospheric rise of ADU’s and demonstrates how once again, California is leading the way in creative problem solving. Hear what’s next for the ADU, and how homeowners, developers and tenants are planning accordingly.

Moderated by: Frances Anderton

Featuring: Joan Barton, Dirty Girl Construction, Marcos Santa Ana, Alloi, Scott Specht | Specht Novak, Aejie Rhyu, ARA-la Studio, Erik Peterson | PHX Architecture

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Over the years, I have spoken with many clients who really don’t understand the process behind design. I think there are many beginner and mid-level designers that don’t fully understand process, means and methods. If a client wants their projects completed quickly, they can always find a designer who will do it for them. It’s their replacement who has to pick up the pieces. I can hear many of you nodding in agreement as I say this. It’s the journey, like that of a runner. You don’t decide to run a marathon, buy a pair of shoes and run it. There is a process. A very long and challenging process. The same is true when trying to become the best at what you do in any endeavor. Just like design.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Today, you are going to hear from Holly Hollenbeck. Holly and I discussed the parallels between long-distance running and project management. Holly, an experienced ultra-distance runner, shared her lessons learned from participating in challenging races, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning, determination, and experience. She also highlighted how these experiences have influenced her approach to project strategy and risk management.

Holly shares some of the challenges she faced in her design and client management roles due to the Covid-19 pandemic and economic fluctuations. She emphasized the importance of clear communication with clients, setting expectations upfront, and being flexible to pivot when necessary. We also discussed the differences in real estate design and mentality between the United States, Europe, and Asia, with a focus on the concept of the ancestral home and the shift towards renovating existing homes rather than moving due to high housing costs. There is an overwhelming need to adapt to constantly changing market conditions and client needs.

Holly shares her experience of having her kitchen design featured on the cover of California Home and Design in 2007, which she attributed to serendipity and connections with friends. Holly and I discussed the pitfalls of designing homes based on current trends, emphasizing the importance of creating cohesive, functional spaces rather than focusing on individual, trendy elements. They highlighted the risk of a design becoming outdated and the need to balance trendy elements with timeless pieces. Holly shared her approach to navigating clients’ desires for trendy features by ensuring these elements are used in unique and personalized ways. And you are going to hear all about it, right after this.

Thank you Holly, loved our chat. Keep on truckin.

Thank you to my incredible partner/ sponsors; ThermaSol, Design Hardware, pacific Sales, Monogram and TimberTech for your support for the show and the industry as a whole. We are a stronger because of industry partners like you. And of course, thank you for listening to the podcast, subscribing to the show and sharing it with friends and colleagues. Please keep the show and guest suggestions coming, I do appreciate them and do my best to respond to every one. Convo By Design @ Outlook dot com and on Instagram, convoXDesign, with an “X”. Thanks again for listening. Happy New Year, make this the year you’ve been hoping it would be. Until the next episode, Stay focused and above the chaos.

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You have heard past episodes about the WestEdge Design Fair in Santa Monica, California each Fall. I have been working with Megan, Troy and the entire WestEdge team for 7 editions of the show over 10 years minus those years where the show was cancelled due to the pandemic but I still published content on the podcast featuring show programming. Having left SoCal for Tulsa, it’s not as easy as the quick drive down Lincoln Boulevard to the show. No, it means travel.

When I was a kid, not much got me as excited as going on a trip. The excitement didn’t start when I got to the destination, it began at the airport. The airport was a place that required fashion choices, we dressed up to travel. It was an experience to walk in, present official documents and then proceed to the lounge where my sister and I would be treated to sweet treats and beverages. That led to an amazing journey that carried over to the plane. There were more Shirley Temples for my sister and I and my parents would have an adult beverage and let me keep the little bottles. By the way, I always shook the last drops out of the bottle and it was never as pleasant as I thought it would be. I dread travel now. The cattle drive that is airport security is stressful, uncomfortable, and one of the more unpleasant experiences we all must endure when traveling. Airport furniture is uncomfortable, cramped and in many cases, damaged and broken.

I was thinking about that while going through security on the way back to Tulsa. Is anyone but me surprised by this process and just how bad it is. And how the lack of comfort and. Service in the airports now don’t meet expectations in any other aspect of our lives. If our homes were as dysfunctional, overpriced and uncomfortable, I can’t think of many people that would tolerate it. The pandemic allowed us to do our work from home offices and now employers want their employees back in the office while most haven’t addressed the poor working conditions. And they’re getting kick back.

Why am I telling you about this? I was processing all the amazing moments for the 2024 edition of the WestEdge Design Fair. This was the best edition yet. I started working with WestEdge in 2015. I went and covered the show, conducted interviews and had a small 10 x 10 as a base of operations. 2016, I hosted the first Convo By Design Programming Lounge with amazing partners like Warner Bros, The Rug Company, Hollywood at Home and it was designed by Ryan White. In 2017, I took over the theater programming at WestEdge and did it again in 2018 and 2019, lost years 2020, 2021 and 2022, came roaring back in 2023 and this was my 7th WestEdge over 10 years. We have seen some wonderful talks by incredible creatives over the years and this year was no exception. The conversations and ideas discussed are inextricably part of what makes the design industry so amazing and mandatory if we are to further improve the form, functionlaity and performance of the spaces where we live, work and play. Back to the airport for a minute. I think it’s the consultants who screw up the airports. Give some quality designers a shot at airport redesign and you would see something amazing happen. And that all starts with education and sharing ideas for broader adoption.

As a busy professional designer, you know how important it is to find the right partnerships. Partnerships that allow you to specify the right products for every project. Professionals like you just don’t have time to waste. Let me tell you about one of my partnerships. Pacific Sales is here to serve you with expert, knowledgeable and non-commissioned professionals to help you specify the right product for all your projects. Non-commissioned. That means their only incentive is your satisfaction. Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home, a Best Buy Company has just that with over 60 years of service in Southern California. Pacific Sales is your destination for exploration, advice and inspiration. And here’s the cherry on top, access to exclusive Builder Trade Incentives from top brands like Monogram. Visit a Pacific Sales Showroom today to learn how you can unlock additional savings and benefits.Don’t miss out on the opportunity to work with the best of the best. Visit Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home today and elevate your projects to new heights!

Over the next 10 weeks, you are going to hear talks, panels and conversations from the show, so I wanted to open this up with a teaser, a sample of some of these conversations like this from Authenticity VS. Dupes: Theft or “Inspired by” Placing the Priority on Uniqueness and Honoring the Creative Process of Those Who Craft Original Work There are stories, you have no doubt heard them or seen them for yourself on Instagram or the websites offering dupes of almost everything for less. There are many reasons why the copy-market thrives and why some creatives feel that they are entitled to change it a small detail and call it their own. Is the value in the look of it for less, or paying a bit extra and knowing you have an original? Perhaps the copy-market, while always present, only thrives during crisis-pricing for the real thing. We explore the value of original work and how knock-offs are changing the nature of creative design.

Moderated by: Kelly Phillips Badal, LUXE Interiors + Design

Featuring: Jen Samson | Jen Samson Design, KimGordon | Kim Gordon Designs, Candice Quinn | London Pierce Design and William Zhang | EMTEK

After so many conversations at the show this year, a few things became quite clear. We are in a bifurcated market. Some designers are extremely busy, others, not so much. The most creative and successful creatives all understand that the one way to maximize their edge is to attend these events, talk to new suppliers, vendors and product manufacturers. We all have to be lifetime learners if our hope is to maintain a competitive edge. That means coming out and attending these panel conversations as so many have this year and in past years. Gather incredible product and technical application about kitchen design like this from The Intelligent Kitchen: How Technological Advancements Create a Higher Quality of Life

We’ve all heard that the kitchen is the heart of the home. It has also evolved into the brain and central nervous system through advancements in modern technology. These developments have created a more intelligent kitchen and a space the addresses the emotional and intellectual needs as well. Thought-full design and development of modern appliances that address needs without being asked, a focus on food preservation, preparation, cooking and a mindful approach to household tasks have changed the way designers think about the kitchen. They are providing new avenues for the enjoyment of kitchen spaces and an increased quality of life that is human-centric. Learn how the kitchen has been forever changed and how these advancements will continue to evolve.

Moderated by; EZ Gonzalez, Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home

Featuring: Mark Cutler & Nichole Schulze of CutlerSchulze, Jess Jones | Jess Jones Design Group, Rachael Grochowski | RHG Architecture + Design and Kerrie Kelly | Kerrie Kelly Studio

Something that has taken hold globally is the idea that living small doesn’t have to be spartan and without enjoyment. The ADU Revolution is real and nowhere else has it evolved to fully capture the California Style than in Southern California. But the beauty here is that these ideas, once explored don’t just stay in California. Those ideas are exported for the benefit of others.

Small Space Big Style: The ADU Revolution and Popularity Behind Living SmallThe Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) has become an amazing opportunity for those wishing to add additional space to a property. ADUs have also changed the way many think about living within a smaller footprint. Whether a first home, guest house, income generating space, home office or other functional space, a small space can still offer big impact. The Cato Institute tracks the stratospheric rise of ADU’s and demonstrates how once again, California is leading the way in creative problem solving. Hear what’s next for the ADU, and how homeowners, developers and tenants are planning accordingly.

Moderated by: Frances Anderton

Featuring: Joan Barton, Dirty Girl Construction, Marcos Santa Ana, Alloi, Scott Specht | Specht Novak, Aejie Rhyu, ARA-la Studio, Erik Peterson | PHX Architecture

This next panel was an absolute blast for a number of reasons. I did not expect to moderate this one, but I was fully prepared when the need arose. To be completely honest, I was hoping I could sit in the audience and enjoy this one, but I had to fill in last minute and I am so thankful that I did. Not only was this program jam packed with amazing talent, but there were some truly groundbreaking ideas explored here.

Is it Really Worth Saving? Iconic Architecture or an Old but Poor Representation What makes an architectural work worth saving from the bulldozer? The architect? The style? The age? A famous past resident? How are preservation decisions made when historical considerations are in conflict with the rights of the current owner? What is the responsibility of the city and what municipal rules/regulations help address such discussions? Join this conversation with industry insiders as we explore preservation and progress.

Moderated by: Josh Cooperman | Convo By Design

Featuring: Jaime Rummerfield | Jaime Rummerfield Interior Design, Chris Goddard | Goddard Design Group, Anthony Laney | Laney LA, Paul McClean | McClean Design, William Hefner | Studio William Hefner

One of the biggest questions facing the industry today is how will the recent election and how those elected will change policy on just about everything from tariffs that affect the cost and availability of goods. Or AI, building restrictions, or event cultural issues. How might our societal issues change the very nature of the design and architecture communities?

What’s Next: How the Recent Election will Affect Design No matter who wins, changes are coming. How can the business of design adapt to these changes, and thrive at the same time? Will additional tariffs change the pricing model of goods? How will new regulations affect transportation, fuel usage and household appliances? During these uncertain times, we’re all looking for a bit more stability and direction. Learn how to best navigate the changing landscape and better prepare your design firm and clients for the future.

Moderated by: Josh Cooperman, Convo By Design

Featuring: Scott Specht | Specht Novak, Erik Peterson | PHX Architecture, Shirry Dolgin | ASD Interiors, Joe Carline | Kligerman Architecture & Design

Connected – Brought together or into contact so that a real or notional link is established. Unconnected – Not joined together or to something else. Disconnected – Having a connection broken. How do some of today’s most talented and sought after creatives approach connectivity, what does that even mean?

Connected vs. Unconnected: The Future of the Home The debate rages on… The fully connected home where all can be automated vs. the unconnected environment and the return to the beauty of form, function and simplicity. We’re not Luddites, but if we look at the experiential nature and convenience of a connected space, we must also consider what it means to have a space that is intentionally unconnected. The removal of screens, tech, automation, phones, and tablets can create calm and allow opportunities for true reconnection with self and others. Offline. Join this compelling conversation about AI, automation and the pros and cons of a fully connected home in a complicated world.

Moderated by: Erika Heet – Interiors Magazine

Featuring: Kristi Nelson | KM Nelson Design, Adam Hunter | Adam Hunter, Inc., Ginger Curtis | Urbanology Designs, Jaqui Seerman | Jaqui Seerman Designs

We’ve covered interiors, policy, technology, small spaces, practical connectivity, so let’s take it outside.

The Great Outdoors: Reimagining California’s Love for Outdoor Living Californians have perfected outdoor living, largely due to the favorable climate. As weather patterns change, the design industry has adapted with sustainable materials, inventive building practices and creative use of space including outdoor kitchens, theaters, plunge pools, functional landscapes, and unique approaches to sport courts. From pickleball to a pickle martini, design meets entertainment with the new innovations in outdoor design.

Moderated by: Josh Cooperman, Convo By Design

Featuring: John Feldman | Ecocentrix Landscape Architecture, Sam Toole | AZEK Co. Erik Peterson | PHX Architecture, Scott Specht | Specht Novak, Dustin Moore | Strata Landscape Architecture

We’ve covered a lot here but you’ve only heard a small part of what’s to come. We have additional programs to share and these programs in their entirety. They are wonderful and I am thrilled to share them with you. Thank you Julie Beuerlein for designing an extraordinary space from which to have these conversations. Thank you Pacific Sales for presenting the WestEdge Theater. Thank you to all of our incredible speakers, panel sponsors like EMTEK and TimberTech. And of course, our amazing audience who came out, took notes, asked great questions and provided an incredible energy. Enjoy these conversations. Make sure you subscribe to the podcast so you receive all of the full panel talks the moment they are published. We’ll see you in November at the Barker Hangar for the 2025 edition of the WestEdge Design Fair. – CXD

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One of my favorite things to do is discover new products, another favorite activity of mine is sharing those new products with you. And, that is what we’r going to do today. “Come with me for a minute, I want to talk to you. I just want to say one word to you. Just one word.… Are you listening?…. There’s a great future in plastics, think about it. Will you think about it? Enough said. That’s a deal”

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

That, of course, a favorite quote from The Graduate, but rings true now as it did in 1967. What’s old is new again and you are going to hear all about that today through my conversation with Dr. William Chivhovsky, founder of The Good Plastic Company. I believe the design industry is exposed to more new products and ideas than ever before in an ongoing effort to address the issues clients desperately want resolved. This includes climate change, sustainability, lower costs, improved performance and renewables. All of these subjects are going to be addressed over the next hour during my conversation with William Chivhovsky, founder of The Good Plastics Company and their product line, Polygood.

As we enter a new year, it’s an opportunity for exploration and discovery of the new products coming to market this year. I will be speaking at KBIS this year and cannot tell you how excited I am about that. If you will be in Las Vegas for the show this year, please drop me a note. I am looking for designers and architects to walk the show and report back with some of their favorite finds.

Thank you to my incredible partner/ sponsors; ThermaSol, Design Hardware, pacific Sales, Monogram and TimberTech for your support for the show and the industry as a whole. We are a stronger because of industry partners like you. And of course, thank you for listening to the podcast, subscribing to the show and sharing it with friends and colleagues. Please keep the show and guest suggestions coming, I do appreciate them and do my best to respond to every one. Convo By Design @ Outlook dot com and on Instagram, convoXDesign, with an “X”. Thanks again for listening. Happy New Year, make this the year you’ve been hoping it would be. Until the next episode, Stay focused and above the chaos.

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Happy Holidays. Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa, Happy Hanukkah. I hope 2024 was the best year ever for you and yours but pales in comparison to 2025. This was an interesting year, one of challenges for the design industry. But more importantly to me, because so many of the people behind design, my friends, family, people I care about, it’s even more important than ever to simply remind you that this was a good year and I know a lot of you are worried, concerned about what 2025 will bring for a number of reasons. Political, social and economic. I am a realistic optimist and I think we are headed into a fantastic year.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Two parts to that. A realist and an optimist. Those two ideas are not always compatible. There are going to be issues to overcome over the next few years, there is no doubt about that. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t only survive, but thrive. Chaos and challenging times are when designers and architects thrive most, why? Because uncomfortable times create a need for better spaces. Think about it. Post Great Depression architecture included Art Moderne, PWA Moderne, WPA Rustic through the U.S. New Deal and this was a time for Modernism to thrive creating a whole new design industry. WWII created the Mid-Century Modern movement and mew approaches to living. The Atomic Age ushered in a new approach to personal safety through residential bomb shelters. new products and materials. A new approach to power consumption with a focus on electrification and modern technologies within the home. It’s almost as if the greater the chaos, the greater the opportunity for those who craft , design and create safe spaces. Think about that.

Changes to the design industry are coming:

AI – We’ve been talking about artificial intelligence on the show since late 2022. It’s no longer coming. It’s here. And to those with whom I have spoken asking if they are going to lose their job to AI, I will tell you what I tell them. Probably not. AI can’t do your job. You’re going to lose you jobs to the designer who knows how to use AI. It’s not about prompts, high capacity CPU’s or the ideation a computer can do that you can’t. It’s the tasks and roles AI can play within your design firm that will make all the difference. If you are still bound by past methods of doing the work, better educated designers will have more time to pursue projects, deliver proposals and create faster project completions. It’s not just talent anymore, but the speed at which you can deliver on each milestone of the project. We all need to be lifelong learners and increase the speed at which we work. That, and using AI to stay on top of the new ideas your clients will be asking for.

Dupes – The moment something unique is created, someone is working on ways to steal the idea. It sucks, but that’s the way it is. There is a break between budgetary constraints and creating a uniquely special space. Remember a few years ago, during the pandemic when storytelling was what clients wanted. Designers were perfectly suited to deliver on that. Now, clients want the economic pain to stop and shrinking budgets have led to a proliferation of dupes. It’s still not okay. Be original and clients will follow. Dupes are not the same as they original. While they may look similar, there is a reason why they are cheaper than the original and it usually has to do with the materials you don’t see but will certainly feel.

Originality and Authenticity – A strong design firm is such because they produce concepts that are unique. Fads and trends come and go, but originality is always in style. Originality comes in many forms and the reason the U.S. design and architecture community is so strong is due to that embrace of uniqueness and desire for authentic designs in residential, commercial, hospitality, education and industrial spaces. The killer of creativity, personal opinion, has been social medias affect on the creative endeavors. We have entered into a copy culture when everyone seems to be racing to come in second. Let someone else take the shots for being first and then come in behind them with a modified version of the same thing. Social media created that and it sucks the originality out of any creative endeavor. Let 2025 be the year of experimental design, original thought and a sense of aspirational ideals. I don’t just direct this at the designers, shelter media needs to do better. This obsession with celebrity and celebrity designer is slowly choking the joy out of our industry. I cannot tell you how many publicists I have spoken to who tell me that they are having trouble getting coverage for their clients who are doing amazing work for non-celebs. I think the trade pubs have it hard, I really do. They lost a ton of subs during the pandemic. Many have fired or laid off the majority of their contributors, many released the higher priced (quality) contributors for less experienced writers and paper/ distribution costs have increased. I get it. But you simply can’t expect to charge more for an inferior product at a time when everyone is paying more for everything. But, you can charge more for a better product! That is what designers do and what the trade pubs should do as well.

Stronger Together – That’s all on this subject. We are stronger together. If we strengthen our industry bonds, we can do better work in a more collaborative environment. Increase your industry relationships. Like these…

Yes, these are partner sponsors of mine and I am incredibly proud to be working with ThermaSol, Design Hardware, TimberTech, Pacific Sales and Monogram. These partnerships are so important for so many reasons. I can tell you that I have done my research on each and I am proud to be working with them. If you want to know why aside from what you hear on the show, email me and I will share my experiences with each.

2025 is going to be a chaotic year, that is how it’s shaping up. But that can be great news for our industry, and I believe it will be. My mission is to bring you the latest in remarkable stories about wonderful creatives. To share the latest industry news and happenings either from there or speaking with those experiencing it first hand. You will also be hearing from a new slate of Convo By Design Icon Registry Inductees and the limited WestEdge Wednesday panel series starting in January with all of the panels and programs from the show’s main stage in their entirety.

As we reflect on 2024, take some time to enjoy a breather with family and friends. That is what is truly important. There are some additional happenings for me and Convo By Design next year. We will surpass episode 600 in 2025, I will be speaking at KBIS, and Convo By Design will be opening a boutique, multi-line rep firm giving designers an opportunity to engage directly with select brands and unique products to specify for their truly special projects.

It all comes down to being thankful, optimistic and curious. I’m thankful for you. Listening to the show and sharing it with your friends, family and colleagues. I’m thankful for my partner sponsors ThermaSol, Pacific Sales, TimberTech, Monogram and Design Hardware. Optimistic about the year to come and experiencing it first hand, in real time. Curious and on the endless pursuit for the stories, brands and products behind sublime design. Please keep those show and guest suggestion emails coming, Convo By Design at Outlook dot com and on Instagram @ConvoXDesign with an “X”. Until next year, be well and take today first. -CXD

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The Convo By Design Icon Registry inductees this month are Jordan Slocum and Barry Bordelon AKA the Brownstone Boys. They appeared on the show around 2020. I feel strongly about historical preservation and I cannot think of anyone who does this as authentically as Jordon and Barry. Neither were born in Brooklyn, but they found themselves there with a passion for design and a love of brownstones. Their authenticity with regard to the work is inescapable and their sole focus on the mission of restoring old brownstones is what I think makes them so unique. This is not a flavor-of-the-month activity to become socially relevant. They started their passion project first, turned it into a business and the fame followed, as did more projects, book deals and all the other fun stuff designers want as part of their professional portfolio.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

The other aspect to their work that I find so wonderful is their approach to each project. Not recreating it in the original form of the architect but reimagining it and keeping the essence of the work, historical reference but also reimagining it to fit seamlessly into the neighborhood with all the modern amenities one would hope for without shoe-horning it it. It flows effortlessly into each completed project. Allowing those who love brownstones to enjoy this as well as allowing the architectural purist to appreciate the workmanship and creative approach to a revitalized building.

Please enjoy an encore airing of that first conversation with Barry and Jordan, our December 2024 inductees to the Convo By Design Icon Registry, the Brownstone Boys.

Thank you Barry and Jordan for appearing on the show, creating such beautiful reimagined spaces and respecting the original work as you do. Thank you to my wonderful partner sponsors; ThermaSol, Pacific Sales, Design Hardware, TimberTech and Monogram for your continued support and thank you for taking the time to listen to the show and sharing it with your friends, family and colleagues. Until next time, be well and take today first.

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Design Hardware Fall 2024 Open House

I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with some of the highlights from the Fall open house at Design Hardware. Incredible design talent, interesting conversations and insights into how the business of design is changing.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

The design industry today is more robust and complex than ever before. And that is only going to continue to change over time. Accelerating with every new change in technology and business climate. Not to mention actual climate changes. Every quarter, I check in with design talent at the Design Hardware showroom in Los Angeles and we chop up issue like these and others. These are some of the highlights from our Fall 2024 event that took place in November. You are going to hear all about that, right after this.

Adam Hunter

Cecilia Rose

Candace Quinn

Bianca Bush

Ben Jones

What a day. Thank you Cecile, Candace, Bianca, Adam and Ben. These were just a few of the conversations we had and you can find more in depth with these individuals as well as additional creatives by listening to Doctoring Up Design, the official podcast of Design Hardware. Check the show notes for links to that and all the designers you’ve heard here today.

Thank you to my partner sponsors including ThermaSol, TimberTech, Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home, Design Hardware and Monogram for your continued support to the design community. Thank you for taking the time to listen to the show and share it with with family, friends and colleagues. Your time is the most valuable asset and I appreciate the time we spend here together on the show. Please keep those show and guest suggestions coming. convo by design at outlook dot com and on Instagram @ConvoXDesign with and “X”. Until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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The smell of Fall is in the air and people across the U.S. are preparing for a holiday season that will include gatherings. Family and friends get together, give thanks and celebrate one another. Much of that celebratory time takes place in the kitchen, the heart of the home where conversation and meal preparation are shared and enjoyed. Are you ready?

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

It’s not only during the holidays, but everyday activities take place in the kitchen and a group of exceptionally talented designers gathered to share their thoughts on how the technological advancements in home appliances have changed the way people live and the way these advancements are bettering the lives of those who employ them. We started with a very simple idea to discuss:

Technology, Style and Todays Most Well Designed Kitchens: Everything is Changing, How Some of the Most Talented Creatives Are Changing the Rules.

The most talented designers understand that times are changing. They have seen it happen, in real time prior to the start of the pandemic. Societal changes dating back to the financial crisis of 08/09 led to a renewed look at the “value” of home and the Covid pandemic created a renewed look at the “purpose”. No space has changed more than the kitchen, previously dubbed, “the heart of the home” has morphed into the heart, brain and central nervous system. All things experiential touch the kitchen. Technology has led to some of the greatest advancements in expected areas like refrigeration, cooking and cleaning, but that is only the beginning. How have technological advancements led to increased quality of life? What followed is only the beginning in a wonderful journey of exploration.

Thank you to Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home and Monogram for making this gathering possible. Great partners like Pacific Sales and Monogram appreciate their design clients and strive to provide opportunities to gather, learn and share experiences with our likeminded creates. They make the built environment community stronger and that in turn increases the quality of life for those fortunate enough to engage remarkable designers like these. The following conversation covered a lot of territory and real world scenarios about this very subject. Here are just a few of the concepts we discussed:

• Recovered time no longer spent on meal prep
• Convenience through remote activation
• Automated cooking for meal perfection
• Reduced upkeep
• App management
• Decorative advancements
• Efficiency
• Increased air and water quality
• Minimized need for tools
• Simplified education for full and maximized use
• Minimized food waste
• In appliance cameras for off-site reference
• Fully customizable space for design approval

And you are going to hear from some amazing creatives starting with Lynnelle Bryant of Masbuild Design Solutions, right after this.

Lynnelle Bryant| Masbuild Design Solutions

Goli Karimi | HomeFrontBuild

Gwen Sukeena | Sukeena Homes

Jeanne Chung | Cozy Stylish Chic

Laura Muller | Four Point Design Build

Rachel Scheff | Rachel Scheff Design Studio

What an incredible day. Thank you Lynnelle, Goli, Gwen, Jeanne, Laura, and Rachel. Thank you Shaun Ayala, Verzine Hovasapyan, and Ricardo Garcia with pacific Sales Kitchen & Home for your participation and support for the design community. Thank you to all my partner sponsors including Pacific Sales, Monogram, ThermaSol, TimberTech and Design Hardware. These are amazing companies and they are here to make your projects the best they can possibly be. Check the show notes for links to each as well as videos from our design conversations featuring each of these wonderful designers. Thank you for taking the time to listen and share Convo By Design with your friends, family, colleagues and clients. I couldn’t do this show without you, wouldn’t want to. Until next week, be well and take today first. – CXD

InteriorDesign #Architecture #KitchenDesign #PacificSales #Monogram

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This episode is a special one dedicated to the 2024 Convo By Design Icon Registry inductees. This inaugural class of inductees features a diverse group of extraordinary creatives. If you have been listening to the special episodes that air the third Thursday of each month, you’ve heard just what makes these people so extraordinary at what they do. This was the first year of the program and it is scheduled to run well into the future.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

This idea for a Hall of Fame was conceived quite some time ago, but I struggled with a touch of imposter syndrome. I thought, who am I to bestow an honor like this on these people. The best in the business today and then a few things happened. The first was the 10-year anniversary party which was held in May of 2023. I was surrounded by so many friends, previous guests of the show, industry partners, all who listen to the show on a weekly basis and I heard stories about how these conversations have helped them in their careers, especially through the pandemic and now, when it feels like life has become a series of crisis management events, one after another. To showcase those who have figured it out and sharing how they did it, then celebrating their accomplishments. It just felt like a good time to start this project. This is not a list by which I expect anything in return. There is no ask for promotion or social media shares. This is just my way of celebrating these folks. But, there are criteria. These individuals have all been on the show, they are extraordinary at what they do by any and all standards and finally, the make our industry better, better than they found it. That is a big one, you will find that each of these amazing creatives have produced exceptional work, many do, but not all give back. Everyone here has, in exceptional ways. And you’re going to hear a bit from each. By the way, the entire episodes are available and you can check the links in the show notes to listen to each on. We’re going to get to that, right after this.

2024 Convo By Design Icon Registry Inductees:

January – Bunny Williams.

February – Cara Woodhouse.

March – Jean Brownhill.

April – Alex Papachristidis.

May – Susan Ferrier.

June – Dakota Jackson.

July – Brigette Romanek.

August – Jaime Bush

September – Timothy Corrigan.

October – Kyle Bunting.

November – Brian Pinkett.

December – Brownstone Boys.

What a great look back and these incredible people. I’m grateful and thankful that they all took the time to share their gifts, here, with us. Each inductee will be receiving, in addition to my eternal gratitude, a hand turned piece to commemorate their induction. Crafted by yours truly through JMC Studio. They have all been fabricated from local materials here in Tulsa, including wood from an old white oak that fell during the derecho in 2023. Thank you again to each for your contributions to our industry and the clients you serve. Thank you to my partner sponsors for your continued support, ThermaSol, Pacific Sales, Monogram, TimberTech and Design Hardware. Amazing companies who are dedicated to the success of the specifiers who craft and construct some of the worlds greatest structures. And thank you for listening to the show, downloading episodes and sharing them with your colleagues, friends and clients. Please keep those emails coming with show and guest suggestions. Until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I just thought since this is the Friday after Thanksgiving, almost everyone is home, eating, drinking and enjoying time with family, I would give you an opportunity to slip away for an hour or so for some alone time. You’re welcome. This is another installment of Drinking About Design. This episode features Butler Armsden leadership team or Glenda Flaim and Federico Engel. We are talking about some really obscure topics, drinking while we do it and I hope you enjoy it.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Fernando Engel is sharing stories about his homeland, Argentina, as well as the Capanopolis, and Francisco Salamone and Glenda will be sharing her thoughts on Venetian Chimneys. Never heard of Venetian chimneys? Well it’s a story on invention. As the proverb goes, “Necessity is the mother of invention.” And that perfectly describes Venetian chimneys. Think about fire suppression in overcrowded cities, adding ornate design. Cool right, now date them back to the 13th century. Ideas in technological spark arresting and fire suppression. We’re going to get right to this. Special thanks to Glenda and Federico from Butler Armsden for joining me and for my incredible partner sponsors; Pacific Sales, ThermaSol, TimberTech, Monogram and Design Hardware for making it possible and allowing me to share these stories with you. With that, I give you another installation of Drinking About Design.

That was so much fun. Thank you Federico and Glenda, so appreciate the storytelling and the time. Thank you to my partner sponsors ThermaSol, TimberTech, Pacific Sale, Monogram and Design Hardware for your continued support and thank you for taking the time out of your busy day to join me for these conversations. This was a fun one, right? There are more episodes of Drinking About Design in 2025 so subscribe to the podcast and get every episode, brand new, right to your feed. Until next week. Happy Thanksgiving, Be well, and take today first. -CXD

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This podcast, started in 2013, now 11 years running. I wanted to break from the usual conversations to share some thoughts on gratitude and optimism. To share some updates and thank those who have participated in this exceptional run.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

The production of this episode coincides with Thanksgiving, intentionally. This is the time of year when most design professionals and clients alike tend to shut things down for the year. Kids come home from school for the Winter break, family comes to visit, we buy gifts for loved ones, attend holiday parties and I like to think that I am not alone in looking at the past year reflectively while looking to the new year with renewed optimism. 2024 was a fantastic year with regard to the show. Convo By Design has hit a higher gear this year. Going back to by background in motorsports, that means we have opened up new opportunities and are running faster and harder than ever before. The post-pandemic world is different that it was prior. Some issues have emerged this year that I find disturbing. Natural disasters, climate change, weather patterns have all accelerated. It isn’t really about if people believe or remain climate change deniers. Ignore these changes at your peril. I experienced something in 2023 that forever changed the way I feel about climate changes. Father’s Day, 2023, there was a straight line wind event in Tulsa. 100 mile per hour winds for 30-minutes. You can imagine the destruction. My family was fine, but others were not as fortunate. As I write this, a series of hurricanes passed through the southeast and the devastation was tremendous. We are also saw a dock workers strike, a fierce election season which will once again separate families and end friendships. And as I say this, I cannot help but feel optimistic for the year to come. Why? I’ll tell you, rights after this.

Why the optimism? First, I have been incredibly fortunate. I have my family, my health, you… yes you, I am so thankful that you listen, even happier when you send an email to let me know you like the show, disagree with something I said or have a guest suggestion. I also have a roster of incredible partner sponsors. Patrick, Nick, Mitch, Rachael and Jari from ThermaSol. Dan, Jay, Sam from TimberTech. Shaun and Verzine from Pacific Sales as well as the amazing team at Monogram. Michele, Avi, Stassi and Jaime from Design Hardware. Then there are the incredible creatives who share their stories and their work with us, you and me every week on the show.

2024 has brought some new endeavors, exciting changes and portends great things to come. But tread cautiously. I’ll get to that in a moment. First, the new developments. I learned early on in my radio career that the only thing you can really count on is change. The Telecom Act of 1996 changed so much, for me…and you. Most of the people I speak with these days don’t listen to the radio, and that is unfortunate for radio, but not for all of the incredible audio programming that we have available. If there was no Telecommunications Act of 1996, radio stations would probably still be in the hands of individual owners instead of the 10 groups that almost every American radio station. When I was a teenager, growing up in the Valley. I listened to KLOS, KMET, KNAC and KROQ. Play a song for me and I can tell you about how old I was and what I was doing when it was popular. KMET and KLOS created a love for Guns & Roses, Motley Crue, Giant, Scorpions and Van Halen, KNAC sharpened the rock edge with Metallica, Ozzy, Anthrax and Megadeth. Then KROQ, my beloved KROQ. The Smiths, The Cure, Depeche Mode, Roxy Music, The Nails who by the way introduced me to the name , Kamala, “who couldn’t sing but kept the beat and kept it strong.” 88 Lines About 44 Women, check it out. The point is, independent radio groups kept things fresh and interesting. They introduced me to new artists to fall in love with. Radio today is a shadow of its former self. The artists you hear today aren’t broken by radio but through individuals on social media. I compare this to the design industry because there is a very similar pattern being established. There was a time for those of us who loved design and architecture, a time when if you wanted to see what designers were making a splash, you turned to the trade publications. The magazines who provided beautiful glossy images, contributors who were actually journalists, writers who could craft a story and explain the language of architecture and design. Those days too have sailed by because most of us don’t subscribe to magazines anymore. That makes me sad because I still love magazines. They just don’t love me back. And I know there are some of you listening who still subscribe to and read magazines, but you are in the minority and at some point, this too will cease. Case in point. If you like music, and who doesn’t, when was the last time you bought an album? Not a song, an entire record? Fine, CD, digital download or actual vinyl, the whole record? Swifties, no need to email me, you’re different, I get it. This comparison makes for an interesting comparison between musicians and designers & architects. both produce new work that is reflective of broader societal issues. If radio was still the boss, you would not get exposure to new artists except those the industry wanted you to hear. Same goes for designers. To be frank with you, if radio were still the boss, podcasts would all be controlled by the existing radio groups. And, if the shelter trade publications were still as popular as they once were, Convo By Design would probably never have happened. So, in a strange way, I’m grateful for that too.

I mention this because as you are listening to this episode of the show, we recently completed the 2024 installment of the WestEdge Design Fair, a show I have been associated with since 2015. I have produced the programming o the main stage since 2017 and this year brought new voices along with well recognized creatives in design and architecture. Along with the new and established voices, we are talking about relevant issues that are affecting everyone in the shelter space, residential, commercial, design, architecture, manufacturing specifying, everyone and all of it. Concepts like; What’s Next which addresses what many can expect in 2025 with respect to politics, workforce, shipping, receiving, tariffs and other cost issues. Offline Vs. Reconnected, a conversation about the value, health and emotional benefits of cutting cords in the design itself, why and how for best effect. Authenticity Vs. Dupes, cancel culture taught us that there are ramifications for bad actions and bad actors yet theft, specifically idea theft, creative theft goes unpunished, or has thus-far. But that’s changing, those with sticky fingers beware. Vengance is coming. Have heard about the kerfuffle between the Donals Judd Foundation and Kim Kardashian and Clements Design. This is a huge deal concerning trade dress, intellectual property and trademark infringement. A big deal and not the only issue out there. How about Gifford V. Sheil. Another high profile copyright and trade dress infringement as it relates to content and social media. This one is really interesting. It revolves around …

We are covering a number of new ideas that warrant exploration. If you were not able to join us this year, fear not, every panel has been recorded as it has since 2018 and you will be able to listen in beginning in January with a limited series called WestEdge Wednesday where you will hear one of the 2024 conversations. I want to share something else pretty special with you. Something that will make your heart sing if you love extraordinary design talent, right after this.

2024 brought the inaugural year of the Convo By Design Icon Registry, a hall of fame showcasing some of the most extraordinary guests since the show started in 2013. The icons of 2024 include; Bunny Williams, Cara Woodhouse, Jean Brownhill, Alex Papachristidis, Susan Ferrier, Dakota Jackson, Brigett Romanek, Tim Corrigan, Kyle Bunting, Brian Pinkett, Jamie Bush, and I’m spilling the tea a bit, but December’s addition will be the Brownstone Boys. You will hear that episode in a few weeks. Third Thursday of every month will be the induction of a new icon. This is a hall of fame, not a massive click-bait list of dozens of creatives, these individuals have been selected for a few reasons that include their appearance on the show, their body of work, a willingness to give back to the industry and the manner in which they created their design business. All of these individuals have left an indelible mark on the world, leaving it better than they found it. Make sure you are listening to the 2025 class inductions, there are some very special people. Each icon, in addition to their induction episode, will be receiving a custom made and hand turned piece from JMC Studio. You can see what those look like on Instagram @convoXdesign, with an “x”. Final thoughts, right after this.

2025 is going to be an exceptional year, I can feel it. Been vibing with the universe and I can feel everything beginning to align. It feels different because, as I stated at the beginning of this episode, there are external forces at work that have made and continue to make life more complicated that it once was. I think that designers are futurists who make life better through their architecture and design. That talent is what will be addressing the climate change issues, costs of goods, specification and lifestyle. We adapt, we evolve, we change in response to the external forces that affect the manner in which we live, love and exist. I’m excited about the year to come and that joy comes form an appreciation for what is and acceptance of what was. That’s gratitude. I’m grateful and thankful for everyone who has come on the show this year, I’m thankful for my partner sponsors, TimberTech, ThermaSol, Design Hardware, Pacific Sales and Monogram. Please keep those guest suggestions and show ideas coming, convo by design at Outlook dot com and on instagram, @convoXDesign with an “X”.

Until next week, be well, take today first and Happy Thanksgiving. – Convo By Design

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Suitability has been on my mind a lot lately. I was taking the pup for a walk the other day and as I passed a home in the neighborhood that was under major renovation, it got me thinking about the concept of design suitability. I have been thinking about it quite a bit actually. Design suitability could also be interpreted as creatively vibing. To be on the same creative plane, with an ability to communicate freely and effectively. Any designer or client who has experienced creatively vibing understands that the way things get done when people are sharing that headspace is, beyond compare. It’s a rarity.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

When I got back to the house, I found a package leaning against the front door. I don’t know about you but coming home to a package delivery still makes me giddy. It’s that same feeling when you are out to eat and come back from the restroom to find your food waiting for you. Love that. The package was a book, so we have a new BOOKLOOK for you featuring the new book called Contemporary Living by Paul McClean of McClean Design. This book is a love letter to California and California living. This is an extraordinary book that opens with an essay about California living and the roots of residential design in the Golden State. You’ll hear abut some of California architecture pioneers like Koenig, Gehry and Neutra that leads you through an exploration of McCleans work perched in the Hills of Los Angeles. These modern masterworks demonstrate McCleans understanding and respect for the origins of California living, followed by concrete examples of how he deconstructs the core ideas and presents the concepts within completely original works. It’s a masterful understanding of how something works and possessing the talent and ability to take those ideas and reimagine them.

That original idea of creatively vibing with others, the environment, and past works of long lost masters provides all the elements for something very special. Contemporary Living by Paul McClean guides you through a visual journey of the architecture, site placement, scale and material selection. Design books, when done right are treasures to those who love to look at the work. This one is special for those that not only want to see the work but to gather an understanding of the philosophical approach taken to the finished residence. Finding the right architect is critical to obtaining the right shelter space for each individual. That method of vibing creatively allows the design to emerge and adapt to the individual. I don’t think we talk enough about the people when it comes to design. This monograph makes sure to focus on elemental ideas like land, water, light, elevation, and the California ethos, which is inextricably connected to people who long for the California feel. If you love modern design and contemporary living that California feel, you should get this book. Published by Rizzoli and you can find a link in the show notes. Brilliant monograph, Paul. Well done.

Staying on the creative vibing theme for a bit longer, this episode of the podcast features a conversation with designer, Michelle Murphy of DemiRyan. One of the things that constantly troubles me is the idea that design is a universal concept. It’s not. Design is personal. The relationship between client and designer should be personal. That doesn’t mean you have to be besties, you don’t even have to like each other. Michelle and I talk about a number of things that point to this idea of suitability that can mean success or failure of the client-designer relationship. You are going to be hearing much more on this idea about suitability and vibing creatively. Starting with the following conversation with DemiRyan’s co-founder and principal designer, Michelle Murphy, right after this.

Thank you, Michelle. Loved our chat and appreciate the time. Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors; ThermaSol, Design Hardware, Pacific Sales, Monogram and TimberTech. These are all fantastic partners with exceptional products and service to match. I have vetted these companies and I believe in them, and I think you should too. Check the show notes for direct links. Thank you for checking them out and specifying them on your next project. I also want to thank you for listening to the show and sharing Convo By Design with your friends, coworkers and colleagues who you think might enjoy it as well.

Please also keep the guest and show suggestions coming; convo by design at outlook dot com and on Instagram @convoxdesign, with an “x”. Until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is the Convo By Design Icon Registry November induction whose recipient has been on the show individually, part of a panel, part of a smaller group, virtually and in person. He has done all of this while simultaneously rising to principle of one of the most incredible architecture firms of the modern era. Brian, how’s that for a lead in?

The Brian I am referring to is the most recent inductee into the Icon Registry, it’s Brian Pinkett, principal of Landry Design Group. When I first started this program back in January of this year, I wanted to recognize some of the most extraordinary individuals who have honored me, and us with their presence on the show. Those who have lent their exceptional talents to their chosen profession and made this world better than they found it. Brian Pinkett is one of those people through his exceptional design skills, of course. But, that is no where near where the story lies. We he just a great architect, that would be one thing. Every architect I speak with on the show is the best at what they do. Every designer who appears on the podcast is the best at what they do. The difference lies between the lines. You might have hear my most recent conversation with Pinkett a few months back. He and I met at Design Hardware in Los Angeles for a Day of Design and he shared his philosophy and practical application of getting the absolute best out of the architects in his charge. We discussed how he approaches team work, mentorship and challenging those who want to be exceptional at what they do. That is Brian’s superpower and he has made a number of young architects exceptional at what they do by finding ways of bringing it out of them through their work.

In the past, I shared my background in broadcasting, working in radio for decades prior to finding my passion that led to our weekly chats. I wish I could tell you that I had some great mentors during my career in radio. I didn’t. Broadcast radio is a cutthroat business. It’s transactional and temporary. The secret is, it’s no different than most industries. Most people never have a Brian Pinkett to guide them. Brian is clear eyed with regard to his mentorship approach as he is to the design work.

Brian is exceptional at what he does and so we are going to celebrate his installment in the Convo By Design Icon Registry by looking back at one of his previous appearances on the show. I selected the panel conversation from the WestEdge Design Fair in 2019 since we just celebrated another fantastic WestEdge Design Fair. This conversation was titled, Design Diversity: Crafting Our World the Way it Should Be. This was the first conversation of its kind at a design fair. It was a conversation about race and design, about meritocracy and making the tent bigger for all who have something to offer. It was pre-Covid and before George Floyd’s murder set off a revolution in the U.S. This conversation also features Ron Woodson, Bridgette Coulter Cheadle and Breegan Jane. It was an exceptional conversation and I thought it would be a perfect way to look back and celebrate Brian Pinkett, the November 2024 Convo By Design Icon Registry inductee.

BP

Thank you, Bridgette, Ron and Breegan for being a part of this really important conversation. Thank you, Brian for being a part of this and always willing to share what you know with anyone who will listen! Congratulations on your addition to the Convo By Design Icon Registry. Thank you for listening and subscribing to the show. Thank you to my partner sponsors Design Hardware, ThermaSol, TimberTech, Monogram and Pacific Sales. these are amazing partners all, they support the trade and I love sharing these amazing resources with you. Thanks again for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. – CXD

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I’m josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a sampling from the Summer edition of the Designer Showcase event at Design Hardware. Every Season, we invite some of the most talented creatives from across the Southland and the U.S. to participate in strategic conversations, interviews, product launches and panel conversations. This is part of Design Hardware’s commitment to the design community. And we’ve got a sampling from that event.

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

This episode of the show features two very talented and very different creatives. The first is Jaime Rummerfield who you have heard before on the podcast. Jaime is an old friend and a crazy-talented designer. You have heard her before, usually with Ron Woodson, but things change and Jaime has gone out on her own. What’s that like? You’re going to find out. Then, you will hear from Marcos Santa Ana of Alloi. Marcos is an architect and general contractor with a very unique perspective on the work and art that is architecture. And you are going to hear all about it.

Thank you Jaime and Marcos. By the way, if you are listening to this on the day we published, November 12th, you still have time to see both of these amazing designers as well as dozens more at the WestEdge Design Fair, November 14th through the 16th at Barker Hangar in Santa Monica. Here is a link to get tickets to the show and see all of the incredible programming produced by Convo By Design.

https://www.grsreg.com/westedge24/exhPass?exh=cxd

Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors; ThermaSol, Design Hardware, Pacific Sales, Monogram and TimberTech. These are all fantastic partners with exceptional products and service to match. I have vetted these companies and I believe in them, and I think you should too. Check the show notes for direct links. Thank you for checking them out and specifying them on your next project. I also want to thank you for listening to the show and sharing Convo By Design with your friends, coworkers and colleagues who you think might enjoy it as well.

Please also keep the guest and show suggestions coming; convo by design at outlook dot com and on Instagram @convoxdesign, with an “x”. Until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with another preview episode as we get ready for the WestEdge Design Fair in Santa Monica, California. We’ll be back at the Barker Hanger for another installment of the show. That means another stage featuring 2 full days of talks and and thought provoking conversations. Thought provoking, yeah we’ve got that. And if you’d like to attend, here’s a link for tickets:

https://www.grsreg.com/westedge24/exhPass?exh=cxd

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Every year around April or May, I sit down and put pen to paper. I will write out dozens of program ideas from some of the most intriguing concepts that come from the podcast and sketch out what a more detailed conversation might look like. The episode you are about to hear is what inspired the Iconic Architecture program live from WestEdge and what ideas might be explored. This program is jam packed with heavy hitters in design and architecture covering a big concept. What makes architecture iconic and worth saving? The panel will include; Jaime Rummerfield, Christopher Goddard, Anthony Laney, Paul McClean and William Hefner. I am incredibly excited to sit and watch moderator, Alison Martino of Vintage LA navigate these treacherous waters. Everyone has an opinion, right? Where did this idea come from? Back in June of 2022, you heard an episode about 1001 North Roxbury, an extraordinary home in Beverly Hills. A home that was in remarkable condition, exceptionally designed and on a list of homes to be saved in Beverly Hills. It’s gone now. And you are going to hear how it happened. Water under the bridge. But without understanding how this happened, what’s to keep it from happening again? This panel will be touching all points related at this years show and since I know you don’t want to miss it, make sure you come. There is a link in the show notes for tickets to WestEdge 2024. Now you can brush up on the topic a little bit with this journey back to Beverly Hills in 2022. And you’ll hear it all, right after this.

There you go. All the intrigue you could ever ask for! The origin for the Iconic Architecture panel at WestEdge Design Fair, November 14th-16th at the Barker Hangar is Santa Monica. Make sure you join us. Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors; ThermaSol, Design Hardware, Pacific Sales, Monogram and TimberTech. These are all fantastic partners with exceptional products and service to match. I have vetted these companies and I believe in them, and I think you should too. Check the show notes for direct links. Thank you for checking them out and specifying them on your next project. I also want to thank you for listening to the show and sharing Convo By Design with your friends, coworkers and colleagues who you think might enjoy it as well.

Please also keep the guest and show suggestions coming; convo by design at outlook dot com and on Instagram @convoxdesign, with an “x”. Until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. Do you like where you live? If you lived somewhere, anywhere else, how might that change you? How might that affect your work, your creativity?

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Emily Baker is a multi-disciplinary creative endeavors in photography, illustration and a wallpaper line. Emily moved with her family to Portugal. Hold on. Let this sink in for a moment. Moved with her family to Portugal. I focus on this because I think this is at the crux of life and creativity. It’s difficult to make a move across town, let alone to another state. But another country? I would argue that the fear of unknown issues, financial issues let alone the basic concerns around language and social issues would be paralyzing. But it’s also incredibly exciting. The constant rush of adrenaline from the most mundane of tasks can both wreak havoc on the central nervous system and release a flurry of new thoughts and ideas. I have always loved moving. But what is the direct correlation to creative breakthroughs moving to a new environment have on the work? On life? Your’e about to find out in this episode of Convo By Design featuring Emily Baker of Emily Baker Studio. We’ll be right back.

Thank you Emily. Loved this chat and appreciate the time. Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors; ThermaSol, Design Hardware, Pacific Sales, Monogram and TimberTech. These are all fantastic partners with exceptional products and service to match. I have vetted these companies and I believe in them, and I think you should too. Check the show notes for direct links. Thank you for checking them out and specifying them on your next project. I also want to thank you for listening to the show and sharing Convo By Design with your friends, coworkers and colleagues who you think might enjoy it as well.

Please also keep the guest and show suggestions coming; convo by design at outlook dot com and on Instagram @convoxdesign, with an “x”. Until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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This is the Convo By Design Icon Registry for October 2024 and it is an absolute joy for me to talk about this creative with reverence, respect and friendship. The October 2024 Convo By Design Icon Registry inductee is the incomparable, Kyle Bunting.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Kyle and I have known each other for a while and he has appeared on the podcast four times I think. And in all different ways, And he almost always brought friends. Not that he needed them, but Kyle is what you can call a consummate professional and chronic collaborator. He can’t help himself, and why should he?

Collaboration between manufacturer, designer, architect, GC, client, trades, showroom are all critically important for the success of the project. Collaboration takes many forms and unfortunately, sometimes, no form at all. In all my experience, not just in the built and designed space, but in every aspect of business, collaboration is mission critical. Without collaboration, there is no communication, nor partnership, nor exceeding goals, can’t be done for one very simple reason; Design projects, residential or commercial builds are all done using multiple partners and if those partners aren’t working collaboratively, mistakes are made, miscommunications happen and it generally leads to additional issues. Kyle Bunting os one of the most highly-skilled collaborators I know. He also has created an exceptional brand and a wonderful product.

It is my privilege to induct Kyle into the Convo By Design Icon Registry, JMC Studio has crafted an original piece to commemorate this and it will be sent to Kyle shortly, check out Instagram if you want to see it. As we do here, this is Kyle Bunting from a previous appearance on Convo By Design.

KB

Thank you, Kyle for taking the time and the willingness to share your story. Thank you for your constant willingness to bring others into the big tent and for creating such an exceptional product. Congratulations on your addition to the Convo By Design Icon Registry. Thank you for listening and subscribing to the show. Thank you to my partner sponsors Design Hardware, ThermaSol, TimberTech, Monogram and Pacific Sales. these are amazing partners all, they support the trade and I love sharing these amazing resources with you. Thanks again for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. – CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design featuring an old friend and a new one in a very familiar space, talking about what makes strong bonds and strategic partnerships work. All while staying in your lane.

Joan Barton, founder of Dirty Girl Construction and SheSpoke, a platform that explores the stories and successes woman-owned, operated and worked side of the construction and design industry shared the mic once again with an outstanding creative thinker, Amy Theresa | DesignTonik @DesignTonik.Amy is the founder of Design Tonik, art + design, specializing in residential and commercial interior design, furniture procurement, design consulting and event planning.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

This is a multi-hyphenate company because Amy is a multi-hyphenate creative. Making her perfect fro a conversation with Joan and another exploration into SheSpoke and open and honest conversation by and for women in the built space.

Joan and Amy explore these ideas and talk about the discoveries and changes in the industry since approximately 2017. This is how contacts are made, bonds are formed, partnerships solidified and wok gets done. And done in a selective purposeful way.

This conversation was recorded live from Design Hardware in Los Angeles as part of our Day of Design programming series. And you are going to hear all about it, right after this.

Thank you Joan and Amy. Loved this chat and appreciate the time. Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors; ThermaSol, Design Hardware, Pacific Sales, Monogram and TimberTech. These are all fantastic partners with exceptional products and service to match. I have vetted these companies and I believe in them, and I think you should too. Check the show notes for direct links. Thank you for checking them out and specifying them on your next project. I also want to thank you for listening to the show and sharing Convo By Design with your friends, coworkers and colleagues who you think might enjoy it as well.

Please also keep the guest and show suggestions coming; convo by design at outlook dot com and on Instagram @convoxdesign, with an “x”. Until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. Today, we’re speaking with Laura Tribbett of Outline Interiors. I have long held the belief that design is a right, not a privilege. You might disagree, but let me explain why and after you hear my conversation with Laura, you might be on board.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Good design is a right, not a privilege. Good design affects all of us, makes communities stronger and it makes for a well lived life. I think many if not most people have no idea what good design is because most people are so heavily influenced by social media and because social media, actually media in general is so heavily influenced by likes, loves and emojis of those who don’t possess an educational background nor expertise on the subject. Anyone can look at an image on Instagram and love it enough to post a fire emoji. Nothing wrong with that but let’s not confuse that with an understanding of how that design might function or how it works with other spaces in the dwelling or how those who live there will use the space. It’s just a picture, they like it. Fine. But it’s really interesting how when enough people like something, it influence others to believe that it is exceptional. It might be, but there is nothing in the posting of an image to support that. Sometimes, this leads to fame for wildly popular designers regardless of whether or not their designs are good. And the measurement for that is how the client is affected by that work. There is a quote from Arthur Conan Doyle’s, The Hound of the Baskervilles in which Sherlock Holmes says, “I know what is good when I see it.”

In this particular case, Holmes is reacting to a portrait. Purely subjective. At the same time, what separates good design form bad? I would say that when you have a trained professional, doing what they have been trained to do on your behalf and influenced by your desires, the results have a good chance of hitting the mark. Why am I telling you this? Because smart, well trained and talented designers understand their roles and can see beyond first level obstacles.

Laura talks about infusing “moments of joy” into every project and that is one of the reasons I enjoy her work ad enjoyed our chat as much as I did. It’s also why I think you are going to love it.

Thank you, Laura for taking the time to share your story. Thank you to my partner sponsors, ThermaSol, Pacific Sales, TimberTech, Monogram and Design Hardware. These partners are amazing companies all who have made a concerted effort to support the design community through education, incentives, events, media and exposure, not to mention a collection of extraordinary products and service to match. Check the show notes for links to each of them so you can see first hand how they can make your design business thrive and your projects exceed expectations. Thank you for listening, downloading, subscribing and sharing the show with your friends and colleagues. Thank you for your emails, show and guest suggestions. Please keep them coming, convobydesign at Outlook dot com and on Instagram @ConvoXdesign, with an “x”. Until the next episode, be well and take today first. – CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a conversation about going home. You’ve heard the old adage, you can’t go home again. Derived from the Thomas Wolfe novel published in 1940, posthumously. It’s true, you can’t go home again because so much changes in your absence. I went home recently to Manhattan Beach. It’s true things change, but not everything and sometimes, change is good.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

I love Manhattan Beach. One of the things I missed most after we moved to Oklahoma was walking down the greenbelt with kids and getting dinner in downtown MB followed by a trip to the Creamery for an ice cream sandwich the likes of which you just can’t find anywhere else. While there, I stopped into Brewco to speak with Michael Zislis, restaurateur, developer, hotelier and MB devotee. So much so, that through his restaurant and hotel development, has almost singlehandedly reshaped the city for the better over the past 30 years. We talked about the redevelopment of Brewco, an eatery on Manhattan Beach Boulevard and an iconic spot for those who’ve lived there or those who’ve come to visit. you’re going to hear that and then, you are going to hear from Noelle Isbell, Manhattan Beach designer who took on the Brewco project in amazing fashion, called her shot and delivered a spot that is representative of Manhattan Beach’s past, present and future. Turns out, you can go home again. Even if it’s not exactly the same. If you love design, you are going to love this story. If you are a designer, this is how you go and get that project you have always wanted. And you are going to hear all about it, right after this.

Thank you, Noelle and Michael, thank you for creating something that makes me feel at home!. Thank you to my partner sponsors, ThermaSol, Pacific Sales, TimberTech, Monogram and Design Hardware. These partners are amazing companies all who have made a concerted effort to support the design community through education, incentives, events, media and exposure, not to mention a collection of extraordinary products and service to match. Check the show notes for links to each of them so you can see first hand how they can make your design business thrive and your projects exceed expectations. Thank you for listening, downloading, subscribing and sharing the show with your friends and colleagues. Thank you for your emails, show and guest suggestions. Please keep them coming, convobydesign at Outlook dot com and on Instagram @ConvoXdesign, with an “x”. Until the next episode, be well and take today first. – CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman, this is Convo By Design and today, as we inch closer to WestEdge Design Fair, the 2024 edition, with everything going on behind the scenes as we prepare a slate of programming to surprise and delight you, I wanted to share a program from the past. As we finalize the roster and get everything solidified, I wanted to share the “why” behind the programming. These panels are crafted to feature game changing, disrupting creatives and topics that hold up. What makes the WestEdge stage so special is the thought and effort that goes into the topics. They have all been carefully crafted, talent curated to speak to these ideas. Ideas that should hold up for years to come.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

The program you are going to hear today was called Craftsmanship in the Digital Age. Here is how it was described in the program: Is Craftsmanship a lost art in a world where we increasingly value expediency and accessibility over authenticity and beauty? Join Steven Gambrel, interior designer and co-founder of Dering Hall, as he leads a discussion with some of the most talented artisans and designers working today. How have our digitally-centered lives made us care even more about objects created with passion, skill and time-honored tradition? How do designers create a network of skilled craftspeople and educate their clients about the value craft? Explore the marketing of bespoke products and how digital tools have made success as an artisan more of a reality than ever before.

Featuring Bernard Brucha, MASHstudios; Paul Priven, Zia Priven; Wendy Schwartz, Cuffhome; and Delta Wright, Curated

Think about this for a moment, the program you are about to hear was covering craftsmanship and the value that authenticity holds in made goods. This conversation might as well have taken place in 2020 at the onset of the pandemic when authentic craftsmanship was a must have. Or in 2018, when every design event was discussing how to reach Millennials and their desire for fewer, but more authentic goods. Or, well… now, at a time when hand-made comes at a premium. Again, this was recorded in 2015, live at WestEdge. And I am proud to share this with you again. Right after this.

Thank you, Bernard, Paul, Wendy and Delta. Thank you, Megan and Troy from WestEdge. I enjoyed our conversations so much. Thank you to my partner sponsors, ThermaSol, Pacific Sales, TimberTech, Monogram and Design Hardware. These partners are amazing companies all who have made a concerted effort to support the design community through education, incentives, events, media and exposure, not to mention a collection of extraordinary products and service to match. Check the show notes for links to each of them so you can see first hand how they can make your design business thrive and your projects exceed expectations. Thank you for listening, downloading, subscribing and sharing the show with your friends and colleagues. Thank you for your emails, show and guest suggestions. Please keep them coming, convobydesign at Outlook dot com and on Instagram @ConvoXdesign, with an “x”. Until the next episode, be well and take today first. -Convo By Design

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with an episode about two sides of this industry that are rarely talked about. Two voices you rarely hear from, except here, of course. These two amazing individuals met me at Design Hardware for our Summer Day of Design event. Something important about the following episode right from the start, and this is not exclusive to the business of design. We’re talking about building teams and promoting your talent. These concepts are universally important and often neglected. But not here, not today.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

I have a tendency to repeat stories on occasion. No really, it’s true. And, if you have been listening to the show for any amount of time, you have probably picked up on this. I lean in on the things that have made an impact on me and how those things have affected my life and work. So, I tell you now, as I have told you before, I am not interested in doing a show about the business of design. Over the past 8 or 9 years, the business of design has gotten far more competitive. Partly due to the influx of new designers that enter the industry after every societal meltdown, be it a financial crisis like 08/09 or COVID. The same thing used to happen in my broadcast days. In that case, so many new people would be hired only to be fired at the end of each year and those people would go off and start their own advertising agency. In the design business, Many designers who don’t really make it as designers have found a niche business consulting designers on how to run their design businesses. I cannot tell you how many emails I receive from design business consultants who want to come on the show and there is a reason you don’t hear them on the show. I think if you want to learn something, it shouldn’t be from someone who couldn’t do it themselves but from someone who has exceeded in that particular area. Before I get angry emails, I’m not suggesting they are all bad or unhelpful, some are, I’m sure. But when I share the stories behind individuals with you, there is a reason for that. Today, you are going to hear from Brian Pinkett, Principle Architect with Landry Design Group and Erik Perez, Founder and Principle of Hello PR. I have known both of these men for many years and I have seen them in action and for those reasons I am thrilled to share this episode with you.

This episode was recorded live from Design Hardware in Los Angeles, but you know this because they are also long time sponsor partners of Convo By Design. I host a Day of Design for each season and this was from our July, summer session. These sessions are full days of recordings, panel conversations and product showcases designed specifically for busy designers to elevate their game through exposure, networking and education.

First up, you are going to hear from Brian Pinkett about training, teaching and mentoring talent and how to build a culture. Next, you will hear from Erik Perez about getting the most exposure for the work you do and how to leverage that into new business. And you’ll hear everything, right after this.

Thank you, Brian and Erik, love what you do and I’m thankful for your friendship and collaboration. Thank you to my partner sponsors, ThermaSol, Pacific Sales, TimberTech, Monogram and Design Hardware. These partners are amazing companies all who have made a concerted effort to support the design community through education, incentives, events, media and exposure, not to mention a collection of extraordinary products and service to match. Check the show notes for links to each of them so you can see first hand how they can make your design business thrive and your projects exceed expectations. Thank you for listening, downloading, subscribing and sharing the show with your friends and colleagues. Thank you for your emails, show and guest suggestions. Please keep them coming, convobydesign at Outlook dot com and on Instagram @ConvoXdesign, with an “x”. Until the next episode, be well and take today first. -Convo By Design

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is the September 2024 installment of the Convo By Design Icon Registry featuring another absolutely incredible creative who appeared on the show not once, but I think this gentleman has been on the show 4 times over the past 11 years in every way possible. He has been on a panel, featured in an individual interview, been part of The Showroom series. He’s incredible. This months inductee is an amazing talent a gentleman and a friend. Timothy Corrigan.

I met Tim for the first time, I believe it was 2017. I went to his Los Angeles offices and we spoke about so many things and that is the episode I wanted to share with you today as we induct Tim into the Convo By Design Icon Registry. Somethings you should know about Tim. First, he is one heck of a person. He is one of those people you feel like you’ve known your whole life from the moment you meet him. Second, he already had a stellar career before design in the advertising industry. He led international operations for Saatchi & Saatchi’s Bates Worldwide prior to opening his eponymous design firm in 1998. For reference, Bates Worldwide, in 1998, had billings in excess of $7.7B and operations in 70+ countries with 156+ offices.

One of the interesting things Tim and I talked about was the Bates Worldwide concept of the USP. Unique Selling Proposition. A concept you see offered everywhere but rarely understood. The idea is that wherever there is competition, one must find the differentiator, the thing that makes them stand out. Something that none else offers. That idea that competitively sets you apart. That others in the field don’t offer. There is far more to the concept but in a world where every designer is an “award winning” designer, Tim allows the work to override the accolades. The irony is not lost on me. To be talking about how it’s not about the accolades, while bestowing accolades, the point is that Ti has always understood his USP, he launched his firm knowing what he wanted, while perhaps not sure how he was going to do it, stayed true to himself and the work and accolades followed. Tim is strong willed, sure of his design ideas and doesn’t seem to have anything to prove. Another reason why I am so fond of Tim Corrigan and so happy to install him as this months inductee to the CXD Icon Registry.

Thank you, Tim for taking the time and the willingness to share your story. Congratulations on your addition to the Convo By Design Icon Registry. Thank you for listening and subscribing to the show. Thank you to my partner sponsors Design Hardware, ThermaSol, TimberTech, Monogram and Pacific Sales. these are amazing partners all, they support the trade and I love sharing these amazing resources with you. Thanks again for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. – CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a conversation from the past but no less relevant today and that is why I love producing the main stage at the WestEdge Design Fair. WestEdge, it’s coming up this November 14th through the 16th in Santa Monica at the Barker Hangar. This show is very special to me. I have been working with principles Megan and Troy, and co-founder Troy for years. This is a special show, my favorite show in California and that is saying something. It’s a labor of love and its with gratitude and appreciation to Megan and Troy that I get to do this every year.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

I wanted to share some past programs with you and it seemed like a good time as we lean in on this years show. One of the things that I have always loved about WestEdge is how it represents a celebration of design and a yearning to help elevate the industry in the future. For me, that desire to elevate has taken the form of freedom to curate panels, interviews and concepts that speak to the ever-changing and evolving nature of the design and architecture space. Troy and Megan have always supported my ideas and encouraged me to pursue the unique, undiscussed conversations in the same way I have always tried to do for you on the show.

For the past 2-3 years now, you have been hearing a lot of conversations about sustainability in design. The importance of sustainable consciousness in the industry. You have also been hearing a great deal about the story behind materiality and product. A true desire for narration in the design and materials that comprise it. It’s important. And I thought I would share our conversation discussing these very issues, recorded live, at WestEdge… In 2018.

Before we get to this, some thoughts on sustainable design and panel programming over time. The panel program you are about to hear was recorded in 2018. While not many were talking about this subject, we were and you are going to notice how far we have come since 2018 with regard to sustainable design practices. In large part due to conversations like this one. This is one of the reasons why the SoCal design community and beyond love this event so much. You are going to hear it here, first. The ideas and concepts that are shaping our industry now and well into the future. This year, we have an extraordinary slate of talks featuring amazing talent scheduled for the show. Find out more at WestEdge Design Fair dot com.

But first, It’s such a joy to look back at these and share them again. Sustainable and Timeless Design featuring; Whitney Tinsley, Bret Englander of Cerno Group and Catherine Richardson of Libeco Linen. This program was moderated by Erika Heet of Interiors Magazine.

We’ll get to it, right after this.

TS

WE1

TT/ PS

WE2

DH

Thank you, Erika, Catherine, Bret, Whitney. Thank you, Megan and Troy from WestEdge. I enjoyed our conversations so much. Thank you to my partner sponsors, ThermaSol, Pacific Sales, TimberTech, Monogram and Design Hardware. These partners are amazing companies all who have made a concerted effort to support the design community through education, incentives, events, media and exposure, not to mention a collection of extraordinary products and service to match. Check the show notes for links to each of them so you can see first hand how they can make your design business thrive and your projects exceed expectations. Thank you for listening, downloading, subscribing and sharing the show with your friends and colleagues. Thank you for your emails, show and guest suggestions. Please keep them coming, convobydesign at Outlook dot com and on Instagram @ConvoXdesign, with an “x”. Until the next episode, be well and take today first. -Convo By Design

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a conversation about potential. Potential is defined as having the capacity to become something in the future. Think about that. I’ll give you six seconds.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Potential, the most optimistic word in the human language next to the word optimism. Potential is only an idea until its activated. Simon Hamui is a Mexico City based design studio founded by Hamui and works in natural materials like wood, stone, upholstery and metal for truly unique spaces. Potential in this instance refers to both the artisan and his team in addition to the materials in which they work. Turning a piece of raw wood into a piece of artisan cabinetry on a yacht, earthen pulled stone into a stunning dining room floor. One of a kind works for one of a kind spaces by a one of a kind artisan and studio. I also asked Simon about his musical tastes, those responses. The top 10 he’s loving right now; Gustav Mahler, Paul Simon, Claude Debussey, Melody Gardot, Johann Sebastian Bach, Genesis (early years), Milton Nacimiento, Sergei Profofiev, Pat Metheny and Juan Manuel Serrat. Love these! This is what we’re discussing today with Simon Hamui. We’ll be right back.

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a detailed conversation about why it is just so hard to build in California. It’s important to say in advance with listeners all over the world that picking California is the canary in the coal-mine. Which is to say that it is an early indicator of potential issues elsewhere because I think it is fair to say that California tries things first, as a rule.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

It’s somewhat comforting to know that the Golden State remains a place where new ideas are tested. Unless you happen to be one of the brave individuals who is testing those boundaries. My friend Joan Barton is the founder of Dirty Girl Construction and SheSpoke Studio, a place for creative women to tell their stories. So today, this a Convo By Design takeover featuring Joan and an amazing group of women general contractors telling their war stories about building in Los Angeles in particular and California in general. And if you are in New York, Miami, Atlanta, Texas, well, maybe not Texas, but everywhere else, the concepts are on their way to your town soon so give this a listen. Thank you Joan for lading this amazing talk with some extraordinary GC’s, all women and some of the best in the business including; Shannon Sheehan, Laura Howley, Catherine Springer, and Catie Casazza. This was recorded live during the winter 2024 Day of Design event at Design Hardware and you are going to hear all about it.

My friend and the moderator of the following conversation is Joan Barton of Dirty Girl Construction. Not only is Joan a multi-hyphenate creative. She a GC, musician, creative thinker, futurist, but she is also a terrific person. Wonderful and talented people are often surrounded by other wonderful and talented people, birds of a feather… as the saying goes. I’m not going to get into introductions , I’m going to let Joan do that part, but here’s what II will say about the following episode of the show. This is an important conversation because many of the reasons it is so challenging to build in California are due to the popularity of the state. This popularity and resulting overcrowding combined with a movement toward self-preservation combine with over zealous governance and natural disasters have led to bloated yet dysfunctional metropolitan management and over-regulation combined with material shortages. It’s a lot and it takes someone very special to articulate it and get to the bottom of it and you’re going to hear from her, them actually, right after this.

Thank you, Joan, Catie, Shannon, and Lauren for taking the time to share your thoughts. Thank you to my partner sponsors, ThermaSol, Pacific Sales, TimberTech, Monogram and Design Hardware. These partners are amazing companies all who have made a concerted effort to support the design community through education, incentives, events, media and exposure, not to mention a collection of extraordinary products and service to match. Check the show notes for links to each of them so you can see first hand how they can make your design business thrive and your projects exceed expectations. Thank you for listening, downloading, subscribing and sharing the show with your friends and colleagues. Thank you for your emails, show and guest suggestions. Please keep them coming, convobydesign at Outlook dot com and on Instagram @ConvoXdesign, with an “x”. Until the next episode, be well and take today first. -Convo By Design

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. But you know that and I am thankful that you are listening to the show and joining me on this little journey of ours. And, it is a journey. I was thinking about you this week. If you are listening to the show, you are a designer, architect, manufacturer, in the industry or a design enthusiast and you take time out of your day to listen to the show. I take that as a challenge to provide you with the opportunity to hear from amazing creatives, incredible brand partners and others in this industry all the while in pursuit of sublime design wherever we can find it.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

We are in a fairly weird time right now, I know you feel it the same way I do. We’re all feeling the strange vibes from the economy, politics, social media. But home is refuge. Designers and architects make that happen. In an effort to further drill down on this idea, I host small format events presented and hosted by Pacific Sales and Monogram, the official appliance partners of Convo By Design. I have been working with Pacific Sales in one way or another since the podcast started in 2013. And by Pacific Sales standards, that would make me the rookie amongst their staff. I met up with my friend Shaun Ayala at KBIS this year and he introduced me to the Pacific Sales team that made the journey to Las Vegas. Everyone I met had been with Pacific Sales between 15 and 25 years. These days, when companies open and close or decide to reimagine themselves every year or so, Pacific Sales has been there for their clients and design partners for over 60 years and backed by Best Buy. This is not a commercial, they sponsor the show, absolutely and I am really proud of that. And they do great work, like hosting the event from which the following conversation was recorded.

The Complete Kitchen. What does that mean? The kitchen has changed in dramatic ways and continues to evolve in previously unimaginable ways. The primary kitchen, dirty or working kitchen, outdoor kitchen, butler’s pantry, wine bar, wet bar, coffee bar… ensuite kitchenette, bathroom beverage center, sport court kitchenette. The idea of kitchen has changed and is limited only by imagination… And budget. We’re going to talk about all of this. Here is who joined me at the Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home showroom in Irvine, California:

Lisa McDennon

Terri Brein

Susan Thiel

Joseph DeCasparis

Jess Jones

Paul Fernandez

Thank you,Michelle, Terri, Jess, Susan, Paul and Joe. Thank you Verzine, Cesar and Shaun with Pacific Sales for hosting the amazing experience. I enjoyed our conversation and cannot wait to see what you do next. Thank you to my partner sponsors, ThermaSol, Pacific Sales, TimberTech, Monogram and Design Hardware. These partners are amazing companies all who have made a concerted effort to support the design community through education, incentives, events, media and exposure, not to mention a collection of extraordinary products and service to match. Check the show notes for links to each of them so you can see first hand how they can make your design business thrive and your projects exceed expectations. Thank you for listening, downloading, subscribing and sharing the show with your friends and colleagues. Thank you for your emails, show and guest suggestions. Please keep them coming, convobydesign at Outlook dot com and on Instagram @ConvoXdesign, with an “x”. Until the next episode, be well and take today first. -Convo By Design

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is the August 2024 installment of the Convo By Design Icon Registry featuring another absolutely incredible creative who appeared on the show. This months inductee is an amazing talent, Jamie Bush.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Jamie and I met at his LA offices quite some time ago, 2018 I think. What struck me most about Jamie then as it does now is the frame of reference he draws against. Growing up on a dairy farm in upstate New York with family members in the creative arts as well. Designers, photographers. Jamie studied architecture in New Orleans, moves out to LA and founds his design company in 2002. This experience of his has given him opposing viewpoints from which to draw his design concepts. Jamie is a deep thinker and and extraordinary. And he doesn’t shy away from giving back. That’s what makes Jamie Bush, a design icon.

Thank you, Jamie for taking the time and the willingness to share your story. Congratulations on your addition to the Convo By Design Icon Registry. Thank you for listening and subscribing to the show. Thank you to my partner sponsors Design Hardware, ThermaSol, TimberTech, Monogram and Pacific Sales. these are amazing partners all, they support the trade and I love sharing these amazing resources with you. Thanks again for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. – CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a group of exceptional designers from our Day of Design gathering in Los Angeles in May 2024.

I think designers and architects provide a service that simply cannot be measured in terms of dollars and cents. Especially in an era of fast content, social media perspective that creates a social dysmorphia. We have all become so inextricably tied to the internet and social media that it is truly difficult to differentiate reality form make believe. The following conversations feature designers who met me at Design Hardware in LA for a day of creative thinking and sharing of dynamic design ideas that are shaping the way we design in 2024.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

I have found that f you gather creative types and provide the platform for them to showcase their individual approach to the work, some universal concepts begin to form and you have the opportunity to see what really makes these people special. The reason skilled designers can do what they do is because they possess the ability to silence the noise and focus in on true needs and desires of their clients. This is how they do it.

Letecia Ellis Haywood

Alina Wolhardt

Susie Novak

Mary Patton

Lauren Martin Moro

So much fun, right? Thank you, Lauren, Amy, Letecia, Alina, Mary, Susie. It was not my intent, but this turned out to be an amazing showcase of women designers who are setting the tone for the next phase of our design renaissance! Thank you for taking the time to share your story. I enjoyed our conversation and cannot wait to see what you do next. Thank you to my partner sponsors, ThermaSol, Pacific Sales, TimberTech, Monogram and Design Hardware. These partners are amazing companies all who have made a concerted effort to support the design community through education, incentives, events, media and exposure, not to mention a collection of extraordinary products and service to match. Check the show notes for links to each of them so you can see first hand how they can make your design business thrive and your projects exceed expectations. Thank you for listening, downloading, subscribing and sharing the show with your friends and colleagues. Thank you for your emails, show and guest suggestions. Please keep them coming, convobydesign at Outlook dot com and on Instagram @ConvoXdesign, with an “x”. Until the next episode, be well and take today first. -Convo By Design

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a fresh take on design from the ATL, Atlanta, Georgia. This is a city making a huge impact on design due in large part to designers like Gabriela Eisenhart, founder of Silo Studios.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Gabriela shared her background in video production and its influence on her approach to her current work. Gabriela confirmed that her strong visual narrative in her work stems from her intuitive understanding of how a space should make people feel and her background in production. We also discussed the intricacies of the design process, emphasizing the importance of problem-solving and flexibility. Gabriela highlighted the delicate balance between respecting the architecture of a space and the lifestyle of their clients, while also creating functional and durable designs. Gabriela shared the importance of visual storytelling in her work and the need to maintain a balance between imagination and attention to detail in their presentations and designs.

Visual storytelling and the narrative surrounding the lives and interests of the clients themselves is what remains one of the greatest opportunities in the design industry. The storytelling within the work itself is what makes design so impactful on those who reside in the spaces. For years, i have been speaking with set decorators on some of the most impactful TV and film production and a constant through-line within those conversations is the importance of storytelling derived from the words on a script and a set decorators ability to transfer the essence of a character into the design of the set to adequately reflect who that character is and why they are that way. This is very much the same in interior design except instead of taking words from a page, insightful designers listen to the clients with whom they’re speaking to get to the true essences of who they are and to craft a design concept around that client and their friends, family, work, hobbies fur-babies.

Some of the best and most insightful creatives with whom I have spoken all share this ability to ask insightful questions, really listen to the responses and then read between the lines to capture the characters of their clients. Then to intuitively, instinctively craft spaces that further the narrative to the point where, and I have experienced this firsthand, a client will walk into a completed space and feel as though they have either been there before or, more commonly, feel a sense of comfort as if the space was created specifically for them. Because it was. This is connectivity at a deeper level.

These are topics with a huge impact on design today. I think in large part because we are talking about the impactful design emanating from a city like Atlanta and not just projects in the usual locales like New York, LA and Miami. Atlanta is a hotbed for groundbreaking design, because of designers like Gabriela and firms like Silo Studios. And you are going to hear from Gabriela, right after this.

Thank you Gabriela. Thank you for taking the time to share your story. I enjoyed our conversation and cannot wait to see what you do next. Thank you to my partner sponsors, ThermaSol, Pacific Sales, TimberTech, Monogram and Design Hardware. These partners are amazing companies all who have made a concerted effort to support the design community through education, incentives, events, media and exposure, not to mention a collection of extraordinary products and service to match. Check the show notes for links to each of them so you can see first hand how they can make your design business thrive and your projects exceed expectations. Thank you for listening, downloading, subscribing and sharing the show with your friends and colleagues. Thank you for your emails, show and guest suggestions. Please keep them coming, convobydesign at Outlook dot com and on Instagram @ConvoXdesign, with an “x”. Until the next episode, be well and take today first. -Convo By Design

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a conversation about architecture. Modern architecture, large and small but all spectacular with architect Scott Specht of Specht Novak Architects.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

On a recent city visit to Kansas City, I bought a book in a used bookstore. The book is called The Paris Architect. Published in 2013 by Charles Balfoure. It takes place in 1942 Paris and revolves around an architect and creative architecture used to save Jews from the Nazis. Of course there is more to it and perhaps I will give it the full Booklook treatment at some point. That is for another day, but it got me thinking about the Bauhaus, modern architecture in all its wonderful forms from France’s Art Deco, German Bauhaus and Brutalism through concrete forms. It also got me thinking about creative ways architecture can and is used to make life better for those who inhabit, live, work, love in these spaces. I had a conversation with Scott Specht of Specht Novak Architects and we discuss all of this. Specht’s work and that of his firm is exceptional examples of Modern Architecture at its absolute best. Per usual, we walk through Scott’s projects so check the show notes for a link to their project page and follow along. Everything from the sublime Weston Residence in Connecticut to the fun and funky Carpenter Hotel in Austin. From the Austin Cliffside Residence which is an absolute specimen in creative use of space to the experimental, Next American House. You are going to enjoy the ride. I guarantee it. And you are going to hear all about it, right after this.

Thank you, Scott. Amazing. I enjoyed our conversation and cannot wait to see the Next American Home in person. Thank you to my partner sponsors, ThermaSol, Pacific Sales, TimberTech, Monogram and Design Hardware. These partners are amazing companies all who have made a concerted effort to support the design community through education, incentives, events, media and exposure, not to mention a collection of extraordinary products and service to match. Check the show notes for links to each of them so you can see first hand how they can make your design business thrive and your projects exceed expectations. Thank you for listening, downloading, subscribing and sharing the show with your friends and colleagues. Thank you for your emails, show and guest suggestions. Please keep them coming, convobydesign at Outlook dot com and on Instagram @ConvoXdesign, with an “x”. Until the next episode, be well and take today first. -Convo By Design

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I’m Josh Cooperman, this is Convo By Design and this week we are heading to another hotbed of design in the Midwest, Kansas City. We’re visiting with Mallory Robins and Elizabeth Bennett, partners in Kobel +Co, a firm that curates happiness and joy through interior design and creation of contemplative spaces.

We are discussing things like curated minimalism, happy places and timeworn objects. All revolving around the idea that design is the curated creation of the place where you want to be. Sounds so easy, right? Manufacturing the place where you want to be. It’s not easy. That is why I think you are going to enjoy listening to the following conversation with Mallory and Elizabeth as much as I did facilitating it. I also enjoy sharing the stories from the design flyovers for a number of reasons. First, for years you have heard me complaining that the traditional design media doesn’t provide any love to designers not residing in New York, LA, Miami, Boston, etc. but you are starting to. And that is a good thing. I also enjoy doing this because it gives me a chance to come and visit these cities to fully understand the dynamics behind the growth of metropolitan areas across the US. For those who have never been to Kansas City, it is a fun, funky town with some really interesting design. Perhaps after hearing from Elizabeth and Mallory, you will. Trust me, it’s worth the visit. You are going to hear all about it, right after this.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

We are discussing things like curated minimalism, happy places and timeworn objects. All revolving around the idea that design is the curated creation of the place where you want to be. Sounds so easy, right? Manufacturing the place where you want to be. It’s not easy. That is why I think you are going to enjoy listening to the following conversation with Mallory and Elizabeth as much as I did facilitating it. I also enjoy sharing the stories from the design flyovers for a number of reasons. First, for years you have heard me complaining that the traditional design media doesn’t provide any love to designers not residing in New York, LA, Miami, Boston, etc. but you are starting to. And that is a good thing. I also enjoy doing this because it gives me a chance to come and visit these cities to fully understand the dynamics behind the growth of metropolitan areas across the US. For those who have never been to Kansas City, it is a fun, funky town with some really interesting design. Perhaps after hearing from Elizabeth and Mallory, you will. Trust me, it’s worth the visit. You are going to hear all about it, right after this.

Thank you, Elizabeth and Mallory, love your city, love your work. . I enjoyed our conversation and I am so appreciative to you for taking the time to share. Thank you to my partner sponsors, ThermaSol, Pacific Sales, TimberTech, Monogram and Design Hardware. These partners are amazing companies all who have made a concerted effort to support the design community through education, incentives, events, media and exposure, not to mention a collection of extraordinary products and service to match. Check the show notes for links to each of them so you can see first hand how they can make your design business thrive and your projects exceed expectations. Thank you for listening, downloading, subscribing and sharing the show with your friends and colleagues. Thank you for your emails, show and guest suggestions. Please keep them coming, convobydesign at Outlook dot com and on Instagram @ConvXdesign, with an “x”. Until the next episode, be well and take today first. -Convo By Design

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is the July 2024 installment of the Convo By Design Icon Registry featuring another absolutely incredible creative who graced the show with her presence. This designer is a multi-faceted creative who seamlessly weaves music, art and drama into and through her work with grace and style. This months inductee is the incomparable, Brigette Romanek.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

I met Brigette in a very special place on a very special day. We met at the Soho Home showroom in West Hollywood the afternoon before the Convo By Design 10th anniversary celebration. I was already super excited, nervous about the event and when I sat with Brigette, all of that went away for an hour. We had this super chill, highly elevated conversation about inspiration, influence and creativity. I imagine that is how her clients feel when they first sit down with her. A tranquil ease and that allowed me to do some really great work. And I am going to play that conversation for you as we celebrate together the induction of Brigette Romanek into the Convo By Design Icon Registry for July, 2024.

Thank you, Brigette for making this world a more beautiful and dramatic place than you found it. Congratulations on your addition to the Convo By Design Icon Registry. Thank you for listening and subscribing to the show. Thank you to my partner sponsors Design Hardware, ThermaSol, TimberTech and Pacific Sales. these are amazing partners all, they support the trade and I love sharing these amazing resources with you. Thanks again for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. – CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with an episode featuring a spectacular creative, Adam Hunter and I am going to call the following episode an instant classic. I don’t do that often, and you are going to hear why.

Adam and I first met years ago at an industry function in LA. I have followed his career and it really is incredible to see what he has done with his firm. He has built an amazing firm upon spectacular design and an affinity for drama going back to his previous career in theater. We talk about this and a number of other things that correspond to the work he has done which, per usual for the show, we explore and evaluate online and if you wish to follow along as we do, which I highly encourage because it is both fun and fascinating to see the work as we describes. It’s an insiders look at design. www.adamhunter.com

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

When evaluating the work of a creative like Adam Hunter, it’s enlightening to understand that Adam built a successful career in theater prior to coming into design. That experience can be seen in the narrative that the design tells. It’s a form of storytelling. Both from an understanding of whom he is designing the space and the lives those who inhabit the space wish to live. I have had a number of wonderful conversations over the years with professional set decorators and its truly amazing to hear how they process a written script and then dress a set to provide details of the character that neither the actors nor the script itself cold explain. It provides nuance and context. A performer like Adam both understands this and has been trained to both ideate and execute on the concept which, when done right, tells the story of the characters and defines who the are by how they live.

Thank you, Adam. I loved our conversation and I am so appreciative to you for taking the time to share. Thank you to my partner sponsors, ThermaSol, Pacific Sales, TimberTech, Monogram and Design Hardware. These partners are amazing companies all who have made a concerted effort to support the design community through education, incentives, events, media and exposure, not to mention a collection of extraordinary products and service to match. Check the show notes for links to each of them so you can see first hand how they can make your design business thrive and your projects exceed expectations. Thank you for listening, downloading, subscribing and sharing the show with your friends and colleagues. Thank you for your emails, show and guest suggestions. Please keep them coming, convobydesign at Outlook dot com and on Instagram @ConvoXdesign, with an “x”. Until the next episode, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a follow up conversation. Last November, I sat with Joshua Dawson, film director, and Rachel Joy Victor, designer, strategist and world-builder. This is a followup to a detailed conversation about artificial intelligence and the rapidly developing uses. And it’s not that scary.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Scary is relative right? Some might be afraid of the machines taking over the world while other might fear a deep fake of themselves more. Regardless, fear isn’t going to slow this tidal wave of machine learning. What can affect it is education, standards and practical application of this new technology to accomplish much needing attention with a pulled focus on the design industry. Issues like; data management, human adaptation to new tech, credit and attribution issues in media, protection of intellectual property, workforce, economy, business growth an activism. This is a complex topic and complex issues require complex solutions. That is why we are continuing to have these conversations. like this one, recorded in April 2024.

Thank you Joshua and Rachel. This was our second conversation and each time we talk, these issues seem a bit more manageable. Funny how that works. Thank you to my partner sponsors, ThermaSol, Pacific Sales, TimberTech, Monogram and Design Hardware. These partners are amazing companies all who have made a concerted effort to support the design community through education, incentives, events, media and exposure, not to mention a collection of extraordinary products and service to match. Check the show notes for links to each of them so you can see first hand how they can make your design business thrive and your projects exceed expectations. Thank you for listening, downloading, subscribing and sharing the show with your friends and colleagues. Thank you for your emails, show and guest suggestions. Please keep them coming, convobydesign at Outlook dot com and on Instagram @ConvXdesign, with an “x”. Until the next episode, be well and take today first. -CXD

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Hey, this is another special episode of Convo By Design, a Friday show which can only mean one thing. It’s another edition of Drinking About Design.

and I share thoughts about our love for Los Angeles architecture over a few pops. We talk about nostalgia for the unique architectural landmarks of Los Angeles, such as Norms and the La Coliseum.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Architecture and Design in the Age of Social Media

Discussing Mid-Century Modernism and Googie Architecture

Los Angeles Traffic, Nostalgia, and Architecture

Speaking of Googies and Resurgence of Experimentation

Exploring Frank Lloyd Wright’s Architecture and Human Ego

Architecture, Nostalgia, and Revitalization Discussion

You listen to the show so you know this about me, I love LA. But it’s not the LA of my youth and I’m not crazy about what has become of my City of Angels. That said, I still have faith. Faith in the creatives to reimagine her to reclaim her former glory. An I will be there to share the stories of that reinvention. That’s my hope. And it starts now…

PE

Thank you Patrick. Loved our chat. Thank you for drinking and talking about architecture and design. We need to do this again soon. Thank you to my partner sponsors; ThermaSol, Design Hardware, Pacific Sales, Monogram and TimberTech. They support this show because they have a passion for the design industry. They each have remarkable companies built to serve and my hope is that you will give them a chance to earn your business. Check the show notes for links. And, I have personally vetted each of them so if you have questions, ask me, email me convobydesign at Outlook dot com or @ Convo X Design with an “X”. Thank again for taking the time to listen and subscribe. Cheers. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a conversation about integrated and spectacular kitchen design. This conversation was recorded live from the Monogram kitchen inside the Pacific Sales showroom in Torrance, California. An absolutely gorgeous day inside and out.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

On a beautiful Spring day in May, I was in Southern California to meet an extraordinary group of design creatives to talk about the revolutionary changes taking place in American kitchens from coast to coast, but specifically in California, where the dreamers have always come to explore, dream, and try new things. It’s really extraordinary to think about the circular creative vision that begins with designers trying new things which in turn motivates manufacturers to innovate and provide those designers with was to push boundaries. We met at the Pacific Sales showroom in Torrance, a beautiful showroom with established vignettes where designers, architects and their clients can put their hands on the latest technology and appliance advancements.

Pacific Sales and Monogram are partner sponsors of Convo By Design. I am absolutely thrilled with this partnership and I’ll tell you why. I speak with designers and architects from coast to coast and beyond and one of the issues that keeps creatives up at night is finding and maintaining strong relationships with industry partners. And it’s getting more challenging to find good partners. Pacific Sales has been supporting the design trade for decades. Their trade partner program is robust with amazing incentives and their staff is non-commissioned. That means you direct the process. Combine that with Monogram, another partner sponsor and you have quite the team. Monogram is built on performance and innovation. Exceptional products allowing designers to create exceptional spaces inside and out. All with the one goal of making your clients happy. Because that is what designers desire.

• Functional Multi-Kitchen Projects
• Working Kitchens
• Kosher Kitchens
• Outdoor Kitchens
• Coffee Bars
• Wine Bars
• Weed Rooms
• Medical and Makeup Refrigeration in Baths
• Warming Drawers – The Unseen Beauty
• Wet Bars
• Beverage Centers
• Outdoor Cooling/ Warming Centers
• Craft Ice for Any Space

So, what are some of the most talented creatives doing with their kitchens? This is why we gathered, and you get to hear it all. This conversation features;

Anne Michaelsen Yahn | Anne Michaelsen Design @AnneMichaelsenDesign

Pam Barthold | Pazzam Designs @PazzamDesigns

Joseph Spierer | Joseph Spierer Architects @Joseph.Spierer.Architects

Cory Kingston | Cory Kingston Designs @CoryKingstonDesigns

And you are going to hear all about it, right after this.

Thank you Cory, Anne, Pam and Joe. Amazing. Thank you to my partner sponsors, ThermaSol, Pacific Sales, TimberTech, Monogram and Design Hardware. These partners are amazing companies all who have made a concerted effort to support the design community through education, incentives, events, media and exposure, not to mention a collection of extraordinary products and service to match. Check the show notes for links to each of them so you can see first hand how they can make your design business thrive and your projects exceed expectations. Thank you for listening, downloading, subscribing and sharing the show with your friends and colleagues. Thank you for your emails, show and guest suggestions. Please keep them coming, convobydesign at Outlook dot com and on Instagram @ConvXdesign, with an “x”. Until the next episode, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a conversation about fame, design, architecture and that which is truly important.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

I sought out Erin after learning about her father, Craig Ellwood, architect behind the Zimmerman House. Said house was recently demolished at the hands of actor, Chris Pratt and his wife, Katherine Schwarzenegger. We’ve talked about this already in a previous episode and the following conversation isn’t about saving iconic design. We touch on the subject but this is really about Erin’s journey, of which her father’s architecture is a large part. As is the work of her mother, Gloria Henry. An actress with an incredible career spanning from 1947 through appearances on Parks and Recreation as recently as 2012. Which featured, yep… Chris Pratt, so it all comes full circle. Erin’s story is an amazing journey of self discovery and expression. Lessons learned and applied. And you are going to hear all about it, right after this.

Thank you, Erin. Thank you for the time and sharing your extraordinary journey. If you are a bit surprised that Erin is not mad about the Zimmerman House destruction, I was too. That is until I heard her rationale, then I understood. Thank you to my amazing partner sponsors, ThermaSol, Design Hardware, TimberTech, pacific Sales and Monogram. Your support for the design industry is strong and lasting. For that I thank you. And thank you for taking the time out of your busy day. Thank you for listening, downloading and sharing the show. And for your emails to convo by design at outlook dot com and following along on IG @convoXdesign, with an “X”.

I’m looking forward to next week and another story about sublime design. Until then, be well, and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is another installment of the CXD Icon Registry. A gentleman and creative legend, Dakota Jackson is the June 2024 Icon Register inductee. Jackson was my guest on episode 241. That episode aired back in October of 2019. While much of the actual recording of conversations tends to blur, this session remains crystal clear in my mind. Dakota and I met in person at a gallery on La Cienega Blvd in West Hollywood.

What I remember most vividly is the manner in which the conversation took place. I have long held a fascination with artistically designed furniture and I recall this sense of wonder as Jackson shared his upbringing in a family of magicians. How this background in magic and performance shaped his ideas about furniture and how that same sense of showmanship could be applied. We spoke about the desk commissioned by Yoko for John Lennon. This idea that a piece of furniture could be commissioned upon which love letters and music were written, but that it also possessed a secret known only to the designer and recipient. That type of connection far exceeds the typical design relationship. Therein lies another remarkable lesson about how design talent can elicit the same type of trust that a magician can. Suspending logic in order to truly believe the performance taking place in front of you. That same type of magic is what great designers do. Their clients suspend logic in order to believe the story the design is telling. That type of trust does not come easily.

And not every piece must contain secret compartments, the work is beautiful, elegant and of superior workmanship. This is also evident in the pianos he has crafted for Steinway & Sons. Instruments, to me are similar to the tools used by magicians. The ability to pull sound from an instrument is a gift, as is creating art through furniture. Enjoy this re-airing of my conversation with designer and creator of furniture, Dakota Jackson.

Thank you, Dakota for making this world a more magical place than you found it. Congratulations on your addition to the Convo By Design Icon Registry. Thank you for listening and subscribing to the show. Thank you to my partner sponsors Design Hardware, ThermaSol, TimberTech and Pacific Sales. these are amazing partners all, they support the trade and I love sharing these amazing resources with you. Thanks again for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. – CXD

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Crafting Exquisite Outdoor Spaces Designed to Withstand the Harshest and Taxing Environments and Looking Great As They Do and Developing them for the Greatest Possible Value. Social, Restorative Retreats and Blending them Seamlessly with Indoor Design.

The days of treating indoors and outdoors separately are over because clients have experienced a new level of performance through travel and hospitality. These higher demands are creating demand for material innovation, groundbreaking creative thought and thinking differently about design and architecture. From outdoor kitchens, ADU’s, transitional spaces that bridge one space to the next. How have these new demands changed the way creatives think about the work, reworked site plans, innovative expansion of ideas. This discussion will cover these ideas and more as they are explored in real time. Thank you Ganahl Lumber for your generous donation of space for this group to meet!

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Design #Architecture #OutdoorDesign #Decking #TimberTech

Sam Toole, Chief marketing Officer | The Azek Company: This is TimberTech, a composite product that takes the best characteristics from natural wood and uses technological advancements in manufacturing to incorporate recycled plastics to form and inner core that not only provides a superior performance compared to wood but also provides a use for these are recycled plastics and keeps them out of oceans and landfills.

Gemma Hartigan, Pro Channel Marketing Specialist | TimberTech: Using the research, manufacturing and best practices to assist professionals in the trade specify TimberTech products to create amazing spaces for their clients. Amazing spaces that utilize TimberTech in was that increase performance space while being sustainably responsible. Doing well and doing good while crafting stunning and performative spaces is the new meaning of luxury.

Pam Barthold | Pazzam Designs: Inside out can best describe Pam’s philosophical approach to interior and exterior spaces. Gone are the days when interior designers could afford to ignore the outside spaces as they have now become inextricable tied to the overall residential design approach. @PazzamDesigns

Juan Ospina | Hoffman Ospina Landscape Architects: How international exposure at a young age informs his creative approach to outdoor spaces. Using that exposure to art, culture and history to create a meaningful outdoor experience. Using those memories to craft and create complex site evaluation and drawing out best use of spaces. @HoffmanOspina

Stephen F Jones | SF Jones Architects: Bringing Outside In and specifying the appropriate materials to accommodate changes in environmental behavior. Social spaces are now one of the most highly sought out spaces and the design community is addressing this demand in new and unique ways through application of specialized spaces using modern materials designed to perform and protect against environmental destructive forces. @SFJonesArchitects

John Fledman | Ecocentrix Landscape Architecture: Exceptionalism in Exterior Landscape Projects. The roles have changed in much the same way tastes for indoor outdoor living have. Creatives are providing clients with exceptional spaces inside and out to speak to not only client desires but by pushing the boundaries of deign and landscape architecture. @Ecocentrix.Landscape

Anna Hoffman | Hoffman Ospina Landscape Architects: Taming the Wild Outdoors. Anna shares her thoughts regarding taming the outdoor spaces while still allowing for living on the edge in a well design and individually crafted space. That ‘touch of wild’ puts an extra level of demand on products and materials used. It has become more important than ever to focus on materiality suited for more extreme conditions. @HoffmanOspina

Anthony Laney | Laney LA: Passion and emotion are key principles applied to the firms work. It is a part of the company culture, owned and applied to all the firm’s projects. That passion and emotion provide clients with unique outdoor spaces that rival the indoor design regardless of size. Because many of the firm’s projects are on the coast, this requires matching that emotion with materials that can stand up to and thrive in adverse conditions. @LaneyLAInc

Lauire Haefele | Haefele Design: An outdoor space requires thoughtful consideration regarding both form and function. The ideas of how outdoor spaces are being used also requires a more thoughtful approach considering that the level of use and application has changed due to a significantly higher level of functionality and purpose. This purpose is expanding the homes from living spaces indoors to that of the outdoors in much the same way. All while requiring a lasting approach to materiality. Laurie share some of her ideas and projects that utilize this approach masterfully.

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. The episode today features, Susanne Csonger of SLC Interiors. Susanne has spent decades honing her craft and taking the lessons learned and reinvesting that knowledge back into her design company. Usually, only discussions talk about the capital reinvested into the company. Susanne has adopted a unique approach that takes from personal experiences and lessons learned along the way to personalize her approach both personally and professionally. So, you might ask, what’s so unique about that?

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

I’ll tell you. First, great question, one that I pondered myself. The answer is simple, but not easy. Susanne has taken lessons from personal experience to self-reflect, understand what is important to her and apply that philosophy to the work product and design ethos. From this conversation, I took away an understanding that Suzanne doesn’t just read the trades, go to shows and look online to capture tends and adapt them to her firm’s stylistic approach to design. Many successful designers do just that. And that works for them. But Suzanne is more of an artisan in her approach. One whose focus is on the shared experience of well-designed spaces. We discuss a number of other issues as well affecting design firms today like AI, social media, media attribution and regional differentiation. By the way, that last one is going to be a very big issue in the coming years as designers who expended from their traditional areas of work.

Thank you Susanne for a wonderful chat. Thank you to my partner sponsors ThermaSol, TimberTech, Pacific Sale and Monogram for you constant and consistent support of both Convo By Design and the industry. Thank you for taking the time out of your busy day to listen to the show. This thing of ours is amazing. 11 years strong and I could not do this without you. Please keep those emails coming, Convo By Design at Outlook.com. Reach out on Instagram as well. Tell me if there is a designer you would like to learn more about and we’ll see if we can make that happen. Thank you for listening, downloading and subscribing. Until the next episode, be well, and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a return to one of my favorite design house destinations, the Pasadena Showcase House for the Arts. Pasadena Showcase is an institution going on 60 years with a reputation for exquisite design, playful and fun ideas in fun and unexpected spaces and some of the best design talent around. Competing and collaborating to see who can be the showstopper but always for the betterment of the whole project.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

This was so much fun. I haven’t had the opportunity to reconnect with the organization since 2020. I remember heading out to Pasadena and meeting with the designers outside by the pool instead of in their spaces. What a weird time. But this year, we gathered at Design Hardware in Los Angeles for a round table discussion about the project house this year. I was joined by:

Margaret Lalikian | Margaret Lalikian Design and Decor

Rachel Scheff | Rachel Scheff Design Studio

Rebecca Hansen | Rebecca J Hansen

Ashleigh Miranda | AYM Interiors

Shari Tipich |Shari Tipich Decorative Design & Artistry

Steven Cordrey | Cordrey Collection

If you’ve been listening for a while, you know how I feel about design houses and showcases. They are the equivalent to the auto show for gear heads. You get the chance to see what can be done with the right creative force and opportunity to showcase it without the usual boundaries of ownership. I am a fan of Pasadena because I am very familiar with them, I appreciate how they operate and I feel like the designers do as well. Again, this is a round table conversation and you are jumping right into the deep end of design house creations from the 2024 Pasadena Showcase House for the Arts. We’ll get to that, right after this.

What an amazing group! Loved this, hopefully you did as well. Thank you to all of the amazing creatives who shared of themselves and their work. Check the show notes to see their work and this remarkable house. Thank you to everyone at the Pasadena Showcase House for the Arts for being so wonderful to work with! Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors, ThermaSol, Design Hardware, TimberTech, Pacific Sales and Monogram for your partnership and support for the design trade. Thank you for taking time out of your busy day to listen, download and share this show. It means the world to me. Thank you for your email guest submissions and show ideas. Thank you for following and interacting on Instagram. This support and engagement inspires me to work even harder to find amazing voices and stories behind design. Until next week, be well, and take today first. – CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. Today, you are going to hear from Daniel Marcus – CEO and Jonathan Michaud – Head of Design of Soie de Lune. Like everything in life, this podcast has changed over the years, I have changed over the years, the business of design and those who contribute have changed which is why I love to begin with the origin stories of the guests who join me for these conversations. You’ll hear why.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

What is really fun about the following chat is that the loom really hasn’t changed all that much. The yarns have. But the loom has not. Textiles are magical. The materiality of a fine silk, the texture, colors and ability to create is one of the concepts that allows designers to create exceptional spaces that differentiate based on color, shape and pattern, for sure but also the experiential nature of the space that allows clients to add that additional senses of touch and smell. This conversation covers all of the above and more. One of the concepts explored is how this company is addressing the challenges of achieving balance between modern design requirements and and the artisanal nature of weaving. Love this and I think you will to. We’ll get to it, right after this.

Thank you Daniel and Jonathan for taking the time to join me for this. Thank you to my partner sponsors ThermaSol, Design Hardware, Pacific Sales, Monogram and TimberTech. Thank you for your considerable support of the design industry and those who comprise it.

Thank you for taking the time out of your busy day to listen to the show. This thing of ours is amazing. 11 years strong and I could not do this without you. Please keep those emails coming, Convo By Design at Outlook.com. Reach out on Instagram as well. Tell me if there is a designer you would like to learn more about and we’ll see if we can make that happen. Thank you for listening, downloading and subscribing. Until the next episode, be well, and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with another installment of the Design Icon Registry. The Icon Registry inductee for May 2024 is the incomparable, Susan Ferrier. Here is how Susan describes her work, “Our interiors are meant to be experienced, to take you beyond the expected and into the extraordinary. We design lush, romantic spaces that are at once bold and refined, imbued with drama and meaning.” I’m going to suggest you might want more of this. Well, here it comes.

If you have heard these segments before, you know, I don’t do contests and I most certainly don’t do lists. Lists are gimmicks designed to capture clicks. They are, click bait pure and simple. You cannot tell me that a list of 50, 75 or 100 designers and architects are the absolute best at what they do without providing context. Lists are created in the hopes that those who are being listed will promote the accolades and that attention will be driven back to the author of the list. And contests where creatives have to reach out to their base to get them to vote for them is just wrong in my opinion. Because, if someone is amazing at what they do… Celebrate that, no strings attached. And that is what we are going to do here.

Now, the criteria… Each inductee has been a guest on Convo By Design. They have a body of work that is exceptional in their various disciplines and there is no justification required for their world class status. They give back to the industry, they are innovators, givers and make our industry better than they found it. This project is called the Convo By Design Icon Registry, because that is what this is, tantamount to a hall of fame, but more. What is an ICON? Described as an icon; A person or thing regarded as a representative symbol or as worthy of veneration. A registry is a well curated list. You can consider this a venerable who’s who in our industry with gifts to offer and a willingness to share. Pablo Picasso is credited with saying, “the meaning of life is to find your gift and the purpose of life is to give it away”. Now, I am not suggesting that those enshrined in the Icon Registry have all just been giving away their gifts. These are professionals of the highest order and part of being a professional is knowing your worth and understanding your value. Each of these individuals have appeared on Convo By Design, shared what they know for the betterment of others, and I am deeply appreciative for that. This is the most authentic way that I can express my gratitude for that. As deeply appreciative as I am for their sharing, I am equally grateful for your taking the time to share a few moments, an hour out of your busy schedule each week to listen to the show. Again, the most authentic way that I can express that gratitude is to give you an opportunity to hear them again. Every month, the last Thursday of the month, unless it’s a holiday week, in which case I will publish a week sooner, I will share a new inductee with you.

As stated, the May, 2024 inductee is Susan Ferrier. She appeared on Convo By Design during the pandemic and I instantly understood her philosophy. Pre-pandemic, there was a shiny sheen over design. There was a focus strictly on how the look. Then, when the world changed, the focus became centered on how it works and yes, it still had to have the look, and the performance but also the feels, all of them. Susan Ferrier, was already doing this. Designing lush, lavish, romantic spaces for not just what might look good in a magazine but would also elicit an emotional response. Susan’s portfolio is a compendium of collected works that blend elegant concepts with earthy and opulent materials alike. Her work is special, not just because I or others think so, yes, important that her client’s think so. But in my conversation with Susan, you are going to hear that she thinks so. This isn’t a job to her, it’s a calling. A series of passions curate and collected, then elegantly molded and pressed together to create an experience as much as a designed space. That is what’s so truly special about Susan Ferrier and why she is in the Convo By Design Icon Registry.

Thank you, Susan for making this world a more beautiful place than you found it. Congratulations on your addition to the Convo By Design Icon Registry. Thank you for listening and subscribing to the show. Thank you to my partner sponsors Design Hardware, ThermaSol, TimberTech and Pacific Sales. these are amazing partners all, they support the trade and I love sharing these amazing resources with you. Thanks again for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. – CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. Today on the show, you are going to hear my conversation with interior designer, Staci Munic of Staci Munic Interiors. Hers is a firm based in Chicago and Palm Springs, an interesting combination for base cities. We talk about that in addition to her experience in the service industry leading all the way up to that of a restauranteur. If you own a restaurant, you understand how the kitchen works under extreme conditions. If you know that, designing a residential kitchen is a breeze, or so you might think.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

A restaurant kitchen is nothing like its residential counterpart. But a residential kitchen, designed properly can have all of the functionality of a restaurant kitchen. Staci’s experience as a restauranteur gives her an edge and you can see it in her work.

Because SMI works a great deal in Palm Springs, you might think that Staci loves Modern and Mid-Century Modern architecture, and you would be right. And the lessons learned from Modern architectures climb to prominence, fall from taste and back tells a pretty remarkable story that can help predict future ideas. We get into all of this and so much more. You are going to hear about all of it, right after this…

Thank you Staci for taking the time to talk. I really love the ideas shared and love your work.

Thank you to Convo By Design partner sponsors, ThermaSol, TimberTech, Pacific Sales, Monogram and Design Hardware. And thank you for taking the time to listen, subscribe, download and share Convo By Design. Thank you to everyone who has made a show or guest suggestion, keep em coming, I love them as well as show ideas. I use many of them because I created this show for the design community in 2013 and who better to know what is working on the ground level but those who do it day in and day out. Please reach out via email, Convo By Design at outlook dot com and on Instagram @ConvoXDesign with and “X”. Thank you again to those subscribing to the show. By doing so, you receive every new episode the moment its published. You also receive The Design Messengers episodes on select Mondays that touch on new developments taking place in the industry, Drinking About Design on the occasional Friday where I get together with some amazing creatives over drinks, and The Convo By Design Icon Registry episodes on the last Thursday of each month where we enshrine exceptional creatives in our hall of fame. Until we meet again, be well, and take today first.

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design featuring a conversation with Erin Minckley of Relativity Textiles. An artist who started a textiles company from passion and love came a business and that is only the beginning.

From brand building to creating and sharing is how Erin crafted an idea to build a business. A business based on passion but also a business crafted to succeed in a very crowded, very competitive space. How? While we do get into the weeds a little bit about building a business, something I generally stay away from because Convo By Design is not a business of design show. There are more than enough of those and I never wanted to do that. It’s about the stories behind the work that I find so fascinating and Erin’s story is an interesting one. That story can’t be told without first exploring why she wanted to get into such a competitive space and how she does it differently. And she’s going to tell you all about it.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Thank you to Convo By Design partner sponsors, ThermaSol, TimberTech, Pacific Sales, Monogram and Design Hardware. And thank you for taking the time to listen, subscribe, download and share Convo By Design. Thank you to everyone who has made a show or guest suggestion, keep em coming, I love them as well as show ideas. I use many of them because I created this show for the design community in 2013 and who better to know what is working on the ground level but those who do it day in and day out. Please reach out via email, Convo By Design at outlook dot com and on Instagram @ConvoXDesign with and “X”. Thank you again to those subscribing to the show. By doing so, you receive every new episode the moment its published. You also receive The Design Messengers episodes on select Mondays that touch on new developments taking place in the industry, Drinking About Design on the occasional Friday where I get together with some amazing creatives over drinks, and The Convo By Design Icon Registry episodes on the last Thursday of each month where we enshrine exceptional creatives in our hall of fame. Until we meet again, be well, and take today first.

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with an illuminating conversation about creativity, design and making things.

It’s that last part that I find so intriguing both Ethan Streicher of Streicher Goods. Anyone who has made something. I mean really made something as in a thing from a block of wood or multiple parts that were not designed to be put together knows that there is magic in crafting something from nothing. It’s what I imagine it feels like fro a designer or architect to take a space and turn it entirely into something else. Ethan Streicher is a maker of objects, an art director ceramicist and artist.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Ethan and I shared some time and swapped ideas about makers and making. I feel as thought the design industry in all disciplines woke up in the summer of 2020. The greatest take away from that time is in two parts; 1. Once something happens, it can happen again. and 2. When an occurrence takes place that affects the entire planet and every person on it at the same time, there will be fallout, changes, disruption upon disruption. That has what happened. Many have returned to what they perceive as normality. But we are still in the midst of vast changes in the way way think and the manner in which we live. If you want to see what that looks like, turn to creators, makers, artists and writers. Put down the magazines and news, they can only tell you what was and perhaps what is. But not what will be. Look to the makers for that.

Be skeptical. After all that is what guards against the dreaded trendy next big thing.

Be curious. Without curiosity, there is no possibility of discovering that which might change your life in unimaginable ways.

Be free with honest and probing questions. Our society has changed the way it looks at questions. A question will open the door to understanding. If someone is offended by the question, it might be because they don’t know the answer.

Makers, thinkers, writers, artists, designers will show you the state of our world in ways others can’t, or won’t. Ethan and I explore what it means to be a creator in times like these. If you are a designer, decorator or set decorator, Ethan is a new source. You’re welcome.

There you go. Thank you Ethan for taking the time to talk and sharing your work. Thank you to my partner sponsors for your continued support of the show and the design community. It’s important to the health of our industry. If you are a designer interested in learning more about my partner sponsors like Pacific Sales, ThermaSol, TimberTech, Monogram and Design Hardware, as well as any guests or concepts you heard on the show, please check the show notes for more information.

Please keep those emails coming. convobydesign@outlook.com and reach out on Instagram @ConvoXDesign, with and “x”. Thank you again for listening. Until next week, be well and take today first. – CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a ton to take in. When I moved to Tulsa in 2021, I thought that it would be a one year situation and then we would return to LA or figure out what was going to be the next destination. But something changed. Tulsa, Oklahoma is what the locals call, “Green Country.” And it is. Green. This part of the country is in what can only be described as the lower mid-west. It’s not the south. And one of the things that I noticed very soon after moving here was that life here is far less complicated than living in California.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

I am a native Angeleno. I have moved away, but always came back. I love California. But some things have changed over the past 20 years. They have changed drastically over the past 2 years. I made a trip to LA to visit my friends at Design Hardware who were hosting a day of media and interviews. During that trip, I had the opportunity gather with a number of designers and contractors to discuss changes in the design and architecture landscape.

In addition to Convo By Design, I produce Doctoring Up Design, the official podcast of Design Hardware. Design Hardware is a sponsor partner of Convo By Design and the partnership is a strong one, going on over 4 years. Part of this partnership is hosting and producing the podcast, as well as hosting and recording unique design and architecture events. One such event took place in February. There were two groups, one group of designers, in partnership with ASID-LA and another group of all female contractors. This is a very interesting project spearheaded by Joan Barton, founder of Dirty Girl Construction as well as SheSpoke, a platform dedicated to promoting the success of women in the industry.

So today on the show, we will hear from a group of ASID-Los Angeles Chapter design professionals discussing new design ideas taking shape in Spring of 2024 . We will hear from an all female group if contractors answering the question, “why is it so difficult to build in California.” One hint, Title 24.

That was incredible. An amazing group of ASID-LA designers that included designers;

The following conversation features;

Cheryl Vines | Mesa Design Group

Jaqueline Steinberg | Eve Mode Design @JackieSteinberg

Lenora Mahle | Mahle Design @LeonoraMahle

Mark Cutler | Cutler Schulze @CutlerSchulze

Juliette Schatan-van der Meijden | Curated by Juliette @CuratedbyJuliette

Nicole Schulze | Cutler Schulze @CutlerSchulze

Philip Nielsen | Nielsen Dye @NielsenDye

For information on each of these designers and their firms as well as the great work being done by ASID-LA and the Doctoring Up Design podcast, check the show notes for links. Next, we are going to har from Joan Barton, Lauren Howley, Shannon Sheehan and Catie Casazza. SheSpoke and why is it so hard to build in California.

Not one, but two amazing groups today. These were only segments from each of the conversations. For the full episodes, go to the show notes and click on the links. Thank you to everyone who participated in this incredible day of networking and professional growth. Sometimes it feels like everything is broken and the fixes don’t come easy. But when you have amazing talent like this, the problems seem to almost solve themselves. We will be doing another event in LA shortly and i will report back with the findings. If you are a designer, architect, landscape architect who wants to participate OR, if you are a publicist with a client that you think might be a good fit, please drop me an email, convobydesign@outlook.com. You can also reach out on Instagram @ConvoXDesign with an “x”.

Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors; ThermaSol, Pacific Sales, Monogram, TimberTech and Design Hardware for your continued support of both the show and the design and architecture community. It’s important.

So, thank you again for listening and supporting the podcast. Until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a conversation with Daniel Ian Smith of Village West Design. Here is a quote from Daniel, “I believe everyone deserves to be surrounded by beauty, it is integral to what makes us human.”

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

That which is integral to making us human. Think about that for a moment. That which makes us human. The part that enriches us, makes life worth living. Meaning, purpose, form and function. I started this podcast because I love design. I love art, architecture, music and the that which enhances the experience of living. I will never forget the pandemic. I still think about it, a great deal. It was the medical community that repaired our minds and bodies, but it was the design community that repaired our souls. Mine anyway. I don’t just love design, I have worked with designers. For my wife’s birthday in 2018 or 19, I hired Nancy Russert, whom you have heard on this show. I wanted her to create a meditation space in the front yard of our Manhattan Beach home. She crushed it. As much as my wife enjoyed that space, it saved me during the pandemic. That space became a muti-hyphenate space, outdoors when the indoors became too confining. Daniel is a master architect with a distinct set of skills. Skills that better the lives of those he serves. And we talk about that and a number of other issues relating to the humanity of great design.

Daniel and I cover topics rarely discussed like generational nuance as it relates to the way clients feel about and approach design. We’re exploring new ground here and this was really fun. I hope you enjoy it.

Thank you, Daniel. Loved our time together. Architecture and Italian. Love that. Thank you to my partner sponsors, ThermaSol, Pacific Sales, Monogram and Design Hardware, for not just supporting Convo By Design but for supporting the design and architecture community. Thank you, yes you…for taking the time to listen, download, subscribe and engage with Convo By Design. If you have a design friend that doesn’t know about the show, send them a link to this episode. They might enjoy it as well. If you want to connect, please do, convobydesign@outlook.com and on Instagram, @convoxdesign with and “x”.

I will have something interesting for you next week, so make sure you are subscribing to the podcast which you can find everywhere you find your podcasts. Thank again. Until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I received something in the mail recently that brought a huge smile to my face, and I think it will do the same for you.

You might have surmised that this means another BOOKLOOK and you would be correct. There are very few things that I enjoy more than receiving a surprise package. It’s the simple things in life, am I right? I received a parcel that contained the latest monograph from KAA Architecture, of whom, I am an enormous fan. I love their work, yes but I also consider Grant Kirkpatrick and Duan Tran likeminded, ideological compatriots. Both Grant and Duan have been on the show. I have spent a great deal of time with both and I will share something with you about talent, creativity and the willingness to extend ones comfort zone. KAA Design Group is a firm based on creative adventure. Based on solid fundamental principles of design and a joyful willingness to express new ideas. And you can hear their joy when they speak about what they do.

You now understand why I was giddy with excitement to flip through this weighty tome. Weighty it is and also jammed with both creative expression and fundamental expertise in the field of architectural design.

The book is entitled Residing with Nature. It contains an interview with Grant and Duan that is insightful and telling what is to come in the following pages.

They open with one of my absolute favorite KAA Design projects. TREE HOUSE based in La Jolla, CA. This home is an extraordinary example of masterful site planning. Dimension and topography are exquisite. The vegetation surrounds and infrastructure compliments the entire footprint of the site. The structure itself, concrete, wood and glass with a stunning Oak planted at the rear of the home also welcomes you upon arrival due to the size, scope and scale of the 300 year old specimen. Side note. As a woodworker, I love turning oak. I love working with oak because it’s grain is spectacular, with distinct rings and you can see the uniqueness from the inside, but also from the exterior as each oak tree is distinctly different in the growth pattern, gnarly bark and leaf clusters. This tree obscures some parts of the structure yet opens willingly to others for a high level of interest. this is what exceptional architects see and understand before a single form is built. This residence is exceptional in every way. This book gives the reader a look inside the thought process that led to its creation in image and carefully selected text. I imagine the same care went into every line drawn.

Another exceptional example of the true essence of the work lies in the Tower Grove residence. An exceptional example of site management combined with extreme engineering that makes this an absolute masterpiece in architectural design.

Both examples noted and throughout this entire book, you will find example after example of the symbiotic relationship explored, detailed and executed in the work of KAA Design. The book is available now, published by Rizzoli. Check the show notes for links to KAA, Rizzoli and to buy this book. I think if you are a fan of architecture, extraordinary design vision and sustainable building, you will love this as much as I do. Grant, Duan, well done. Congratulations.

Next up, some house cleaning and scatter shooting. Starting with updates, listen to the podcast for everything you need to know.

SOURCE: Internet week of April23

https://www.retaildive.com/news/high-end-appliance-retailer-pirch-chapter-7-liquidation-lawsuits/713981/

https://www.dwell.com/article/chris-pratt-katherine-schwarzenegger-demolished-craig-ellwood-zimmerman-house-and-the-internet-is-furious-176c7c46-093eaa4e

https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/westedge-design-fair-brought-la-design-world-santa-monica

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with another installment of the Design Icon Registry. An icon for sure. A 2 time guest on Convo By Design and a very cool individual and an extraordinary decorator. This is Alex Papachristidis.

If you have heard these segments before, you know, I don’t do contests and I most certainly don’t do lists. Lists are gimmicks designed to capture clicks. They are, click bait pure and simple. You cannot tell me that a list of 50, 75 or 100 designers and architects are the absolute best at what they do without providing context. Lists are created in the hopes that those who are being listed will promote the accolades and that attention will be driven back to the author of the list. And contests where creatives have to reach out to their base to get them to vote for them is just wrong in my opinion. Because, if someone is amazing at what they do… Celebrate that, no strings attached. And that is what we are going to do here.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Now, the criteria… Each inductee has been a guest on Convo By Design. They have a body of work that is exceptional in their various disciplines and there is no justification required for their world class status. They give back to the industry, they are innovators, givers and make our industry better than they found it. This project is called the Convo By Design Icon Registry, because that is what this is, tantamount to a hall of fame, but more. What is an ICON? Described as an icon; A person or thing regarded as a representative symbol or as worthy of veneration. A registry is a well curated list. You can consider this a venerable who’s who in our industry with gifts to offer and a willingness to share. Pablo Picasso is credited with saying, “the meaning of life is to find your gift and the purpose of life is to give it away”. Now, I am not suggesting that those enshrined in the Icon Registry have all just been giving away their gifts. These are professionals of the highest order and part of being a professional is knowing your worth and understanding your value. Each of these individuals have appeared on Convo By Design, shared what they know for the betterment of others, and I am deeply appreciative for that. This is the most authentic way that I can express my gratitude for that. As deeply appreciative as I am for their sharing, I am equally grateful for your taking the time to share a few moments, an hour out of your busy schedule each week to listen to the show. Again, the most authentic way that I can express that gratitude is to give you an opportunity to hear them again. Every month, the last Thursday of the month, unless it’s a holiday week, in which case I will publish a week sooner, I will share a new inductee with you.

This weeks inductee is Alex Papachristidis who is one of the most amazing interior decorators for the wok he does, yes, absolutely. Beyond that though is his base of knowledge. Material and practice. This allows Alex to understand, fuse and commingle new, traditional and other styles to fit his vision and client desires. What is truly special about Alex is his willingness to listen to his clients, hear their wishes and process those wishes into a sophisticated version that they themselves couldn’t even envision. And he’s a dog lover. So, add that to the long list of things I admire about Alex. Which is also why it is my privilege to induct Papachristidis into the Convo By Design Icon Registry. This is Alex Papachristidis.

Thank you Alex for making this world a more beautiful place than you found it. Congratulations on your addition to the Convo By Design Icon Registry. And thank you for listening and subscribing to the show. Thank you to my partner sponsors Design Hardware, ThermaSol, TimberTech and Pacific Sales. these are amazing partners all, they support the trade and I love sharing these amazing resources with you. Thanks again for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. – CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. But you know that because you are kind enough to subscribe, download and listen to the show every week. If this episode was shared with you and you are not currently a subscriber, I would appreciate it if you would consider subscribing so you receive every new episode automatically to your feed.

For those who have been part of our little club since day one, you have heard me say this, and for those new to the podcast, I want you to know that I am incredibly grateful. I started this show over 11 years ago to bring a level of coverage to the design and architecture community that I felt was missing at the time. I am now and always have been a huge fan of the shelter publications in particular and magazines in general. I still have old copies of Dwell from the early to mid 2,000’s, copies of Metropolitan Home that I will still, on occasion just grab a nice beverage and go through the pages, waxing nostalgic for a time when the shelter publications focused on the art form that is architecture and interiors design. Not the celebrity, trend-spotting and ephemeral social media content.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

For that reason, one of the things I enjoy most, is getting back to the meaningful events. I love attending and even just talking about some of America’s favorite design festivals, trade shows, happenings, gatherings and events. And since they are so different, there can’t be one favorite event and that is what I think is so special. They are all different. But there really are two heavy hitters, behemoths in the industry… KBIS/ IBS and High Point Market. This is not to take away from any of the other gatherings, and we will be covering most of those as well, but these two are different due to sheer size and scope.

This episode of the podcast is dedicated to specifiers everywhere who are venturing out for the first time to attend KBIS/ IBS. We have a double episode plus. That means you are going to hear from 2 designers and a brand about the KBIS experience in 2024. Their approach to the show and strategies they use for navigation to make the biggest impact in the shortest amount of time and the fewest number of steps. Today you are going to hear from Angeline Guido Hall of Angeline Guido Designs, Kevie Murphy of KA Murphy Designs and John Weinstein, CEO of FV America, the American arm of Franz Viegner.

Amazing right? At the end of the day, there are certainly strategies you can use to maximize time and effort to see and learn about. It’s not just the things we see, new finds, materiality, touch feel, size but the people we meet, reconnect with and with whom we engage. That is where the real value lies.

Speaking of engagement, thank you for yours by listening, subscribing and downloading the show. Thank you for your emails to convobydesign@outlook.com with guest and show suggestions, or just to introduce yourself. Thank you for the follows, likes and commentary on Instagram @ConvoXDesign with a “x”. Thank you to my amazing partner/ sponsors, ThermaSol, Pacific Sales, Monogram, Design Hardware and TimberTech. All of these amazing brands live to serve the design and architecture community. They make a specifier’s life easier, I appreciate that.

Thanks again for listening. Until next week, be well, and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. Episode 500. Five Hundred!

In years past, I have stopped down to celebrate mile stones in a few different ways. Last year, we held a party at the Soho House studio in West Hollywood to celebrate 10 years of the show. Every hundredth episode, I would feature past guests. For this milestone, I wanted to do something a little bit different. Instead of talking about the past, I wanted to focus on the future, share a few past moments to galvanize the point and move on. With gratitude and love in my heart. I love this industry because of all the amazing people I have had the good fortune of meeting and hearing their stories. I am so fortunate to have been to some of the most amazing places and seen some incredible things that designers, architects, artists and makers can create. But the past 11 years have not been easy. It hasn’t been all fun and games. Our industry is one of the most diverse and rapidly changing from a business and operations standpoint. And I have some bad news for those hoping the changes will slow or stop. It’s not going to happen. But I don’t see that as bad news. I’m excited for the future. Before you can properly prepare for changes, you must be aware of what’s coming. Mark Twain is credited with the quote, “History doesn’t repeat itself, but it often rhymes.”

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

Monogram – It’s the details that define Monogram

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

To me, that means and for our conversation here, it means that if you look at how our industry is evolving, you will see marks and identifiers from the past reemerging in new and unique ways. Products being used differently, ideas being reimagined, and previously unthinkable technological advancements solving for past and new challenges. At the same time, there will be past issues that continue to rear their ugly heads. Things like:

Tariffs and supply chain issues wreaking havoc with the financial structure of the business which affects us all directly. of course it also depends on which public officials are in office at any given time.

The issue of editorial credit, attribution, idea and IP theft and knock-offs – Why does that matter so much?

Tearing down landmarks and historical buildings – Who cares? This is a portion of my conversation form the1001 N Roxbury episode. If not familiar and you care about architectural preservation, you should be.

DEI – Policy and Practice – In 2019 at the WestEdge Design Fair, I produced a panel about diversity in design featuring four creatives of color. It was not the first time I had conversations with creatives of color, different backgrounds, ideas or even who had differences in thought. I cast that program in June or July of 2019, it was held in October of 2019 and published in June of 2020. Shortly after the murder of George Floyd which ignited a powder keg in this country. It started a conversation about race, about equity and about fairness. Change is not a bad thing, without change, one becomes stagnant, societies cease to innovate and develop. It’s uncomfortable. I got a huge response to that episode. I have had many such conversations.

But, something I have not shared with you was the DEI policy I have and have had in place since 2019. I believe in providing a space for new voices as well as the established. To be completely frank with you, that has, at times been a real challenge.

Inviting someone to come on the show now is pretty simple because if invited guests are not already familiar with the show, a simple search provides everything they would need to understand what I do. It was not the case back in the early years of the podcast. Most people to whom I reach out know the show and I cannot think of anyone I have invite that has declined. But there is a certain level of suspicion with some creatives of color who have been invited on the show. It took me a while to understand it. I think it is worth sharing. Ron Woodson, who was on that original panel in 2019 later said to me that after that episode was published, he began receiving numerous media requests to talk about that subject of race and inclusion in design. And, while he was a willing participant in the the conversation, he didn’t want that to be all people asked him about. I think it is fair to say there was, and still is the concern of tokenism and a patronizing approach to inclusion in the design industry. But I also think that having these conversations is important and I do long for the day when people don’t say things like here are the best Black designers or best asian designers or best female architects you need to know. There are just great designers and amazing architects you need to know. My reason for pointing this out is simple. I think that when you separate creatives by gender or race or sexual orientation, you minimize their contributions. I would like to see the conversation continue to evolve.

This is a portion of my conversation in 2019 with Bridgid Coulter, Breegan Jane, Ron Woodson and Brian Pinkett

Showroom & Vendor Partnerships – The podcast was started with partnerships in mind. I wanted to be proud of the partners that I work with and share those partners with you. I stand by the partnerships on this show and when you hear me talking about them, you should know that I am working with them because I have done my due diligence and I know them, I trust them and I believe you can too.

Design Hardware and Flooring in Los Angeles has been around since 1985. I have been working with Michele Solomons, Avi Balsam and the entire team for about 4 years and I have seen what they do for their customers. ThermaSol has been the title sponsor of Convo By Design for over 3 years. I have been to the factory, spoken with Mitch Altman, 3rd generation president, spoken with Murray Altman, 2nd generation president. I have seen their factory, watched them inspect every steam generator before it leaves the factory. They make the best steam generators in the wold. I believe that. Pacific Sales I have been to a number of their showrooms, I have personally seen their product selection and service to client in the design community. I have spoken with so many of their team members, most of those I spoke with have been there for over a decade! They know their product line, they know what designers do for a living and how to make sure their clients are happy. They serve up products like those from Monogram. If you are a design specifier, you know what Monogram has been doing and how remarkable their product line is. Same for TimberTech, theiy make an absolutely incredible outdoor decking product that is sustainable in nature, beautiful, easy to work with and long lasting. I mention this because we are living and working in a time when not all showroom partners have the same dedication to the design community. They shut their doors and leave designers and their clients in stressful and financially devastating situations. This business is a challenge and not all suppliers, vendors, manufacturers or even designers make it. Businesses close, that is part of life, but good parters and great partnerships are rare and that is why I am so thankful for these partnerships and why I am proud to share them with you. If you are not familiar with any of these, please check the show notes to links where you can learn more.

Lastly, there has been a major issue in media regarding attribution, credit and IP theft of all kinds. It is not unique to our industry, nor is it going to stop anytime soon. Most recently, there was a major kerfuffle surrounding a story in AD featuring Sofia Vergara’s home. The credit for design went to O’Hara Davies Gaetano, who was the last designer on the project, but not the first. That was Timothy Corrigan. There have also been others who it have reportedly worked on other portions of the project who too, went uncredited for their work. AD and all the industry media need to far better. Many years ago, 2017 actually, at the WestEdge Design Fair, I produced and moderated a panel featuring art rep Wendy Posner, designer and showroom owner Gary Gibson and IP attorney Emile Nicolaou with whom I worked at Playboy Radio. We talked about many of these very issues. This is what that sounded like….

So, there you go, Episode 500. Just a sample of the conversations we have had over the past 11 years. Real conversations, real issues and hopefully, real solutions to these complex topics in addition to sharing stories behind some of the greatest creatives working today. No celebrity fluff, no trendy fast-fashion dialogue, no frivolity. Real issues, real stories, real talent working on amazing projects and I could not be doing this without you. Thank you for listening to the show. Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors; ThermaSol, Design Hardware, Pacific Sales, Monogram and TimberTech for your continued support of both Convo By Design and the design community.

Let’s keep the conversations going, you can email me with guest and show ideas, which I absolutely love. convobydesign@outlook.com and follow us on Instagram @ConvoXDeisgn with an “x”. Until next week, Be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. Today, we are heading to San Francisco. We’re talking with Katie McCaffrey with the McCaffrey Design Group about functional beauty, designing in a rapidly changing city like San Francisco and so much more.

It is really astounding when you stop and think about it. A city like San Francisco that is under constant change. Social change, climate change, political change, safety concerns, property management and development issues. How can the design community stay on track for their clients and manage all of the changes simultaneously? Can’t be easy. But Katie seems to take it all with a certain grace and poise. Incredibly so. And, you are going to hear all about it, right after this.

Thank you Katie, loved our chat. I really do love these conversations. I love sharing these stories with you. Please continue to email me with your guest and show suggestions. Convobydesign@outlook.com and reach out via Instagram, @ConvoXDesign with an “X”.

Thank you to Convo By Design partner sponsors, ThermaSol, TimberTech, Pacific Sales and Design Hardware. For more information about and links to these incredible companies and to learn more about their products, please check the show notes.

For more stories like these from the design community, please make sure you are subscribing to the podcast, so you receive new episodes automatically when they are published. That way, you never miss an episode. Convo By Design is available everywhere you find your favorite podcasts. Thanks for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. – Convo By Design

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I’m Josh Cooperman, this is Convo By Design and today you are going to be hearing from Amanda Cimaglia, VP of Corporate Communications and ESG for TimberTech and interior designer, Olga Naiman. TimberTech is a new partner sponsor of the show this year. I wanted to share the TimberTech story with you.

More than that, really. I wanted to share the story and feature a designer who uses the product to share the experience of both the why and how this product is revolutionizing the decking industry. By now, you have probably heard me telling you some of the coolest things about TimberTech. This is an in depth look and both the why and the how. Enjoy.

Thank you Amanda and Olga for coming on the podcast. I love these conversations. I love sharing these stories with you. Please continue to email me with your guest and show suggestions. Convo by design@outlook.com and reach out via Instagram, @ConvoXDesign with an “X”.

Thank you to Convo By Design partner sponsors, ThermaSol, TimberTech, Pacific Sales and Design Hardware. For more information about and links to these incredible companies and to learn more about their products, please check the show notes.

For more stories like these from the design community, please make sure you are subscribing to the podcast, so you receive new episodes automatically when they are published. That way, you never miss an episode. Convo By Design is available everywhere you find your favorite podcasts. Thanks for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. – Convo By Design

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a very special episode. Part of a new series of the show and something that I have been considering for quite some time but I specifically wanted to complete year 10 of the show before I rolled this out.

Do you know that in the 11+ years of Convo By Design, I have published over 500 episodes, spoken with over 6500 creatives, produced over 5 dozen panel conversations for design events across the country. From all of these amazing conversations with the worlds greatest creative talent, I wanted. to start enshrining some of these individuals into the Convo By Design Icon Registry, a hall of fame if you will.

I don’t do contests and I most certainly don’t do lists. Lists are gimmicks designed to capture clicks. They are, click bait pure and simple. You cannot tell me that a list of 50, 75 or 100 designers and architects are the absolute best at what they do without providing context. Lists are created in the hopes that those who are being listed will promote the accolades and that attention will be driven back to the author of the list. And contests where creatives have to reach out to their base to get them to vote for them is just wrong in my opinion. Because, if someone is amazing at what they do… Celebrate that, no strings attached. And that is what we are going to do here.

Now, the criteria… Each inductee has been a guest on Convo By Design. They have a body of work that is exceptional in their various disciplines and there is no justification required for their world class status. They give back to the industry, they are innovators, givers and make our industry better than they found it. This project is called the Convo By Design Icon Registry, because that is what this is, tantamount to a hall of fame, but more. What is an ICON? Described as an icon; A person or thing regarded as a representative symbol or as worthy of veneration. A registry is a well curated list. You can consider this a venerable who’s who in our industry with gifts to offer and a willingness to share. Pablo Picasso is credited with saying, “the meaning of life is to find your gift and the purpose of life is to give it away”. Now, I am not suggesting that those enshrined in the Icon Registry have all just been giving away their gifts. These are professionals of the highest order and part of being a professional is knowing your worth and understanding your value. Each of these individuals have appeared on Convo By Design, shared what they know for the betterment of others, and I am deeply appreciative for that. This is the most authentic way that I can express my gratitude for that. As deeply appreciative as I am for their sharing, I am equally grateful for your taking the time to share a few moments, an hour out of your busy schedule each week to listen to the show. Again, the most authentic way that I can express that gratitude is to give you an opportunity to hear them again. Every month, the last Thursday of the month, unless it’s a holiday week, in which case I will publish a week sooner, I will share a new inductee with you.

This week, our third installment into the Convo By Design Icon Registry is Architect and founder of Sweeten, Jean Brownhill.

Brownhill is an incredible talent. A serious multi-hyphenate and an extraordinary person. A Loeb Fellow from Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design where she co-founded the African American Student Union, founder of SAW, Sweeten Accelerator for Women and so much more. Her accolades are many and deservedly so. Jean and I spoke back in 2019.

Thank you Jean for making this world a better place than you found it. Congratulations on your addition to the Convo By Design Icon Registry. And thank you for listening and subscribing to the show. Thank you to my partner sponsors Design Hardware, ThermaSol, TimberTech and Pacific Sales. these are amazing partners all, they support the trade and I love sharing these amazing resources with you. Thanks again for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. – CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a conversation that is on the minds of just about every designer this time of year. How can I go to HighPoint, see everything, do everything in the few days while I’m there? The simple answer is, you can’t. High Point Market is the big game, the championship level event for designers in North America. It’s big, it’s spread out and it can be sensory overload. So, you can’t do it all. But, if you plan it right, do your homework and listen to the following conversation with Tammy, you can make it work for you.

That’s really what it comes down to, learning how to custom tailor the experience for you. Making the few days you have work in terms of seeing what you want to see, meeting with whom you want to meet and leaving a bit of time for the unexpected. All while wearing comfortable shoes and making sure you have snacks and a portable battery fro your phone. Tips, trick and hacks to make the HighPoint Market experience everything you want it to be. That’s what we are talking about today with HighPoint Market Authority CEO, Tammy Nagem.

Thank you Tammy for your time, loved this. I love these conversations. I love sharing them with you. Please continue to email me with your guest and show suggestions. Convobydesign@outlook.com and reach out via Instagram, @ConvoXDesign with an “X”.

Thank you to Convo By Design partner sponsors, ThermaSol, TimberTech, Pacific Sales and Design Hardware. For more information about and links to these incredible companies and to learn more about their products, please check the show notes.

For more stories like these from the design community, please make sure you are subscribing to the podcast, so you receive new episodes automatically when they are published. That way, you never miss an episode. Convo By Design is available everywhere you find your favorite podcasts. Thanks for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. -Convo By Design

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. When I first started the podcast, a long time ago… It all started as an experience. I love design and architecture, I always have. I recently realized that if I had taken the time spent doing the show and went back to school, I could have become an architect. I say that tongue firmly planted in cheek. Not because I wouldn’t LOVE to be an architect, designer or set decorator. But, because had I done that, I wouldn’t be able to do this. This is what I love to do. I find extraordinary joy in speaking with the creatives whom I admire, exploring their journeys, telling their stories and engaging with you.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Joining me on the show today is Mathew Chaney, FAIA and Bryn Garrett, AIA with EYRC Architects. To be completely frank with you, there are a few firms of which I feel like an honorary member. EYRC is one of them. I have spoken and shared time with Takashi Yanai, FAIA over the years, the “Y” in EYRC, I spent an amazing afternoon with Steven Ehrlich, FAIA, the “E” while in Palm Springs covering the Ridge Mountain project during Modernism Week in, errrr 2017 maybe. I have recorded virtually with them, live from their offices in Los Angeles, live from Rancho Mirage at a project house. I feel close to this firm. It’s only a matter of time before we hear from the “R”, Patricia Rhee, FAIA, it’s coming. But today, we have the “C”, Mathew Chaney as well as Bryn Garrett, both partners in EYRC Architects. Bryn most recently could be heard on a WestEdge Wednesday episode of Convo By Design from his participation on a panel at WestEdge about the current state of residential architecture.

Mathew and Bryn join me on the show to talk about a number of things architecture and design related. And I am absolutely thrilled to share this conversation with you.

Thank you Mathew and Bryn for your time, talent and willingness to share. I love these conversations. I love sharing them with you. Please continue to email me with your guest and show suggestions. Convo by design@outlook.com and reach out via Instagram, @ConvoXDesign with an “X”.

Thank you to Convo By Design partner sponsors, ThermaSol, TimberTech, Pacific Sales and Design Hardware. For more information about and links to these incredible companies and to learn more about their products, please check the show notes.

For more stories like these from the design community, please make sure you are subscribing to the podcast, so you receive new episodes automatically when they are published. That way, you never miss an episode. Convo By Design is available everywhere you find your favorite podcasts. Thanks for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. -Convo By Design

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This episode of The Design Messengers is dedicated to an original in the field of design. Someone who has earned their reputation for the amazing work they do. This individual has been on Convo By Design in the past, I believe three times in different ways; As a solo guest, a multi-guest episode and on a panel I produced at the WestEdge Design Fair. Have you heard the story of Timothy Corrigan and Arch Digest? You probably have by now, if not in his Instagram feed, then perhaps through Business of Home who did an absolutely wonderful job covering this. If you have not heard this story yet, check the show notes for a link to the BoH story. Honestly, I can’t tell it any better than Fred Nicolaus executive editor @BOH did.

To synopsize, Tim worked on Sofia Vergara’s home in the Los Angeles suburb of Beverly Park. He worked on this project for years. His firm was replaced, for whatever reason with that of O’Hara Davies-Gaetano. Davies-Gaetano is another alum of Convo By Design. She has been on the show and I think that she too is a very talented designer. So, far so good, no problem. Clients and creatives part ways all the time. Enter @ArchDigest …The 800 pound gorilla in our industry. They publish the project and in the original piece, there is no mention of Corrigan’s work despite much of the specified material and architectural detail of Corrigan’s firm present in the final project. Corrigan called BS and had lawyers send a letter of complaint to AD which I have not read but which did result in a digital version correction and I would not be surprised to see a carefully worded correction in the next print edition. I am glad that they are doing this but to be frank with you, it is not only unfortunate that this happened but it was entirely avoidable. How?

1. The trade publications have slashed editorial staff over the past decade.
2. The contributors who are writing these stories are not, in most cases, trained journalists but instead, content producers who work off subject provided information and push the stories out fast. In many cases working on multiple projects for the same publication or in some cases freelancing for other outlets.
3. There are no real journalistic standards for our industry. There should be.
4. With the proliferation of social media, idea theft runs rampant, claims made are not checked and because there is so much content pushed out, it would take an army to do it.

I do not think there are any villains here. I think there are a number of players involved in this story that are overworked, overstimulated by social media content, driven to push out any celebrity driven story as fast as they can because that is what they believe their audience wants to see. I have issues with Architectural Digest and some other other industry pubs but AD in particular. Years ago, Architectural Digest published a piece on AD Pro that misattributed Convo By Design to another company. Check the show notes for a link, if it gets taken down by the time you hear this, email me and let me know so I can publish a screen shot to our IG feed. I reached out to AD’s contributor the week it happened. That was in October of 2019 and they still haven’t fixed it as of this recording.

Corrigan handled this the way it should have been handled. But let’s be honest about this… Were it a lesser designer, they most likely would have been ignored. I also think that what Tim did was incredibly brave. There could be ramifications, you just never know. My hope is that the folks at the shelter publications, if they do believe strongly in our industry and who do, in fact make our industry better will use this experience to strengthen their journalistic practices. I would like to see all the trade pubs use trained journalists with a focus on design and architecture to write. That is not always the case. But, if it were, they could catch some of these inconsistencies well in advance of publication. And, if errors are made, which happen all the time because we humans a fallible and we journalists do make mistakes, once discovered, should have practices in place to correct the issue to the very best of their ability. We will see if this happens in this case. What does that mean… To the best of one’s ability. If I am being honest with you, I think there is far more that AD can do, I feel like in this case, they have thus-far done the bare minimum. You might ask, “like what, Josh?”. Great question. I did a bit more digging, and checked out AD’s YouTube channel. The Sofia Vergara project video remains on the channel, as of this recording on March 15th, it has just over 6 million views and absolutely no reference to Tim Corrigan. Sofia mentions O’Hara at least three times but there is no mention of Corrigan, his work or his influence on this project. There is no mention of him in the description

nor in any credits. There is no credit to O’Hara in the credits either which I found odd. I think it speaks to the lack of formal guidelines in media production and project credit attribution.

Something else to consider, as machine learning continues to gain traction in every industry but specially ours, an algorithm would not know to credit Corrigan for his work on this project and in all future inquiries submitted through AI bots, he would never get credit for his work. This should trouble every single designer, architect, maker and brand from the biggest to the smallest. There should be rules, there should be standards. It would also stand to reason that the biggest players in the space from media to brands would act as thought leaders in this regard.

In an effort to help be part of the change, I would like to share a past episode of Convo By Design as it relates directly to this very issue.

Episode 175, recorded in 2017 and published in 2018 called, Intellectual Right for Creative Types features Emile Nicolau, an IP attorney I worked with at Playboy along with Wendy Posner and Gary Gibson is a fantastic opportunity to hear about the ins and out of IP rights as they affect the design community.

The link to this episode is in the show notes. At the end of the day and through this episode you will learn that regardless of the IP or attribution issue, as a professional in any industry but specifically the design and architecture industry you can choose to defend your rights. You can also choose not to. But make no mistake, that is a choice and nobody is going to do it for you. If you see something that doesn’t make sense, say something. Those on the shelter media side, you have a choice as well. Do you make it right, or not? And that is a choice, one that should not be decided based on the size and experience of the creative, nor on wether or not they have an attorney but instead, is it the right thing to do. If you made a mistake, own it. Thank you, Tim for forcing this issue. Your actions have once again made the industry better than it was when you arrived.

Thank you for listening to Convo By Design. If you have questions or comments on this issue or any others, please email me, convobydesign@outlook.com. Until next time, be well and take today first. – Convo By Design

Source: All above mentioned source material was acquired from the internet on March, 15, 2024.

Sofia Vergara_YouTube.com_March_15_2024

BusinessOfHome.com_March_15_2024

Instagram_TimothyCorrigan_March_15_2024

Instagram_ArchDigest_March_15_2024

Instagram_ODGInteriors_March_15_2024

TimothyCorrigan #ArchitecturalDigest #ODGInteriors #SofiaVergara #MediaStandards #Design #Architecture

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. Today, we are heading back to Texas. If you are new to the show, I love Texas. I have family there. I lived in Dallas for 9 years. For many years, I had a spin-ff of the podcast called Lone Star House of Design. Texas is not one of the design fly-overs. It has been for a long time, but the pandemic launched a movement that has since gone parabolic.

Today, you are going to hear from Katie Davis, founder of her eponymous firm in Houston. But that is only the tip of the proverbial iceberg. Katie is one of those designers who took the longest route possible to interior design. And I love this so much because I love hearing the story behind and through the journey. Katie started out as an attorney. A working attorney meaning she went to law school, passed the Bar Exam. Launched Katie Davis Design in 2018 and now, you are going to hear the rest of the story as well as a guided tour through some of her projects. Love this and we are going to get to it, right after this.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Thank you Katie for your time, talent and willingness to share. I love these conversations. I love sharing them with you. Please continue to email me with your guest and show suggestions. Convo by design@outlook.com and reach out via Instagram, @ConvoXDesign with an “X”.

Thank you to Convo By Design partner sponsors, ThermaSol, TimberTech, Pacific Sales and Design Hardware. For more information about and links to these incredible companies and to learn more about their products, please check the show notes.

For more stories like these from the design community, please make sure you are subscribing to the podcast, so you receive new episodes automatically when they are published. That way, you never miss an episode. Convo By Design is available everywhere you find your favorite podcasts. Thanks for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. -Convo By Design

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is another installment of Convo By Design presents WestEdge Wednesday, a look back at all of the incredible programming from the 2023 edition of the WestEdge Design Fair held at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica. These conversations were held on the stage designed by Marie Designs and presented by BR Home. This is it, part 10 in our series from the WestEdge Design Fair. Southern California has long been a place where adventurous creatives of all disciplines could come to create with other like-minded dreamers—where a designer could draft and see their masterpiece come to life only to realize it wasn’t right, shake it out like a giant Etch-A-Sketch and start again. Now, in a post-pandemic world, it is incumbent upon that very spirit for a new generation of creatives to address and overcome the seemingly endless barrage of challenges. And, they will, because that’s what they do. This conversation features BANDD/DESIGN’S Sara Malek Barney, Christine Vroom of Christine Vroom Interiors and the legendary Leo Marmol, FAIA of Marmol Radziner. This panel could only be moderated by one person I know and that is the incomparable, Frances Anderton. Thank you to Convo By Design partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for making the podcast possible and thank you for listening and watching these episodes of the show. For links to all our partners, guests on this episode, WestEdge Design Fair, Marbe and BR Home.

For those not familiar … The Banana Republic lifestyle brand portfolio is known for delivering timeless ready-to-wear styles, and BR Home signals the brand’s transformation into a leading destination for the modern explorer. Expanding across living room, bedroom and dining room furniture as well as lighting, bedding, and home décor, BR Home showcases materials and craftsmanship from around the world, showcasing signature design details, warm, textural layers, natural materials and traditional production techniques.

Please check the podcast show notes for links and you can find that at Convo By Design dot com and click the podcast tab. Thanks for watching and listening. CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. Today, we’re heading to Los Angeles for a conversation with Jaime Olmos and Lise Bornstein of KFA Architecture. We talked, in depth about exploring LA’s identity, preservation and the nature of design in LA, the multi-node structure of this incredible cluster of cities, rediscovering LA’s iconic architectural treasures and so much more.

You knowI love LA. It’s home. It’s not the same as it was when I grew up as a teen in the San Fernando Valley in the 1980’s. The best place in the world to be, at that time. But it’s not the same. I’m not hating, but I feel like LA is on the verge of a renaissance. And it all starts with the designers because what they design are the postcards that announce LA’s future return to glory. It starts with honoring the past, and respecting it as you plan for the future. And it all starts with conversations like these. Of note, I have 2 new sponsor partners joining the show. I could not be happier or more pleased to welcome Pacific Sales, A Best Buy Company and TimberTech to the Convo By Design family. These are amazing brands and you are going to have numerous opportunities to interact directly with them over the next weeks and months ahead so stay tuned for those announcements.

If you want to take a deep dive, this episode has a powerful AI generated synopsis of the whole conversation which you can find in the show notes. We are going to hear from Lise and Jaime, right after this.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

– Where service meets excellence

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Thank you Lise and Jaime for your time, talent and willingness to share. I love these conversations. I love sharing them with you. Please continue to email me with your guest and show suggestions. Convo by design@outlook.com and reach out via Instagram, @ConvoXDesign with an “X”.

Thank you to Convo By Design partner sponsors, ThermaSol, TimberTech, Pacific Sales and Design Hardware. For more information about and links to these incredible companies and to learn more about their products, please check the show notes.

For more stories like these from the design community, please make sure you are subscribing to the podcast, so you receive new episodes automatically when they are published. That way, you never miss an episode. Convo By Design is available everywhere you find your favorite podcasts. Thanks for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. -Convo By Design

KFA Architecture Summary

Exploring Los Angeles Identity

Lise and Josh had a conversation about their experiences living in Los Angeles, with Lise being a native of the East Coast. They both expressed their appreciation for Los Angeles’ willingness to reinvent itself and its freedom from traditional norms. Jaime, who was born and raised in Los Angeles, shared their ongoing exploration of what Los Angeles means, including its indigenous architecture. The conversation ended on a note about building and restoring communities in Los Angeles.

Architecture, Design, and Preservation in Southern California

Jaime and Josh discussed architecture and design in Southern California, with a focus on the balance between new and historic structures. They highlighted the unique character of LA’s mid-century modernism and the importance of preserving historical buildings. Josh also raised questions about the role of architects in shaping the future of their designs, given the long lifespan of buildings. Lise added that the context and story of a building, as well as its connection to the community, can contribute to its historical significance. The conversation concluded without a clear resolution on the criteria for determining what makes a building historically significant.

Los Angeles Architecture Evolution Discussion

Josh initiated a discussion about the evolution of Los Angeles and its architecture. They asked Lise and Jaime about their perspectives on the city’s transformation, especially since they both have ties to the area. Lise shared their experience of moving to Los Angeles and their initial impression of the city’s car-centric culture and lack of greenery. However, over the years, they have grown to appreciate the city’s potential for community building and the role of architecture in creating humane spaces. Jaime, a native Angelino, also shared their experiences and impressions of the city.

LA’s Cultural Fusion and Multi-Node Structure

Jaime and Josh discussed the unique character of Los Angeles, emphasizing its cultural fusion and the potential of its multi-node structure. Jaime highlighted the redevelopment of downtown and the appreciation of historic buildings. Josh shared their experiences growing up in the San Fernando Valley and their appreciation for art and architecture in LA. They also discussed the triforium, a unique piece of art in downtown LA. Towards the end, Josh asked Jaime about the verticals within their firm, including schools, commercial, industrial, residential, and historical projects. Jaime clarified their study background and shared their experience at Pomona College.

Rediscovering LA’s Architecture and Design

Jaime discussed the rediscovery of Los Angeles’ architecture and design through the lens of national parks, highlighting the repurposing of older buildings such as the 2121 Lofts in the Arts District. Jaime also discussed the transformation of the Arts District and the LA River, and how these changes have affected the city’s urban fabric. Lise then shifted the conversation towards the history of LA, noting the presence of old industrial buildings, and the city’s willingness to embrace new and different ideas. They also touched upon the tension and potential for false nostalgia when discussing the historic and new pieces of the city’s architecture.

Architectural Design and Disneyland’s Influence

Lise and Josh discussed the importance of architectural design in relation to historical context and the influence of Disneyland on the architectural innovation in Southern California. Lise emphasized the need to design in a Spanish colonial or mission style, which is often requested due to its familiarity. They also mentioned the challenge of incorporating this style into larger, modern buildings. Lise shared their experience with the Hayworth House in West Hollywood, where the building was transformed into senior housing. They highlighted the importance of creating a community feel by adding a front porch and a garden. Josh then shifted the conversation towards the future, expressing interest in discussing where architecture is headed.

Architectural Safety and Community Interactions Post-Pandemic

Josh and Lise discussed the shift in architectural preferences due to the pandemic, with a focus on safety, security, and privacy. They agreed that safety and security are always important, particularly in urban areas, and that learning from past design practices can guide future improvements. Lise highlighted the need for creating safe and secure spaces in cities, emphasizing the importance of visual connections and community interactions. Jaime agreed, noting that their firm aims to provide safety without disconnecting from the community, and shared about the challenges faced by individuals who have been homeless and recently moved into their first permanent home. They highlighted the need for relearning basic self-care skills and the potential for a wide range of reactions to this transition.

Designing Community Wellness in Market Rate Housing

Jaime, Lise, and Josh discussed the potential of architectural elements in creating community and fostering wellness in market rate housing. Jaime emphasized the potential of stairs and walkways, while Lise mentioned the success of opening up stairs for a health and wellness aspect. Josh shared their personal experience in Tulsa, where a community-focused design led to successful social interactions. Jaime and Lise also discussed the future of design, highlighting the increasing value of human connection due to artificial intelligence, the trend towards natural materials, and the need for places that foster meaningful connections. They also touched upon the potential densification of LA, particularly around existing metro lines, and the growing importance of outdoor space and greenery.

Sustainability and Innovation in Los Angeles

Lise and Josh discussed the growing importance of sustainability, with Lise emphasizing that it is a basic human right. They highlighted the potential of Los Angeles as a testing ground for innovative solutions. Lise shared their experience with lead certified design and the role of government mandates in driving innovation. Josh discussed a previous project involving a unique drone pad in the Hollywood Hills and the potential for autonomous drones to revolutionize transportation in LA. The conversation concluded with a consensus on the exciting opportunities and challenges awaiting the industry in the coming decade.

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This is a new series of the show called The Design Messengers. A Monday episode of the show sharing design trade info you need to know. Sometimes it’s not really what you need to know but should know. This is an audio essay shining a light on a few simple ideas that make this industry so amazing.

I have a long held passion for and fascination with the set decorators that craft the sets for some of our favorite TV shows, movies, live performances and yes, even commercials. I’m not sure if I told you this before, but Hollywood set design runs in my family. Not as set decorators but as prop house owner, purveyor and provider of objects meant to decorate sets. My Uncle Earl was the founder and owner of EC Props. Now known as E. C. Prop Rentals. They provide the less glamorous, gritty objects you might find on an industrial set, a back alley, commercial environment or city street.

I remember him telling me how he got into the business. He was a Teamster driving for CBS. He found a few dirt mats. These are rollable rugs that look like dirt, the ground that set decorators would use to dress an outdoor set, like a campground. A much younger me asked if I could see one, he laughed and said no, because he never sees them. They are always rented out. They went from one set decorator to the next, always rented, always making money. I never even thought that was away to make money. But he did. And instead of finding beautiful objects you might find decorating the sets of the time, like Hart to Hart or Designing Women, he was the purveyor of objects like dumpsters, transformers, tools and lockers for a 1988 episode of Ohara starring Pat Morita and decorated by Robin Royce or Crime Story, a show starring Dennis Farina, featuring the acting talents of Gary Sinise, David Caruso, Andrew “Dice” Clay, Pam Grier, Ving Rhames and Miles Davis, as himself of course! Produced by Michael Mann with set decoration by Linda Lee Sutton. Sutton, by the way…still a working set decorator with 2023 credits that include NCIS: Hawaii.

My Uncle Earl is sadly no longer with us, but his legacy and prop house remain. That is one thing I find so interesting. Legacy as it pertains to design and architecture. Architecture is a little different because a Falling Water or Disney Concert Hall will always garner attention while the interior design of an amazing Manhattan apartment, unless published, might get no such love. I want to share the stories of some incredible set decs with you. How they do what they do, why they do it, where you might have seen their work, what they love about it and what they would like you to know.If you love entertainment, this will be enjoyable for you…If you are a designer, this will be invaluable. To change the thought process from work to lasting legacy. From a project, to a story telling set that makes better the characters who inhabit a real-life environment.

What I find so incredible about set decs is their ability to read literally between the lines to uncover the true essence of each character as defined by their environments. What does the decor say about the character? How does the character live, why, how does that affect their relationships with the other characters. Without set design, there is no story. You can have dialogue. You can have stage direction and acting, but there is no context. Set decs create the environment, often in very difficult and challenging situations. Can you derive a set through AI? Sure.Can you create a piece of graphic art through AI? Yes, but 2 things to consider. Those are a complex derivative of many other preexisting works and it is based on prompts, not soul. Set decs are truly givers-of-life in very much the same way as the writer or actor. They create the environment for a director to mold and craft their vision for a finished product. But we don’t celebrate the set decorators the same way, with the same passion as actors, directors or even writers. And I get the sense that many of them are perfectly fine with that provided you let them continue to work the way they do and compensate them fairly.

This is going to be an ongoing addition to The Design Messengers. Thank you to the Set Decorators Society of America for helping set this up. You are going to hear from Jan Pascale, David Smith, Julie Drach and Claire Kaufman, but first up is Don Diers…

Don Diers

Jan Pascale

David Smith

Julie Drach

Claire Kaufman

Thank you Don, Jan, David, Julie and Claire. Thank you to the SDSA. These conversations were recorded LIVE from the WestEdge Design Fair on-set designed by Marbe Designs featuring Banana Republic Home. Special thanks to them as well.

This is The Design Messengers, an audio essay crafted to get your week of to a great start by sharing ideas to launch you into being the best you can be in all your endeavors but specifically, as a creative in the design and architecture space. Thank you for listening. If you are not already a subscriber, please consider subscribing to the show so you receive every episode of The Design Messengers and Convo By Design automatically when they are published. If you are listening to us for the first time, you can find Convo By Design everywhere you find your favorite podcasts. If you are so inclined, please also consider following on IG @ConvoXDesign with an “X”. Thanks again for listening. Be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a very special episode. Part of a new series of the show and something that I have been considering for quite some time but I specifically wanted to complete year 10 of the show before I rolled this out.

Do you know that in the 11+ years of Convo By Design, I have published over 450 episodes, spoken with over 600 creatives, produced over 5 dozen panel conversations for design events across the country. From all of these amazing conversations with the worlds greatest creative talent, I wanted. to start enshrining some of these individuals into the Convo By Design Icon Registry, a hall of fame if you will.

I don’t do contests and I most certainly don’t do lists. Lists are gimmicks designed to capture clicks. They are, click bait pure and simple. You cannot tell me that a list of 50, 75 or 100 designers and architects are the absolute best at what they do without providing context. Lists are created in the hopes that those who are being listed will promote the accolades and that attention will be driven back to the author of the list. And contests where creatives have to reach out to their base to get them to vote for them is just wrong in my opinion. Because, if someone is amazing at what they do… Celebrate that, no strings attached. And that is what we are going to do here.

Now, the criteria… Each inductee has been a guest on Convo By Design. They have a body of work that is exceptional in their various disciplines and there is no justification required for their world class status. They give back to the industry, they are innovators, givers and make our industry better than they found it. This project is called the Convo By Design Icon Registry, because that is what this is, tantamount to a hall of fame, but more. What is an ICON? Described as an icon; A person or thing regarded as a representative symbol or as worthy of veneration. A registry is a well curated list. You can consider this a venerable who’s who in our industry with gifts to offer and a willingness to share. Pablo Picasso is credited with saying, “the meaning of life is to find your gift and the purpose of life is to give it away”. Now, I am not suggesting that those enshrined in the Icon Registry have all just been giving away their gifts. These are professionals of the highest order and part of being a professional is knowing your worth and understanding your value. Each of these individuals have appeared on Convo By Design, shared what they know for the betterment of others, and I am deeply appreciative for that. This is the most authentic way that I can express my gratitude for that. As deeply appreciative as I am for their sharing, I am equally grateful for your taking the time to share a few moments, an hour out of your busy schedule each week to listen to the show. Again, the most authentic way that I can express that gratitude is to give you an opportunity to hear them again. Every month, the last Thursday of the month, unless it’s a holiday week, in which case I will publish a week sooner, I will share a new inductee with you.

This creative is, to me an extraordinary example of what it means to be a modern designer. Not as in her aesthetic or style is purely modern but instead, her understanding of the design universe and being universally adroit at presenting traditional materials in new ways, expertly navigating space gracefully, seamlessly and yet sparking emotion in, again unique and different ways. Cara Woodhouse is crafty, creative and her work begins and ends with a full understanding of what she is working with in terms of space, desires, needs and materiality. Woodhouse isn’t a joanna come lately, she isn’t a reality TV star designer. She’s paid her dues. Ive not just covered her professionally for the podcast, but I have been the beneficiary of her work. When I was the general manager and program director for Playboy Radio, I spent time at the Beverly Hills Playboy offices, that she designed. Her work is imaginative. It’s exciting. It makes the brain pop and wiggle. Woodhouse is a curator of color, shape and space, mixing and blending all to please the senses and make you wonder, “what if”.

Thank you Cara, for your skill, talent, art willingness to share. It was my honor speaking with you and congratulations. Thank you to my partners and sponsors ThermaSol and Design Hardware for making the show possible. Thank you for taking the time to listen to the show and the feedback I receive. Thanks you for your guest and topic suggestions. If not already, please subscribe to the podcast so you receive every episode automatically to your feed.

If you are so inclined, please consider following us on Instagram. Convo X Design with an “X” and we can further the conversation. Thank you for listening and until next week, be well, and take today first. -Convo By Design

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is another installment of Convo By Design presents WestEdge Wednesday, a look back at all of the incredible programming from the 2023 edition of the WestEdge Design Fair held at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica. These conversations were held on the stage designed by Marbe Designs and presented by BR Home. This is part 9 in our series and features a conversation with Interior designer, adjudicator, showroom owner, lover of fashion and authentic objects Cliff Fong, whose firm, Matt Blacke, inc., have earned critical acclaim for their authentic and meaningful design. Fong’s new showroom, faire du vert, features indoor and outdoor garden space with an emphasis on architectural vessels and rare plant material. This one-on-one conversation explores form + function leading to spaces that inspire and improve the quality of life. I loved this conversation and I hope you do too. This chat with Cliff was the final talk of the show and it really was the perfect way to put a bow on the experience that was WestEdge this yer. I hope you enjoy it. Thank you to Convo By Design partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for making the podcast possible and thank you for listening and watching these episodes of the show. For links to all our partners, guests on this episode, WestEdge Design Fair, Maybe and BR Home.

For those not familiar … The Banana Republic lifestyle brand portfolio is known for delivering timeless ready-to-wear styles, and BR Home signals the brand’s transformation into a leading destination for the modern explorer. Expanding across living room, bedroom and dining room furniture as well as lighting, bedding, and home décor, BR Home showcases materials and craftsmanship from around the world, showcasing signature design details, warm, textural layers, natural materials and traditional production techniques.

Please check the podcast show notes for links and you can find that at Convo By Design dot com and click the podcast tab. Thanks for watching and listening.

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I’m Josh Cooperman with a very special episode of Convo By Design. We’re recognizing and celebrating the life’s work and accomplishments of an amazing individual. Were welcoming a young new mind into the architecture community and remembering another friend that we lost way too soon. All in one night. Laughs, tears, joy…all from the ICAA Southern California chapter’s Legacy Dinner honoring architect, Tim Barber.

For a few years now, I have had the privilege and the honor of emceeing the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art, Southern California Chapter’s annual Legacy Dinner recognizing the life’s work of a member of our community. This year, it was to recognize Tim Barber, a wonderful man, amazing architect, previous guest on the show and liver of life. He’s an absolute gem. This was a special night and I wanted to take you there with me so you could hear everything that transpired. You are going to hear from ICAA SoCal president, Daren Franks. UCLA architecture student, Delia Mizrahi, who went through one of ICAA’s fantastic programs. You are going to hear Marc Appleton’s sweet remembrance of Suzanne Rheinstein and much more. Everything that happened…almost, from this years Legacy dinner. We’ll get to that, right after this.

TS

Amazing. What a wonderful night! Amazing. Thank you ICAA for allowing me to be a part of this. Thank you to all who participated in this incredible night. If you would like to attend the event this year or join the ICAA SoCal chapter, which I highly recommend, check the show notes for links.You can hear why I love doing this and this is why it is so rewarding for me to share these stories with you.Thank you to my partners and sponsors, ThermaSol and Design Hardware for your continued and unwavering support of the show and for the design community.

For more stories like these from the design community, please make sure you are subscribing to the podcast, so you receive new episodes automatically when they are published. That way, you never miss an episode. Convo By Design is available everywhere you find your favorite podcasts. Thanks for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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This is another installment of Convo By Design presents WestEdge Wednesday, a look back at all of the incredible programming from the 2023 edition of the WestEdge Design Fair held at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica. These conversations were held on the stage designed by Marie Designs and presented by BR Home. This is installment number 8 in our series, entitled Next Level Design and the Future of Residential Architecture. The idea of home is evolving in response to social, environmental and cultural changes. How do these changes and innovations affect dwellings built to accommodate current and future needs? Hear from this seasoned panel how modern materials, practices and a change in thoughtful design is leading to another golden age of architecture. This program features an incredible group, Alice Kimm from JFAK Architects, David Pascu of Abramson Architects, Bryn Garrett of EYRC Architects and this conversation is moderated by Duan Tran of KAA Design Group. Thank you to Convo By Design partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Design Hardware for making the podcast possible and thank you for listening and watching these episodes of the show. For links to all our partners, guests on this episode, WestEdge Design Fair, Marbe and BR Home.

For those not familiar … The Banana Republic lifestyle brand portfolio is known for delivering timeless ready-to-wear styles, and BR Home signals the brand’s transformation into a leading destination for the modern explorer. Expanding across living room, bedroom and dining room furniture as well as lighting, bedding, and home décor, BR Home showcases materials and craftsmanship from around the world, showcasing signature design details, warm, textural layers, natural materials and traditional production techniques.

Please check the podcast show notes for links and you can find that at Convo By Design dot com and click the podcast tab. Thanks for watching and listening. CXD

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Hello. I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with another virtual trip to Dallas Ft. Worth to talk about exceptional design in and amazing, vibrant metroplex…

If you have been listening to the show for any amount of time, you probably know just how fond I am of Fort Worth/ Dallas. A thriving market that has absolutely exploded in the past 20 years. With that population explosion, came an influx of new art, food, design, architecture, music. When this happens, it usually means gentrification, higher housing costs, infill projects, destruction of older dwellings to make room for new ones.

Dallas and Fort Worth have seen all of the above. Which is why it is so important for good stewards, talented creatives, really smart designers to be present as well. That is where Angeline Guido Hall comes in. She’s a Dallas native. Studied interior design at TCU. Angeline knows what makes the Metroplex so special. Designs to the strengths… and because of this, she’s leaving her mark on the design landscape. And you’re going to hear her story. Right after this.

What a great chat. You can hear why I love doing this and this is why it is so rewarding for me to share these stories with you.Thank you to my partners and sponsors, ThermaSol and Design Hardware for your continued and unwavering support of the show and for the design community.

For more stories like these from the design community, please make sure you are subscribing to the podcast, so you receive new episodes automatically when they are published. That way, you never miss an episode. Convo By Design is available everywhere you find your favorite podcasts. Thanks for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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This is another installment of Convo By Design presents WestEdge Wednesday, a look back at all of the incredible programming from the 2023 edition of the WestEdge Design Fair held at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica. These conversations were held on the stage designed by Marbe Designs and presented by BR Home. This is part 7 in our series, entitled Behind the Scenes of the Living by Design Showhouse. This conversation features Embello’s Laiza Cors, and interior designers MA Allen and Bobby Berk. This program is moderated by California Home+Design Editorial Director Lindsey Shook. Thank you to Convo By Design partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for making the podcast possible and thank you for listening and watching these episodes of the show. For links to all our partners, guests on this episode, WestEdge Design Fair, Marbe and BR Home.

For those not familiar … The Banana Republic lifestyle brand portfolio is known for delivering timeless ready-to-wear styles, and BR Home signals the brand’s transformation into a leading destination for the modern explorer. Expanding across living room, bedroom and dining room furniture as well as lighting, bedding, and home décor, BR Home showcases materials and craftsmanship from around the world, showcasing signature design details, warm, textural layers, natural materials and traditional production techniques.

Please check the podcast show notes for links and you can find that at Convo By Design dot com and click the podcast tab. Thanks for watching and listening. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a trip to Alabama. Yes, that Alabama.

I do love sharing the stories of amazing creative types from locales where you would least expect to find them. Jeff Dungan is an extraordinary creative from and remaining in Alabama. Jeff has a gift for clean and modern designs within the framework of traditional architectural ideas. His story and path to architecture is special. His love for rural Alabama is strong and I have come to learn after many years traversing this country of ours that you can learn so much from journeys along the roads less traveled. Many in not most, pretty much all the design and architecture media does not recognize or even pay attention to the design fly-overs and that is to their detriment. Which is also why you should settle in and enjoy this conversation with Jeff Dungan of Jeffery Dungan Architects.

A few announcements before we get into it. Are you enjoying the new content we rolled out so far this year? #WestEdgeWednesdays the Convo By Design #IconRegistry #DrinkingAboutDesign and #TheDesignMessengers. I hope you are. The editorial team wanted to provide a more diverse conversation, to celebrate some of the icons who have appeared on the show, to lean in on the changing nature of the design and architecture industry and collective communities, not the business per se, but the rapidly changing nature of things and how that affects the industry overall. I hope these new brand extensions are providing some inspiration. Make sure that you are subscribing to the show so you receive every new episode automatically when they are published.

Thank you, Jeff. What a great chat. You can hear why I love doing this and this is why it is so rewarding for me to share these stories with you.Thank you to my partners and sponsors, ThermaSol and Design Hardware for your continued and unwavering support of the show and for the design community.

For more stories like these from the design community, please make sure you are subscribing to the podcast, so you receive new episodes automatically when they are published. That way, you never miss an episode. Convo By Design is available everywhere you find your favorite podcasts. Thanks for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman, host and publisher of Convo By Design and this is a new series of the show called The Design Messengers. A Monday episode of the show sharing design trade info you need to know. I have three items of interest for you. The loss of another design industry brand, a new Booklook. Call this something old and something new, about something old.

First up, the loss of another iconic brand. Kelly Moore Paints. The global design business doesn’t have enough brands. Think about it, let’s just look at paint… Sherwin Williams, Farrow and Ball, Benjamin Moore, Behr, Valspar, Backdrop, Rust-Oleum. It sounds like a lot but it’s really not when you think about how many residential, commercial and industrial projects need to be served. When one is lost, you have to wonder why and what the ramifications will be.

As of this writing, Kelly-Moore has not announced its closure on the website or socials, which I find disappointing. If you are going to bail, tell your customers first, as loudly as you can. Yes, you will lose sales, but it’s the right thing to do. Thank goodness for good journalism. On Friday, January 12th, Kelly-Moore Paints in Irving, Texas let hundreds of workers go and in a press release, announced what they call a “… Plan of r Orderly, Ou-of-Court Wind Down of Company Operations.” The company pointed to a decades long legal struggle stemming from asbestos litigation. Kelly-Moore estimated legal liabilities in excess of $170 million. A number, they apparently could not overcome.

The company was founded by William Kelly and William Moore in California, 1946 and acquired by Flacks Group in 2022. Tis is a company that was founded on fair value, fair pricing and offering a designer quality paint to the masses. They were one of the largest independents in the country with over $400 million in annual sales.

From the press release in September 2022, their goals and aspirations were big. “The purchase of Kelly-Moore Paints is part of Flacks Group’s multi-stage investment thesis around industrial companies with strong manufacturing footprints and global distribution. The acquisition, when combined with its existing portfolio company Germany-based Pleuger Industries, puts Flacks Group’s industrial vertical on track to exceed $1 billion in revenues in the next two to three years.” That presser did not age well.

I have a BookLook for you. A new book by Elizabeth and Ethan Finkelstein. They are the founders of @CheapOldHouses and hosts of HGTV’s show by the same name. I am not a huge fan of the made for TV shows about design these days for one main reason, the are not authentic. They aren’t real when it comes to taste, style and design-build. But i’m not a hater, I just want better. And this show is a favorite of mine. I believe Elizabeth and Ethan, I believe in them. I love old houses, renovations and road trips. All of this is incorporated in the show and when I received the book, I found something more to love. The book is a series of short tories about… cheap old houses. The places, people, kids, dogs and how much these homes cost to buy and restore.

This is a big deal and I will tell you as someone who left LA for a smaller town, lives in an old home and one that is in the process of being reimagined, as you can see through the Tulsa Remote Design House segments on the show and videos on our IG feed. I can tell you, leaving the big metropolitan city for a smaller town, in a bigger and older home has been an incredible experience that pre-pandemic would not have seemed like a real possibility. This book is inspirational, aspirational and it is, above all else, authentic.

We live in a time of high housing costs, high mortgage rates, congested, hyper-competitive cities and it doesn’t have to be that way. I think the next 5-10 years is going to provide a fundamental shift in not just how we live, but where we live. The pandemic created the opportunity for us to work and live where we choose. There will be those who say, “I love nYC and I’m never leaving.” There are people like me who love LA… I mean, I LOVE LA. But I’ve moved before, I might go back. Might not… But the idea that now, technology has caught up with the wanderlust of those, like me who love roadtrips and discovery. This will shine a light on quality of life and crafting your environment to suit life instead of the other way around and this book provides story after story, real world examples of this happening. The joy of finding amazing, old, well-built homes in uncomplicated, simple cities and towns that you have never heard of. And, if you’ve never heard of it, how do you know if you will like it, or perhaps even love it.

There is residential gold in small cities and towns dappled across the country and this book is not just a showcase but a how-to through the eyes and experiences of those who have done it. I do love this book, I am a fan of the Finkelstein’s mission and I am going to try and book them for the show so you can hear from them. Until I do, get the book, because it’s a keeper. It’s published by Clarkson Potter. Check the show notes for a link.

This is The Design Messengers, an audio essay crafted to get your week of to a great start by sharing ideas to launch you into being the best you can be in all your endeavors but specifically, as a creative in the design and architecture space. Thank you for listening. If you are not already a subscriber, please consider subscribing to the show so you receive every episode of The Design Messengers and Convo By Design automatically when they are published. If you are listening to us for the first time, you can find Convo By Design everywhere you find your favorite podcasts. If you are so inclined, please also consider following on IG @ConvoXDesign with an “X”. Thanks again for listening. Be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is another installment of Convo By Design presents WestEdge Wednesday, a look back at all of the incredible programming from the 2023 edition of the WestEdge Design Fair held at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica. These conversations were held on the stage designed by Marie Designs and presented by BR Home. This is part six in our series, entitled Leveling Up: How the Minimizing Waste Leads to Better Designing Better Business. The design industry disposes of over 12 million tons of furniture and generates 500 million tons of construction waste in the U.S. every year. Interior designers, architects, general contractors and manufacturers are spearheading design solutions for a low waste future. Learn how this is better for our health, the planet and your business. This panel includes Claudia Afshar of Claudia Afshar Design, Rachael Grochowski or RHG A+D and Greg Roth of CarbonShack Design. Moderating this conversation is Women in Luxury Design’s Jennifer Convy. Thank you to Convo By Design partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for making the podcast possible and thank you for listening and watching these episodes of the show. For links to all our partners, guests on this episode, WestEdge Design Fair, Marbe and BR Home.

For those not familiar … The Banana Republic lifestyle brand portfolio is known for delivering timeless ready-to-wear styles, and BR Home signals the brand’s transformation into a leading destination for the modern explorer. Expanding across living room, bedroom and dining room furniture as well as lighting, bedding, and home décor, BR Home showcases materials and craftsmanship from around the world, showcasing signature design details, warm, textural layers, natural materials and traditional production techniques. Please check the podcast show notes for links and you can find that at Convo By Design dot com and click the podcast tab. Thanks for watching and listening, Here’s Jennifer Convy.

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I’m Josh Cooperman, this is Convo By Design and today, we are taking a little trip. Actually, it’s a really long trip. About as far away as you can get really. We’re going to Australia. Yep. Down Under.

Katarina is a really interesting creative. One who says, on her website that during 2023, when this was recorded, she will take on no more than 6 projects. She has a simple and singular focus on luxury and what that entails in her design work. She defines luxury as a “richness” as it applies to the experience of living. You are going to hear us talk about luxury quite a bit and what it means to her, how its applied in her projects and what her clients in the Americas, Asia and Australia are asking of her.

It’s an interesting idea, what does luxury mean by geographical standards? How does the definition of luxury change. Why is it so important?

A few announcements before we get into it. Are you enjoying the new content we rolled out so far this year? #WestEdgeWednesdays the Convo By Design #IconRegistry #DrinkingAboutDesign and #TheDesignMessengers. I hope you are. The editorial team wanted to provide a more diverse conversation, to celebrate some of the icons who have appeared on the show, to lean in on the changing nature of the design and architecture industry and collective communities, not the business per se, but the rapidly changing nature of things and how that affects the industry overall. I hope these new brand extensions are providing some inspiration. Make sure that you are subscribing to the show so you receive every new episode automatically when they are published.

Thank you Katarina for taking the time to speak with me. I love doing this and this is why it is so rewarding for me to share these stories with you.Thank you to my partners and sponsors, ThermaSol and Design Hardware for your continued and unwavering support of the show and for the design community.

For more stories like these from the design community, please make sure you are subscribing to the podcast, so you receive new episodes automatically when they are published. That way, you never miss an episode. Convo By Design is available everywhere you find your favorite podcasts. Thanks for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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It’s not fair, really. If you think about it…It’s one thing to be immensely talented at one creative endeavor, but nowadays, everyone’s an overachiever. This is another installment of Drinking About Design, a journey into the less explored aspects of design, art and architecture. This installment is a fun one, for a litany of reasons, and not just because we’re drinking, but that doesn’t hurt.

Just to reset the table for you. In the summer of 2020, the pandemic was in full effect. We were all locked in and trying to figure out what was going to happen next. You remember, you were doing the exact same thing. So, besides the day drinking and looking up old friends on Facebook, I was trying to learn new ways to be socially engaged. One of things I did during that time was binge watch Drunk History, Dinner for Five and Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown and No Reservations. Ground breaking shows that I never could find the time to watch before.

I became enamored with the skill by which Anthony Bourdain found a complete language revolving around found and association to society, how Jon Favreau could take 4 celebrities and craft a vibrant tableau out of each of the stories shared around a table. How Derek Waters told stories through the honest interpretations of historical events through the drunken lens of comics woven together as a tapestry featuring some of the funniest people working in Hollywood.

Then all of a sudden, it was over. Things opened up all at once and we all got busy. Really busy. I’ve been missing some of those evenings at the virtual bar, My virtual bar is called, Big D Energy. Big Design Energy for my Hip Hop loving friends. I wouldn’t want you to get the wrong idea.

Now, this installment is a fun one and features, Michael Imber, Ankie Barnes, Steve Rugo, Tom Kligerman and Douglas C. Wright. 5 architects, friends with a passion for whisky and a love for painting in watercolor. Some are a bit better at it, I’m not going to say who…but they will. These five creatives are extremely accomplished in their chosen profession, they are extraordinarily talented artists, they are well traveled, and we talk about this and so much more.

Old Fashioned Ingredients – AllRecipes.comThese are the ingredients you’ll need to make this top-rated old fashioned recipe:

• Simple syrup: Use store-bought simple syrup or make your own at home.
• Water: A teaspoon of water helps bring out the flavor of the bourbon.
• Bitters: Use store-bought bitters or make your own at home.
• Ice: Traditional old fashioned cocktails are served over ice.
• Bourbon: Of course, you’ll need bourbon! You can use rye whiskey instead, if you like.
• Garnishes: Garnish your old fashioned with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry.

Welcome to the Big D Energy, a virtual pub at the sketchy outskirts of the internet. We’re talking about art, architecture, travel, and having fun with a few pops among friends. Cozy up to the bar, grab a drink and enjoy this conversation with the Whiskey Watercolor Club.

Thanks for listening to this installment of Drinking About Design featuring the Whiskey Watercolor Club. Thank you, Tom, Ankie, Michael, Douglas and Steve for sharing your stories and incredible talents. Thank you for doing this. For notes, drink recipe’s and further links to the stories and work you heard about here, check the show notes. Thanks for listening. Cheers.

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is another installment of Convo By Design presents WestEdge Wednesday, a look back at all of the incredible programming from the 2023 edition of the WestEdge Design Fair held at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica. These conversations were held on the stage designed by Marie Designs and presented by BR Home. This is part five in our series, entitled Rise of the Machines: How AI will Revolutionize the Design Industry. This conversation is moderated by yours truly and features Rachel Joy Victor, a designer, strategist, and worldbuilder, working with emergent technologies and mediums (XR, AI, web3) to create computational narrative, brand, and product experiences where systems & humans meet and Joshua Dawson, film director known for incorporating the built environment as an essential character in his films. In his body of work, termed “Speculative Climate Futures,” he seamlessly melds CGI and live-action to explore water politics, resource extraction, and the impact of climate change on low-income communities of color. Dawson, a Master’s graduate in Advanced Architectural Studies from the University of Southern California. Joshua’s short films have premiered at festivals worldwide and have been showcased on platforms like Canal 180, the National Museum of Australia, and Vice Motherboard. Notably, his work has won the Jury Prize for Best Science Fiction Film at the Oscar-qualifying Cinequest Film Festival and a Core77 Design Award. Recently, Joshua was honored with a comprehensive profile in The New York Times and interviewed by the weather channel. Beyond his directorial role, Dawson extends his expertise as a World Builder and Conceptual Design consultant to Hollywood productions. Thank you to Convo By Design partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for making the podcast possible and thank you for listening and watching these episodes of the show. For links to all our partners, guests on this episode, WestEdge Design Fair, Marbe and BR Home.

For those not familiar … The Banana Republic lifestyle brand portfolio is known for delivering timeless ready-to-wear styles, and BR Home signals the brand’s transformation into a leading destination for the modern explorer. Expanding across living room, bedroom and dining room furniture as well as lighting, bedding, and home décor, BR Home showcases materials and craftsmanship from around the world, showcasing signature design details, warm, textural layers, natural materials and traditional production techniques.

Please check the podcast show notes for links and you can find that at Convo By Design dot com and click the podcast tab. Thanks for watching and listening. Be well and take today first. – CXD

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I’m josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a conversation with designer Laura Thornton about streamlining the design experience. And, this one hits very close to home. As I have mentioned on many occasions, I am working on the Tulsa Remote Design House. This is a real project, working with real designers who do not come to Tulsa. Their work is virtual and remote while the project is real. The experience of design is everything. Right?

What goes into providing a wonderful experience for those who provide design and architecture services? What is more important a wonderful experience or the finest products and materials? Sometimes, there are choices that need to be made in which one must choose one over the other. There is a quote on Laura’s website, “I have two things I live by: Buy things you love, they will never tire + Classics never go out of style.” But if you scroll the ‘gram, all you hear about are trends and what’s hot versus what’s not. We’re not going to be talking about that so, tune out the noise and enjoy this conversation with designer Laura Thornton.

Thank you Laura for taking the time to speak with me. This is why I love doing this and why it is so rewarding for me to share these stories with you.Thank you to my partners and sponsors, ThermaSol, Design Hardware for your continued and unwavering support of the show and for the design community.

For more stories like these from the design community, please make sure you are subscribing to the podcast, so you receive new episodes automatically when they are published. That way, you never miss an episode. Convo By Design is available everywhere you find your favorite podcasts. Thanks for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a very special episode. Part of a new series of the show and something that I have been considering for quite some time but I specifically wanted to complete year 10 of the show before I rolled this out.

Do you know that in the 11+ years of Convo By Design, I have published over 450 episodes, spoken with over 600 creatives, produced over 5 dozen panel conversations for design events across the country. From all of these amazing conversations with the worlds greatest creative talent, I wanted. to start enshrining some of these individuals into the Convo By Design Icon Registry, a hall of fame if you will.

I don’t do contests and I most certainly don’t do lists. Lists are gimmicks designed to capture clicks. They are, click bait pure and simple. You cannot tell me that a list of 50, 75 or 100 designers and architects are the absolute best at what they do without providing context. Lists are created in the hopes that those who are being listed will promote the accolades and that attention will be driven back to the author of the list. And contests where creatives have to reach out to their base to get them to vote for them is just wrong in my opinion. Because, if someone is amazing at what they do… Celebrate that, no strings attached. And that is what we are going to do here.

Now, the criteria… Each inductee has been a guest on Convo By Design. They have a body of work that is exceptional in their various disciplines and there is no justification required for their world class status. They give back to the industry, they are innovators, givers and make our industry better than they found it. This project is called the Convo By Design Icon Registry, because that is what this is, tantamount to a hall of fame, but more. What is an ICON? Described as an icon; A person or thing regarded as a representative symbol or as worthy of veneration. A registry is a well curated list. You can consider this a venerable who’s who in our industry with gifts to offer and a willingness to share. Pablo Picasso is credited with saying, “the meaning of life is to find your gift and the purpose of life is to give it away”. Now, I am not suggesting that those enshrined in the Icon Registry have all just been giving away their gifts. These are professionals of the highest order and part of being a professional is knowing your worth and understanding your value. Each of these individuals have appeared on Convo By Design, shared what they know for the betterment of others, and I am deeply appreciative for that. This is the most authentic way that I can express my gratitude for that. As deeply appreciative as I am for their sharing, I am equally grateful for your taking the time to share a few moments, an hour out of your busy schedule each week to listen to the show. Again, the most authentic way that I can express that gratitude is to give you an opportunity to hear them again. Every month, the last Thursday of the month, unless it’s a holiday week, in which case I will publish a week sooner, I will share a new inductee with you.

Bunny Williams:

This, the inaugural Convo By Design Icon Registry episode inductee is the incomparable, godmother of decor, Bunny Williams. The best way for me to share her journey with you is to allow her to tell her stories, in her own words. So, here is the conversation I had with Bunny during the heart of the pandemic, via Zoom in front of a live remote audience. This is the first inductee to the Convo By Design Icon Registry, Bunny Williams.

Thank you Bunny, for your skill, wit, willingness to share, your incredible talent and love of dogs. It was my honor speaking with you and congratulations. Thank you to my partners and sponsors ThermaSol and Design Hardware for making the show possible. Thank you for taking the time to listen to the show and the feedback I receive. Thanks you for your guest and topic suggestions. If not already, please subscribe to the podcast so you receive every episode automatically to your feed.

If you are so inclined, please consider following us on Instagram. Convo X Design with an “X” and we can further the conversation. Thank you for listening and until next week, be well, and take today first. -Convo By Design

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is another installment of Convo By Design presents WestEdge Wednesday, a look back at all of the incredible programming from the 2023 edition of the WestEdge Design Fair held at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica. These conversations were held on the stage designed by Marbe Designs and presented by BR Home. This is part four, entitled Empowering Representation. The Asian American Pacific Islander Experience. As it’s title suggests, what is the nature of that experience in a time when a premium is placed on the experience of things and diversity is no longer spoken about in hushed voices hoping things will get better, but instead voiced full-throated with the understanding that life is better when it includes diverse voices, opinions, colors, races, genders and ideas. This conversation is presented by the Asian American Pacific Islander Design Alliance and features members; Edel Legaspi of Legaspi Courts, Julie Benniardi of ReWeave LA, designer Peti Lau and Will Ngyen of Collective Form. This conversation is moderated by Interiors Magazine’s, Erika Heet. Thank you to Convo By Design partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for making the podcast possible and thank you for listening and watching these episodes of the show. For links to all our partners, guests on this episode, WestEdge Design Fair, Marbe and BR Home.

For those not familiar … The Banana Republic lifestyle brand portfolio is known for delivering timeless ready-to-wear styles, and BR Home signals the brand’s transformation into a leading destination for the modern explorer. Expanding across living room, bedroom and dining room furniture as well as lighting, bedding, and home décor, BR Home showcases materials and craftsmanship from around the world, showcasing signature design details, warm, textural layers, natural materials and traditional production techniques.

Please check the podcast show notes for links and you can find that at Convo By Design dot com and click the podcast tab. Thanks for watching and listening, Here’s Erika Heet.

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a creative who I admire a great deal for a number of reasons not the least of which revolve around her work. Cathy Purple Cherry is an architect with superior vision and a philosophical approach to match.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

The Oasis Alliance – Providing design to those in need.

The company vision revolves around romance, passion and yes, vision. This more than a philosophical approach that matches form and function. This approach is about feel, emotion and experience. That’s magic, when done right. Catchy and her firm do it right. And you are going to hear all about that, right after this.

Thank you Cathy for taking the time to talk. This is why I love doing this and why it is so rewarding for me to share these stories with you.Thank you to my partners and sponsors, ThermaSol, Design Hardware and Moya Living for your continued and unwavering support of the show and for the design community.

For more stories like these from the design community, please make sure you are subscribing to the podcast, so you receive new episodes automatically when they are published. That way, you never miss an episode. Convo By Design is available everywhere you find your favorite podcasts. Thanks for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is another installment of Convo By Design presents WestEdge Wednesday, a look back at all of the incredible programming from the 2023 edition of the WestEdge Design Fair held at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica. These conversations were held on the stage designed by Marbe Designs and presented by BR Home. This is the third installment, called Back to Work, From Home? A look at what it means to design meaningful work spaces that make employees actually want to come back to the office. It’s not easy shedding you comfy pants and slippers to match your work attire on top. So, what goes into designing, crafting and executing on a work space from which workers can thrive? These are just a few concepts addressed by this uber-talented group of creatives. This panel was presented by the IIDA and was moderated by the IIDA’s own, Cheryl Durst and features Scott Parker of Studio One Eleven, Bjorn Schrader of Abramson Architects, Ashley Richardson of EYRC Architects, Bill Bouchey of Gensler and Sarah Devine of Revel. Thank you to Convo By Design partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for making the podcast possible and thank you for listening and watching these episodes of the show. For links to all our partners, guests on this episode, WestEdge Design Fair, Marbe and BR Home.

For those not familiar … The Banana Republic lifestyle brand portfolio is known for delivering timeless ready-to-wear styles, and BR Home signals the brand’s transformation into a leading destination for the modern explorer. Expanding across living room, bedroom and dining room furniture as well as lighting, bedding, and home décor, BR Home showcases materials and craftsmanship from around the world, showcasing signature design details, warm, textural layers, natural materials and traditional production techniques.

Please check the podcast show notes for links and you can find that at Convo By Design dot com and click the podcast tab. Thanks for watching and listening, Here’s Cheryl Durst.

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a conversation about creativity and seamless storytelling in design. What is that all about. Stick around.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Without steam, it’s just a bathroom.

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

The Oasis Alliance – Providing design to those in need.

Anne Michaelsen and I first met at the apex of the pandemic. I went and shot her project in Newport Beach, California. One of the things that immediately struck me when I first walked in was just that, the seamlessness in the storytelling as told by the design. The home sat on a plateau overlooking the Pacific Ocean with zones from outdoor cooking to one of the most amazing sunken fire pits I have ever seen. Everything had its place and was connected to each other zone for an easy and meaningful transition to the next space. Most writers, journalists and others who cover the industry don’t speak enough or at all about the negative spaces that connect the feature areas. How the transitions add to the overall aesthetic, movement and functionality for the work. I love that part of the work and Anne is an absolute master in this regard. Enjoy my conversation with designer and visionary, Anne Michaelsen.

Thank you Anne for taking the time to talk. This is why I love doing this and why it is so rewarding for me to share these stories with you.Thank you to my partners and sponsors, ThermaSol, Design Hardware and Moya Living for your continued and unwavering support of the show and for the design community.

For more stories like these from the design community, please make sure you are subscribing to the podcast, so you receive new episodes automatically when they are published. That way, you never miss an episode. Convo By Design is available everywhere you find your favorite podcasts. Thanks for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman, host and publisher of Convo By Design with something brand new for you. A Monday episode of the show, called The Design Messengers. I think you’re going to like this for a number of reason not the least of which is that this is going to make your design business stronger because together, we are going to start thinking differently about this industry and ways to do it better, faster, smarter.

Let me remind you, I’m a journalist, not a designer, and certainly not a consultant, I have interviewed some of the very best in the business and have shared techniques, strategies and ideas that allow you to execute better on your design business. Or, if you are a consumer, of which I hear from many who listen to the show, you know this helps you select the right creative for you, interview designers with a keen understanding of what you want which allows you better to select who is going to be your best partner.

I have said this a few times and that is one of the main drivers for launching this new brand extension of the podcast. Podcasts are fantastic for learning, entertainment and companionship. What do I have against consultants? Nothing at all. I think business advice is one of the most valuable things you can do to grow a strong and healthy business. Why would you take the advice of a marketer/ consultant who doesn’t really know the technical side of your industry? A former designer who couldn’t make it in the business but instead decides to host a podcast to tell other designers what they couldn’t do or starts a consulting business to share the in’s and out’s of a business that has dramatically changed since they were in the game? Does this sound mean? It’s not intended to be. It is intended to make you think about the information you consume and the purpose it is intended to serve. Let’s be clear, Convo By Design is about storytelling. I am a mirror on the industry with an opinion. I will continue to share my ideas with you, but I don’t:

1. Tell you what to do.
2. Tell you what to buy.
3. Tell you how to think.
4. Tell you who is not getting the job done.
5. Tell you how great I am, or all of the wonderful things I have done to make you believe me.
6. Tell you to believe what I share with you. If you do, you do and if you don’t, that’s cool too.

I will tell you about my experience and share it in context. That context is to position the next story. As a journalist, I’m not here to sell you anything. Not products, services, trips, club memberships, subscriptions. Nothing excepts stories. Stories about our incredible business researched and crafted to help strengthen our industry. Stories that I hope you find interesting and help you think differently about what it is you do. I present a thought and you have a reaction to it.

Why is this important?

I have told you about my time in radio broadcasting. When I first started, it was the early nineties, I was fresh out of college with bright eyes, a curious mind and wanted to succeed. Shortly after, the Telecommunications Act of 1996 was signed into law. This law deregulated cable service, made some technical changes with regard to censorship options parents could use on individual TV’s but the big thing for me that I did not understand at the time was lifting of the cap on the number of stations radio operators could own. I’ll go straight to the last page and share the ending. It killed local radio. the radio that was local, special and truly unique to your city. If you look at radio in any of the listenership ratings in major markets, medium markets or even most small markets, you will find the same 5 or 6 companies O/O the top stations in each market because they O/O almost all the stations. Radio was once a vibrant, diverse and varied group of individual operators who could be creative in their presentation of the music playlist, personalities in each daypart, the amount of time DJ’s could talk between songs. That is not the case today and if you would like to know why, you can draw a line to the Telcom Act of 1996. I think it stifled creativity in a meaningful way, limited the type of new music we were exposed to and irrevocably changed the future of music by making way for Napster, Apple Music, Spotify and YouTube amongst a host of others which is why we use media differently these days and why radio is what it is. How many of you listen to over-the-air radio? Depending on your generation, it probably drops precipitously.

Industries change based on business climate and appetite for what they offer. The design industry has lost a number of incredible titles over the past years and it’s not just here in the US. This is not just a design industry issue, every category of print is suffering and as both a journalist and lover of design, it saddens me. The pressures on the industry have been caused by a number of factors that includes the cost of paper, printing, paying good writers and the proliferation of digital options. And the outlook for print is not improving with the latest in AI, ease of digital content creation and the subscription squeeze.

The purpose of The Design Messenger series is to keep you abreast of new developments, the latest media and business ideas. Yes, I am a mirror on the industry but I also have a take and I plan on sharing this take with you measured against facts, opinion and results.

Would you really want a former stock broker telling you what your clients want and how you should specify your work? I wouldn’t. So, if you want to know how to better keep your books, find a great content hosted by an accountant. There are many truly amazing podcasts hosted by lawyers about contracts, hiring managers share best practices about hiring and recruiting. With only so many hours in the day, why not prioritize the “free” time you do have and make that information count. Please understand, there are also a number of wonderful shows hosted by actual working designers sharing their strategies with you and that is amazing. Those shows should be in your queue.

This is also a living, breathing idea that has changed in real time, because that is the new reality. Over the years, I have shared business ideas with you. Not the blocking and tackling of your day to day, but what is happening in the world of creative businesses and what others are doing, perhaps in other industries that you might be able to use to execute better on your day to day. Monday’s on The Design Messenger episodes of Convo By Design, you will find actionable ways to start your week, perhaps thinking a bit differently about this vibrant and diverse industry of ours. Perhaps we will be talking about AI, stock market financials of some of the biggest companies in the design space. Why, because you can learn a great deal about what the clients are spending on by the performance of these companies. The Design Messenger episodes will also be sharing trending ideas in the business that allow you to know whats coming well before they become the trends that the trade pubs tell you are the next “must haves”.

What’s the point? Have you ever heard of Evolutionary Adaptation? Evolutionary adaptation is what organisms do by way of adapting to the changing circumstances of their environment to improve their chances of survival. In the wild, the attached article demonstrates how birds eyes are getting smaller to account for light pollution. Have you noticed that most schools have perimeter fences where there were none 5, 10 years ago. We all know why that is happening. But we rarely think about it. This is not about a color for this year, but an adaptive change that designers, architects, landscape architects can use to do more, better business. On the show, we have been talking about the multi-kitchen household. Conventional design thought had one kitchen in the home and some form of exposed fire for cooking outdoors. Look at what the industry has done with the outdoor kitchen, working kitchens, butlers Pantry and scullery. Many a landscape architect are now experts in the outdoor culinary pavilion. That should be the domain of the interior designer. That is a business extension given away because it happens to reside on the other side of the threshold. If you could add an $80,000+ room to every project you design, would you? You can listen back some episodes ago where I share the story of the record companies vs. radio. And radio vs. Apple. Same exact thing but it happened in the 1990’s. As Mark Twain said, “History may not repeat itself, but it rhymes.” We will certainly be exploring more of these ideas.

Think differently about what you say.

In November of 2023, I produced the programming lounge at the WestEdge Design Fair as I have for many of the 8 editions of the show. In preparation for casting and while ideating new and different programming concepts, I did a great deal of research and if you are a designer, architect, showroom owner, manufacturer or anyone else that i would consider for the programming stage, its an interview for which many don’t even know they are being interviewed. And, I am not alone in this. As a journalist, every contributor, editor, publisher should be looking at the social media of those with whom we might want to work. I have been watching the social media feeds of many creatives and I think it warrants mentioning that your social media feed might be costing you opportunities.

It doesn’t matter what you think about wars around the world, when you take a side, you are offending those who believe the other side of the conflict. This not only affects the usual third-rails like politics and religion but everything… The false consensus effect is the idea that individuals are predisposed to the idea that their own beliefs and ideas are correct. It’s a cognitive bias. It’s the idea that others believe what they believe.

You might very well be costing yourself, your firm, your brand by posting the non-endemic commentary. By endemic, I refer to your company goals, ideals and values. You will rarely see in the “about” section of any website what a firm or individuals “values” or “morals” happen to be. Many I have spoken with say that they limit what they share in their “about” to be vague. As not to offend or limit who might be interested in what they do, potential clients,, editors, etc. Yet, their social profiles scream of things many would never discuss were they on a programming stage in front of a live and engaged audience.

I will tell you that as a programmer, I will not cast someone who has the tendency to veer off course and potentially derail a focused conversation. The biggest problem here is that the individuals who do this have no idea that there were consequences for their opinions. If you have a business profile, use that to promote your business philosophy. Save your personal views for your personal or your burner profile.

There is a showroom owner I follow on social media. I don’t follow this individual because I like their commentary. I do like much of what they produce, and no, I will not be sharing the name of this individual here. I use them as an adverse example. I “what not to do” sample, if you will. When speaking in person with creatives to demonstrate this idea and this particular showroom owner is the perfect example of what NOT to do. Why? First, they live for lists. We have spoken about “lists” before and why I dislike them as much as I do. They use big name designers in these lists in the hopes of getting said designers to repost. It’s marketing, yes. But it’s pedestrian and purely click-bait. This individual also takes shots at other showrooms. This is a terrible idea for a litany of reasons not the least of which is that it just makes you a jerk in the eyes of those specifiers who use that brands product in their work. If you were to stand in front of a group and simply trash brands because you don’t like them, the odds are not in your favor that you would exit that environment with a positive outcome. And while vague, that can mean a number of things like diminished reputation, loss of sales and or influence within the design community. Free speech you say. We all know that free speech has consequences. You can say it. But, you then have to live with the consequences. Life is hard enough as it is. Don’t go out of your way to make it more difficult. I read an article called, Why the Past 10 Years of American Life Have Been Uniquely Stupid, by Jonathan Haidt from the May 2022Issue of The Atlantic. Haight makes reference to the tower of Babel. It’s a great read and makes some interesting points about how our ideas, language and deployment of our ideas has become an incomprehensible mess.

Thinking differently about your words and context is vital to not just your success, but the success of our industry. I have mentioned my days in radio before and that is the perfect industry to use as one that had it all. For decades, radio enjoyed a monopolistic rarity, still does for those companies that own radio frequencies on the AF and FM bands. Same for TV. But, they took this for granted, lacked vision and imagination. Now, they do not enjoy that same exclusivity because you can watch, listen and publish anytime, anywhere on so many different platforms, they cannot all be mentioned here. Same story for the record labels and General Motors which could have had the absolute exclusive on electric vehicles for decades which might have meant on Tesla, no Rivian, no Fisker, no Prius. Do you think if they knew then what they know now, they might have done things differently?

This is The Design Messengers, an audio essay crafted to get your week of to a great start by sharing ideas to launch you into being the best you can be in all your endeavors but specifically, as a creative in the design and architecture space. Thank you for listening. If you are not already a subscriber, please consider subscribing to the show so you receive every episode of The Design Messengers and Convo By Design automatically when they are published. If you are listening to us for the first time, you can find Convo By Design everywhere you find your favorite podcasts. If you are so inclined, please also consider following on IG @ConvoXDesign with an “X”. Be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with another installment of Convo By Design presents WestEdge Wednesday, a look back at all of the incredible programming from the 2023 edition of the WestEdge Design Fair. These conversations were held live on the stage crafted by Marbe Designs and presented by BR Home. This conversation is entitled, Under Construction, Building Communities with Purpose. This chat features Actor, producer and author, Malinda Williams, entrepreneur Kynderly Haskins, University of Southern California’s Lauren Dandridge and designer and founder of Blackbird House, Bridgid Coulter Cheadle. This talk focuses on the building of actual communities through a co-working and event venue called Blackbird House in Culver City, California. This space was created to provide a safe and welcoming space for women of color and allies as they say, “to create positive change by providing safe space for collaboration both virtually and in-person.” But, there’s more to it. The why, how and how can concepts like these can both enhance the quality of work and quality of life simultaneously. Thank you for listening to this episode of the podcast. For more, please make sure you are subscribing to the feed and check our IG often for new conversations. This chat was amazing and was held live on the stage designed by Marbe Designs and presented by BR Home.

For those not familiar … The Banana Republic lifestyle brand portfolio is known for delivering timeless ready-to-wear styles, and BR Home signals the brand’s transformation into a leading destination for the modern explorer. Expanding across living room, bedroom and dining room furniture as well as lighting, bedding, and home décor, BR Home showcases materials and craftsmanship from around the world, showcasing signature design details, warm, textural layers, natural materials and traditional production techniques.

For links to everything associated with this conversation, please check the podcast episode notes accessible from the “podcast” tab from Convo By Design. Thanks for watching and listening, here’s Bridgid.

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I’m Josh Cooperman, host and publisher of Convo By Design with something new for you. Dropping this on Friday, for a very good reason. You’re going to want to get a drink, we’ll wait…

In the summer of 2020, the pandemic was in full effect. We were all locked in and trying to figure out what was going to happen next. You remember, you were doing the exact same thing. So, besides the day drinking and looking up old friends on Facebook, I was trying to learn new ways to be socially engaged. On at least one occasion, John McClain, Erik Peterson and I, met via Zoom to share a few pops and tell stories. One of things I did during that time was binge watch Drunk History, Dinner for Five and Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown and No Reservations. Ground breaking shows that I never could find the time to watch before.

I became enamored with the skill by which Anthony Bourdain found a complete language revolving around found and association to society, how Jon Favreau could take 4 celebrities and craft a vibrant tableau out of each of the stories shared around a table. How Derek Waters told stories through the honest interpretations of historical events through the drunken lens of comics woven together as a tapestry featuring some of the funniest people working in Hollywood.

Then all of a sudden, it was over. Things opened up all at once and we all got busy. Really busy. I’ve been missing some of those evenings at the virtual bar, My virtual bar is called, Big D Energy. Big Design Energy for my Hip Hop loving friends. I wouldnt want you to get the wrong idea.

So I got an idea that I have been toying with for about 2 years and I finally got a chance to do it. And what better way to launch this than to reunite with John and Erik.

John McClain tells the story of William Haines I’m also sharing an interesting story you might find illuminating.

Erik Peterson is talking about Al Beadle. You have probably never heard of Al Beadle? Well, you will now.

This is just 3 friends getting together at the local virtual watering hole, talking a little shit and telling stories. And, yes, this is very different than the episodes of the show you have heard in the past. We’re drinking and this episode carries the Explicit label. If you are sensitive to some salty language, you might want to delete this episode and move on to the next one. With that, I give you the first installment of Drinking About Design.

This was the first installment of Drinking About Design featuring John McClain and Erik Peterson sharing stories about William Haines and Al Beadle. Two incredible talents, and good friends. Thank you both for doing this. For notes, drink recipe’s and further links to the stories and work you heard about here, check the show notes. Thanks for listening. Cheers.

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I’m Josh Cooperman with Convo By Design and this is the first of a 10 part series called Convo By Design presents WestEdge Wednesday’s with conversation held at the WestEdge Design Fair in late November, 2023 from Barker Hanger in Santa Monica, California.

This conversation features Moya O’Neill of Moya Living,Nancy Russert of Les Beaux Interiors and Twist Custom, Lenora Aguilar and Judy Davis of Vintage Junktion and moderated by Luxe Magazine’s Kelly Phillips Badal. This is a conversation called, Up-Cycled, Recycled, Repurposed, Local and Fabulous; Specifying and Sourcing Locally. The idea here is that design has entered a new era. One that is not defined by beauty or expense alone. We have entered an experiential phase of interior design, landscape design, exteriors and architecture. One that places a greater value on the experience and enjoyment of materiality, objects and usefulness of things as opposed to simply how expensive, luxurious or rare things happen to be.

Thank you for listening to this episode of the podcast. For more, please make sure you are subscribing to the feed and check our IG often for new conversations. This chat was amazing and was held live on the stage designed by Marbe Designs and presented by BR Home.

For those not familiar … The Banana Republic lifestyle brand portfolio is known for delivering timeless ready-to-wear styles, and BR Home signals the brand’s transformation into a leading destination for the modern explorer. Expanding across living room, bedroom and dining room furniture as well as lighting, bedding, and home décor, BR Home showcases materials and craftsmanship from around the world, showcasing signature design details, warm, textural layers, natural materials and traditional production techniques.

For links to everything associated with this conversation, please check the podcast episode notes accessible from the “podcast” tab from Convo By Design.

Thank you Moya, Judy, Lenora, Nancy and Kelly for your incredible insights, knowledge base and willingness to share your gifts. So, let’s get to it. Here’s Kelly Phillips Badal.

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In October, I headed out for Round Rock, Texas to help celebrate ThermaSol’s 65th anniversary. A few thoughts before I share the details of this happening. If you have listened to the show for any amount of time over the past four years, you have heard me telling you about ThermaSol, they are the presenting partner of the podcast and I have had the good fortune to both tour the factory and spend some time with Mitch Altman, 3rd generation president and CEO of ThermaSol. On this most recent trip, I also had the opportunity to sit with Murray Altman, 2nd generation president and CEO, and Mitch’s father.

I am a fan of ThermaSol for a number of reasons, not the least of which is that we have been working together for quite some time. I have seen how Mitch runs his company, how he treats his employees, his customers and the design talent who specify ThermaSol for their projects. I am also a fan of ThermaSol for the manner in which they make their products. With care, with skill and with both the best engineering practices as well as a policy of line testing every unit before it leaves the factory. No other company in the space that I know of provides the same level of pride in manufacturing and then stands by the product for life. It just doesn’t seem to exist elsewhere. But it does at ThermaSol, and you are about to hear why.

The story behind the design is what designers are looking for on behalf of their clients now and that is a great thing. Product quality should be rewarded, business should be awarded to companies who look out for their clients and customers. Offering the best in the industry should warrant designer and client loyalty, I believe this, full stop. If you haven’t yet looked into ThermaSol, this episode is for you. And if you are one of the premier designers who specify ThermaSol, I hope you enjoy this episode as well because it will give you a deeper and more nuanced narrative to share.

In this episode of the podcast, you are going to first hear my conversation with Mitch Altman, then you will hear from Murray Altman. Following that, you are going to hear from two extraordinary creatives who were the recipients of ThermaSol’s design awards for their work in bathroom and steam shower design. Nadja Pentic of Knock Knock Design and Allison Cottet of House of Cottet created some amazing designs and I am really happy to share them with you. So let’s get to it, right after this.

So, there you go. The story comes full circle when you hear what the goal was at the company’s founding 65 years ago and what it has become since. Innovators, creators and purveyors of the finest steam generators on the market today. Crafted with purpose and precision. Each tested on the line before it leaves the factory and comes with a lifetime warranty. Hopefully you understand why I am such a fan. Thank you Mitch, Murray, Allison and Nadja for sharing your story and exquisite work. Thank you to my partners and sponsors, ThermaSol, Design Hardware and Moya Living for your continued and unwavering support of the show and for the design community.

For more stories like these from the design community, please make sure you are subscribing to the podcast, so you receive new episodes automatically when they are published. That way, you never miss an episode. Convo By Design is available everywhere you find your favorite podcasts. Thanks for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. I have no interview to share with you today. No spectacular chat about design, no upcoming promotion, no BOOKLOOK, nope. Just two simple words followed by a few more to expand on the thought. Thank you.

Thank you for taking the time to listen to the show, email me with guest suggestions and show ideas. Thank you for coming out to Convo By Design events, watching and liking the silly videos on IG, subscribing to the show and for supporting the sponsors of the show.

Speaking of which, thank you to my partners and sponsors, ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware. Your support of the show is what allows me and our editorial team to do this. Your support of the design and architecture community is special and I’m thankful for you.

Thank you to the guests who take the time to share a bit of themselves, their skill and that special something that has catapulted them to the levels at which we find them. Thank you to Soho Home in West Hollywood for serving as the location for our 10th anniversary celebration. 10 years. Cannot believe I have been doing this show for that long. Like any success, nobody does it alone. No one. We all have help form friends as well as the generosity of strangers. I have never met most of you who listen to the show. But you listen, and I’m thankful. I have met a number of listeners at events where I attend and speak. This year alone, Las Vegas Market, KBIS, West Hollywood Design District, ASID Orange County, the A&D Building in New York, Dallas Market Center and WestEdge Design Fair. To all my publicist friends, thank you for trusting me with your clients. To the brands I work with, thank you for trusting me with your messaging and content production. To the designers and architects with whom I have spoken this year and the previous years, thank you for making the time to tell your stories on the show.

To all of you within the sound of my voice, thank you and I hope this holiday season is everything you want it to be. I hope you get the chance to slow down a bit, maybe even stop for a few days, spend time with friends and loved ones because at the end of the day, that’s what is really important. Well, I promised short. Happy holidays. Be well and until we meet back here, next year, take today first. – CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design and in this episode of the podcast, you are going to hear from designer, Elisa Baran. Baran and her eponymous bi-coastal firm are responsible for some interesting new looks. She has a very unique perspective on materiality, and the meaning of perfection in her work. Part of this includes application of wabi-sabi and brutalism in her otherwise softer and muted work for what is truly a unique new look, one that I believe will gain traction as Elisa garners more attention.

Before we get to my chat with Baran, it’s time for another BOOKLOOK segment of the show featuring; Homes By Byrd, The Art and Architecture of Robert Byrd and His Son Gary, a new offering by Chris Lukather showcasing the work of Robert Byrd and his son Gary, as the title suggests. This book is an amazingly fun trot down memory lane for people like me who grew up in SoCal and love architecture. Byrd rose to prominence at a time when one could perform the work of an architect without actually being a licensed architect. For those of you who listened to the tragic story of 1001 North Roxbury. In that situation, not Byrd, but Carlton L. Burgess designed a world-class home despite not being a licensed architect.

I wonder if he had been licensed, if that might have dampened his creative approach to residential design? First Robert Byrd and then later, work by his son, Gary represent some of the most identifiable architecture of the San Fernando Valley. The whimsical approach to residential design with flagstone patios, leaded glass windows, fun and fanciful brickwork, shingles and forever views of pools, canyons, yards and open spaces. Low slung walls with rooflines that seemingly extend off cliffs. Turret-like chimneys, all lend to the feeling of the San Fernando Valley from the perspective of a young-Angeleno with a passion for architecture and design. I grew up in a home similar to this and if you are not from LA, though Byrd and his son, Gary did work in other states, this is a SoCal design story. But, the great part is, you don’t need to be from LA to appreciate the Byrds’ work. And it’s right her in this book from Lukather, to view, peruse, learn about and enjoy. The book is called, Homes By Byrd: The Art & Architecture of Robert Byrd and His Son Gary. Check the show notes for a link to buy.

As we explore Elisa Baran’s work, follow along here.

Thank you, Elisa. I am so happy that we finally met and had the opportunity to talk. Thank you for taking the time to share your story and thank you for the work you’re doing. Thank you to my partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for your partnership and support.And, thank you for taking the time out of your day to listen to the show. I hope this allows you to think about things in new ways.

As we put a bow on 2023, there are a few things you should know. I have some really fun, productive and exciting new programming for you in 2024. It includes The Design Messengers, a brand new Monday episode that will cover issues, news, developments and ideas for you to grow your design business. I stopped covering the business of design a few years ago as there was a flood of new podcasts that were covering the business of home and design. That’s not what The Design Messengers is, instead of business tips, this is going to be a synopsized, high level view of new concepts, economic developments, technological advancements and other ideas that I think will help you launch into your week. These episodes will drop on select Mondays. Sometimes, every Monday, sometimes not. But, as long as you are subscribing to the podcast, you will receive them automatically in your feed.

I will also be publishing a new series called WestEdge Wednesday. These will feature the conversations that took place live from the WestEdge Design Fair in Santa Monica, California. If you missed the show, you can hear all the talks as if you were there in person.

I also have two additional new series that will be published to the feed. Throwback Thursdays featuring some of your favorite design talent that have appeared on the show over the past 11 years and Drinking About Design, a Friday series where I get together virtually with fun and amazing design and architecture talent and we uncover stories from the world of design while getting a little loose. I think you are going to really love these and hey, if you are so inclined, plan on listening to the show on a Friday afternoon with a pop or two of your own. It’ll be a thing.

Please keep those emails coming. Convo by design @ outlook.com with show suggestions, guest ideas, just to say ‘hello’ .Thanks again, and until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design featuring a designer I have know about for a long time but only recently had the opportunity to speak with. She is an amazing creative with an incredible perspective on life and design.

It’s true that I have known about Rachel Moriarty for quite some time. Have you ever felt like you really know someone even though you never actually met? That is how this was for me and hen I finally saw her at the Feizy showroom in Las Vegas, I just introduced myself and following that brief introduction, you have the following conversation. I hope you enjoy it.

Thank you, Rachel. I am so happy that we finally met and had the opportunity to talk. Thank you for taking the time to share your story and thank you for the work you’re doing. Thank you to my partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for your partnership and support.And, thank you for taking the time out of your day to listen to the show. I hope this allows you to think about things in new ways.

As we put a bow on 2023, there are a few things you should know. I have some really fun, productive and exciting new programming for you in 2024. It includes The Design Messengers, a brand new Monday episode that will cover issues, news, developments and ideas for you to grow your design business. I stopped covering the business of design a few years ago as there was a flood of new podcasts that were covering the business of home and design. That’s not what The Design Messengers is, instead of business tips, this is going to be a synopsized, high level view of new concepts, economic developments, technological advancements and other ideas that I think will help you launch into your week. These episodes will drop on select Mondays. Sometimes, every Monday, sometimes not. But, as long as you are subscribing to the podcast, you will receive them automatically in your feed.

I will also be publishing a new series called WestEdge Wednesday. These will feature the conversations that took place live from the WestEdge Design Fair in Santa Monica, California. If you missed the show, you can hear all the talks as if you were there in person.

I also have two additional new series that will be published to the feed. Throwback Thursdays featuring some of your favorite design talent that have appeared on the show over the past 11 years and Drinking About Design, a Friday series where I get together virtually with fun and amazing design and architecture talent and we uncover stories from the world of design while getting a little loose. I think you are going to really love these and hey, if you are so inclined, plan on listening to the show on a Friday afternoon with a pop or two of your own. It’ll be a thing.

Please keep those emails coming. Convobydesign@outlook.com with show suggestions, guest ideas, just to say ‘hello’ .Thanks again, and until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a story about giving back. On the show, over the past year, you have heard me talking about The Oasis Alliance, an organization co-designing the personal spaces of trauma survivors. Their vision, clearly stated….The Oasis Alliance envisions a world where every trauma survivor has a dignified place of refuge to refuel and recharge.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

The Oasis Alliance – Providing design to those in need.

The thing about trauma is you can’t just look at them and instinctively see their pain. You don’t know what people have been going through any more than someone else can look at you and know your pain, anxiety, discomfort. If you are a design enthusiast, as in, a fan, perhaps a client, but not in the business but have worked with a designer or architect, you know and have experienced the power of design. Many of the designers I speak with have experienced the gratitude of their clients, the recognition from media or on social platforms that showcase images of the work. But design is more meaningful than that.

Trauma is universal in that everyone experiences it at some point in their lives. For others, life went a direction then otherwise desired. Trauma became a constant and anyone who has experienced or loves someone who has been affected by traumatic events, you know, the scars are invisible and long lasting. A safe space is critical to renewal through recovery.

Design has the power to transform lives from within by providing spaces that have been ideated and crafted to foster wellness, inspire creativity or act as a safe-space, a refuge or even just a place to stop and experience peace and quiet. This conversation features Danielle Woodhouse-Johnson, founder and executive director of The Oasis Alliance. You are going to hear her story and the “why” behind this project, right after this.

Thank you, Danielle. Thank you for taking the time to share your story and thank you for the work you’re doing. Thank you to my partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for your partnership and support.And, thank you for taking the time out of your day to listen to the show. I hope this allows you to think about things in new ways.

Please keep those emails coming. Convo by design @ Outlook.com with show suggestions, guest ideas, just to say ‘hello’ or from this episode, to find out how to be a part of The Oasis Alliance.Thanks again, and until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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Have you ever heard about the “mathematical driven craftsman”? I had never heard the term before but after speaking with the founder of his eponymous, Brooklyn based textile studio, I understand. And I think after hearing his story, you will understand as well.

Woven deep into the fabric of William Storms DNA lies an almost primal desire to create from instinct. To weave a story into the work he crafts and looming large within the narrative is a strong desire to make something never before seen and at a time when there is a premium placed on unique, original, handmade work, William Storms is someone you should know.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

Side note. I do love that hand-made artistry has found its way back into design. I believe craftsmanship matters again. For a while, it was lost due to the proliferation of massed produced, cheaper product from destinations near and far. Craftsmanship matters because i don’t care for cookie-cutter and I think most designers and certainly clients feel the same way. It’s a challenge finding creative artisans and that is one of the reasons why I actively seek them out. And you are going to hear William’s story, right after this.

Thank you, William. Loved our chat, love the work. Thank you for making the time to speak with me. Thank you to my partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for your partnership and support.And, thank you for taking the time out of your day to listen to the show. I hope this allows you to think about things in new ways.

Please keep those emails coming. Convo by design @ outlook.com with show suggestions, guest ideas or just to say ‘hello’, I love hearing from you. Thanks again, and until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with another story about sublime design and in this episode, you are going to hear from Heather Humphrey, principal designer of Park City, Utah and Big Sky, Montana based interior and furniture design company, Alder & Tweed.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

Heather and Reed Humphrey have created a firm that designs both distinct luxury homes and distinct luxury furnishings making them a unique brand. Heather and I talk about their projects, so per usual, please go to the show notes and click on the link to their projects if so inclined and follow along as Heather walks us through some of their more extraordinary work. Of note, Alder & Tweed, as a firm has been fashioned as “curators of the luxury home-away-from-home experience” and the branding is spot on. And by specializing in the second home market, they are working in some of the worlds most amazing locations. And you are going to hear the whole story, right after this.

Thank you, Heather for the time. Exceptional work. Thank you for taking me on this journey through the Rockies and beyond.

Thank you to my partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for your partnership and support. And, thank you for taking the time out of your day to listen to the show. I hope this allows you to think about things in new ways.

Please keep those emails coming. Convo by design @ outlook.com with show suggestions, guest ideas or just to say ‘hello’, I love hearing from you. Thanks again, and until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. Episode 457 of the show with a wonderful creative who crafts one of a kind functional items for the most discerning clientele. This is a really fun story featuring an exquisite creative, simply divine creations and a story to match.

Heath Wagoner of HW Studio tells his story with 7 words. HW Studio is jewelry for the table. As you will hear, it really is. Wagoner is a trained goldsmith who uses traditional methods in metalsmithing to craft, create and ideate functional, artistic objects. Objects meant to be used and thats where this gets fun.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

Imagine you could use a Picasso or an original Banksy in some way other than viewing. I’m not dismissing the one dimensional nature of some art. And some will argue with me vehemently that art is far more than one dimensional. I won’t take the bait. My point, Heath creates precious metal objects to be used at the table. For eating. As a utensil. Further, he uses these objects at happenings like dinner parties for the purpose of…well eating with something other than his hands. And that’s the point. We only get som many trips around the sun and why not make the most of every day by enjoying these objects to the fullest. Thereby crafting an experience, furthering the conversation and engaging with others in unique and authentic ways.

Thank you Heath. Loved our chat. See, isn’t life more interesting when one can take a fresh look at an old object. Think about it and create a whole new way to view it, use it and enjoy it. Absolutely. Thank you to my partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for your partnership and support.And, thank you for taking the time out of your day to listen to the show. I hope this allows you to think about things in new ways.

Please keep those emails coming. Convo by design @ outlook.com with show suggestions, guest ideas or just to say ‘hello’, I love hearing from you. Thanks again, and until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. This Summer, I spent some time back in LA visiting with some very talented designers and I wanted to share some of those conversations with you.

But first, you should know that if you are in LA and listening to this episode the week it was released, November 14th, the WestEdge Design Fair is happening RIGHT NOW and you should come down to Barker Hangar in Santa Monica and take in some of the incredible conversation being produced by yours truly. These are highly curated conversations that were crafted specifically for those in the trade as well as those who love design. So check out @ConvoXDesign with an “X” on IG and message me for more details and tickets. If I have any left, they’re yours for the asking. We’ll be right back with this weeks episode, right after this.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

Thank you Stephanie, Kim, Lorena and Jeanne for your time, loved this. Thank you to Michele Solomons and everyone at Design Hardware for making this space available for having these important conversations. Thank you to my partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for your continued support of both Convo By Design and the design community. A side note, the sponsors and partners you hear on CXD are more than companies with a product, each of the partners I work with have been fully vetted, they are owned and operated by people who love what they do and have dedicated themselves to serving the design community and customers by providing the best products and services available. If you would like to know why I am so proud to have them part of Convo By Design, email me at convobydesign@outlook or on IG @convoxdesign with an “X”. I would be happy to share my experience. Please make sure you are also reaching out with show ideas and guests you would like to hear on the podcast. I love hearing them and it has given me the chance to meet new creatives not already on my radar, so thank you. Thank you for taking the time to listening to the show and share in the experience, until next week, be well and take today first. – CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a visit this week, and in keeping to our NorthEast swing, this is Kevie Murphy of K.A. Murphy Interiors. A Manhasset, NY based firm led by a super-driven creative in Kevie herself. Love this story and I think you will too.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

Follow along and check out her projects here:

Kevie was later than many to the design industry because she first attended Boston University, became an attorney and later a partner at a New York City firm. She and her husband bought a house and she realized she needed some help. Now, you have one logical option, right? Yes, hire a designer. Nope. Kevie realized her love for design and enrolled at the New York School of Interior Design. Exactly. I’ll let Kevie tell the story, but this is one of those incredibly interesting creatives who started in a very different place and is now crafting and creating some exquisite work. And you’ll hear all about it, right after this.

Thank you Kevie, incredible story, love the work. Thank you to my partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for your continued support of both Convo By Design and the design community. A side note, the sponsors and partners you hear on CXD are more than companies with a product, each of the partners I work with have been fully vetted, they are owned and operated by people who love what they do and have dedicated themselves to serving the design community and customers by providing the best products and services available. If you would like to know why I am so proud to have them part of Convo By Design, email me at convobydesign@outlook or on IG @convoxdesign with an “X”. I would be happy to share my experience. Please make sure you are also reaching out with show ideas and guests you would like to hear on the podcast. I love hearing them and it has given me the chance to meet new creatives not already on my radar, so thank you. Thank you for taking the time to listening to the show and share in the experience, until next week, be well and take today first. – CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. This week, we are heading to New Jersey to speak with Nicole Fornia of Nicole Forina Home. Her honest and fully exposed approach to her design business is as unique as her work, and we’re talking about both.

While Convo By Design has changed a lot over the past 10 years, some things remain the same as the day I started this show. I want to introduce you to amazing creatives in interior/ exterior design and architecture. I love this business and I love what they do. Nicole Forina Home is a family run business. Her husband, Mike, with his ME degree (he’s a mechanical engineer) worked in civil engineering as well as teaching upper level high school math, is able to project manage as well as offer a very unique skillset to the design firm. This was a fun chat and I hope you enjoy it. You’ll hear it, right after this.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

Thank you Nicole, loved our chat. Thank you to my partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for your continued support of both Convo By Design and the design community. A side note, the sponsors and partners you hear on CXD are more than companies with a product, each of the partners I work with have been fully vetted, they are owned and operated by people who love what they do and have dedicated themselves to serving the design community and customers by providing the best products and services available. If you would like to know why I am so proud to have them part of Convo By Design, email me at convobydesign@outlook or on IG @convoxdesign with an “X”. I would be happy to share my experience. Please make sure you are also reaching out with show ideas and guests you would like to hear on the podcast. I love hearing them and it has given me the chance to meet new creatives not already on my radar, so thank you. Thank you for taking the time to listening to the show and share in the experience, until next week, be well and take today first. – CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with balmy breezes and sublime design as we visit with Palm Beach designer, Helen Bergin. This is the story of a tremendous creative who rose to prominence the “old fashioned” way. Bergin studied her craft, working as a designer from some very talented studios and when it was right, she went out on her own.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

That is a clear path to success for a number of reasons, not the least of which is that as Bunny Williams once told us on this very show, that while working for Sister Parish, she learned what she wanted and what she did not want in her own firm. You are going to hear about Helen’s journey and what makes her so highly sought out in South Florida as well as what makes her work so unique. And it is. Before we move on to that, something you should know about Helen. After our conversation, she sent me two of the most beautiful bowls from Katharine Allsopp Pottery. Beautiful, surprising and greatly appreciated. You should know that when I received them, the episode had already been recorded. I was already a fan. Helen is amazing, here is a link to her projects… Follow along as we explore together.

Thank you Helen, I really enjoyed our time together. Thank you to my partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for your continued support of both Convo By Design and the design community. A side note, the sponsors and partners you hear on CXD are more than companies with a product, each of the partners I work with have been fully vetted, they are owned and operated by people who love what they do and have dedicated themselves to serving the design community and customers by providing the best products and services available. If you would like to know why I am so proud to have them part of Convo By Design, email me at convobydesign@outlook or on IG @convoxdesign with an “X”. I would be happy to share my experience. Thank you for taking the time to listening to the show and share in the experience, until next week, be well and take today first. – CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design featuring a return of The Showroom, a conversation series with amazing design talent from across the US and around the world.

In this episode of The Showroom, you are going to hear from C+TC Design Studio heads; William Cox, Billie Thorne and James Culpepper. If not familiar with them you should be and you will be over the course of the next hour. Their work is exceptional and you are going to hear a master-class in hospitality design. Billie, Jim and Bill are a rare combination of artisan creativity, craftsman skill and as a team, they posses this ability to create spaces that cater to feeling, emotion and giving guests a feeling of home while they are away. You are going to hear how they do it, right after this.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

Thank you Billie, Jim and Bill for joining me in The Showroom, I really enjoyed our time together. Thank you to my partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for your continued support of both Convo By Design and the design community. A side note, the sponsors and partners you hear on CXD are more than companies with a product, each of the partners I work with have been fully vetted, they are owned and operated by people who love what they do and have dedicated themselves to serving the design community and customers by providing the best products and services available. If you would like to know why I am so proud to have them part of Convo By Design, email me at convobydesign@outlook or on IG @convoxdesign with an “X”. I would be happy to share my experience.

As in every episode of The SHowroom, we have imagery of thier work. Please head over to ConvXDesign with an “X” on Instagram to check it out.

Thank you for taking the time to listening to the show and share in the experience, until next week, be well and take today first. – CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. I offer you a conversation with a previous guest about what is transpiring in the kitchen and bath space, in real time and the developments are extraordinary. This is Tiffany Cassidy of Lagnappe Interiors.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

I really do have a special place in my heart for return Convo By Design guests. It means a few things. One, they came back to do it again which means it was a good experience for them the first time. Second, and more important, there is a familiarity that you and I both share with this individual. That shared experience allows for a deeper level of conversation. In this episode, Tiffany shares her experience working on projects that are leveling up the form and functionality in the kitchen and bath spaces. This is important because there are some dramatic changes afoot and you are going to hear all about it, right after this.

Thank you Tiffany for taking the time to talk, I really enjoyed our time together. Thank you to my partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for your continued support of both Convo By Design and the design community. A side note, the sponsors and partners you hear on CXD are more than companies with a product, each of the partners I work with have been fully vetted, they are owned and operated by people who love what they do and have dedicated themselves to serving the design community and customers by providing the best products and services available. If you would like to know why I am so proud to have them part of Convo By Design, email me at convobydesign@outlook or on IG @convoxdesign with an “X”. I would be happy to share my experience. Thank you for taking the time to listening to the show and share in the experience, until next week, be well and take today first. – CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with an exceptional architect emanating from Dallas, Texas. Eddie Maestri of Maestri Studio. I have known Eddie for a while and I am a huge fan. I think by the end of this episode, you will be too.

Here is just a bit from Eddie’s bio, Eddie Maestri, AIA, a native of New Orleans, Louisiana, started designing homes in Dallas in 2004 and officially founded Maestri Studio in 2008. Certified by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), he is a registered architect in Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Nevada. Eddie holds a Bachelor of Environmental Design and a Master of Architecture from Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas with a certificate in Health Systems & Design. In addition, he spent a semester in Italy focusing on architectural and urban studies, as well as expanding his talents and love of freehand drawing, art and interior design.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

Thank you Eddie for taking the time to talk, I really enjoyed our time together. Thank you to my partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for your continued support of both Convo By Design and the design community. A side note, the sponsors and partners you hear on CXD are more than companies with a product, each of the partners I work with have been fully vetted, they are owned and operated by people who love what they do and have dedicated themselves to serving the design community and customers by providing the best products and services available. If you would like to know why I am so proud to have them part of Convo By Design, email me at convobydesign@outlook or on IG @convoxdesign with an “X”. I would be happy to share my experience. Thanks again for listening to the podcast, until next week, be well and take today first. – Convo By Design

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. What is design? Is design the process of finding pretty, cool, unusual things, objects, artifacts and materials and then placing them in an order to appear pleasing? Is it a method of material placement, functional arrangement or is it something else? And, why does it matter? Right about now, you might be wondering what the hell. What’s up, Josh? you good?

I am. But I’ve been thinking a lot about this. I just recently completed a no code AI course through MiT. Yes, THAT MiT and while I can tell you that the math was a real challenge,, the concepts I learned were thrilling. And, it left me with more questions than answers. While everyone is talking about AI, I am hearing and seeing some things that I find disturbing. An example. Recently on Instagram, a notable personality in design was self-congratulating on the new product they created using nothing but AI tools thereby creating something that nobody asked for, nobody expressed a need for the design of this object and there was such glee in the idea that something had been created without any human influence save for the prompts used in a Midjourney rendering which was then given dimensions and finally produced.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

Okay, cool right? That is what I thought at first glance until I really started to think about it. I started this show 10 years ago, I’ve been publishing at least one new episode every single week since 2013. I love design and I love the creatives that make up the industry. I think anyone who spends a fair amount of time around people understands that there always have been and always will be people who don’t really understand the subject matter in which they work. It’s the difference between a Bunny Williams, Alex Papachristidis or Martyn Lawrence Bullard and a designer who spends a few years designing their own home, realize how hard it is and then drop that to be a design business consultant. The industry is littered with them and ultimately, the clients they consult are usually out of the business in a few years. When I was in broadcast sales, it was the same. Someone would take a job selling airtime only to leave in a few years to start their own radio buying service. They were always a one-dimensional enterprise that would last a few years and then, off to something else.

Why am I asking about the “true” nature of design? We are at a bona fide turning point. There is an emerging technology in the form of AI that is going to change our industry forever. I think we are also in a place and time where there is a loss of respect for the creative side of the work in favor of less expensive, although it still has to look expensive. A new mentality that in someway makes if okay to take other people’s ideas and creativity and change it just enough to make it seem new. It’s not a legal question or even a moral one but a question of ingenuity, creativity and the idea that creatives create new concepts, new designs, break some ground for goodness sake. I’m seeing less and less of this from those who are new to the industry.

Designers and architects are creatives who make better the lives of those who inhabit the spaces they create. Full stop. it’s not about how many awards you win, the lists upon which you find yourself and lord knows there are a lot of lists out there. It’s not about the coverage in the trade pubs, because there are fewer and fewer of those every year. And it’s not about making rooms look pretty or high luxury because at the end of the day, form is meaningless without functionality.

“Form follows function-That has been misunderstood. Form and function should be one, joined in a spiritual union.” – Frank Lloyd Wright

But even Wright got it wrong sometimes. Blasphemy, you say. After touring the Price Tower, I learned some things about Frank Lloyd Wright. Things that everybody knows about his work. It’s too rigid in places. Like solid concrete walls that are impossible to access electrical and flat roofs that leak. Spaces that are too small like hallways & corridors. Furnishings that are neither comfortable nor functionally exceptional. But, Wright was a dreamer, an artist, the ultimate creative who thought in color, spoke his mind and had zero concern for what others thought when it came to his work. Being an artistic creative isn’t about being perfect. It’s about possessing a willingness to fail in pursuit of something meaningful.

AI is real, and if you read all the posts on social media, you know as well as I do that people in the business are nervous about their future prospects. And you should be. The individual who created a project from thin air using AI tools and finding a company to produce it… It’s novel now, but there is plenty of real stories about idea theft, plagiarism, copyright and trademark infringement or being labeled as a fraud and you don’t have to work too hard to connect the dots…

The true pioneers of the electric car. Elon Musk, right? Nope. Have you ever heard of the EV1. The first, most advanced automotive feat ever created by General Motors between 1996 and 2003. The car was introduced at the LA auto show in 1990, and by 2003, the concept was killed and almost all of the vehicles that were distributed through a lease-only program were collected and destroyed. The idea that technology had created something so dynamic it could literally destroy the auto industry as we know it. Why would you buy a car every 3 years if you could invest in a far superior product that would remain on the road for 10 years or more. You wouldn’t and the car companies knew that. And they also knew they would not survive if you could.

So, designers. Why would a client retain the services of a designer if all they had to do was input a series of well written prompts into a set of AI tools and receive back a fully rendered, CAD design. I haven’t, but someday in the future, I will be asking the individual who created the AI product and the company that produced it if they were thinking about your future. If they are honest, the answer will be “no, not really.”

To me. Design is truly an art form that captures the essence of an individual (client), pairs it with true desire both spoken and not to produce spaces that provide a superior quality of life.

Please note, I did not mention products, budget or anything outside of the application of skill, nuance and communication. I don’t think AI means “artificial intelligence”, it is more about ‘acquired intelligence’. I think that because it is only and always going to be rear-facing, it doesn’t posses the computational power to think and process in a forward thinking process. In other words, it can only tell you what’s been done in the past. If this were music, it could only share what has been played in the past to come up with new work product. But, that which it used to create the new work is still a derivative product from what has already been created. And the musician who created that receives no credit. Te designers who worked on products in the past made the new product created possible. If you are a designer, are you okay with others taking bits of your work to create new work product? As a creator who has published over 450 interviews that are in the digital universe and part of the AI collective, I’m not. So what is the responsibility we all in the industry share to do AI responsibly? Well, I would say that you need to understand the technology you’re working with and not abuse its power. If you are a manufacturer, show some integrity and don’t just jump to create a product whose mere presence with negatively affect the very specifiers that keep you in business. But that won’t happen.

Have you ever heard of the Dunning Kruger Effect and the idea of illusional superiority. You may not know the name, but you know the idea behind it. The Dunning-Kruger effect is when someone’s lack of skills and knowledge in a subject permits them to overestimate their own competence in that subject. Do you know someone who always interjects with advice in matters of which they have no functional understanding or abilities? You do, we all do. Usually, it’s just a friend who shells out bad advice. But what if that person heads up a division in a popular product manufacturer. What if that person is a consultant in the business with resources and a persuasive personality.

What if that person convinces the first person to produce a design product strictly from AI tools. It’s a gimmick that will get some ink and it might get coverage from some larger media players in the shelter space. But once that gimmick gets some oxygen, its precedent. Once established, why wouldn’t everyone do it until the novelty subsides. Do you understand that if there are no more designer lines, that is yet another profit center removed from the creative side of the business.

There is another idea called the mere-exposure effect that makes a lot of sense as well. It’s this idea that people not only become more comfortable but actually like stimuli to which they are increasingly exposed. It’s this concept that after someone is exposed to something, they will like it more due to a greater familiarity. In design, we call this a trend, right? Trends only become a bad thing, when they are trendy or popular for no other reason than others “like” or promote it. And, by “like” I mean in the social media sense of the word. The Mere Exposure Effect highlights how style familiarity, where some are drawn to a past connection to things or ideas.

This is why you might see a design in one of the shelter pubs and think, WTF, but later perhaps finding yourself more familiar and liking it a bit more.

The Mere Exposure Effect, also known as the familiarity principle, suggests that people tend to develop a preference for things they are exposed to more frequently. While this effect is typically associated with psychology and marketing, it can also be reflected in interior design choices. Here’s how the Mere Exposure Effect can influence interior design:

• Familiarity with Styles: People often feel more comfortable and drawn to interior design styles that they are familiar with or have been exposed to in the past. For example, if someone grew up in a home with traditional decor, they might naturally gravitate towards similar styles when designing their own space. This preference for familiar styles can be seen in the selection of furniture, color schemes, and overall design aesthetic.
• Repeated Exposure to Trends: Trends in interior design often gain popularity through repeated exposure. As certain design elements or styles become more commonly featured in magazines, websites, or social media, they become familiar to people, which can make them more appealing. Interior designers and homeowners may incorporate these trends into their design choices to create a sense of modernity and relevance.
• Showcasing Personal Belongings: Displaying personal belongings, such as family photographs, cherished heirlooms, or travel souvenirs, can create a comforting and familiar atmosphere within a space. These items hold personal significance and evoke memories and emotions, contributing to a sense of familiarity and belonging.
• Consistency in Design Elements: Repeated use of specific design elements throughout a space can enhance the sense of familiarity and cohesiveness. Consistency in color schemes, patterns, or materials can create a harmonious and comforting visual experience. This can be achieved through the use of recurring colors, textures, or motifs in furniture, fabrics, and accessories.
• Subtle Repetition: Incorporating subtle repetitions in design can create a sense of familiarity and harmony. This can be achieved through the use of repeating patterns, shapes, or textures. For example, a repeated geometric pattern in wallpaper or tile design can contribute to a cohesive and familiar visual experience.
• Gradual Exposure to Novelty: While the Mere Exposure Effect suggests a preference for the familiar, it also indicates that repeated exposure to novel stimuli can lead to increased liking and acceptance. In interior design, this can be seen when introducing new design elements or styles gradually. Initially, a new and unfamiliar design choice might be met with resistance, but with repeated exposure, it can become more familiar and ultimately well-liked.

By understanding the Mere Exposure Effect, interior designers can leverage familiarity and repeated exposure to create spaces that resonate with individuals and elicit positive emotions. Whether through incorporating familiar design styles, showcasing personal belongings, or employing consistent design elements, designers can create interiors that feel comfortable, appealing, and aligned with the clients’ preferences.

What do these two ideas have to do with AI, and interiors? Back to the original idea. If we find a liking due to familiarity, and we have those, not with a talent or skill but a following or influence, speaking out of an assumed expertise, begin to produce objects from what is familiar through AI, remember, AI produced imagery can only be tethered to what was previously created, not a completely new work product, so there would be a certain level of familiarity with the object and it is then promoted or seen at trade shows, it is entirely plausible that these products would become popular. It is also completely plausible that the work of true design talent does, in fact become obsolete. Think it’s not possible?

Radio Vs. Record Companies. When I was in broadcast radio, something happened in the 1990’s that I found shocking. Around the time Napster come out, the record labels were freaking out about people being able to freely download, upload and share music without paying for it. At the same time, radio leadership was freaking out for the same reason but in their case, the fear was radio listeners would stop listening for the music because they could get it for free. Decades later, we have the luxury of looking back and evaluating the outcome. Remember that by the 1990’s, when I would go and buy a CD, unless it was a rarity, like Guns and Roses, Appetite for Destruction, Nirvana’s Nevermind or Depeche Mode’s Violator, you got a 13 song record with 2 great songs, 4 b-sides and fillers that you could tell most bands just cobbled together for the record. The labels lost control of their product. Bands learned that touring could beat publishing revenues and it became all about the singles on iTunes. What does any of this have to do with design? Everything because it is exactly the same idea. History doesn’t repeat, it rhymes, right? thank you , Mark Twain. But it’s true.

As an industry, we need to be very careful, as does everyone with the ideas revolving around AI, because, like I said I don’t believe AI is artificial, but accumulated intelligence and once designers give up the creative activity that is creation of a dedicated line, you will never be able to get that back. And, any creative who has had their ideas hijacked and reimagined by someone else knows how that feels. So, here’s another concept to chew on. Have you ever heard of the 30% rule? It’s the false concept that one can change the intellectual property of another persons work and have that satisfy that the work is fundamentally different and not a copy. The idea itself is flawed because there is no such rule. If someone feels like you stole their intellectual property, they can sue you. It’s not what anyone thinks, it’s what you can convince a judge or jury. But a creative would still need to defend their IP and there are no guaranteed outcomes. So, what stops someone from taking a sofa, rug or console that was created and manufactured by someone else, prompt ChatGPT to change the concept by 30% and put the final product into a CAD drawing for production? Absolutely nothing. One step further down this slippery slope, ask Midjourney, through a series of prompts to create a design for a piece of furniture using a series of popular keywords. The work product created will be drawn from other ideas, again, recreating the work product from another into a “new” design. But it isn’t new, is it?

I think AI tools are properly positioned to decrease the amount of time it takes to ideate and create new products. But, as long as you have the Dunning-Kruger Effect and people who just want to capture short term gains without really understanding the potential pitfalls, the industry, like every other industry is going to find itself with ethical, legal and other issues as of now, unforeseen. But through trial, they will materialize. Don’t take the bait, this business is not easy, if it were, everyone would be doing it. What if it became so easy that everyone could do it?

A while back I was on social media and there was a graphic designer who was blasting AI tools saying that they couldn’t handle it if a client provided abstract feedback like, “I want it to pop more.” I asked ChatGPT how it would respond to the following: Imagine that I am a client of yours and you are a graphic designer. I gave you the task of creating a visual project and upon review of the first iteration, I said to you, “make it pop more”. What would you do? And here is the response…

As a graphic designer, if you asked me to make the visual project “pop more” after reviewing the first iteration, I would understand that you want the design to be more eye-catching and impactful. Here’s what I would do to achieve that:

• Color Enhancement: I would consider adjusting the colors to make them more vibrant and visually appealing. This could involve increasing the saturation or contrast, selecting bolder color choices, or experimenting with complementary color schemes to create a stronger visual impact.
• Typography: I would revisit the typography used in the design. Making it “pop more” could involve selecting a more attention-grabbing font or adjusting the size, weight, or spacing of the existing typography to create a stronger hierarchy and visual interest.
• Visual Elements: I would assess the visual elements within the design and look for opportunities to enhance their impact. This could include adding graphic elements, such as icons, illustrations, or patterns, to make the design more visually engaging. Additionally, I might explore the use of gradients, shadows, or other effects to create depth and dimension.
• Composition and Layout: I would review the overall composition and layout of the design. Making it “pop more” might involve repositioning or resizing elements to create a more dynamic arrangement. Adjusting the placement of key elements, such as focal points or call-to-action elements, can help draw the viewer’s attention and increase the design’s impact.
• Contrast and Visual Hierarchy: I would ensure that the design has sufficient contrast between different elements, such as text and background, to make the important elements stand out. By establishing a clear visual hierarchy, I can guide the viewer’s attention to the most important aspects of the design.
• Experimentation: If the current design iteration is not achieving the desired level of visual impact, I would explore alternative design concepts and iterations. By experimenting with different approaches, I can discover new ways to make the design more captivating and visually appealing.

Ultimately, my goal would be to create a visual project that captures attention, communicates effectively, and aligns with your vision and requirements. Through the iterative design process, I would work closely with you to ensure that the final outcome fulfills your expectations and successfully “pops” to grab the viewer’s attention.

If you can ask a machine that has been trained to use specific influence on the creation of “new” work, it is by its very nature a derivative work. Meaning, it’s not original. The argument then is, well, what is? If we are okay with using derivative works to and calling them new, that’s fine because at the end of the day, all a creative can really do is their best work. Limited by creative flow, time and energy. This is only one part of how AI will change our industry. Many I have spoken with say they don’t have the time to learn how to properly use these new tools. If you don’t have the time to stay current on new tech like this, you risk becoming irrelevant.

Design Out Crime is a concept the Los Angeles Police Department has been engaged in since the late 1990’s. You never heard of it, right? I hadn’t either until recently while working on a project for a client. Design Out Crime is based on an idea a city government, municipality or police department can apply strategies and techniques that prevent crime, before it happens through the application of design principles. This is a really interesting idea because, as a society, I think we feel unsafe. When I was a kid growing up in Southern California, I was afraid on one thing. The bomb. The Day After was a made for TV movie that came out in 1983. Scared the hell out of me because it could happen. To be frank with you, prior to the pandemic, I never believed it could happen here. Third-world countries, of course, but not here. The smash and grabs happening by large groups in many major cities is completely unacceptable yet it keeps happening. Water in Flynt, Michigan. Floods, fires, violent crime, mass shootings, wind events and unpredictable weather of all kinds… Feeling safe, feeling secure is an issue that affects all of us.

As if all that isn’t enough, it’s difficult to remember sometimes that we are in a service industry. I had a recent reminder of sorts what that means and why it’s important. I recently made a switch in cell service. I was with my former mobile provider for 22 years. And in that time, there was never any “service” provided, just the product. Over the years, the “product” degraded and the customer service became completely unacceptable. It was not the pain I expected to switch service providers. Not only did I switch, but got better service for half the cost I was paying before. Designers I speak with all tell me that their number one source for new business is not advertising but word-of-mouth. I believe that is true because they don’t advertise but it also begs the question, why do clients recommend you? What you do now is wonderful, but as the world keeps getting smaller, the need to raise your level has increased and you don’t get any additional time to learn how to navigate these new challenges, but there are others who will. If you’re standing still, you are falling behind. And the level of urgency and ability to adjust will determine your success. Not to pile on, but look at the recent developments with Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams. As of this writing, they have been shuttered for over a week and you can still order product on the website. Will it arrive? I have no idea but it does draw the memory back to Laurel & Wolf’s spectacular collapse. Service and reputation matter because there is always someone else out there to replace you. If I have learned anything throughout my career, if you make a mistake, own it. If you own it, clients will respect you for it. If you don’t own it, you will become obsolete.

Finally, the second question…Why does it matter? That is almost more important than, what is design, right? What is design is personal and subjective. Why does it matter is more important because it represents the future of the industry. Going back to examples like radio, music and cars… Radio was once a personal friend and now it’s a utility to deliver music, news, sports and information. Radio stations used to have a personality all their own, they had exclusive dj’s talking to local listeners like they knew them personally. Music was once delivered in a packaged format, on a record with a jacket, cover art and liner notes. Now, it’s delivered as a genre, collection by artist or format. If you use Spotify, Apple Music or any of the other delivery systems, AI selects the tracks for you. Automotive was once a passion and to many, it still is. But it’s not mandatory any more. You can live in NYC, Boston or even Los Angeles and not own a car. This was previously unheard of. Not anymore. It matters, because it is a unique form of art and it should last.

As I said when I started this episode, I love designers and architects. That is why I do what I do. If design DOES matter, here is my recommendation for those new to the industry as well as those who want to reset:

1. Return to Learning. If you have become dependent on any form of technology that, in its absence you could not continue to do what you do, look at ways to extricate yourself. For example, if you are using 3D modeling software for all your renderings, learn to draft by hand. Learn to sketch with a pencil, graph paper and ruler. Acquire the ability to draw your designs on a napkin that convey your ideas.
2. Tune Out. Social media isn’t real. Fans and followers are fake, images aren’t real and the ideas conveyed, obtaining value from a quantity of likes and emojis isn’t real. Disconnect emotional from social media and use it for what it is, a communications tool.
3. Reconnect. Answer the phone, make a call, send an email intended for just the one person to whom you are sending it, take the time to ask questions, listen to the answers, have a conversation, slow down and hear. We are losing our ability to connect 1 on 1 because social media, something of which we are always exposed places a currency on volume. how many likes, how many followers, how many posts. It’s not real, but the individuals are. Real connections make for real relationships which translate to real engagement.
4. Unplug. AI can really help you do your work in amazing ways. But you first must learn to use it and use it for what it does best. The skill set is what makes designers amazing, not how they can manipulate tools to do it for them. If that ever becomes the rule, designers will cease to be special for what they do because any project manager will be capable of doing the work with the same level of proficiency. Digital artists have a real skill, but they will never replace a fine artist or sculpture artist. A concept like wabi-sabi is real and because it is imperfect, it is naturally authentic, not manufactured. It’s the imperfections that make something unique.
5. Think for yourself.10 years ago, there were very few design or architecture podcasts. All the information shared with the trade came from the shelter publications. They were neatly packaged and offered like the art magazines. Now, you can see all of the shelter pubs are more real and authentic because they have to be. Podcasts are the same way. But there are som many of them now. If you listen to podcasts, you listen most likely because you appreciate what the host has to say. But you also need to accept that not all podcast hosts know what they are talking about. I hope you love Convo By Design and that you glean new information from every conversation, story and episode. If you have a host that was once a designer telling you how to run your business, think about why they are doing that instead of running their own design business? If you want to learn about contracts, find a really good legal podcast episode about contracts. If you want to learn about keeping your books, contract negotiations or business coaching, find professionals who do that and host a podcast to learn that. Everyone has advice, myself included. I’m confident in my abilities and I know what I have learned through real world scenarios. Your time is valuable, connect with experts who aren’t sharing what they never did, but instead those who know the specific vertical of which you want to learn.

I am posting this episode now because I am working on the Convo By Design 2024 Editorial Calendar and I am absolutely thrilled to share new ideas, conversations, guests and ideas with you. 2024 will bring the long-form interviews with creatives that you have come to enjoy, More Drinking About Design episodes featuring incredible but real stories behind design, Business of Design, BookLooks, recordings from live events from around the country and so much more.

Thank you for listening and subscribing to the show. If not already, please do subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode of the show. Subscribers receive the podcast episodes automatically in their podcast feed. Thank you to my remarkable partners and sponsors, ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware. If you are not familiar with these brands, they are the best at what they do and will help make you the best at what you do so check the show notes for direct links. Thank you to Convo By Design guests for taking the time to share your stories and skill. Until next week, be well and take today first. – CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. Today on the show, you are going to hear from one of my favorite designers. This is Jenn Feldman, an amazing designer with equally strong musical taste. No, really!

Designer Resources

ThermaSol - Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living -  Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware - A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

The Oasis Alliance - Providing design to those in need.

I asked Jenn to send me her artist playlist. And she did. Let’s start with this because if you have learned anything about me from this show it’s that I love music. All kinds of music provided it’s good. So I asked Jenn for her list and here is what she sent me, I’m thinking not in any particular order…

Lukas Nelson, Lem Bridges, Teddy Swims, Billy Joel (right next to him, she wrote “duh”), Fleetwood Mac, Notorious BIG, Steely Dan, Taylor John Williams, and the Doobie Brothers. A side note, every time I think of the Doobie Brothers, the first thing that comes to mind is not the fantastic music, but the quote… “Which Doobie, you be?” If you have no idea, what I’m talking about, check the show notes. 

Jenn, awesome list. It’s interesting to me too, how your design work is as vast and varied as your musical taste. I maintain that there is a strong and unbreakable connection between music and design if you seek it out. The same way that there is a story woven into every good song, there is a story woven into strong design. Jenn knows this, Jenn does this, masterfully. And you are going to hear how, and why, right after this.

Thank you, Jenn for the time, the playlist and the chat. Thank you to my partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Moya Living, Design Hardware. I truly appreciate the partnership. And thank you for listening, downloading and subscribing to the podcast. Please make sure you are subscribed so you get every episode of the show the moment its published. Please email me with suggestions and show ideas, love the input. Email is convobydesign@outlook dot com and on Instagram @convoxdesign with and “x”. Thanks for listening. Until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design Today, I’m speaking with Atlanta based designer, Andi Morse about balance, vibe and having it all. Or getting as close to it as one can.

Born and raised in Atlanta, Andi is married to her college sweetheart and the mother of three daughters. Family comfort is the central influence to her interior design philosophy, and one of the core values of Morse Design. One’s home must reflect the lifestyle of the occupants and resonate with both beauty and functionality. Her passion for creating comfort and style with a southern elegance and grace drive her creative vision. Nothing makes Andi feel better than the happiness on a client’s face at the end of a project. That’s in the bio. What isn’t mentioned in the bio are the finer nuances in her approach to the work. There is a fun-elegance to the work that appears to be evident in every space regardless of size or color palate. Her approach is layered and collected. You will see an active pursuit of joy and that is one of the things I think I love most about her work. I think you will too.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol - Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living -  Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware - A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

The Oasis Alliance - Providing design to those in need.

Thank you Andi, loved our chat and truly appreciate the time. Thank you to Convo By Design partners and sponsors, ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware. You make this show possible and I truly appreciate you. Speaking of appreciation, thank you for listening, subscribing and downloading the show. Without you, what’s the point. Please keep sharing this little podcast, entering our 11th year with some truly fun things in store over the coming weeks and months. Did you catch our first episode of Drinking About Design? We’re drinking and telling design stories! More on the way. Thanks for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design exploring the work of Philadelphia interior designer Glenna Stone. A very talented creative who said this, “I think of design as a magical process where something that didn’t exist suddenly does…and that’s what I love about what I do. I love developing a complete design, a 360 vision that considers the intentions of the client, the architecture of the space, and all the while artfully combining scale, balance, proportion, texture, and hue in a way that marries beauty and lifestyle. Great design is about walking into a space, and every single time feeling one thing: this is as it should be."

Designer Resources

ThermaSol - Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living -  Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware - A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

Glenna’s bio reads like this; Inspired by her mother, an artist and teacher, Glenna developed her sense of color and composition at a young age. She has always had a passion for combining color, materials and textures in an artful manner. Paralleling her creative side, Glenna embraced her strong technical skills and received a degree in engineering from Lehigh University. Upon graduation she worked for Fortune 500 companies as a consultant and project manager in the consumer products industry.

While achieving much success in this previous career, she felt the need to embrace her more creative side and began taking interior design courses at the Boston Architectural College and the Rhode Island School of Design. After much consideration, Glenna decided to combine her technical and creative skills and pursue a graduate degree in interior design. Glenna graduated from Drexel University with a Masters degree in Interior Architecture and Design. This specialized background and balance of left and right brain not only contributes to the success of Glenna Stone Interior Design, but also sets the firm apart within the industry.

Glenna prides herself on being an original thinker, a good listener with impeccable attention to detail, and someone who sees each project phase through to completion. As a cofounder of The Sustainability Nexus, sustainable design and giving back to the local community is of high importance. She finds her work as an interior designer exceptionally rewarding because it allows her to enhance the quality of others’ lives through design. (end of bio)

Thank you Glenna, loved our chat and truly appreciate the time. Thank you to Convo By Design partners and sponsors, ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware. You make this show possible and I truly appreciate you. Speaking of appreciation, thank you for listening, subscribing and downloading the show. Without you, what’s the point. Please keep sharing this little podcast, entering our 11th year with some truly fun things in store over the coming weeks and months. Did you catch our first episode of Drinking About Design? We’re drinking and telling design stories! More on the way. Thanks for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design and on todays episode, you are going to hear from an incredibly talented Charlotte based creative who started as an architect and transitioned to designer. Ashley DeLapp is not the first creative I have spoken with that went the design route from other endeavors and there have been a few you have heard from in the past that started as architects as well. Ashley holds a BA in Architecture from the University of North Carolina and after spending 10 years as an architect, opened her own design firm in 2009.

Ashleys work is theatrical, bold and one of the things that you will hear as we explore her work is both a scientific approach to space and space management combined with a fearless use of color and materials. Now, keep in mind that with application of the bold comes the more often than not sales approach to the client. Selling these bold ideas must be easier when there is a heavy attention to detail in space management and using a space to let the work breathe. These are just a few observations, you will hear more, I promise.  As a matter of fact, if you have been listening to the show for a while, you know about the deep design dives we take together and in this episode of the show, we go deep so make sure you check the show notes for a link to Ashley’s projects and follow along provided you are not driving! So, let’s get to it. You are going to hear from Ashley DeLapp, right after this.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol - Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living -  Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware - A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

Thank you Ashley. Loved our time together. Love the work.  Thank you to my partners, sponsors and friends of the show, ThermaSol, Moya Living, Design Hardware, ICAA SoCal Chapter and the Oasis Alliance. And thank you for taking time to subscribe and listen to the show. I appreciate you, more than you know. Thank you for the emails with show and guest suggestions as well as those just to say “hi”. Please, keep them coming. Thanks again for listening, until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. Today on the show, you are going to hear from Roberta Mantenuto, CEO of Fittes Co., formerly Aria Vent and sometimes the biggest changes from changing the smallest details. This is one of those occasions, to me at least. Fittes Co. is the Canadian company revolutionizing the vent and register business. They created a modular air vent and you know what I love most about this? For the longest time, we just used what we had available, contractor grade from the big box or perhaps a boutique brand that made the same thing, but with nicer finishes. Fittes now has a full line of framed and flush mount covers, vents, outlets and drains.  It’s just such a simple idea and that is what I love most about this story. I sit down with Roberta, CEO and co-founder of Fittes and daughter of company co-founder and inventor, Paolo. One part of this story is in the simplicity of the idea, another is the elegant execution of the concept. The third idea is the scaling up and recent name change to stay current. The final piece for me, is the story of a father-daughter duo making something happen and executing on this simple idea in a very big way.  You are going to hear my conversation with Roberta Mantenuto, right after this.

Thank you Roberta for the time. Love the idea, love the company and as a girl dad, love the family partnership dynamic. Thank you to my partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Moya Living, Design Hardware. I truly appreciate the partnership. And thank you for listening, downloading and subscribing to the podcast. Please make sure you are subscribed so you get every episode of the show the moment its published. Please email me with suggestions and show ideas, love the input. Email is convobydesign@outlook dot com and on Instagram @convoxdesign with and “x”. Thanks for listening. Until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman, host and publisher of Convo By Design with something new for you. Dropping this on Friday, for a very good reason. You’re going to want to get a drink.

In the summer of 2020, the pandemic was in full effect. We were all locked in and trying to figure out what was going to happen next. You remember, you were doing the exact same thing. So, besides the day drinking and looking up old friends on Facebook, I was trying to learn new ways to be socially engaged. On at least one occasion, John McClain, Erik Peterson and I, met via Zoom to share a few pops and tell stories. One of things I did during that time was binge watch Drunk History, Dinner for Five and Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown and No Reservations. Ground breaking shows that I never could find the time to watch before.

I became enamored with the skill by which Anthony Bourdain found a complete language revolving around found and association to society, how Jon Favreau could take 4 celebrities and craft a vibrant tableau out of each of the stories shared around a table. How Derek Waters told stories through the honest interpretations of historical events through the drunken lens of comics woven together as a tapestry featuring some of the funniest people working in Hollywood.

Then all of a sudden, it was over. Things opened up all at once and we all got busy. Really busy. I’ve been missing some of those evenings at the virtual bar, My virtual bar is called, Big D Energy. Big Design Energy for my Hip Hop loving friends. I wouldnt want you to get the wrong idea.

So I got an idea that I have been toying with for about 2 years and I finally got a chance to do it. And what better way to launch this than to reunite with John and Erik.

John McClain tells the story of William Haines I'm also sharing an interesting story you might find illuminating.

Erik Petersen is talking about Al Beadle. You have probably never heard of Al Beadle? Well, you will now. 

This is just 3 friends getting together at the local virtual watering hole, talking a little shit and telling stories. And, yes, this is very different than the episodes of the show you have heard in the past. We’re drinking and this episode carries the Explicit label. If you are sensitive to some salty language, you might want to delete this episode and move on to the next one. With that, I give you the first installment of Drinking About Design. 

This was the first installment of Drinking About Design featuring John McClain and Erik Peterson sharing stories about William Haines and Al Beadle. Two incredible talents, and good friends. Thank you both for doing this. For notes, drink recipe’s and further links to the stories and work you heard about here, check the show notes. Thanks for listening. Cheers.

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with Charles Pavarini III.  Pavarini has reinterpreted the legacy of the Pavarini Construction Company, known for creating historic landmarks including the Seagram Tower, the United Nations, the State Theater at Lincoln Center, and numerous other landmark buildings in New York City and throughout the world. All of his projects hinge around a powerful central design theme and maintain a certain ‘vision’ which is always dramatically executed given Charles’ keen sense of color, style, and use of lighting as a ‘design tool’. Having sat on the board of directors of the Designer’s Lighting Forum of New York for twenty-five years, he has a refined approach to interior design always staged with strong focal points and exacting lighting technique to harness the artistic and architectural vernacular of the spaces he designs. His extensive experience in the Performing Arts as performer, costume designer and set designer qualify him to conceive projects of any scale and proportion with great dignity and an unmatched passion for mood. While that is the bio, it should also be noted that Pavarini co-authored a book that was featured on BookLook. His offering, Lighting Beyond Edison: Brilliant Residential Lighting Techniques in the Age of LED’s is truly a transformative look at what is possible in modern lighting and how it works to elevate the design and increase functionality.  We are going to cover this and a great deal more.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol - Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living -  Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware - A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

The Oasis Alliance - Providing design to those in need.

ICAA Southern California - SoCal is Southern California's preeminent resource on classical architecture and the allied arts.

Thank you Charles for the time. Thank you to my partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Moya Living, Design Hardware. I truly appreciate the partnership. And thank you for listening, downloading and subscribing to the podcast. Please make sure you are subscribed so you get every episode of the show the moment its published. Please email me with suggestions and show ideas, love the input. Email is convobydesign@outlook dot com and on Instagram @convoxdesign with and “x”. Thanks for listening. Until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with another installment of the Design Leadership Series ad this week, I am going to share with you. This group was recorded live from the Design Hardware showroom on Third Street in LA. This was an amazing group and with 12 creatives there, it was the biggest event we recorded to date.  Keep listening, you’re going to enjoy this.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol - Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living -  Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware - A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

The Oasis Alliance - Providing design to those in need.

ICAA Southern California - SoCal is Southern California's preeminent resource on classical architecture and the allied arts.

I started hosting these events in 2017. I realized after a design festival, that the panel conversations, while interesting, did not contain the same power as the conversations that followed. Groups of creatives getting down to the brass tacks, sharing what they really think without the audience. These gatherings are more “happening” than anything else. It places the creatives in a safe space with colleagues free to discuss what is really happening, get a little commiserating in and then getting to the challenge of addressing these issues. These events are powerful and I’m really proud to share them with you. This conversation has also aired on Doctoring Up Design, the Design Hardware podcast. You are about to listen in on a real workgroup discussing the issues designers, architects and builders face today. The following conversation is between 12 creatives and at times, it gets complicated, just like conversations in the real world. 

This conversation was not intended for you to blow through while multi-tasking. There is a great deal of material here and it is intended to be listened to over time and re-listened as well. It is worthy of saving and added to your resource library.

This is kicked off by Michele Solomons with Design Hardware asking about the experience designers have with their showroom partners. It’s an important question and one on just about every designers mind. From there, this chat takes on a life of its own and if you follow closely, there are nuggets of design business gold to be found.

Before we listen in, I thought you would like to meet the participants: 

Andres Gonzalez - Cali Renderings

Christine Jahan - Christine Jahan Designs @christineJahanDesigns

Crickett Kenser - Kitchen Places @KitchenPlacesVentura

Huma Sulaiman - Huma Sulaiman @HumaSulaimanDesign

James Hernandez - James Hernandez Interior Design @jameshernandezinteriordesign

Joan Barton - Dirty Girl Construction @dirtygirlconstruction

Kara Piepmeyer - Studio Kosma @studiokosma

Leslie Delli-Venneri - Aquabella @aquabellatile @leslie.dee.vee

Marbe Briceno - Marbe Designs @marbe.designs

Mark Hermogeno - Hermogeno Designs @hermogenodesigns

Nicole Michael - Nicole Michael Designs @nicole.michael.designs

Rydhima Brar - R/Terior Studio @rteriorstudio

So those are the participants. This is the full conversation. Enjoy listening in.

That was a fun and incredibly talented group. Great job, designers! Thank you for your time. Thank you to my partners and sponsors, ThermaSol, Moya Living, Design Hardware, The Oasis Alliance and the ICAA SoCal chapter. And a special thanks to you. Thank you for downloading, streaming and supporting the show. If you have anything to suggest for a future episode of the show or a guest from whom you would like to hear, email me Convo By Design at Outlook dot com or on Instagram @ConvoX Design with an “x”.  Thanks again for listening. Until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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When I first moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma, I mentioned in the show that something I was most excited about was seeing new things that many if not most have never seen. There was something on my list from day one and I finally had the chance to go and do this. Visit Price Tower. For those not familiar; The Price Tower in Bartlesville, Oklahoma is an absolutely exquisite creation of Frank Lloyd Wright. It is constructed of concrete in a very unique shape. Four quadrants based on the geometry of  a 30-60-90 double parallelogram.  It was based on the idea for a Manhattan cluster of buildings designed and then scraped in 1929 due to the great depression. The Price Tower was designed and built for Harold C. Price to serve as the headquarters for his oil and gas pipeline company. The building was designed to be mixed-use and was opened to the public in February, 1956. 

Designer Resources

ThermaSol - Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living -  Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware - A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

The Oasis Alliance - Providing design to those in need.

ICAA Southern California - SoCal is Southern California's preeminent resource on classical architecture and the allied arts.

Materials Used: The building is primarily made of concrete with heavy use of wood, copper and other materials regularly found in Wright’s work. heavy use of copper, stamped concrete in Cherokee Red can be found alongside the natural wood and use of greens and golds. The wallpaper used as well as fabrics designed for Schumacher as part of his Taliesin line can be found as well as his unique style of lighting and a significant amount of art are all present. There are unique pieces present that were designed and then sent to local companies to create. They include cast aluminum chairs by the Blue Stem Foundry

Mixed Use. What makes this building unlike any other example of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture is that this is a “skyscraper”, to be considered by him and others as the only one he ever built. FLW was interested with how people lived. His definition for a skyscraper was not dissimilar to how streets showcase horizontal society, this was made to be vertical an accomplish similar purpose. As such, this was his example of a live/ work environment and incorporated many floors to serve as separate zones for separate purposes. Because the building is supported by the four elevator towers and not the floors themselves, FLW was able to imagine the space almost like a tree with the elevator columns as trunk, floors as branches and copper installation as leaves.

My Experience: This visit was amazing for me. I received an incredible tour by a gentleman named Price Connors and later sat down  with Price for an interview which you are about to hear. If you check out the show notes, you will find links to some IG reels showcasing video from this visit. Of note, check out how FLW wanted you to live in the spaces he creates. Check out the amazing views and try to imagine as I did that you were in a tree house, because that is how it felt to me.

The day I visited, I learned that the building has been sold to Copper Tree, Inc. for the debt and a $10M promise to refurbish the building. I had never heard of Copper Tree and thought, what a unique name for a company interested in refurbishing this particular building. I did a little digging and learned that Copper Tree is a relatively new company, an investment company created for the purpose of acquiring and preserving iconic buildings.

I sat down with Price Connors who is an absolute wealth of knowledge and who both gave e a guided tour of The Price Tower, and sat down for an extensive interview about this truly unique project. I hope you enjoy hearing from Connors as much as I enjoyed speaking with him. For images and video shorts from my time at The Price Tow...

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a conversation about transformation, both in interior spaces and individuals themselves. Meghan Basinger of Stevie Interiors spent the first part of her career in public relations before launching her firm in 2020. Great timing right? But it worked, and here’s why.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol - Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living -  Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware - A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

The Oasis Alliance - Providing design to those in need.

ICAA Southern California - SoCal is Southern California's preeminent resource on classical architecture and the allied arts.

Meghan Basinger launched Stevie Interiors in the summer of 2020. Do you remember the summer of 2020? I do. Not the best time to launch a new design business, or was it? You are going to hear all about it. Pay close attention to the ideas that embody the idea of blazing your own trail, making your own path and rushing towards something as everyone else is running away. The early months following the beginning of the pandemic, many designers thought they were going to go out of business. Then came the design revolution as everyone realized at the same time that their home was dysfunctional and needed the services of professional designers to fix it. This is a good place to leave it and let Megan take it from there. Enjoy this episode of Convo By Design featuring Milton, GA. designer, Meghan Basinger of Stevie Interiors.

Thank you, Meghan for the time. Thank you for listening, downloading and subscribing to the show. If not already, please make sure you are subscribing to the show. You can find Convo By Design everywhere you find your favorite podcasts. 

Thank you to my wonderful partners and sponsors, ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware. Without you, I would not be able to do this and for that, thank you. Thanks again for listening. Be well and until next week, take today first. -CXD

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. Today on the podcast, we are taking it outside for a conversation with James Doyle principal and Justin Quinn, partner of James Doyle Design Associates.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol - Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living -  Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware - A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

The Oasis Alliance - Providing design to those in need.

ICAA Southern California - SoCal is Southern California's preeminent resource on classical architecture and the allied arts.

James and Justin have the stated goal to create beautiful and innovative landscapes that deliver world class design while enriching the lives of those fro whom the space was crafted. And to do so with clear vision as it relates to creating an authentic sense of space. A while back, you probably heard the BookLook review I offered on their absolutely stunning tome called Intersection of Art and Nature. This is a firm that lives and delivers upon the promise behind the work and because of that, I am really thrilled to share this conversation with you. This is James and Justin from James Doyle Design Associates. We’ll get to that right after this.

Thank you James and Justin for your time. Loved our chat as much as I do your work. Thank you for listening, downloading and subscribing to the show. If not already, please make sure you are subscribing to the show. You can find Convo By Design everywhere you find your favorite podcasts. By the way, with over 450 episodes, perhaps you’d like to check out some of the past episodes.

Thank you to my wonderful partners and sponsors, ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware. Without you, I would not be able to do this and for that, thank you. Thanks again for listening. Be well and until next week, take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. Following is another installment of the Wellness & Design Thought Leadership Series presented by ThermaSol.

In May, 2023, a special gathering took place at the Friedman’s Home Experience showroom in Long Beach, California. This gathering presented an opportunity to get some of Southern California’s most dynamic and creative designers together for a conversation about kitchen design. Our group engages in an open forum about how the kitchen has changed in form and function since the pandemic began in 2020. This idea started as an exploratory look at what has changed, but developed into an overarching dialogue about what it means to be a designer today. Further, how the design community has learned to lean in on each other for support, direction, inspiration and in the case of showrooms like Friedman’s Home Experience, how to provide designers and architects with opportunities to discover new product and specify with confidence to best serve the client.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol - Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living -  Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware - A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

The Oasis Alliance - Providing design to those in need.

ICAA Southern California - SoCal is Southern California's preeminent resource on classical architecture and the allied arts.

You are about to listen in on a real workgroup discussing the issues designers, architects and builders face today. The following conversation is between 7 creatives and at times, it gets complicated, just like conversations in the real world. The conversation was not intended for you to blow through while multi-tasking. There is a great deal of material here and it is intended to be listened to over time and re-listened as well. It is worthy of saving and. added to your resource library. 

Before we listen in, I thought you would like to meet the participants: 

Long Trihn - Managing Director of Friedman’s Home Experience - @friedmanshomeexperience

Panel ready Pops of color Coffee systems Under-counter wine units and columns Induction increases over gas Refrigeration integrated look NEW - Countertops as the full cooking surface with embedded induction elements

Lea Biermann - Principal, Lea Biermann Design - @lbkbdesign

The joy of coffee systems Adding secondary color Backsplashes that pop Maximizing spaces for experiences Resale considerations The in-home coffee bar experience is here to stay

Cheryl Kaye - Principle, Cheryl Kaye Design Studio @cherylkaye

Hospitality, front of house focus Kitchenette for commercial projects including hospitality Visual arts are given and now the ‘function’ and artistry is in meeting client lifestyle demands Dining areas away from tables and more on islands Exposed kitchens, not just functional but decorative and artistic Wet bars for juicing now so they are taking on a different vibe More outlets and charging stations Kitchens more as work spaces

Paul Fernandez - Principle, @kitchenkoncierge

Look to new, unexplored appliances Speed Oven: Microwave + Convection Steam ovens Steam oven + oven in lieu of the double oven to maximize functional opportunity Cooking with moisture Refrigerators with cameras, use the app to aid with shopping What is next in countertop materials? What is the most durable material?  Custom options in wood products. This is an incredible time to be designing kitchens!

John Feldman - Owner, @ecocentrix

Discovering the opportunities in outdoor spaces What is possible in an outdoor kitchen How a project can maximize function through discovery of untapped space unlike inside the home where walls define spaces Working with better educated clients (product)

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with the third installment from a live event at the Soho House studio in West Hollywood, California. Candace Hickman of Soho House Design has has followed a really interesting path along the way to a 15+ year career in hospitality design, from boutique restaurants in Hong Kong, to flagship properties for Soho House & Co.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol - Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living -  Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware - A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

The Oasis Alliance - Providing design to those in need.

ICAA Southern California - SoCal is Southern California's preeminent resource on classical architecture and the allied arts.

I met Candace in the living room of the Soho House - Melrose studio, a building that has some serious design history after serving as home base for Rose Tarlow in the West Hollywood Design District. The building itself deserves mention for a few reasons. It is the only showroom of its kind that I know of in the design districts of Los Angeles with an A-Frame built into the architecture placing windows in want is similar to a central atrium allowing for natural light to flood the space. This makes the showroom bright during the day and moody at night allowing designers and clients alike to see the furnishings in different types of light and space. The Soho House line is create, unique and designed to foster conversation and silent enjoyment alike. Candace and I sat to talk about this and other topics on an afternoon in May when Soho House so generously offered to host the Convo By Design 10th anniversary party. An event for a small, incredible group of industry insiders, designers and architects, most of which who have appeared on the show. The event was also sponsored by SoCal Design Magazine, Southern California’s premier design publication.

In 2005 Candace was approached by Soho House to lead design for the Soho House Hong Kong development, given her established prominence in the Hong Kong interior design world. Relocating to Soho House’s New York design studio, she became established as the Design Director for North America, soon completing her first project at Little Beach House, in Malibu.

Candace has since led interior design for seven Soho House properties, each project noteworthy for its crafted references to locale. Significant examples include Dumbo House – a club space perched above the historic Empire Stores building in Brooklyn, NY – and Soho Warehouse at the Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles – an adaptive reuse of a former warehouse, to a 40-bedroom hotel compound. As Lead Designer, Candace has liaised directly with high-profile private clients, bringing Soho House design nuance to their personal residences. Her work has been featured in Architectural Digest, The New York Times and Elle Décor as well as others. We talk about this and so much more, right after this.

I cannot tell you how thankful I am to Soho Home for hosting this event, thank you Candace for making the time to speak with me. Thank you to all the amazing designers, architects, insiders and publicists who came out to celebrate with me. Thank you to my sponsor partners, ThermaSol, Moya Living, Design Hardware  for your continued support, I greatly appreciate you. And thank you for listening, subscribing and downloading the show. My goal is continue bringing you the stories behind sublime design as well as a podcast that allows those in the industry to up your design game through inspiration, information and opportunity. Until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with another installment of The Showroom featuring another exceptionally talented member of the design community. One of my all-time favorites for the little things she does. Her attention to detail and the manner in which she tells her stories through the work are exceptional. We talk abut music too, one of my favorite topics and hers as well. Love this chat and I know you will too, this is Brigette Romanek, live in the showroom.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol - Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living -  Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware - A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

The Oasis Alliance - Providing design to those in need.

ICAA Southern California - SoCal is Southern California's preeminent resource on classical architecture and the allied arts.

The Showroom was a feature segment created during the pandemic as a way to showcase designers in front of an audience when no gatherings were possible. The Showroom has evolved and I had the opportunity to sit down with Brigette in the newly opened Soho Home Studio in the West Hollywood Design District. Soho Home was also gracious to sponsor the Convo By Design 10th anniversary party and served as the location for what was an extraordinary afternoon seeing friends, many of which I had not seen in person in years.

This conversation with Brigette covers her creative journey and how she has worked to become one of the most exceptional creatives working today. I don’t say this lightly. I think her work is, truly exceptional. Her work, through Romanek Design Studio is layered, contextual and subtly situational. You will hear more about that in addition to ways music has shaped her life and therefor inextricably tethered to her work. We talk about her collections and other facets to the business that allow her to create her art. I could go on, I really could, but I won’t. Instead, I’ll let Brigette tell her story.

Thank you Brigette for your time, I loved this. Thank you Soho Home Studio for hosting this conversation and our tenth anniversary party. Thank you for listening, downloading and subscribing to the show. If not already, please make sure you are subscribing to the show. You can find Convo By Design everywhere you find your favorite podcasts. 

Thank you to my wonderful partners and sponsors, ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware. Without you, I would not be able to do this and for that, thank you. Thanks again for listening. Be well and until next week, take today first. -CXD

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Martyn and I first spoke in 2019. We spoke at his showroom in the West Hollywood Design District and we spoke about set design, of which Martyn and I are both very fond. We talked about Tony Duquette and how the art of stagecraft allows Martyn to transcend the design with ideas and strategies for feel and emotional spaces. Use of non-traditional materials in unusual ways to create now objects. That is quintessential set decoration, masterfully employed. In this episode, Martyn and I have more time to really explore the ideas, history and experience behind his work.

We recorded this conversation live from the brand new Soho Home Studio on Melrose Blvd. in West Hollywood. They are actually Martyn’s showroom neighbor in an iconic space serving formerly as the Rose Tarlow showroom. Just an exquisite space that made for the perfect setting for our chat. Enjoy this edition of The Showroom, a one on one with Martyn Lawrence Bullard. We’ll get to it, right after this.

Thank you Martyn for your time, I loved this. Thank you Soho Home Studio for hosting this conversation and our tenth anniversary party. Thank you for listening, downloading and subscribing to the show. If not already, please make sure you are subscribing to the show. You can find Convo By Design everywhere you find your favorite podcasts.

Thank you to my wonderful partners and sponsors, ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware. Without you, I would not be able to do this and for that, thank you. Thanks again for listening. Be well and until next week, take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a look at the modern American kitchen and what the design community is doing in response to changing tastes and new opportunities to create unique functional spaces transforming the heart of the home.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

The Oasis Alliance – Providing design to those in need.

ICAA Southern California – SoCal is Southern California’s preeminent resource on classical architecture and the allied arts.

In May, 2023, a special gathering took place in Long Beach, California. This gathering featured a diverse group of design talent and presented an opportunity to get some of Southern California’s most dynamic and creative designers together for a conversation about kitchen design. Our group engages in an open forum about how the kitchen has changed in form and function since the pandemic began in 2020. This idea started as an exploratory look at what has changed, but developed into an overarching dialogue about what it means to be a designer today. Further, how the design community has learned to lean in on each other for support, direction, inspiration and in the case of showrooms like Friedman’s Home Experience, how to provide designers and architects with opportunities to discover new product and specify with confidence to best serve the client.

You are about to listen in on a real workgroup discussing the issues designers, architects and builders face today. The following conversation is between 7 creatives and at times, it gets complicated, just like conversations in the real world. The conversation was not intended for you to blow through while multi-tasking. There is a great deal of material here and it is intended to be listened to over time and re-listened as well. It is worthy of saving and. added to your resource library.

Before we listen in, I thought you would like to meet the participants. We are going to get to that, right after this.

TS

Lea Biermann – Principal, Lea Biermann Design – @lbkbdesign

• The joy of coffee systems
• Adding secondary color
• Backsplashes that pop
• Maximizing spaces for experiences
• Resale considerations
• The in-home coffee bar experience is here to stay

Cheryl Kaye – Principle, Cheryl Kaye Design Studio @cherylkaye

• Hospitality, front of house focus
• Kitchenette for commercial projects including hospitality
• Visual arts are given and now the ‘function’ and artistry is in meeting client lifestyle demands
• Dining areas away from tables and more on islands
• Exposed kitchens, not just functional but decorative and artistic
• Wet bars for juicing now so they are taking on a different vibe
• More outlets and charging stations
• Kitchens more as work spaces

Paul Fernandez – Principle, @kitchenkoncierge

• Look to new, unexplored appliances
• Speed Oven: Microwave + Convection
• Steam ovens
• Steam oven + oven in lieu of the double oven to maximize functional opportunity
• Cooking with moisture
• Refrigerators with cameras, use the app to aid with shopping
• What is next in countertop materials? What is the most durable material?
• Custom options in wood products. This is an incredible time to be designing kitchens!

DH, OA

John Feldman – Owner, @ecocentrix

• Discovering the opportunities in outdoor spaces
• What is possible in an outdoor kitchen
• How a project can maximize function through discovery of untapped space unlike inside the home where walls define spaces
• Working with better educated clients (product)
• Incorporating outdoor kitchens into complex hillsides
• The joys of outdoor living
• Sturgianni.com, A new company representing family owned and operated Italian faucet lines

Pam Barthold – Owner, Pazzam Designs @pazzamdesigns

• Searching for perfect materials
• Acrylic in shelving and cabinetry that is mainstream and not exclusively modern
• Durability and warmth means more wood products and because hybrid wood products offer a more wide ranging product selection
• More durability, cleaner product and sustainable
• Rise of smart appliances
• Convection ovens and better educated clients
• Seamless flat countertops that are the entire cooking surface
• Less exposed stainless. Color-full and unique in design
• Adding color to the island

ML, ICAA

Donna Johnson – @luxedesigner

• Luxury kitchen design is more about form and function, but feel
• Accessorizing in the kitchen is more important than ever before and in more ways than is seen. Dividers and separators for sectioning the functions
• The feel of the space is based on treating the kitchen as another living room with a different skill set
• The return of the “triangle”? To this designer, it never left

Now that you have met the players, let me share the conversation that ensued. They were talking about materials. Brass, brushed gold and chrome. Understated glamour. Stamped wood, wood islands with nautical finishes.We are talking about custom organics. Luxury and organic.

Long Trinh – Managing Director of Friedman’s Home Experience – @friedmanshomeexperience

• Panel ready
• Pops of color
• Coffee systems
• Under-counter wine units and columns
• Induction increases over gas
• Refrigeration integrated look
• NEW – Countertops as the full cooking surface with embedded induction elements

You are going to hear an honest conversation about supply chain, lead generation for products and materials.

I started hosting these conversations in 2017 following an event at a design festival. What I found was the moment the mics were off, the conversations started to be real. These real conversations have led to actionable steps and techniques designers can use in a real world scenario because at the end of the day, we are all dealing with the same issues. Some better than others. Enjoy this conversation from Friedman’s Home Experience in Long Beach, California on a sunny day in May, 2023.

Panel ConversationTake Aways:

Just some thoughts and ideas that emerged from this:

Dust is a big issue with open shelving in kitchens now, as is clutter.

Thicknesses and finishes. Technical design details. Products for outdoor uses.

The art of sales and how designers can engage more efficiently with trades and showrooms.

Working with educated clients and the “Amazon Effect”, training customers to just buy and return if they don’t like it as opposed to buying right the first time.

Evaluating new lines and products.

Induction, new tech and new ideas, but what does that mean by way of new upgrades like the electrical panel? Government regulations, utility company specifications…How does this affect the design.

Steel cabinetry is becoming more of a standard in lieu of wood, stone and cement board outdoors and indoors. Durability is becoming more important as temperatures increase.

What I love about these conversations and that I hope you do as well are the real world data points that emerge. These are not preprepared glossy ideas about how wonderful great design is. While that is important, I find it even more important to get past the hurdles that impede the design process. If you are a working designer today, at any level, you are encountering some, many or all of these issues in your own work and I hope hearing that others deal with the same issues and how many are approaching the work helps you in yours.

Thank you Lea, Pam, Donna, Paul, Cheryl, Long and John for your input and for participating in this event. Thank you Freidman’s Home Experience for hosting and thank you for listening, downloading and subscribing to the show. If not already, please make sure you are subscribing to the show. You can find Convo By Design everywhere you find your favorite podcasts.

Thank you to my wonderful partners and sponsors, ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware. Without you, I would not be able to do this and for that, thank you. Thanks again for listening. Be well and until next week, take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a different perspective today. We’re hopping across the pond to hear from one of my new favorite design firms. From London, this is the mother and daughter team, Sarah and Rosie Ward from the Chelsea, London design firm, Ward & Co.

You will notice a few things about the following conversation. Strong design is universal. Good design relies talent, skill and a willingness to divorce oneself from their own personal style in favor of understanding what lies at the center of a client’s desires. Sarah and Rosie do that and it’s evident in their work. It’s also fun to have a conversation that spans international boundaries because while as humans we have similarities in needs and desires, the differences geographically are significant. I hope you enjoy this conversation with Sarah and Rosie of Ward & Co.

Thank you, Sarah and Rosie.I appreciate the time and insights. Thank you CXD partners, sponsors and friends ThermaSol, Moya Living, Design Hardware, the ICAA SoCal Chapter and The Oasis Alliance.

Thank you for taking the time out of your day to listen to the show. I hope you enjoy the show because that’s why I do this. I would also like to hear from you. I love the guest submissions and show ideas so keep them coming, email me convobydesign@outlook.com or message me on Instagram @convoxdesign, with an x.

Remember why you do what you do and for whom you do it. Let that be the thing that drives you to push the boundaries and let’s keep moving our industry forward. Be well, and until next week… Take today first. CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. Can you believe it has been 10 years doing this show, because I can’t. Thanks for listening and supporting the podcast. I appreciate you. Today, you are going to hear from Tracee Murphy of Trade Mark Interiors. We’re taking a deep dive into the phycology behind design. Why we do what we do, and how design informs those decisions as well as how those design decisions inform what we do.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

The Oasis Alliance – Providing design to those in need.

ICAA Southern California – SoCal is Southern California’s preeminent resource on classical architecture and the allied arts.

Tracee Murphy has built her firm on the principles of therapy and crafted a process to get to foundational basics in design. Not just an exploration in how her clients want to live but why, which can be the difference between wonderful design and transformational design. It all starts with listening, that’s the easy part. Understanding, processing what follows is where the magic lies. And you’ll hear all about that, right after this.

Thank you, Tracee. Loved our chat and appreciate the time. There is such value in the art of listening. And it is an art form. Thank you CXD partners, sponsors and friends ThermaSol, Moya Living, Design Hardware, the ICAA SoCal Chapter and The Oasis Alliance.

Thank you for taking the time out of your day to listen to the show. I hope you enjoy the show because that’s why I do this. I would also like to hear from you. I love the guest submissions and show ideas so keep them coming, email me convobydesign@outlook.com or message me on Instagram @convoxdesign, with an x.

Remember why you do what you do and for whom you do it. Let that be the thing that drives you to push the boundaries and let’s keep moving our industry forward. Be well, and until next week… Take today first. CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. Celebrating 10 years hosting and producing this show has given me so much that I cannot even tell you how much it means to me. That is why I strive to continue giving back to this incredible industry every chance I get. Because it’s important, and I think that because it took me so long to figure out what I wanted to do when I grew up. Not saying I have totally grown up.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

The Oasis Alliance – Providing design to those in need.

ICAA Southern California – SoCal is Southern California’s preeminent resource on classical architecture and the allied arts.

Giving back to the business is important. Do you know that when I started Convo By Design, I was the only person recording panel conversations from our amazing design events. I think I started recording panels in 2014 and for the first 4 years of the show, I would approach guests to be on the show and the first question would be, “what’s a podcast.” Nobody asks me that anymore. I’m also not the only one recording the panels and conversations anymore. And that is a good thing.I would credit the wider distribution of critical design thinking for some of the groundbreaking work we see today in the business. The new products and services available to designers and through to their clients is nothing short of remarkable.

The pandemic brought a wholesale change in the way think about design, it fundamentally changed the very nature of thee business. Listening back to some of the conversations I had during lock-down was not only transformational in the way I think about the business but informs my editorial calendar and some of the things in store for you here on CXD in future episodes. The following conversation is a look back to the future with a group I spent some time with during lock-down.

I started hosting the Wellness & Design Thought Leadership Series back in 2017. It has had a few different names but the idea that wellness and design thought leadership are inextricably tied together makes sense to me anyway and that is how I settled on this name for the gatherings both live, in-person and virtual. This cohort features an illustrious group of creatives who joined me during the pandemic via Zoom and we gathered again in January to check in. Thi conversation features; Laurie Haefele, Rozita Nazarian, Alexandra Abramian, Gary Gibson, Takashi Yanai and Josh Boris. We cover a lot of ground about how the industry is changing in real time. I hope you enjoy this conversation with some wonderful friends, right after this.

What a fun conversation. I love that we could do this. Thank you Laurie, Rozita, Alex, Takashi, Gary and Josh. Thank you for all you do to move the conversation forward. Thank you CXD partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware. Thank you for taking the time out of your day to listen to the show, subscribe, download and send me emails with guest submissions and project ideas for coverage. Keep them coming.

Until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. Today, we are visiting with Denver based designer, Nadia Watts. A creative with a very strong collaborative spirit. What does that mean?

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

The Oasis Alliance – Providing design to those in need.

ICAA Southern California – SoCal is Southern California’s preeminent resource on classical architecture and the allied arts.

Well, it’s an idea that is uniquely different based on the individuals perspective. In Nadia’s case, collaboration is an idea inextricably tied to her work, you are going to hear about that as well as an exploration into her work and how she uses elements of her design to bounce of other parts to add depth and detail to the work. I hope you enjoy this conversation by design with Nadia Watts, we’ll be right back.

Thank you, Nadia. I appreciate the time and love what you do. Thank you to my partners and sponsors, ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware. Your partnership is what makes this possible and your support for the design industry is amazing, I appreciate you. Thank you for taking the time to subscribe, download and listen to the show. If not already, please make sure you subscribe so you get fresh episodes the moment they’re published.

Remember why you do what you do and for whom you do it. Be well, and until next week, take today first. CXD

About Nadia: Nadia has been in the interior design industry for over 15 years. Since 2009 Nadia has delivered exceptional interior design to clients across the country from her studio in Denver, Colorado. Her collaborative approach to design and project management has led to lasting relationships with clientele looking to personalize and refine their spaces. Nadia’s portfolio includes custom residential homes, historic renovations, bespoke professional offices, and spaces showcasing internationally recognized art and furniture collections. Nadia’s forte is attention to detail and expressing the personalities of her clients in the feel of their homes.

Nadia began her professional design career with Elaine Stephenson Interiors in Roanoke, Virginia, she worked in the American Decorative Arts Department at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and with Douglas Associates, Interior Designers in Denver. Nadia founded her eponymous firm in 2009. Nadia Watts Interior Design has provided Nadia the creative venue to demonstrate and explore her design skills. Nadia specializes in assembling teams of architects, contractors, artisans, and experts unique to each project. Services include: full service interior design, project management, new construction, furnishing selection, historical restoration, and remote design consultation.

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design and today on the show, you are going to hear from someone with whom you are already familiar. You know her product because you hear about it during the show and I thought it was time for you to really hear from her, this is the create visionary behind the lifestyle brand, Moya Living. This is Moya O’Neill.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

The Oasis Alliance – Providing design to those in need.

ICAA Southern California – SoCal is Southern California’s preeminent resource on classical architecture and the allied arts.

Moya is not just a guest, not just a partner sponsor of Convo By Design, she is a friend, a superior creative and she has built this company around a product, as you have heard me say, is built like a tank and looks like a Ferrari. That’s not a sales pitch, its true. Why is that so important? name a company, brand, manufacturer or other purveyor of a product that makes a product so stunningly gorgeous that it’s style is enduring while constructing it of a lasting material like steel using best building practices as to make sure the product lasts and is measured not by years but by generations? You will be hard pressed to find another like Moya Living. Their process is a model for modern manufacturing. But is all starts with the vision. And, you are going to hear all about that, in just a moment.

Thank you Moya, I do love our chats. Thank you CXD sponsor partners ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for making this show possible. Thank you for taking the time out of your day to listen to the show. I hope you enjoy the show, that’s why I do this. I would also like to hear from you. I love the guest submissions and show ideas so keep them coming, email me convobydesign@outlook.com or massage me on Instagram @convoxdesign, with an x.

Remember why you do what you do and for whom you do it. Let that be the thing that drives you to push the boundaries and let’s keep moving our industry forward. Be well, and until next week… Take today first. CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. Today on the show I’m going to take you back to an event honoring one of the best in the business today. It was the Institute of Classical Architecture and Art Southern California Chapter’s annual Legacy celebration in honor of the incomparable Richard Landry.

What an absolutely spectacular night this was. t was raucous, loud, and incredible fun. I’m going to take you with me as I emceed the event that night at the California Club in Los Angeles. In this episode, you are also going to hear from Artillery Magazine’s Ezrah Jean Black. She is going to give you a walking tour with artist Peter Wallis within his installation at Bergamot Station in Santa Monica, CA. This is an episode in celebration of art, architecture and those who create it.

Thank you Ezrah, Brian Pinkett, Richard Landry, ICAA Southern California, Bergamot Station, and everyone who played a part in this episode. Now more than ever, remember why you do what you do and for whom you do it. The design and architecture community single handedly makes the lives of those we serve better and it’s because of you. Thanks again for listening, we’ll be back next week with another story, so until then, be well and take today first.

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a conversation about architecture. The kind of architecture that, if you are a true fan, makes your heart race. It did mine Wayne Turett is. the force behind The Turett Collaborative. He and his team are reshaping New York and surrounding through the application of extraordinary architecture principles, new ideas and and a reimagined idea of what architecture is and can be. The work is imaginative, daring and the philosophy is sustainable. Everything from reshaped inner city dwellings to a ground up passive house. Outdoor playgrounds inside, inside living spaces outdoors and so much more.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

Wayne and I take a walk through quite a few of these projects and if you are so inclined, you can walk through them with us. As always, check the show notes for a link to The Turett Collective website project pages and we’ll explore together. What you are going to find is that Wayne’s firm takes the work seriously, but in that approach, find ways to reignite the imagination through the use of materials in unexpected ways, application of technique in a manner that is multifunctional and serves as multiplier against other materials and techniques. Space, flow, lighting, emotion and a clear passion for the work are evident in every detail. Can you tell I’m a fan? I am and I think if you are not already familiar with their work, by the end of this episode, you will be as well. The is Wayne Turett of The Turett Collective.

Thank you Wayne for the time. Thank you CXD partners and sponsors ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for your continuous partnership and support. Thank you for taking the time to subscribe, download and listen to the show. I appreciate you.

Now more than ever, remember why you do what you do and for whom you do it. The design and architecture community single handedly makes the lives of those we serve better and it’s because of you. Thanks again for listening, we’ll be back next week with another story, so until then, be well and take today first.

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a panel conversation recorded live from the WestEdge Design Fair, Dallas edition. This conversation was entitled, Designing for Wellness Inside and Out | An Exploration to Stunning Holistic Design that Connects Inside and Out with Those Who Inhabit the Space.

I envisioned this conversation as one that would open new avenues of thought for a southern and midwestern audience. Having spent a great deal of time recently in both the midwest and south, I can tell you that the ideas of wellness are different. We’ll get to that a bit more in a minute. First, I wanted you to hear how this concept was presented. Here is how this panel was billed and whom it featured.

The concept of ‘healthy design’ is a constantly evolving idea as new technology comes to market and the ideas behind living healthy change. In years past, it was low off-gassing materials and VOC paints, then sleep chambers crafted for a high quality sleeping experience. As the pandemic continues to change the way we live, so has the idea that defines what it means to live a healthy lifestyle. Crafting luxury living both inside and out has become a universal goal to capture as much usable space while exploring ways to make that space perform in new ways.

Featuring Shelly Rosenberg, Philip Vanderford and Christina Garcia-Lysaught Moderated by Brenda Houston.

Simple and elegant, yet as you are going to hear, ideas about wellness change dramatically based on who you ask. This group was cast with purpose. Each participant was hand picked for the individual superpower they possess and if you have listened to the show for a while, you have heard from each of them. Philip Vanderford of Studio Thomas James, Christina Garcia-Lysaught of Layered Dimensions and Shelly Rosenberg all bring a different perspective to this idea of what “wellness” means right now as it informs their work on behalf of their clients. Check the links in the show notes to see their work, you’ll see what I mean. To moderate this conversation is Brenda Houston. Brenda is what I call a hybrid-creative. She works in a number of verticals that range from design to retail to product design which makes her the perfect person to bring out the gems from this highly-skilled group. You are going to hear all about it, right after this.

Thank you Christina, Shelly, Philip and Brenda. Fabulous job. I loved this and appreciate your taking the time to do this and sharing your expertise and insight. Thank you to CXD partners and sponsors including ThermaSol, Moya Living, Design Hardware and the WestEdge Design Fair. Thank YOU for taking the time out of your day to download, subscribe and listen to the show. I appreciate you and I hope this show helps you do that thing you do better. For more information about the show, about what we do here at Convo By Design, check the show notes for links and ways to connect. Until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman, this is Convo By Design and I was thinking about you this past weekend. Really.

In life, we come across people who change us. Some in small bits, some larger but they, in some way shape our journey and inform who we become. Two of those individuals in my life left us last week. What I find so interesting about it is that these two individuals and i interacted for about one hour each yet they had an immense impact on my life. That led me to think about you, those who listen to the show, this podcast and it reminded me that is the reason that I do this, in the hopes that what I do could impact others, that it could have a lasting impact on your life and shape your journey.

You might be wondering about who these people were. One was actor Tom SIzemore who you might recognize from Heat, Saving Private Ryan and countless others. The second was Wayne Shorter, legendary jazz musician. I interviewed both of these icons and each had a sizable impact on me and inform the way I think about things.

Wayne Shorter told me a story about how he envisioned his music as a journey, bigger than an instrument playing notes with a band for fans. An actual journey of life, this became a philosophy for him and his story made me think about the journey we all take, the work we create and how that composition changes us.

Tom Sizemore left an indelible mark on me. He told a story about being saved by a friend. That reminded me that none of us get to impact points along that journey without others along the way.

So, a journey is nothing without the people along the way. Just wanted to share that and remember 2 people who made a tremendous impact on me in a very short amount of time.

I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a colorful conversation for this year’s International Builders Show in Las Vegas. Nothing changes the nature and language of design more than color, right? While I can’t see you, many are nodding, others are shaking their heads because we in the industry can rarely agree on anything like this and that is just a small part of what makes the current state of design so amazing and wonderful.

We shouldn’t be agreeing about anything related to design or color. The moment we all begin to love something and think it permanent, we lose finding what’s next and I hope that never happens. I also think that very cycle is what transitions design thought leadership and trending ideas to the trendy, which I believe is when creative ideas die. The following is a conversation I had with Sue Wadden, director of color marketing for Sherwin Williams. We were talking about color and the opportunities designers and specifiers have with Sherwin Williams family of products. We’ll get to that, right after this.

Thank you, Sue. Loved our chat and I’m looking forward to doing this again soon. Thank you Convo By Design sponsors, ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for your partnership. I appreciate you and I love the way you support the design industry. For those listening who want to learn more, please check the show notes for links. Thank you for listening to the show. I know now more than ever, there are a lot of shows out there and you chose CXD. I appreciate you and I hope you found this episode to be a great use of your time because that is my goal. Let’s do this again shall we? Say, next week? Until then, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. Suzanne Rheinstein, a giant in the industry has left us but not without changing both the nature of interior design but the way in which interior design is experienced by those for whom she crafted. 

Suzanne was one of those rare talents who had a signature through-line in her work that has been described as “elegant civility” which was a pulled-focus on fewer, but better. A level of quality that was exceptional but not overpowering which allowed those for whom she worked to experience the different levels of her work, not necessarily all at once but over time. It is the same way other pleasure past-times like wine, art and music are experienced and enjoyed. Rheinstein was a major talent with all of the awards and accolades that you would expect. Her work, like Suzanne, was elegant and timeless. 

I wanted to share some of her wit, charm and stories, in her own voice and words from an interview n 2019 at the LaCienega Design Quarter’s Legends event where she was presented with her Living Legend Award.

“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. When once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward, for there you have been and there you will always long to return. Learning never exhausts the mind. – Leonardo da Vinci.

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with an absolutely jam packed episode featuring some sound from KBIS and IBS 2023. For the record, this show was amazing, and you’re about to hear why…

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

The pandemic is over. With that broad statement comes some finer nuanced observations. Yes, people are still getting COVID, yes, you still see some masked holdouts but I would equate those to a lingering cough after being sick. I base this on the traffic I saw at Las Vegas Market, KBIS and IBS. It was jammed, the parties were full of unmasked, imbibing revelers all in Las Vegas to see what happening, and much was happening.

You have already heard some of what was happening at Las Vegas Market. If you missed it, check the show notes or podcast feed for links to episodes about the panels and the people. This is a montage from KBIS and IBS featuring brands and design talent from around the country who decended upon sin city to celebrate design and find inspiration from products and innovation. It is important to call an end to the pandemic but to remember all that we have learned. I will say this again, once something unprecedented happens, it is no longer unprecedented and the odds are that something like it can and will happen again. If and when it does, will we be prepared? That is a conversation for another day. Today, you are going to hear from some amazing individuals including; Hacker Kitchens, Breegan Jane, John Cialone, Top Knobs, Sara Malek Barney and more. So, let’s get after it.

Wow. Jam packed, right? Thank you Sara, Matt, Roz, Andeas, Breegan, Christine & John. Thank you Convo By Design sponsors, ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for your partnership. I appreciate you and I love the way you support the design industry. For those listening who want to learn more, please check the show notes for links. Thank you for listening to the show. I know now more than ever, there are a lot of shows out there and you chose CXD. I appreciate you and I hope you found this episode to be a great use of your time because that is my goal. Let’s do this again shall we? Say, next week? Until then, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design and today on the show, we have Cate Brown, and her firm’s creative director, NY fashion designer Dean Sidaway. Cate and her namesake brand produce some beautiful garments for the home. Yes, this is a conversation about design, but it’s also a chart about fashion, clothing for the home, if you will and sustainability. Up-cycling, and reimagining gently worn Chanel, Valentino and Louis Vuitton into pillows and fashion for the home.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

It’s an interesting concept if you really think about it. Tile, pulls and hardware have long been called jewelry for the home. We talk about our homes as living, breathing entities so why shouldn’t they be dressed? Why shouldn’t textiles serve as fashion for the home? Partly rhetorical, partly not and that is the part Cate, Dean and I discuss.

This is the 10th year of Convo By Design. For the past 10 years, I have been working with the biggest and brightest names in design and architecture. I have also spent a significant amount of time consulting brands and producing branded content for them. Beginning this year, we are offering this service to design and architecture firms of all sizes from the single creative to multi-national design firms and brands alike. If you are in need of a production company to produce social media content, develop your company podcast, write your blog posts, produce trade-focused CEUs, create in-showroom programming or you need help leveling-up your firm, email me, Convo By Design @ Outlook dot com or message me on Instagram @ConvoXDesign with an “x”.

Thank you Cate and Dean for taking the time to share your story. Thank you CXD partners and sponsors; ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for your continued support. And thank you for taking the time every week to share some time together and hear the stories behind sublime design. Check the show notes for links to Cate Brown, our social media links and please keep emailing me with your suggestions and guest submissions. Convo By Design @ Outlook dot com. Until next week, remember why you do what you do and for whom you do it, be well and take today first.

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo by Design with a conversation about building an absolutely exceptional design brand. Christopher Peacock is a truly exceptional creative with a rich history in creating some of the most extraordinary wood cabinetry in the industry today. There is a difference between crafting a product and building a brand. Peacock molded his eponymous brand in the US from humble beginnings and a keen understanding for what he wanted. And he’s going to share that story and insight here.

Christopher launched his firm in 1992. Christopher Peacock Cabinetry was built on the premise that wooden cabinetry should be beautiful and enduring. But when Peacock put his name on it, there was a greater sense of purpose. That is what I find so interesting here. This is the piece that is missing from much of what we. See and hear these days in the trades and in the media surrounding design and architecture. For many years now, the idea of luxury design has been inextricable tied to big, expensive and for lack of a better word, “extra”. I don’t think good design has to be big, expensive or “extra”. I think good, no, great design is about the nature of the work and manner in which the work is tied to the individual for whom it’s created. Look at art. A painting can sell for millions of dollars but at the end of the day, what is it…really. A few dollars worth of canvas and paint. But the work speaks. Fashion, same thing. A few dollars of fabric crafted into something extraordinary. It’s the art that goes into the craftsmanship. That is what makes design so special. And that is why Christopher’s sorry is so special. And why I am so pleased to share it with you.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

Thank you Christopher for taking the time to share your story. Thank you CXD partners and sponsors; ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for your continued support. And thank you for taking the time every week to share some time together and hear the stories behind sublime design. Until next week, remember why you do what you do and for whom you do it, be well and take today first.

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. Today, I’m just having a chat with a friend. One that I want to share with you because my friend Charles is one of the best brand-ambassadors I know. He is a marketer and promoter in the very best sense of the words. This is Charles Miller.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

You already know my background if you have been listening to the show for any length of time. I want to share a story that I don’t think I have shared on CXD before. Growing up in LA, I was a huge fan of radio since I can remember. That is how I would up in broadcast for the first 20+ years of my career. When I was in college, I was interning at KLOS-FM, a legendary radio station. My internship was with the mark & Brian Show, one of the biggest radio shows in LA history. One day, my job was to escort and assist a very young and newly-minted boxing champ, Mike Tyson. He came in with Don King to plant a tree on Arbor Day. I handed he and King a shovel, they looked at each other and laughed. I would up planting that tree. I got to follow King and Tyson around that day and watched, in awe as Don King did his Don King thing. One of the best promoters I have ever witnessed. Singular in focus at the moment. He had nothing else in life but Mike Tyson at that moment. He espoused the virtues, sidestepped the unimportant and made sure to drive every campaign with purpose and passion.

This is how I think about my friend Charles Miller. He is as creative as any designer or artist but his creativity takes the form of ideas that drive brand awareness and engagement for his branded clients. It’s an art form. One for which I have a strong admiration. And Charles is one of the best. If you know him, you know I’m right. If you don’t, allow me to introduce you.

Thank you Charles. You are one of the best at what you do. Thank you to CXD partners and sponsors including ThermaSol, Moya Living, Design Hardware and the WestEdge Design Fair. Thank YOU for taking the time out of your day to download, subscribe and listen to the show. I appreciate you and I hope this show helps you do that thing you do better. For more information about the show, about what we do here at Convo By Design, check the show notes for links and ways to connect. Until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is another edition of Business By Design, a special feature of the show. As previously mentioned, I am producing these ad hoc and I have something special for you today. But first…So you know, the following opinions are mine and do not represent or warranty any economic or future performance. We are not responsible for any gross factual errors voiced by guests, real or fake. There are no guarantees here, just ideas that have been constructed based on research so I suggest that you do your own research as well before acting on any of the ideas shared here. This is what those in the business call a disclaimer and it is meant to make sure you know that I am not giving you any financial advice, I am presenting ideas in the hopes that it gives you a way to perhaps think a bit differently about this business of ours.

Most of you have heard and might be curious about whats happening next in the business from a technological standpoint. There has been a lot of chatter recently about NFT’s, the metaverse and AI. At KBIS and Vegas Market recently, some creatives have expressed doubts, others concern and it makes sense. Years ago, I started tracking the amount of time designers and architectural firms spent of social media, marketing and other activities not directly related to the core business of the design practice and it has been astounding to see the time spent on these activities skyrocket. For me, as the host and publisher of Convo By design, it has been interesting to watch some designers really embrace media, writing blogs and some even recording their own podcasts. I love that because they got to see first hand just how difficult and time consuming it can be to do it right. That being said, we are entering a new era, one of artificial intelligence and that will have some very interesting effects on the business of design. and we are going to explore that very idea. Before I get to deep into this, I want to introduce me guest today. Meet AIDAAN (Artificial Intelligence Design And Architectural Narrarator).

As you might have guessed, AIDAAN is not human, he is as AI as it gets. I made a choice here, I gave AIDAAN an artificial sounding voice. There are some options out there that sound as real as any human. You have most likely already heard from or actually spoken with AI support and you might not even be aware. So, today on the show, we are going to hear from AIDAAN and they are going to tell you about various aspects and topics of the industry. I’m messing around with different voices and over time, I will begin to add more refined voices and we are going to learn together what that will sound like.

Something else you should know. The content you will be hearing about was not written by me, or any other human being for that matter. I have been using a few different AI sources like ChatGPT which is responsible for the actual content that AIDAAN is voicing. As a journalist, editorial integrity is of paramount importance to me so I am going to tell you when AI is responsible for producing the content you hear on the show.

So the first thing I wanted to know was the current state of the design and architecture industry. AIDAAN, take it away.

STATE OF DESIGN

The interior design industry is a vital part of the United States economy, providing jobs for thousands of designers, salespeople, and manufacturers across the country. From high-end residential projects to commercial spaces, the interior design industry has a wide range of applications and can be found in virtually every sector of the economy. In this article, we will explore the interior design industry as a business in the United States, examining the industry’s history, key players, and future prospects.

History

The history of interior design in the United States can be traced back to the early 20th century, when the emergence of the middle class led to a growing demand for comfortable, stylish homes. In the years that followed, the interior design industry grew rapidly, with designers like Elsie de Wolfe and Dorothy Draper pioneering new styles and techniques that helped to shape the look and feel of modern American homes.

In the post-World War II era, the interior design industry continued to expand, with designers like Raymond Loewy and Charles and Ray Eames revolutionizing the way we think about design. The emergence of the mid-century modern style, with its emphasis on clean lines, minimalism, and functionality, had a profound impact on the industry and helped to establish the United States as a leader in the world of design.

In the decades that followed, the interior design industry continued to grow and evolve, with designers and manufacturers constantly pushing the boundaries of what was possible. Today, the industry is a diverse and dynamic landscape, with a wide range of players and applications.

Key Players

The interior design industry is made up of a wide range of players, from independent designers and boutique firms to large manufacturers and retailers. Some of the key players in the industry include:

1. Designers: Interior designers are the heart of the industry, providing creative solutions for residential and commercial spaces. Many designers work independently or as part of small firms, while others are employed by large companies or design studios.
2. Manufacturers: Furniture manufacturers and other companies that produce interior design products are an essential part of the industry. These companies may work with designers to create custom pieces or may sell their products directly to consumers through retail outlets.
3. Retailers: Retailers are an important part of the interior design industry, providing consumers with access to a wide range of products and services. Some retailers specialize in high-end luxury goods, while others cater to more budget-conscious shoppers.
4. Contractors: Contractors and construction companies play a key role in the interior design industry, providing the skills and expertise needed to transform spaces into beautiful, functional environments. Many interior designers work closely with contractors to ensure that their designs are executed to perfection.
5. Suppliers: Suppliers of materials and other products, such as fabric, wallpaper, and lighting, are an important part of the interior design industry. These companies provide the raw materials that designers need to create their designs and bring them to life.

Future Prospects

The interior design industry is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, driven by a number of factors. One of the key drivers of growth is the increasing demand for personalized and unique interior design solutions. As consumers become more design-savvy and sophisticated, they are increasingly looking for interior design solutions that reflect their individual tastes and styles.

Another key factor driving growth in the industry is the increasing importance of sustainability and environmental responsibility. As consumers become more aware of the impact of their actions on the environment, they are looking for interior design solutions that are environmentally friendly and sustainable.

In addition to these factors, the growing importance of technology is also expected to have a significant impact on the interior design industry. From virtual reality to 3D printing, technology is enabling designers and manufacturers to create new and innovative products and services that were previously unimaginable.

Okay, so from the state of the industry to some of the players AIDAAN mentioned, let’s start with a classic,

Billy Baldwin was a man ahead of his time. Born in 1903, he was one of the most influential interior designers of the mid-20th century, renowned for his ability to create elegant, livable spaces that were both stylish and comfortable.

Growing up in Baltimore, Maryland, Billy had a keen eye for design from an early age. After attending the Parsons School of Design in New York City, he began his career as a window dresser for the prestigious department store, Bonwit Teller.

It wasn’t long before Billy was noticed by the city’s elite, who quickly began asking him to design their homes. His signature style was a blend of classic and modern elements, with an emphasis on comfort and practicality.

One of Billy’s most famous clients was Jackie Kennedy Onassis, who asked him to decorate her family’s home in Virginia. Billy’s design for the house was a masterful blend of traditional and modern styles, with clean lines, simple shapes, and a neutral color palette that emphasized the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Billy’s success continued throughout the 1950s and 60s, as he designed homes and offices for some of the most prominent names in entertainment, politics, and business. His work was characterized by a simplicity and elegance that set it apart from the more ornate and opulent styles of the time.

Despite his success, Billy was always humble and focused on his work. He believed that good design should be accessible to everyone, and he wrote several books on the subject to share his ideas and inspire others.

Today, Billy Baldwin’s legacy lives on, with his designs and ideas continuing to influence generations of interior designers. He was a true pioneer in the field, and his contributions to the world of design will always be remembered and celebrated.

Next, I wanted to see if AIDAAN could explain something a bit more esoteric, nuanced and industry specific. I wanted to know more about the

Parsons School of Design

Architecture, also known as Parsons or Parsons The New School for Design, is a private art and design college located in New York City, New York. It is widely regarded as one of the best design schools in the world, with a long history of producing innovative and influential designers, artists, and thinkers. In this article, we will explore the history, philosophy, and legacy of Parsons School of Design.

History

Parsons School of Design was founded in 1896 by American impressionist painter William Merritt Chase. Originally known as the Chase School, the institution was established to provide young artists with the opportunity to learn from working professionals in a supportive and collaborative environment.

In the early years, the school focused primarily on painting and drawing, with a curriculum that emphasized the importance of classical techniques and the study of nature. As the school grew, however, it began to expand its offerings to include other disciplines, such as graphic design, industrial design, and fashion design.

In 1904, the school was purchased by Frank Alvah Parsons, who served as the director of the school until his death in 1930. Parsons was a visionary educator who recognized the potential of design to transform society, and he was instrumental in expanding the school’s offerings and establishing its reputation as a leader in the field of design.

Under Parsons’ leadership, the school was renamed the New York School of Fine and Applied Art, and later the Parsons School of Design. During this time, the school attracted a wide range of talented artists and designers, including the likes of Norman Rockwell, Alexander Calder, and Donald Deskey.

In the years that followed, Parsons continued to evolve and adapt to changing trends in art and design. Today, it is recognized as one of the most innovative and forward-thinking design schools in the world, with a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and a commitment to social and environmental responsibility.

Philosophy

At its core, Parsons School of Design is guided by a philosophy that emphasizes creativity, experimentation, and innovation. The school’s curriculum is designed to encourage students to take risks, push boundaries, and explore new ideas and ways of thinking.

One of the key tenets of the Parsons philosophy is the idea that design can be a powerful force for positive change. Parsons students are encouraged to think critically about the social and environmental impact of their work, and to use their skills and creativity to address real-world problems and challenges.

Another important aspect of the Parsons philosophy is the school’s emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration. Parsons students are encouraged to work across disciplines and explore new ways of combining different forms of design, from fashion and architecture to graphic design and product design.

Throughout its history, Parsons has also been committed to providing its students with real-world experience and practical skills. The school has strong connections to industry leaders and professionals, and students have the opportunity to work on real-world projects and collaborate with established designers and firms.

Legacy

Over the years, Parsons School of Design has produced a long list of influential and innovative designers and artists. From fashion icons like Donna Karan and Tom Ford to architects like David Rockwell and Steven Holl, Parsons graduates have had a significant impact on the world of design.

One of the most notable aspects of Parsons’ legacy is its focus on social and environmental responsibility. Many Parsons graduates have used their skills and creativity to address pressing global issues, from climate change and sustainability to social justice and equity.

Parsons has also been instrumental in shaping the cultural landscape of New York City and beyond. The school’s alumni have played a key role in shaping the fashion, art, and design scenes of the city, and its influence can be seen in everything from the public spaces and buildings of the city to the fashion runways and galleries of the world.

Is this as interesting to you as it is to me? I find this fascinating. So the final question I had for AIDAAN today, how will those in the design trade use AI to make life better, business more profitable and design more refined?

Artificial intelligence (AI) has become an essential tool in many industries, including design and architecture. The use of AI in these fields is changing the way designers and architects work, creating new opportunities for creativity and innovation. In this article, we will explore how designers and architects are using AI to make their work better for clients, how this is improving interior design and architecture, and how it is making life better.

1. How designers and architects will use artificial intelligence to make the work better for their clients:

a) Streamlining the design process:

AI is already being used to streamline the design process, reducing the time and effort required to complete projects. For example, some companies are using AI to automate the creation of 3D models, allowing designers to focus on other aspects of the project. This saves time and increases efficiency, which can ultimately result in cost savings for clients.

b) Customization:

One of the most significant benefits of AI in design and architecture is the ability to customize designs to meet the specific needs of each client. AI can analyze data on client preferences, needs, and behaviors to create personalized designs that meet their unique requirements. This leads to more satisfied clients who feel that their needs have been heard and addressed.

c) Improved accuracy:

AI can also improve the accuracy of design work, reducing the risk of errors or mistakes. This is particularly important in fields like architecture, where errors can have serious consequences. By using AI to analyze data and create precise models, designers and architects can reduce the risk of errors and improve the overall quality of their work.

1. How this will improve interior design and architecture:

a) Better space planning:

AI can be used to analyze data on space usage and traffic flow to create more efficient and effective interior design plans. This can lead to better use of space, improved traffic flow, and ultimately, a better experience for users of the space.

b) Improved sustainability:

AI can also be used to improve the sustainability of interior design and architecture projects. For example, AI can analyze data on energy usage and building materials to create more sustainable designs that reduce energy consumption and waste.

c) Improved safety:

AI can also be used to improve the safety of interior design and architecture projects. For example, AI can analyze data on traffic flow and building usage to create designs that minimize the risk of accidents and injuries.

1. How this will make life better:

a) Increased accessibility:

AI can be used to create designs that are more accessible to people with disabilities. For example, AI can analyze data on the needs of people with disabilities to create designs that are easier to navigate and use.

b) Improved quality of life:

AI can also be used to improve the quality of life for people in interior design and architecture projects. For example, AI can be used to create designs that maximize natural light and reduce noise pollution, creating a more pleasant and comfortable environment for users.

c) Improved efficiency:

Finally, AI can be used to improve the efficiency of interior design and architecture projects, ultimately saving time and money for clients. By streamlining the design process and improving accuracy, designers and architects can complete projects more quickly and with fewer errors, resulting in cost savings for clients.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the use of AI in design and architecture is changing the way designers and architects work, creating new opportunities for creativity and innovation. By using AI to streamline the design process, improve accuracy, and customize designs, designers and architects can create better work for their clients. Additionally, the use of AI in interior design and architecture can improve space planning, sustainability, safety, accessibility, quality of life, and efficiency, ultimately making life better for all of us. As AI continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more exciting innovations in these fields in the years to come.

So, there you go. If you believe the machines, the state of design is strong. AI is real and this means there are new ways to use these new tools to make life better, work easier, advance innovation at a much faster pace and learn whats available sooner all while saving time and energy so you can both be more efficient and get more done. Now, can you use that additional time in a productive way or will that mean more time spent on social media? That is a personal question, but one that all of us need to ask ourselves. And, we will explore this further in the weeks and months to come.

AIDAAN, did you enjoy your first appearance on the show?

Thank you, to the amazing Convo By Design partners and sponsors, ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware. Thank you for taking the time out of your busy day to listen to the show. Please make sure you are subscribing to the show so you don’t miss a single episode. You can also follow along on Instagram for more fun and informative content. 2023 is shaping up to be another interesting year in design. As I have for the past 10, I will be bringing you the stories from across the globe here o n Convo By Design as well as design business insights on CXD’s The Business X Design.

Until the next episode, be well and take today first.

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a journey south, Mexico City to be exact, to speak with Sten Studio founder Jose Miguel Schnaider. We are talking about stone, sculpture, lighting, art and so much more.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

From a family quarry to original works of art suing beautiful gifts painstakingly unwrapped from their multi-million year formation process, that is both a big responsibility and an unparalleled opportunity to create something truly unique. Using the minerals and materials unearthed using select manufacturing techniques, Juan Miguel crafts some incredible works. But not alone. This is also a conversation about collaboration and teamwork.

It dawned on my while writing the preamble for this episode that a consistent and constant theme that is present in every one of the 400+ previous conversations and from each of the 800+ creatives I have spoken with over the past 10 years, there is this state of wonder I feel. I was having a conversation recently with the CEO of a rather large company. We were just chatting about life in general and I realized something. My friend’s creative pilot light had gone out. As we delved deeper, it became evident that there was no joy in what he did, only obligations. The need to keep things going forward. Sales, R & D, stock price, no bad press, no scandals… Burnout will surely follow at some point, and he knows this. The goal, for him, is to hang on as long as possible. Get as close as he can to the day when he can eventually cut the cord and let go.

Think about that for a moment. Just keeping all the balls in the air versus living each breath in a state of awe and wonder. Nobody I know has reached that level of awareness, some are far closer than I but the goal is to eventually get there. Why so philosophical today? Not sure, but I think it has to do with this conversation and the idea of walking through a yard of newly unearthed minerals, geodes, and all different shapes of materials knowing that I would have the opportunity to craft them into something completely unique. Art. Isn’t that what life is all about? Taking the unknown, opportunity, discovery and crafting it into something you can be proud of?

Thank you Juan Miguel. I enjoyed our chat and love what you do. Thank you CXD partners and sponsors; ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for your continued support. And thank you for taking the time every week to share some time together and hear the stories behind sublime design. Check the show notes for links to Sten Studio, our social media links and please keep emailing me with your suggestions and guest submissions. Convo By Design @ Outlook dot com. Until next week, remember why you do what you do and for whom you do it, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design. It’s kind of funny to me that over the years, all of the events and interviews, showcase homes, tours, gatherings… much of what I have found myself talking about with you, my friends in the business, that is the experience in design. That experience is more about the interpersonal relationships than the work itself. I love the work, it’s the glue that binds this amazing industry together. But, without the people, there is no design to begin with so it only makes sense that the people and our experiences come first. With that, I wanted to bring you a feel for what it was like at the Las Vegas Winter Market. I had never been to Las Vegas Market before so I don’t have a frame of reference, nothing to compare it to but I will tell you that I was completely blown way by this show. A massive market center with so much to see that it completely shocked the senses. I have been to KBIS before, but not since it was in Las Vegas back in 2019. I was not prepared for this. For designers who have been, you know, there is way more to see than time permits. More to do than you have the time or energy to expend. I was shocked by the attendance this year. I’m not exactly sure why though.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

The new reality is,

1. Meteorologists can not accurately predict the weather. Even with their Mega-Monster Super Doppler 10,000. They have no idea whats coming, or not.
2. The airlines can no longer be trusted to get you to the trade shows on time. I cannot tell you how many of my friends did not make it to the show on time. The one thing you can count on is that they will continue to jam-pack every flight they can, they will over-charge whenever possible and there will always be that one dude who isn’t wearing socks on the plane, he is also usually the guy whose watching or making a call on his phone without Air-pods.
3. Economic predictions are unreliable at best and there is no reliable way for knowing if a real recession is looming unless you actually do the research, which you do not have the time to do. But that brings me to another idea for you.

For the past 5 years, I have been gathering research from a small but very active group of designers and architects. Their combined findings have been extremely reliable predictors for what’s coming. Check the show for detailed findings and upcoming releases.

If you went to the shows this year or not, I wanted to see if I could bring you there with me and share a snapshot of the experience. In an effort to give you a real feel for this, I am going to organize this a bit differently. You have already heard my panel conversation. I published that last week. This episode is all about the people and a few that I think you should know.

First up, you are going to hear from Mike Riley, president of Feizy Rugs. Mike is an industry vet with decades of experience, and with the exuberance of someone new to the business. His passion shows and you’ll hear how Mike is navigating a company celebrating 50 years into this new era of the design business. We’ll be right back with that in just a moment.

You heard from Mike Riley, president of Feizy Rugs. Next, you are going to hear from my friend Michael Bauer, director of trade relations at Feizy. He is one of the most genuine and authentic people you will ever meet. I mean that with complete sincerity. His openness and willingness to help is one of the characteristics that make him an absolute gem. If you don’t know him, you’re about to. I would also encourage you to check the show notes for links to the Feizy Rugs website and introduce yourself to him because if you are a designer, you’re about to meet your next really amazing friend, Michael Bauer.

Finally, you are going to hear from Brad Priest of J & B Home Decor and Gifts. This designer and retailer has a thriving decor business who comes to Market to see what is new, now and next so he can bring it back to his Elkhart, Indiana showroom. Brad lost his husband and business partner Jonathan unexpectedly in 2021 and you are going to hear how his love of design and designers help him continue to heal from the loss. This was my first time meeting Brad and for me, this is what it’s all about. I have a new friend.

This was a snapshot of the Las Vegas Market in January. Now, to be fair, I walked literally miles in and around the 3 building campus and I probably only saw a fraction of what there was to see. That being said, if you check the CXD IG, you will find some additional footage of my experience. If you have never been to Market in Vegas, you need to go and see. Plan accordingly. Thank you Brad, Mike and Michael. Thank you Kim Porter of IMC for making my trip possible and casting me for the amazing panel conversation.

Thank you Convo By Design sponsors, ThermaSol, Moya Living and Design Hardware for your partnership. You are incredible. For those listening who want to learn more, please check the show notes for links. Thank you for listening to the show. I know now more than ever, there are a lot of shows out there and you chose CXD. I appreciate you and I hope you found this episode to be a great use of your time because that is my goal. Let’s do this again shall we? Say, next week? Until then, be well and take today first. -CXD

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a new series called The Business X Design. I’m starting this monthly addition to the show for one reason, an important reason. The shelter space, industrial design, hospitality, architecture, home goods …this business of ours is one of the most important industries in the lives of those who inhabit the dwellings you design, those who work in the offices and stores architects create. Over the years and certainly post-pandemic, the business behind design has changed dramatically, but the coverage really hasn’t changed all that much. I love the design publications, I do and I always have, I predict that I always will because they showcase some of the best work being done today. I’m also frustrated by them because they don’t show enough of it, they continue for the most part to feature exclusively the celebrity, super luxury and trendy sides of the business. I get that because that is how it has always been. But I think there is a desire for more. So, in keeping with that idea, every month as long as I feel like it serves a purpose, I am going to showcase a new episode in addition to the stories behind design, that episode will showcase how the business is changing in real time. I’m going to bring you my interpretation of the data that is shaping our economy and external factors molding and shaping the state of the business today. Each of these episodes will be shorter, more concise and cover one single idea that I think you should know. With that, here’s the first episode of Convo By Design’s, The Business X Design.

So you know, the following opinions are mine and do not represent or warranty any economic or future performance. There are no guarantees here, just ideas that have been constructed based on research so I suggest that you do your own research as well before acting on any of the ideas shared here. This is what those in the business call a disclaimer and it is meant to make sure you know that I am not giving you any financial advice, I am presenting ideas in the hopes that it gives you a way to perhaps think a bit differently about this business of ours.

When I record interviews, speak with clients and check in with people around the country, I have been asked one question with greater frequency lately, “Do you think we are going to see a recession?” I believe the answer to that question is “yes” but it also comes with a few caveats because that is not an easy question to answer. Why?

What is a recession? A recession is considered by many to be 2 consecutive quarters of negative GDP. I read a Forbes Advisor article recently that sourced the origin of this idea back to economist, Julius Siskin in 1974. Since so many subscribe to this idea, it has become a part of everyday conversation as it relates to the health of the US economy just like the goal of 2% inflation by the Federal Reserve. If this is true, then according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA.GOV), with negative GDP growth in Q1 and Q2 of 2022, we have already seen a recession this year. It gets complicated because Q3 saw a GDP pop of 2.9% and this is purely a guess but I think Q4 will see positive growth as well. I’ll tell you why in a moment. I also have a few thoughts on what we’ll see after that in the first 2 quarters of 2023 and why.

Before I get further into the nuts and bolts of this, Convo By Design is more than just a podcast. I have spent the past 10 years building a production company and consulting firm that develops brand ambassador programming, CEU’s, live event programming as well as branded content for companies in the design and architecture industry including; designers, architects, furnishing companies, showrooms and others in the trade. We have content producer talent in every region of the country and can help you grow your design business through brand development campaigns, social media and CEU content development and production as well as content consulting and live event programming and production to help you build strong and meaningful partnerships that will help you grow and strengthen your design business. For more information, message me @ConvoXDesign with an “X” on Instagram or email convobydesign@outlook.com.

I have been following a basket of stocks that are inextricably tied to home improvement, development and design. I am going to continue tracking these stocks to see what connections materialize. Keep in mind that stock performance is a rear facing indicator but, the best way to predict future performance is to look at what it has been in the past. Here are the stocks I’m following;

Bassett Furniture BSET

Ethan Allen ETD

LazyBoy LZB

Flexsteel FLXS

William Sanoma WSM

Home Depot HD

Restoration Hardware RH

Mohawk Industries MHK

Middleby MIDD

Whirlpool WHR

Sherwin Williams SHW

American Woodmark AMWD

Year to date in 2022, this the overall performance of a few of them with some thoughts (mid-December),

Bassett Furniture BSET

Ethan Allen ETD

LazyBoy LZB 23.32, down from 36.10 – 22 saw significantly higher earnings and revenue from the 3 previous years.

Flexsteel FLXS

William Sanoma WSM

Home Depot HD

Restoration Hardware RH

Mohawk Industries MHK 97.50, down from 100.24 at the start of the year. Revenue and earnings were up in 22 versus the past 3 years.

Middleby MIDD

Whirlpool WHR 141.49, down from 227.04 – Revenue and earnings were up in 22, after 3 years of declining revenue.

Sherwin Williams SHW 240.47, down from 243.48, the 2022 high. Revenue was up in comparison to the past 3 years, earnings were not, but they were fairly close.

American Woodmark AMWD

What I see from this is that this sampling shows 4 mainstream companies with higher revenue and 3 of the 4 with higher earnings as well. This tells me that consumers are still buying, improving and designing. At the same time, according to the BEA again, the US savings rate was 3.2 % in July of 22, 2.8% in August, 2.4% in September and 2.3% in October. That makes sense because of inflation.

The PCE, defined as “A measure of the prices that people living in the United States, or those buying on their behalf, pay for goods and services. The PCE price index is known for capturing inflation (or deflation) across a wide range of consumer expenses and reflecting changes in consumer behavior.”

Year over year PCE rose 6.2 in August, 6.3 in September and 6.0 in October. Monthly saw a 0.3 rise in each of those 3 months.

So we all get it. Prices continue to rise, savings continue to fall. But many if not most of the companies selling the products continue to record higher earnings over the past 3 years.

I should also mention that my exit interviews with my guests indicate that some projects have been pushed further out in the calendar. A few have cancelled, and many of those cancellations are replaced with other projects looking to expedite. This is where I think the business gets really interesting. I do believe there will be another technical recession again in q1 and q2 of 2023 but after that.… I think it will be bumpy and bouncy with interest rates dropping, inflation rates dropping. I also think as the supply chain continues to free up, that could, in and of itself, create new supply delays as many clients green-light projects when they feel things have stabilized.

Supply Chain & Logistics

In a recent Los Angeles Times article, it notes that the supply chain backup of 2020 is relatively dispersed now. Because the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach represent 40% of U.S. imports, some of that business is looking elsewhere. Traffic in these two ports in down and traffic in New York/ New Jersey ports is up. If you specify goods from abroad, this will affect you, your clients and your projects. The time has come for those in the design trade to understand more about the logistical activities of their partners.

Rise of the Workroom, Provenance & Sustainable Design

The past few years have seen a demonstrable growth in a desire for clients to know the story behind the products they bring into their homes. They want to know who made it, what it’s made of and where it comes from. My guests and friends in the business have explained to me that clients want to know this because it adds meaning to their purchase. It adds a special nature to the design and it creates a narrative for their lives and the lives of their family. I believe this wholeheartedly and I believe this concept is going to remain true for quite some time. Because of this, and the amount of competition, if you don’t already have your roster of specialists, builders, artists, workrooms and trades… The first part of 2023 should be spent solidifying your relationships. The workroom and the supply chain also happen to be inextricably tied because if you can’t get that material to your fabricator, how can you hope to complete the piece? You can’t.

Sustainable design is more complicated these days. Is the material made of virgin or recycled material? How far did it have to travel to get to the project? Who made it and were they paid a reasonable wage? What else is in that material from a chemical composition standpoint? Does it off-gas? Were there chemicals used in growing the material? Is that textile pattern original? What is the origin? Some food for thought here… The idea of cultural appropriation has been a hot topic in the fashion industry lately. I have linked a few articles in the show notes if you care to read them. Some are staring to call use of indigenous patterns in textiles “plagiarism”. Which technically could be true. I mention this because this idea is gaining steam and there are major manufacturers who have been accused of appropriating patters and ideas for use in their own work. It’s a fine line, but certainly one that appears to be gaining steam and one I think every creative needs to be aware of considering how designers are shooting more projects and publishing them to social media. On the other Side of this, there is an amazing opportunity to work with indigenous people to use their products in your projects. Not only do you get to share the story, you also have an opportunity to obtain a new source, directly.

Key Findings- I also believe that 2023 will be that “moment” just about every creative I have spoken with since August 2020 has been looking for to catch their breath. Catch your breath and plan accordingly.

What does that mean? I think based on the sticky inflation numbers, high interest rate environment, low savings numbers and higher cost of both raw materials and high cost of labor: The U.S. will see sporadic drops in GDP with the greatest opportunity for another technical recession in q1 and q2 2023. It could be one quarter or it could be two. I believe that the need and desire for a well designed home has become universal and that budgetary limitations notwithstanding, the strong consumer will continue to spend but it may be at lower price points. Perhaps it’s a shift in the high-low mix to more on the lower end, or that could translate into more “vintage” or locally, artisan made. Something else for the design professional to consider… Office design, hospitality, senior care facilities, school design, restaurant design, civic space… all have undergone major shifts in thought about what these spaces are and how they can be redesigned to better serve those who use them. This disruption to the marketplace will also create new opportunities, and a new client base.

Speaking of competition, there was a time when most designers were extremely concerned about e-design and taking over the business… A recent visit to a few brought special messages of discontinuation. Check the show notes for images from their sites. You can also find a link to an interesting article from TechCrunch about Modsy’s discontinuation of services. A similar story to that of the original Laurel & Wolf, Homepolish and Decorist.

Is e-design a thing of the past? Not a chance. I was in broadcast during the time of Napster. Music is now readily available online and what’s interesting is that according to Zippia, Global paid music had 8MM paid streamers in 2010 compared to 523MM in 2021. I think the e-design industry is in its infancy. I think the growth will be driven higher when the major brands and designers adopt it using their own talents to drive the business, not merely a discount site for creative talent but a true marketplace for creative talent to offer their services using their actual remote and virtual design skills. Keep checking this space because ewe will be following this and developments as they occur.

2023 is shaping up to be another interesting year in design. As I have for the past 10, I will be bringing you the stories from across the globe here o n Convo By Design as well as design business insights on CXD’s The Business X Design. Thank’s for listening. Please make sure you are subscribing to the show so you get every episode the moment it’s published.

Until the next episode, be well and take today first.

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I’m Josh Cooperman and this is Convo By Design with a podcast episode about podcasting and how this form of communication is finally getting the attention of those in the shelter industry. Moderated by a longtime friend, Breegan Jane and empaneled by new friends who you will meet in just a moment.

I learned a long time ago that you can’t force people to embrace any ideas until they are ready to do it themselves. Podcasting is something I am extremely passionate about because I have been doing it for such a long time. At the start of this show, 10 years ago, I really wanted to gain the attention of the established media because I felt like I was providing a product not available. telling the stories behind the design instead of just showing the work itself because that has always been of greater interest to me. It took far longer than I thought it would and the reason why? Because showing pretty pictures is much easier to do. Talking about the celebrity designer, starchitect or celebrity client is the design porn that gets clicks and shares instantly. it takes far more time to listen to a 30 or 60 minute conversation where the ideas build. I’m going to keep the preamble short because following is a longer conversation about the growth and development of podcasting in our industry. I was fortunate to be invited by Kim Porter, Senior Programming Manager with IMC, and Las Vegas Market, who also gives the introduction at the very beginning. In this episode, you will also hear from; Justin Honaman of Contender Cast, Daniel Russo of The Design Exchange and Michelle Sherrier of The Retail Whore. And this panel was deftly moderated by a friend of the show and previous guest, Breegan Jane.

Designer Resources

ThermaSol – Redefining the modern shower experience. Episode 271 featuring Mitch Altman

Moya Living – Beautiful, durable powder coated kitchen, bath & outdoor kitchen cabinetry

Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home!

What you are going to find is an entirely different conversation than you might expect. It covers everything from how and why to the stories that drew each of us to the platform and what the future of arts and design focused podcasting sounds like. We’ll get to that right after this.

Thank you Breegan, Michelle, Daniel, John. I really am so furtunate for an opportunity to share a stage with you. Thank you Kim for making this possible and Thank you to CXD partners and sponsors including ThermaSol, Moya Living, Design Hardware.. Thank YOU for taking the time out of your day to download, subscribe and listen to the show. I appreciate you and I hope this show helps you do that thing you do better. For more information about the show, about what we do here at Convo By Design, check the show notes for links and ways to connect. Until next week, be well and take today first. -CXD