Shows
Better Buildings For HumansRewriting the Rules: Are 21st-Century Schools Finally Putting Students First—or Just Rebranding the Same Old Boxes? – Ep 112 with Cory BoudreauThis week on Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski explores the evolving world of K-12 design with Cory Boudreau, architect at SLAM Collaborative. From a Lego-loving kid to a leader in educational design, Cory shares how his winding career path—from healthcare megaprojects to transformative school campuses—shaped his belief in architecture’s power to influence learning and well-being. In this episode, Cory dives into how modern school design embraces daylighting, outdoor learning, flexible spaces, and even VR labs to create environments where students thrive. He also unpacks how sustainability goals, trauma-informed design, and community needs are reshaping the way we...
2025-11-1226 min
Better Buildings For HumansClassrooms on the Frontlines: Are NYC Schools Our Best Hope—or Biggest Gamble—in Climate Resilience? – Ep 111 with Caleb CrawfordThis week on Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski heads to the heart of New York City’s public school system with Caleb Crawford, Director of Sustainable Design and Resiliency at the NYC School Construction Authority. With decades of experience as an architect, educator, and environmental advocate, Caleb dives into how one of the world’s largest school systems is confronting climate change head-on. From electrification and green infrastructure to passive survivability and equity-driven design, Caleb shares the innovative—and often surprising—ways NYC is making schools safer, healthier, and more resilient. He discusses the critical role of local laws, th...
2025-11-0537 min
Better Buildings For HumansRipping Out the Wires: Why Low Voltage Might Be the Smartest—and Most Dangerous—Idea in Building Design – Ep 110 with Jim BaldwinThis week on Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski plugs into the future with Jim Baldwin, founder of Domatic—a company rethinking the very wiring of our buildings. With a background in tech giants like Apple and Microsoft, Jim brings a fresh, user-first mindset to building automation. In this episode, he breaks down how Domatic is creating the "USB for buildings"—a smart, low-voltage system that unifies power and data to make buildings healthier, smarter, and more energy-efficient. From predictive energy modeling using neural nets to real-time air quality monitoring, Jim explains how simplifying tech in buildings can unlock mass...
2025-10-2930 min
Better Buildings For HumansBreaking Ground, Breaking Barriers: Why Dirt Work Is the Real Foundation of Healthy Buildings – Ep 109 with Brenna MooreThis week on Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski digs deep—literally and figuratively—with heavy equipment operator and trailblazer Brenna Moore. In a field long dominated by men, Brenna has carved out a name for herself, not just as a foreman moving mountains of earth, but as a mentor, speaker, and founder of Beast Clothing. With raw honesty and infectious energy, Brenna shares how she overcame industry stereotypes, embraced her strength and femininity, and became a champion for the next generation of women in the trades. From the gritty world of excavation to eco-conscious job sites and youth empo...
2025-10-2231 min
Better Buildings For Humans“Let There Be Light—Or Else: Why Denying Daylight Is Costing Us Our Health” – Ep 108 with Dr. Lorne WhiteheadThis week on Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski explores the brilliant intersection of physics, daylighting, and human well-being with Dr. Lorne Whitehead of the University of British Columbia. A physicist, inventor, and serial entrepreneur, Lorne shares how a lucky mistake in grade nine launched a lifelong journey into the science of light. From pioneering daylighting systems and launching tech startups to enhancing human health with spectral design, Lorne’s work has quietly reshaped the way we experience buildings, screens, and even greenhouses. With wit and wisdom, he unpacks the power of “enlightened compromise” in building design—and why the sun...
2025-10-1537 min
Better Buildings For HumansWhy “Good Design” Might Be Hurting Us: The Case for Sensory Accessibility and Invisible Disabilities – Ep 107 with Eliza RedmannThis week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski dives into the artful side of architecture with sculptural artist Eliza Redmann, founder of Folded Poetry. Once an architect on a promising career path, Eliza’s life took a dramatic turn after a traumatic brain injury. What followed was a powerful story of resilience, reinvention, and a new mission: creating art that’s both visually stunning and acoustically functional. Eliza shares how her designs offer sensory accessibility, reflect invisible disabilities, and bring softness into harsh built environments. From using recycled acoustic felt to collaborating with manufacturers like UnikaVev, Eliza is t...
2025-10-0837 min
Better Buildings For HumansWhy Your Dream Home Might Be a Mistake: The Case for Smaller, Smarter, Soulful Design – Ep 106 with Toby WitteThis week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes architect Toby Witte of Wittehaus—creator of healthy, high-performance luxury homes in the Carolinas. From his roots in Germany to building dream homes in North Carolina, Toby shares how sustainability and soul can go hand-in-hand. They explore why “less is more” isn’t just a design mantra, how solar panels are becoming a no-brainer, and why the best homes are built like Yeti coolers. You’ll hear how simple choices like south-facing windows and carbon-capture concrete are redefining modern living—and why homes should lift...
2025-10-0142 min
Better Buildings For HumansThe Most Sustainable Building Is Already Built: Why Architects Still Chase New – Ep 105 with Tommaso BitossiThis week on Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski sits down with Tommaso Bitossi, partner at Transsolar and a passionate advocate for climate-responsive design. From Florence to New York City, Tommaso shares his unconventional path from civil engineering to climate engineering, blending a love of math, physics, and frugality with a deep respect for culture and place. Together, they dive into why renovation is cooler than you think, how building envelopes shape human comfort, and why “operable windows” might be the most underrated innovation in architecture. You’ll hear about cutting-edge technologies making electrification easier, the power of post-occupancy studie...
2025-09-2439 min
Better Buildings For HumansYour Building Might Be Making You Sick: Why Nature Is Non-Negotiable – Ep 104 with Helena van VlietThis week on Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski is joined by biophilic design expert and architect Helena van Vliet for an eye-opening conversation that redefines what it means to design for well-being. Helena shares her deeply personal path from Bauhaus boxes to “buildings as habitat,” and explains how chronic stress, poor air, and flat architecture are failing our health. You’ll learn why edge conditions matter, how buildings impact your immune system, and how evolutionary biology proves we need daily awe to thrive. From her pioneering teaching methods to her new book Towards a Nature Positive Built Environment, Helena...
2025-09-1738 min
Better Buildings For HumansWe Built Sick Buildings: How AI and Automation Might Just Save Us – Ep 103 with Renée JacobsThis week on Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski sits down with Renée Jacobs, healthcare sustainability powerhouse and leader at DisTech and Atrius, for a revealing conversation on how indoor air quality (IAQ) and building automation systems are shaping the future of human-centered design. From managing hospitals to spearheading cutting-edge AI integration, Renée brings a deep well of knowledge—and a few sharp truths. They explore why proper humidification might be the most overlooked health intervention, how AI and heat mapping could one day save lives in emergency evacuations, and what really changed in building science post-COVID. Plus...
2025-09-1035 min
Better Buildings For HumansSustainability Is a Broken Word: Why “Green” Buildings Fail the People Inside – Ep 102 with Roberto Vega PeraltaThis week on Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski is joined by architect and sustainability leader Roberto Vega Peralta, Practice Director and Sustainability Director at Vocon. From his roots in Costa Rica to his globe-spanning design journey—from Seattle to San Francisco to Cleveland—Roberto shares how a deep love for nature and a commitment to community resilience shaped his architectural philosophy. They dive into what it really means to design for people first, how trauma-informed design is changing fire and police stations, and why Midwest cities like Cleveland are becoming the new frontier for performance-driven, human-centered buildings. Roberto also...
2025-09-0340 min
Better Buildings For HumansSafety Theatre Is Killing Us: Why Your Building’s Emergency Plan Is a Lie – Ep 101 with Sam MathewsHow do we really prepare building occupants for emergencies? This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski explores that question for the very first time—diving headfirst into the world of occupant safety with tech entrepreneur and safety design innovator Sam Mathews, founder of Loci. Sam's journey from DJ and VR creator to building safety expert is nothing short of mind-blowing. She shares how neuroscience, localization, and web-based tools like QR code-driven scavenger hunts are helping people actually learn their emergency routes and safety features—by physically walking them. The episode explores why digital twins aren’t always...
2025-08-2739 min
Better Buildings For HumansSPECIAL 100TH EPISODE OF BETTER BUILDINGS FOR HUMANS!We’ve hit triple digits — and we’re celebrating in style. For our 100th episode, host Joe Menchefski takes you on a one-of-a-kind journey through the best moments, most surprising insights, and unforgettable voices from our past episodes. But this isn’t just a replay — Joe’s stepping in between each segment with fresh commentary, behind-the-scenes stories, and a few unexpected twists you won’t see coming. Think of it as a time capsule, a highlight reel, and a backstage pass all rolled into one.You might think you know what’s coming… but trust us — you don...
2025-08-2050 min
Better Buildings For HumansIs Concrete is Killing Us? Rethinking Architecture from the Ground Up – Ep 99 with Alexandra Nikolova and Jonas AversøgIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes Alexandra Nikolova and Jonas Aversøg, founders of NA Architects in Copenhagen, for a bold conversation on the future of construction. Specializing exclusively in bio-based and recyclable materials, NA Architects is reimagining how buildings are made—from structural systems to interior finishes. Alexandra and Jonas share how their global journey, from China to London to Denmark, inspired them to challenge the conventions of concrete and steel. They dive into the potential of materials like hemp, straw, clay, cork, and even fish scales, exploring performance, cost, fire safety, and...
2025-08-1342 min
Better Buildings For HumansAre We Failing Future Doctors? The Hidden Power of Medical School Design – Ep 98 with Karen ParzychIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski is joined by Karen Parzych, architect at The SLAM Collaborative, to explore the fascinating world of medical education facility design. Karen shares insights from her experience designing over 50 health science buildings across the U.S., focusing on how thoughtful architecture supports rigorous learning, simulation-based training, student well-being, and even interprofessional collaboration. The conversation highlights real-world examples like the College of Osteopathic Medicine at Duquesne University, where building design fosters community, flexibility, and future-proofed technology. From creating spaces for virtual anatomy and 3D printing to designing for quiet reflection...
2025-08-0643 min
Better Buildings For HumansAre Buildings Designed to Die? How Circular Construction Could Save Our Cities – Ep 97 with Felix HeiselIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes Felix Heisel, Director of Cornell University’s Circular Construction Lab, for a deep dive into why designing for disassembly could transform our built environment—and our economy. Felix unpacks how buildings account for 50% of all extracted materials and 41% of global CO₂ emissions, and explains why rethinking end-of-life strategies is critical. They explore the concept of buildings as material banks, the power of local reuse over global recycling, and why a Lego-like approach to construction can unlock new jobs, preserve cultural heritage, and eliminate waste. From policy innovations in New...
2025-07-3038 min
Better Buildings For HumansAre Architects Failing Nature? Reclaiming Buildings as Living Systems – Ep 96 with Philip DonovanIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Philip Donovan of Little Diversified Architectural Consulting for an inspiring deep dive into designing buildings that uplift all systems of life. Philip shares how growing up in Florida’s wild landscapes—and seeing the world from a thousand feet in an open cockpit—sparked his passion for connecting architecture to nature. He explains how Little’s Regen CoLab moves beyond sustainability to regeneration, weaving local ecology, human well-being, and resilience into every project. From poplar logs reclaimed from Charlotte roadwork to a living building that harvests...
2025-07-2344 min
Better Buildings For HumansIs Construction Killing Sustainability? Rethinking Waste with AI – Ep 95 with Todd ThomasIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes Todd Thomas, founder of Woodchuck.ai, to reveal how AI is revolutionizing construction waste—and fueling a circular economy. Todd explains how Woodchuck uses smart dumpsters and computer vision to identify, sort, and transform tens of millions of tons of discarded wood into new materials, clean energy, and even hydrogen. From reducing landfill volume by 40% to creating zero-carbon biomass processing, Todd breaks down why sustainability doesn’t have to cost more—it can save money and extend landfill life. They also explore the future of mass timber, the pr...
2025-07-1638 min
Better Buildings For HumansCan Buildings Re-Traumatize Us? Rethinking ‘Safe Spaces – Ep 94" with Stephen ParkerIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Stephen Parker, architect and mental health planner at Stantec, to explore the power—and responsibility—of trauma-informed design. Stephen shares how his personal and professional experiences have fueled his mission to create spaces that foster safety, dignity, and belonging for people in crisis. From veterans living with PTSD to individuals overcoming addiction, Stephen explains why the built environment is never neutral—and how even simple details like door placement, daylight, and acoustic privacy can make or break a healing experience. They also discuss cultural competency, the hi...
2025-07-0936 min
Better Buildings For HumansIs Your Wall Paint Poisoning You? Fighting Greenwashing with Pure Paint – Ep 93 with Gena ArthurIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Gena Arthur, founder of Pure Paint, to explore the future of healthy, sustainable coatings. Gena debunks the myth that natural paints sacrifice performance or style, revealing how Pure Paint’s petroleum-free formulas deliver stunning results—without the toxins. They dig into the hidden dangers of microplastics, the limitations of current green certifications, and the systemic barriers startups face when challenging industry norms. Gena also shares the emotional and regulatory rollercoaster of scaling a clean-tech company, including Pure Paint’s breakthrough retail partnership with Lowe’s USA. Fro...
2025-07-0232 min
Better Buildings For HumansCan AI Save Buildings from Themselves? Olympic Grit Meets Climate Crisis – Ep 92 with Donna VakalisIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski is joined by Olympian and building science researcher Donna Vakalis for a conversation that spans architecture, AI, athletics, and the climate crisis. Donna shares how her Olympic background fuels her passion for sustainable design and her current postdoc work at MILA—Canada’s leading AI institute—where she’s exploring how machine learning can optimize building performance. From smarter energy models and feed-forward HVAC systems to her role in the global coal phase-out and Racing to Zero, Donna illustrates the complex balance between comfort, carbon, and culture in the buil...
2025-06-2542 min
Better Buildings For HumansDaylight Deprived: How Modern Buildings Are Harming Human Health – Ep 91 with Marilyne AndersenIn this illuminating episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes physicist and daylighting pioneer Marilyne Andersen for a conversation that sheds new light—literally—on how architecture affects our health, productivity, and sense of well-being. From the science of chronobiology to eye morphology and colored glazing, Marilyne explains how light exposure shapes everything from our mood to our sleep cycles. She shares insights from her groundbreaking research at EPFL and her work with the Daylight Academy, revealing why daylight may be more than a design feature—it might be a human right. Plus, discover how her new ro...
2025-06-1842 min
Better Buildings For HumansCan Rice Hulls Replace Concrete and Save The Planet? – Ep 90 with Bryan EagleIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Bryan Eagle, founder of Glanris, to explore a groundbreaking innovation: carbon-neutral concrete made from rice hulls. Bryan shares how his team transforms agricultural waste into a pozzolanic biochar that can replace Portland cement—dramatically reducing the carbon footprint of concrete. They discuss challenges in scaling this technology, how regulations are driving adoption, and where sustainable building materials might gain the most traction globally. Bryan also highlights the circular potential of decentralized kilns that generate not just materials, but power and carbon credits. An inspiring look at...
2025-06-1137 min
Better Buildings For HumansToxic Air, Dull Minds: How CO₂ is Undermining Your Brainpower Indoors – Ep 89 with Sandra DedeskoIn this eye-opening episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Dr. Sandra Dedesko—engineer, indoor air expert, and healthy buildings researcher—for a compelling dive into how the air we breathe indoors is shaping our minds. From her work with Harvard’s COGFX studies to her current research in Switzerland, Sandra unpacks how even low levels of CO₂ can subtly impair cognitive function—especially creativity. She shares how indoor air acts as an invisible performance driver, and why better ventilation might be the most underrated upgrade in our built environment. They also explore low-carbon ventilatio...
2025-06-0435 min
Better Buildings For HumansDesigning for Instinct: Eye-Tracking, Emotion & the Future of Architecture" – Ep 88 with Ann Sussman & Kelsey BradleyIn this eye-opening episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski is joined by Ann Sussman and Kelsey Bradley from the Human Architecture and Planning Institute (HAPI.org) to explore the fascinating intersection of architecture, biology, and human emotion. Ann and Kelsey reveal how our brains are hardwired to respond to certain visual cues—like faces, fractals, and even the color red—and how this understanding can revolutionize the way we design buildings and cities. From eye-tracking software that predicts where people look first, to how blank facades might make us feel uneasy, this episode unveils the science behi...
2025-05-2837 min
Better Buildings For HumansYour Building Isn’t Ready for What’s Coming: The Climate Crisis No One’s Designing For – Ep 87 with Phil Galway-WithamIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Philip Galway-Witham, Senior Associate and Resilience Leader at Gensler Toronto, for a powerful deep-dive into climate resilience in architecture. Philip shares his global upbringing, what drew him to sustainable design, and how resilience planning is becoming an essential response to our rapidly changing climate. From wildfires and urban heat islands to rising sea levels and failing power grids, this episode explores how extreme weather is reshaping our buildings—and how design can push back. Philip also unveils insights from Gensler’s Global Climate Action Survey and...
2025-05-2138 min
Better Buildings For HumansYou Can’t Buy Your Way Out of Bad Air: The Harsh Truth About Indoor Pollution"– Ep 86 with Lauren FergusonIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski is joined by Lauren Ferguson from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health for a riveting deep dive into the unseen forces shaping our indoor environments. Lauren unpacks her journey from biochemistry to environmental engineering and her groundbreaking work modeling childhood pollution exposure in London. The conversation spans wildfire smoke infiltration, the silent threat of PM2.5, and why ventilation might just be our best defense. Plus, hear why Lauren believes you “can’t buy your way out of bad environmental conditions,” and why indoor air quality could...
2025-05-1432 min
Better Buildings For HumansAre Our Buildings Making Us Sick? The Case for Architectural Medicine"– Ep 85 with Tim RossiIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes Tim Rossi, founder and CEO of Architectural Medicine, for a compelling conversation on how our buildings influence more than just our physical health—they shape our emotional and psychological well-being too. Tim shares his journey through sustainable design, the genesis of “architectural medicine,” and how this emerging field integrates concepts from architecture and healthcare to support human health in the built environment. From mold and VOCs to the power of daylight and the exposome, this episode dives deep into the science of how spaces affect us. Plus, discov...
2025-05-0739 min
Better Buildings For HumansIs Daylighting a Luxury? – Ep 84 with Eric Daniel and Rich GlennyIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski dives into the dynamic world of retail design with Eric Daniel, Design Principal and Creative Director at Little Diversified Architectural Consulting, and Rich Glenny, Retail Design Leader at Little Diversified Architectural Consulting. Together, they unravel the layered nuances of designing spaces where commerce meets culture—and how constraints breed creativity.Eric and Rich share their journeys through the high-stakes world of retail architecture, dissecting the tension between "Big A" architecture and "Little A" design, and what really makes a store not just functional but memorable. From li...
2025-04-3042 min
Better Buildings For HumansThe Lightest Solid on Earth: Can Aerogel Rethink How We Build?” – Ep 83 with Peter PescatoreIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes Peter Pescatore, Global Commercial Lead at Cabot Corporation, for a deep dive into one of the most fascinating materials in building science: aerogel. Often called "frozen smoke," this super-light, ultra-insulating material has captivated engineers and designers for decades—but is still flying under the radar in mainstream construction.Peter breaks down how aerogel works on a microscopic level, its unique ability to diffuse daylight while achieving R values up to four times higher than traditional insulation (with a U-value as low as 0.28 W/m²K), and...
2025-04-2333 min
Better Buildings For HumansDesigning for Health: How the WELL Standard Creates Truly Better Buildings– Ep 82 with Nathan StodolaIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Nathan Stadola, Chief Engineer at the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), to unravel the mystery behind one of the world's fastest-growing building certifications: WELL. Nathan, a former street accordionist turned wellness standards pioneer, brings his vibrant energy and deep technical knowledge to a rapid-fire breakdown of the 10 core concepts behind WELL V2—from air quality to community connection.Together, Joe and Nathan dive into what truly makes a building healthy, how WELL differs from other certifications, and why verification matters more than ever. Th...
2025-04-1631 min
Better Buildings For HumansAre Car Dealerships the Future of Great Design? What Retail Architecture Gets Right (and Wrong)” – Ep 81 with Shawn Houghtling & Bryce JarmanIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Shawn Houghtling and Bryce Jarman of RH Carter Architects—industry leaders in the art and science of automotive retail design. With a 40-year legacy and partnerships with 17 automotive brands, RH Carter has helped shape the modern dealership experience across Canada.Shawn and Bryce pull back the curtain on what makes a dealership not just functional, but unforgettable. They explore how architecture supports brand identity, enhances customer experience, and even builds community. From managing complex traffic flows to integrating natural light with Solera® panels for...
2025-04-0940 min
Better Buildings For HumansAre We Designing Windows All Wrong? The Hidden Flaw in Modern Building Standards – Ep 80 with Michael KentIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes back Michael Kent from the Singapore University of Social Sciences. As the very first guest of the podcast, Michael’s groundbreaking work in building science helped inspire the show itself. Now, he returns to dive deep into an overlooked yet crucial aspect of building design: view clarity.Michael unpacks his latest research on how the quality of our view—beyond just having a window—affects our well-being, productivity, and even social equity. He breaks down the three key components of view clarity: obstructions, content, and the ob...
2025-04-0240 min
Better Buildings For HumansNet Zero or Net Confusion? GBI’s Fight for Clarity in a Carbon-Crazed World” – Ep 79 with Vicki WordenIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski reconnects with Vicki Worden, CEO of the Green Building Initiative (GBI), to dive deep into their groundbreaking Journey to Net Zero program. With 2024 marking both her 10th year at GBI and one of the organization’s most impactful years, Vicki shares how their pilot program exceeded expectations—evaluating 154 buildings and delivering real, measurable reductions in site EUI and carbon emissions.Joe and Vicki explore the complexities of utility data, the evolution of their Net Zero Calculator, and why transparency in carbon accounting is critical. They also disc...
2025-03-2637 min
Better Buildings For HumansIs “Human-Centric” Design Enough? The Case for Eudaemonic Design – Ep 78 with Jenna MikusIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes Jenna Mikus, founder of the Eudae Group, to explore the power of eudaemonic design—a transformative approach that moves beyond human-centric design to create spaces that foster true human flourishing.Jenna shares her unconventional journey from engineering and business strategy to pioneering research in sustainable design and well-being science. She dives into how adaptive comfort theory, smart building strategies, and self-determination theory shape environments that empower occupants, improve mental and physical health, and elevate daily experiences.From designing cancer centers and neurodivergent-friendly schools to...
2025-03-1944 min
Better Buildings For HumansAre Metal Buildings the Future of Sustainable Design – Ep 77 with Art HanceIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes Art Hance, founder of Hance Construction, to explore the evolving world of metal buildings and sustainable design. With 25 years in the industry, Art shares his journey from hands-on construction to strategic leadership, offering insights into how metal buildings have transformed in efficiency, sustainability, and aesthetics.Joe and Art discuss the role of contractors in promoting practical sustainability, the advancements in insulation and envelope design, and the often-overlooked benefits of daylighting—boosting both employee well-being and business productivity. They also dig into why metal buildings are th...
2025-03-1129 min
Better Buildings For HumansIs Traditional Construction Obsolete? How 3D Printing is Reshaping Housing – Ep 76 with Gene EidelmanIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes Gene Eidelman, co-founder of Azure Printed Homes, to explore how 3D printing is revolutionizing home construction. Gene shares his journey from real estate development to pioneering modular, 3D-printed homes made from recycled plastics, dramatically reducing costs, build time, and environmental impact.The conversation dives into the speed and efficiency of 3D printing, the structural resilience of these homes in extreme weather, and how customizable curved designs are making unique, sustainable architecture more accessible. From backyard ADUs and affordable housing to glamping retreats and emergency shelters...
2025-03-0536 min
Better Buildings For HumansAre Architects Ready for AI? How Tech is Disrupting Design" – Ep 75 with Garrett HerbstIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Garrett Herbst, an architect and computational design expert at Little Diversified Architectural Consulting, to tackle a pressing question: Is AI disrupting architecture—or saving it?Garrett shares his journey from designing football stadiums in his high school dream house to pioneering advanced computational techniques that are reshaping architecture. He dives deep into AI-driven design, parametric modeling, and digital fabrication, exploring how these tools are transforming efficiency, sustainability, and even aesthetics in modern buildings.The conversation also covers regenerative design, microalgae facades, an...
2025-02-2639 min
Better Buildings For HumansIs Traditional Air Conditioning Outdated? Smarter Cooling for a Warming World – Ep 74 with Dorit AvivIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes Dorit Aviv, architect, researcher, and founder of the Thermal Architecture Lab at the University of Pennsylvania. Dorit shares her journey from designing passive cooling systems to pioneering new ways buildings can interact with their climate through material science and thermodynamics.The conversation explores how architecture can move beyond conventional air conditioning, using radiant cooling, adaptive materials, and full-scale prototypes to create more sustainable and comfortable spaces. Dorit explains the importance of designing for real-world conditions, from urban cooling shelters to cutting-edge research on carbon-absorbing concrete.
2025-02-1939 min
Better Buildings For HumansAre Our Buildings Breaking Us? How Architecture Shapes Mental Resilience – Ep 73 with Marta DelgadoIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes Marta Delgado, architect, researcher, and advocate for research-informed design. Marta shares her journey from studying environmental design at UC Berkeley to her role at the Center for Conscious Design, where she helps create healthier spaces through grassroots movements and interdisciplinary collaboration.The discussion delves into the philosophy behind her work, emphasizing the importance of designing spaces that promote well-being in high-pressure environments. Marta explains how recharge rooms, thoughtful architecture, and restorative design can alleviate stress and improve mental resilience, offering real-world examples like a reimagined...
2025-02-1246 min
Better Buildings For HumansThe Price of Going Tall: Hidden Challenges in Skyscraper Sustainability – Ep 72 with Peter SimmondsIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Peter Simmonds, a renowned mechanical engineer with a storied career in designing high-performance systems for some of the world’s tallest buildings. From his early days working on hospitals in the Netherlands to iconic projects like the Petronas Towers and Louis Vuitton Museum, Peter shares unparalleled insights into building physics, radiant heating and cooling, and the challenges of designing skyscrapers.
The conversation dives deep into optimizing energy efficiency, minimizing carbon footprints, and the unique hurdles of passive design for mega-tall structures. Peter also di...
2025-02-0638 min
Better Buildings For HumansBlurring Boundaries: How Modern Design Challenges Tradition – Ep 72 with Brian MacKay-Lyons and Doug MilburnIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski is joined by co-host Dr. Doug Milburn, founder and chairman of Advanced Glazing, and the renowned architect Brian MacKay-Lyons, often celebrated as the "poet of place." Together, they explore the transformative power of architecture to harmonize with local landscapes while addressing universal human needs.
Brian shares his journey from a small Nova Scotia village to becoming a global architectural icon, describing how his "critical regionalist" style honors local materials, landscapes, and cultural traditions. The conversation dives deep into the philosophy of designing buildings that provide both...
2025-01-2934 min
Better Buildings For HumansThe Hidden Cost of Poor Design in Healthcare Spaces – Ep 70 with Roger WilkersonIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski is joined by Roger Wilkerson, Healthcare Practice Leader at Little Diversified Architectural Consulting. Together, they delve into the fascinating world of healthcare architecture, unpacking the unique challenges and transformative possibilities in designing spaces that heal.
Roger shares insights from his rich career, including how healthcare facilities operate like "battleships," requiring intricate planning for safety, complexity, and adaptability. From the critical role of natural light in shortening patient stays and reducing pain medication needs to the surprising evidence behind art and noise reduction in healing environments, Roger...
2025-01-2239 min
Better Buildings For HumansDesigning for Healing—Neuroaesthetics, Biophilia, and Beauty in Buildings – Ep 69 with Mahwish SyedIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Mahwish Syed—design visionary, neuroaesthetics expert, and author of Purgatory to Paradise. Together, they explore the intersection of beauty, biology, and building design to create spaces that heal, inspire, and restore balance.
Mahwish shares her transformative journey from cancer survivor to design innovator, revealing how neuroaesthetics and biophilia can shift environments from “purgatory” to “paradise.” She explains how lighting, materials, and even layout impact circadian rhythms, mental health, and overall well-being.
From hospitals to schools, Mahwish offers practical strategies for designing spaces tha...
2025-01-1543 min
Better Buildings For HumansIs Demolition Outdated? The Case for Adaptive Reuse – Ep 68 with Phillip KuehneIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes Phillip Kuehne, a Sustainable Design Leader at HDR, for an illuminating conversation on adaptive reuse. Phillip shares his journey from architecture to sustainable design, highlighting his transformative experiences at Carnegie Mellon and his passion for performance-driven building solutions.
Together, they explore adaptive reuse as a vital strategy for addressing climate challenges, emphasizing its ability to reimagine existing structures with integrity, flexibility, memory, and sustainability. From iconic examples like Moynihan Train Hall and The High Line to lesser-known community projects, Phillip illustrates how adaptive reuse can...
2025-01-0842 min
Better Buildings For HumansHealing Through Design: The Bold Promise of Neuroarchitecture – Ep 67 with Yohany AlbornozIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Yohany Albornoz, a trailblazing neuroarchitect and founder of Discover Neuroarchitecture and Marketer Architect Agency. Together, they delve into the burgeoning field of neuroarchitecture—an interdisciplinary approach that integrates neuroscience and design to create spaces that align with human biology and behavior.Yohany shares compelling insights and case studies, from the healing power of nature views in hospitals to the cognitive boost provided by biophilic classrooms. Listeners will hear about the subtle yet profound impact of architecture on emotions, productivity, and even problem-solving—illustrated by s...
2024-12-1841 min
Better Buildings For HumansCracking the TEDI Code: The Metric That’s Disrupting Sustainable Design – Ep 66 with Alejandra MenchacaIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes back Alejandra Menchaca of AIRLIT Studio for an insightful deep dive into TEDI—Thermal Energy Demand Intensity. As a repeat guest, Alejandra shares her expertise in sustainable and human-centric design, making complex concepts accessible.
Together, they unpack the significance of TEDI, distinguishing it from metrics like Energy Use Intensity (EUI) and exploring how it informs passive building design. Alejandra explains why TEDI is a crucial metric in Massachusetts’ stretch energy code, its role in Passive House certification, and its implications for building resilience and grid capa...
2024-12-1138 min
Better Buildings For HumansAre Schools Failing Students? How Better Design Could Be the Solution – Ep 65 with Craig SchillerIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski is joined by Craig Schiller, Executive Director of the Collaborative for High Performance Schools (CHiPs). Together, they delve into the importance of creating high-performance schools that prioritize student and teacher well-being, productivity, and safety while addressing climate resilience.
Craig shares his journey from environmental studies to leading CHiPs and explains the organization's mission to establish school-specific building standards. They explore what defines a high-performance school, emphasizing factors like daylighting, mental health, and safety. Craig also discusses the challenges of balancing energy efficiency with creating environments that support...
2024-12-0334 min
Better Buildings For HumansAre Your Lights Making You Sick? The Hidden Dangers of LED Lighting – Ep 64 with Scott ZimmermanIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski is joined by Scott Zimmerman, founder of Silas Inc., to explore how lighting impacts health in ways we often overlook. With over 30 years in lighting and optics, Scott dives into how modern LED lighting, with its narrow spectrum, may be compromising our well-being. He shares the importance of near-infrared light—a part of natural sunlight often missing indoors—and explains how this missing spectrum could influence sleep, immunity, and overall health.
Together, Joe and Scott discuss the potential of lighting that better mimics sunlight, offering a healthier indo...
2024-11-2741 min
Better Buildings For HumansShattering Limits: How ‘Ideal’ Translucent Glazings Are Changing Architecture Forever – Ep 63 with Doug MilburnIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski is joined by Dr. Douglas Milburn, co-founder and chairman of Advanced Glazings Ltd and inventor of Solera® and SoleraWall®. Doug shares his journey from his background in physics and solar energy research to founding a company focused on translucent glazing solutions that bridge insulation with natural light.
Joe and Doug discuss the power of facades not only as protective barriers but as essential connectors to the outside world. They dive into how translucent glazing can create vibrant, daylight-filled spaces without the glare or energy loss associated with tr...
2024-11-2043 min
Better Buildings For HumansCourtyards, Community, and Controversy: Rethinking Multifamily Living – Ep 62 with Frances AndertonIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski sits down with Frances Anderton, former host of KCRW’s Design and Architecture and author of Common Ground: Multifamily Housing in Los Angeles. Frances shares her journey from growing up in England’s architecturally rich city of Bath to her impactful work in Los Angeles, where she champions housing that balances personal and communal spaces.
Frances and Joe dive into the history and future of multifamily housing in LA, discussing the role of density, design, and the “social condenser” of courtyard living in creating vibrant communities. They also exp...
2024-11-1337 min
Better Buildings For HumansBehind the Mass Timber Boom: Can It Overcome Supply and Code Challenges? – Ep 61 With Dean LewisIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes Dean Lewis, Director of Mass Timber for the U.S. market at Skanska. Dean shares his journey from a construction-focused upbringing to leading mass timber innovations at Skanska, including his work on groundbreaking projects and involvement with Sidewalk Labs. The conversation highlights the rapid growth of mass timber, its sustainability benefits, and the industry’s challenges, such as supply chain issues and code adoption.
Dean discusses Skanska’s approach to navigating these challenges and expanding mass timber projects across the U.S., focusing on responsibly sour...
2024-11-0632 min
Better Buildings For HumansIs There A Dangerous Gap in Sustainable Design? Beyond Energy Efficiency With Minjia Yang – Ep 60In this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes Minjia Yang, Vice President of Investing for Health at the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI). With an impressive background spanning law, economics, and sustainable finance, Minjia discusses her role in advancing social sustainability and sustainable finance initiatives at IWBI. She shares insights on how WELL standards integrate human health, well-being, and equity into building design and operations across the globe. The conversation covers a range of topics, from sustainable finance innovations and ESG initiatives to balancing energy efficiency with occupant wellness. Minjia also highlights IWBI's work in...
2024-10-2935 min
Better Buildings For HumansBeyond Walls: Designing Buildings That Heal – Ep 59 With Liz McCormickIn this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Liz McCormick, an assistant professor of architecture at UNC Charlotte, to explore the critical connection between human health and building design. Liz shares her fascinating journey from practicing architecture to becoming a professor, delving into her research on sustainable design and climate-resistant architecture. They discuss her book, Inside Out: Human Health and the Air-Conditioning Era, which questions the modern disconnect between buildings and nature, and makes a case for designing healthier environments. Liz also highlights her innovative malaria-resistant housing project in Tanzania, her forward-thinking courses...
2024-10-2328 min
Better Buildings For HumansRoofing Revolution: Heidi Ellsworth on Sustainability, Innovation, and Empowering Women in Construction – Ep 58In this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Heidi J. Ellsworth, a roofing industry veteran with over 30 years of experience. Heidi is the president of RoofersCoffeeShop® and founder of HJE Consulting, and a driving force behind National Women in Roofing (NWIR). Together, they explore Heidi’s journey, from working with major companies like Malarkey Roofing and EagleView Technologies to shaping the future of the roofing industry through innovative digital platforms. Heidi discusses the evolution of Roofers Coffee Shop, which provides contractors with education, forums, and classified ads, and shares insights into sustainability, the roo...
2024-10-1635 min
Better Buildings For HumansIs Architecture Failing Us? How FAME Rethinks Design to Enhance Everyday Living – with David Bruce Lee and Marina Bourderonnet- Episode 57In this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with David Bruce Lee and Marina Bourderonnet, Founding Partners of FAME Architecture & Interior Design and co-hosts of The Second Studio Design & Architecture Show, a top-ten design podcast. With over 13 years of experience, David and Marina share their journey from working in New York on custom homes and high-rises to establishing their own firm. They dive into their design philosophy, emphasizing the deep connection between lifestyle and architecture, and how their unique client questionnaire helps bring out the essence of each individual in their projects. They also...
2024-10-0944 min
Better Buildings For HumansFrom Plastic Pollution to Pure Wellness: How Alkemis Paint is Changing the Game – with Maya Crowne and Price Latimer - Ep 56In this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski is joined by Maya Crowne, CEO, and Price Latimer, CCO, co-founders of Alkemis Paint, to dive into the revolutionary world of sustainable design and wellness-focused building materials. Together, they explore how Alkemis Paint, the world’s first wellness paint, is redefining what it means to create healthy living spaces. From Maya's journey from Wall Street to entrepreneurship, and Price’s rich background in art and design, they share their passion for eliminating petrochemical-based paints and microplastics from our homes and commercial spaces. Learn how their mineral-based, cradle-to-cradle certified pain...
2024-10-0245 min
Better Buildings For HumansDesigning for a Hotter World: Climate-Responsive Architecture with Alpha Arsano - Ep 55In this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes Alpha Arsano, Assistant Professor of Architecture at Northeastern University, for a fascinating discussion about the future of buildings in a warming world. Alpha shares insights from her research on thermal comfort and climate-responsive design, offering a fresh perspective on how buildings can adapt to the needs of both occupants and the environment.
With innovative tools like the web-based Klima Plus, she reveals the potential for integrating passive strategies, such as natural ventilation, to reduce energy use while enhancing occupant comfort. Alpha also explores the importance...
2024-09-2535 min
Better Buildings For HumansBalancing Comfort and Sustainability in Modern Buildings With David Heinzerling - Ep 53In this insightful episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with David Heinzerling, Principal at Taylor Engineers and the head of an ASHRAE subcommittee on decarbonization. They explore David's career in HVAC engineering and delve into the pressing need for decarbonization in the built environment.
David shares key insights from the upcoming decarbonization guide, discussing the process of planning, the trade-offs involved, and the alignment with other certification programs. They also touch on the critical role of occupant comfort and health, innovative thermal energy storage solutions, and strategies for generating electricity in tall...
2024-09-1140 min
Better Buildings For HumansLighting Our Way to Better Buildings: Insights from Dr. Jennifer Veitch on Light, Health, and Human-Centric Design - Ep 52This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Dr. Jennifer Veitch, a leading expert in environmental psychology and current President of the International Commission on Illumination (CIE). With over 30 years of research at the National Research Council of Canada, Dr. Veitch delves into the profound impact of light on our health, mood, and performance. In this episode, she shares her journey through groundbreaking research on how lighting quality and control can enhance occupant well-being and productivity, and discusses her vision for the CIE's future. Dr. Veitch also emphasizes the importance of natural light in...
2024-09-0434 min
Better Buildings For HumansIs the Future of Architecture Alive? Discover Prostruction with Eric Corey Freed - Ep 50This week on the 50th Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Eric Corey Freed, a pioneer in regenerative and restorative design! Eric shares his insights on sustainability in architecture, introducing innovative concepts like regenerative design, carbon smart design, and circular economies. Together, they explore how these ideas can reshape the built environment and our relationship with it. Eric also delves into his revolutionary idea of "prostruction"—growing building materials through synthetic biology—while emphasizing the impact of natural light on occupant well-being. From rethinking how we construct to leveraging the power of materials, this episode will...
2024-08-2145 min
Better Buildings For HumansBiophilic Design: The Secret to Smarter, Healthier Schools? With Katie Becker - Ep 49How can the design of our schools transform the way students learn and teachers thrive? In this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski sits down with Katie Becker from JLG Architects to explore the powerful impact of biophilic design in K-12 education.
Katie shares eye-opening insights on how connecting people to nature through design isn’t just a trend—it’s a game-changer for wellness and learning. But is it really as costly and complex as some believe? And what does the future hold for our educational spaces?
Tune in to disco...
2024-08-1436 min
Better Buildings For HumansGreen Building or Greenwashing? What You Need to Know, With John Bleasby - Ep 48This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with journalist John Bleasby for an in-depth conversation about the building and construction industry. John shares his insights on innovation and climate-related issues, and they tackle the complex topic of transitioning from natural gas to complete electrification in Ontario, Canada.
They also explore the concept of recladding to reduce operational carbon in buildings, the crucial role of windows in energy efficiency and occupant wellbeing, and the potential of modular construction. Plus, John discusses the importance of balancing aesthetics with comfort, the maze of green certifications...
2024-08-0744 min
Better Buildings For HumansSound Matters: The Impact of Acoustics in Building Design with Benjamin Markham - Ep. 44This week, Joe Menchefski chats with Benjamin Markham, President of Acentech, about the crucial role of acoustics in building design. With over two decades of experience, Ben shares how noise impacts occupant comfort and explores strategies to control noise sources effectively.
Joe and Ben dive into the balance between acoustic optimization and other design considerations like human-centered design and energy management systems. Learn how to design spaces with different atmospheres in mind and understand the importance of acoustics in creating a great building.
Whether you're an architect, engineer, or building owner, this episode offers valuable...
2024-07-1041 min
Better Buildings For HumansThe Dark Side of LEDs: Health Implications Explored - with Dr Glen Jeffery - Ep 42In this enlightening episode, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Dr. Glen Jeffery from University College London to explore the fascinating interplay between vision, light environments, and human health. Dr. Jeffery, an expert in experimental psychology, shares his groundbreaking research on how the shift from natural sunlight to LED lighting affects our biology, particularly our mitochondria—the powerhouses of our cells.
Discover the surprising ways different light wavelengths influence energy production, the potential health risks posed by LED lights, and why red light is crucial for maintaining optimal health. Dr. Jeffery also provides practical tips for improving in...
2024-06-2639 min
Better Buildings For HumansRevolutionizing Architecture: The Metal Building Boom with Tony Bouquot - Ep 41In this episode of Better Buildings For Humans, host Joe Menchefski interviews Tony Bouquot, general manager of the Metal Building Manufacturers Association (MBMA). They explore what defines metal buildings, their optimized engineering, and cost savings. Tony discusses the industry's shift towards high-end applications like offices and retail spaces, emphasizing occupant comfort.
Tony highlights MBMA's initiatives to educate architects, including design competitions, workshops, and architectural folios. They also touch on the importance of daylighting in metal buildings and share exciting industry developments, such as advanced design software and a focus on sustainability.
Tune in to learn...
2024-06-1942 min
Better Buildings For HumansIlluminating the Future: Natural Light, Sustainability, and Innovation with VELUX - Ep 40Join host Joe Menchefski as he chats with Lone Feifer and Jens Christoffersen from VELUX, the world’s largest skylight manufacturer. Discover how skylights transform spaces by enhancing natural light, ventilation, and air quality. Learn about VELUX’s Living Places project, aiming for a three-time reduction in carbon footprint and healthier indoor climates, guided by principles of health, simplicity, sharing, adaptability, and scalability.
Explore the ambitious LKR Innovation House, transforming old warehouses into a beacon of sustainability and innovation. Lone and Jens highlight the importance of quality building design for environmental sustainability and occupant well-being, supported by scie...
2024-06-1255 min
Better Buildings For HumansBright Ideas with Dr. Shelley James - How Light Transforms Health and Happiness- Ep 38Join host Joe Menchefski as he chats with Dr. Shelley James, the Light Lady, about the surprising ways light impacts our health and well-being. Dr. James shares her inspiring journey from a life-changing bicycle accident to becoming a top light advisor. Discover why our bodies are wired to respond to light, the importance of our circadian rhythm, and how natural light can boost our mood and focus.
This episode covers the latest in LED technology, tips for maximizing daylight in our lives, and how light affects teens' academic performance and seniors' cognitive function. Whether you're curious about...
2024-05-2945 min
Better Buildings For HumansUnlocking the Secrets to Beautiful, Energy-Efficient Buildings - with Ken Levenson - Ep. 37The Passive House Network is the training and educational branch of Passive House in America. In this episode, Joe sits down with Ken Levenson, the Executive Director of the Passive House Network. Joe and Ken explore the differences between the role of Passive House Network and PHIUS. Listeners will hear how the Passive House standards are driven by science and outcomes rather than prescriptive requirements. Discover how prioritizing excellence in building enclosure design not only enhances comfort but also boosts energy efficiency. Tune in to learn why superior design leads to stunning, energy-efficient, and health-promoting structures that are truly a...
2024-05-2243 min
Better Buildings For HumansDaylight As A Fundamental Human Right - With Seth Warren Rose - Ep 36In this episode of BBFH, host Joe Menchefski engages in a compelling conversation with Seth Warren Rose, founding director of Eneref Institute, on the profound impact of the built environment on human well-being.
Seth, who transitioned from a background in physics to a passion for sustainable development, discusses the essential role of natural light in buildings, emphasizing it as a fundamental right that enhances well-being and productivity.
The episode covers how wellness-friendly schools focus on proper ventilation and daylight to support healthy learning environments and explores how market forces are instrumental in driving the adoption...
2024-05-1543 min
Better Buildings For HumansThe Power of Climate Responsive Design with Erik Olsen - Ep. 35This week, host Joe Menchefski explores the art of integrated and climate responsive design with Erik Olsen, Managing Partner at Transsolar KlimaEngineering. In this episode, Erik explains that "our world deserves better than building as usual," emphasizing the role of local climates in crafting dynamic, comfortable environments. Discover the impact of projects like the Karl Miller Center in Portland and the School of Design and Environment in Singapore, where low-tech solutions and strategic renewable energy procurement redefine sustainability. Listen in for a deep dive into building designs that truly prioritize human comfort and environmental responsibility.
More about...
2024-05-0844 min
Better Buildings For HumansAdvocacy through Architecture - With Pascale Sablan - Ep. 31Pascale Sablan is an extraordinary person! She’s a brilliant architect, an activist, an advocate, and a passionate and engaging conversationalist. Pascale talks about the determination that was required for her to journey into a world where there were very few black female architects. She speaks in practical terms about the need for a diversity of opinions and experiences in community architecture. Pascale and Joe discuss how buildings can be a form of activism and how structures can give back to the community. This incredible episode ends with a discussion of how important it is to document and celebrate the...
2024-04-1044 min
Better Buildings For HumansGlass Viewpoints: Shattering Expectations with Nick Bagatelos - Ep. 30Nick Bagatelos knows glass! Nick grew up in the glass industry and continues to be one of the most respected personalities in the industry. In this lively episode, Joe and Nick talk about: the promise of vacuum glass; the importance of retrofits and how to do it right; the technological and structural barriers that will ensure that some glass-based innovations will remain as novelty products; the importance of light and views; the need to improve framing thermal performance; and so much more!
2024-04-0347 min
Better Buildings For HumansChanging Our World by Reducing Energy Loss in Framing Systems - Steve St. Pierre and Kurt Miglas – Ep. 29Views and daylight are critical to occupant wellness, comfort, and productivity. Everyone who is familiar with commercial glazing knows that much of the energy loss occurs through the window framing system. This energy loss is putting pressure on architects to reduce glazed area, which isolates building occupants from the natural environment. In this episode, Joe goes on a deep dive with the people who are changing our world by reducing energy loss in the framing systems. Steve St. Pierre and Kurt Miglas from Ensinger explain how thermal breaks and convection breaking technologies can dramatically reduce heat loss through the...
2024-03-2731 min
Better Buildings For HumansInspired Design: Discussing Music, Architecture, Philosophy and Social Change with James Garrett Jr. Ep. 28What is the connection between architecture and music? Can simple changes in a design improve the occupant’s dignity as well as their comfort? How did good design bring families of former prison inmates closer together and lower recidivism? In this extraordinary episode, Joe speaks with James Garrett Jr., an award-winning architect from 4RM+ULA in St. Paul, MN. James talks about his journey, his influences, and his design philosophy in this engaging and inspiring episode. This is a must hear episode for people who love architecture and want to learn more about design as a force for change!
2024-03-2057 min
Better Buildings For HumansOn the Cutting Edge of Glass Innovation with Patrick Flannery - Ep. 27Patrick Flannery is a journalist with Glass Canada Magazine. He has his finger on the pulse of the glass and glazing industry and he pulls no punches when he talks about the state of that industry. Joe and Patrick enjoy a lively discussion about topics like the 30% window to wall ratio and the general micromanagement of design through modern codes. Patrick also gets us up to speed on the many actions the industry is taking to reduce embodied carbon as well as operating carbon and of course, the actions being taken to improve occupant comfort, health and safety.
2024-03-1338 min
Better Buildings For HumansWhat You Should Learn about Daylight with Paula Longato - Ep. 26Nothing makes you appreciate natural light like removing a lot of it from your life! Paula Longato moved from Sao Paulo, Brasil to Berlin, Germany in 2006 to study architectural lighting design. The dramatic change in the amount of sunlight she experienced opened her eyes to the importance of daylight. She ended up doing her thesis on daylighting in office spaces. In this episode, Paula helps us to understand the process of designing for the interplay between natural light and artificial light. Joe and Paula talk about “the 24 things everyone should learn about daylight” from aboutdaylight.org. Paula also speaks pass...
2024-03-0637 min
Better Buildings For HumansThe Lighted Environment's Impact on Health and Well-Being – Jennifer Brons - Ep. 25In this episode, Joe discusses the impact of natural and artificial light on human health and well-being with Jennifer Brons, the research director from the Mount Sinai Light and Health Center. She explains the importance of natural light for adolescents and provides strategies for improving lighting in schools. Jennifer also discusses the interplay between natural and artificial light and the research being done to optimize lighting design. Tune in for insights on alertness and performance in relation to lighting and learn about the work being done with government agencies to improve the lighted environment. Jennifer will also highlight the...
2024-02-2841 min
Better Buildings For HumansSustainable Building Design and More with the Energy Manager for Sobeys – Megan Sykes - Episode 23In this episode, Joe interviews Megan Sykes, the energy manager for Sobeys, one of the largest grocery retailers in Canada. Megan shares her perspective on what makes a great building, and discusses her background and role within Sobeys, as well as, the company's commitment to reducing emissions and their comprehensive Climate Action Plan. She also highlights the importance of connecting shoppers to natural light in retail spaces and explores new technologies for sustainable design. Megan emphasizes the value of networking and community engagement in staying current on new technologies. The conversation also covers energy efficiency, cost considerations, government incentives...
2024-02-1445 min
Better Buildings For HumansDiscussing Daylight and More with a Building Science Rockstar - with Christoph ReinhartChristoph Reinhart is one of the most respected people in the world of building science. Dr. Reinhart leads the sustainable design lab at MIT. He is a managing member at Harvard Spinoff Solemma and co-founder of MIT spinoff mapdwell. He is a physicist by training but holds a doctorate in Architecture from the University of Karlsruhe. In other words, he’s a building science rockstar! In this episode we hear Christoph talk about ultra-fast daylight simulation tools, the interpretation of daylight metrics (yes you can reach different conclusions with the same data), urban building energy models (UBEM), automated floor pla...
2024-01-3140 min
Better Buildings For HumansArchitecture as Activism – Jeremy Knoll - Episode 20Architecture as Activism? BNIM is an architecture and design firm from Kansas City that has been a leader in sustainable design since 1970. In this episode Joe has a conversation with their Director of Sustainability and Regenerative Design, Jeremy Knoll. Jeremy is passionate, knowledgeable, articulate, optimistic, and full of joy! This is a wonderful episode where the topics range from practical sustainable design to occupant wellness to environmental justice.
2024-01-2440 min
Better Buildings For HumansProper Façade Installation and New Building Envelope Technologies – Adrian Lowenstein - Episode 19Many of our listeners know Adrian Lowenstein from his excellent building envelope videos and his new “All Things Façade” podcast. Adrian is passionate about the need to do proper inspections and testing on building facades - the best designs can still yield poor results if installation is not executed properly. In this episode, he makes the argument that proper installation can be even more powerful than new products. Of course, there is also lots of discussion about technological trends with emphasis on new building envelope technologies.
2024-01-1734 min
Better Buildings For HumansInterior Design's Role in Indoor Environmental Quality – Samantha Frew - Episode 18Interior Design plays a major role in driving comfort, wellness, productivity, and overall satisfaction with the spaces we occupy. This episode is a real departure from hardcore building science. Samantha Frew of Think Curious, takes Joe to school about the ways that interior design can impact all aspects of IEQ. Her work as a journalist allows her to share some insight into important modern trends in interior design. The entire episode is worth a listen just to hear Sam’s take on what makes a great building!
2024-01-1030 min
Better Buildings For HumansHow Anthropology Can Inform Sustainable Building Design – Marcel Harmon - Episode 17Can architects and buildings scientists learn anything from the world of anthropology? The answer is “yes, we can learn far more than most of us imagined!”. Marcel Harmon is a sustainability consultant with Branch Pattern in Overland Park, Kansas. He is an engineer with a PhD in anthropology. He applies the skills, knowledge and wisdom of these two professions to help create sustainable, healthy, intelligently designed buildings. His work truly embodies the idea of better buildings for humans.
2024-01-0344 min
Better Buildings For HumansLeveraging the Power of Partnerships for Cost-Effective Energy Efficiency – Alexandre Belisle - Episode 16The power behind Better Buildings for Humans, Advanced Glazings, recently announced a partnership with world-class insulated metal panel manufacturer, Norbec. In this episode, Joe speaks with Alexandre Belisle, the R&D director for Norbec, about the strategic importance of this new relationship. The ultimate goal is to create better buildings through higher performing, fully-integrated facades that bring in controlled natural light in a cost-effective manner delivering extraordinary energy efficiency.
2023-12-1937 min
Better Buildings For HumansHow Architecture and the Art of Building Design Impacts Wellness – Lila Allen - Episode 15Lila Allen is the Senior Editor of AD Pro at Architectural Digest. In this episode, we finally get to talk about style! We get a glimpse of how the art of building design impacts our wellness and our motivation. It’s not just about air turnovers and solar heat gain coefficients – humans also crave beauty. In this episode, you can hear a truly joyful human articulate magnificently about current design trends and the way the art of architecture fills our lives.
2023-12-1333 min
Better Buildings For HumansDesigning Truly Sustainable Buildings – Steve Kemp - Episode 14Steve Kemp is a true pro! Through decades of experience as an energy consultant, Steve has formed some strong opinions. Listen as he sheds light on our inadvertent missteps toward good intentions. In this episode, we talk about the pivotal role of the building envelope in energy management. We learn why embodied carbon is becoming more important and Steve has somesurprises about the tradeoffs between embodied carbon and ongoing energy consumption. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to design truly sustainable buildings rather than just “checking boxes."
2023-12-0636 min
Better Buildings For HumansImproving the Energy Performance of Buildings By Using the Right Materials, the Right Way – Peter Dushenski – Episode 13Improving the energy performance and sustainability of our buildings will require both new techniques and new materials. In this episode, Peter Dushenski from GlasCurtain explains how we can dramatically improve the energy performance of glazing systems by using FRP framing. The energy leak points in most buildings are at the interfaces – the seams where two different systems or materials come together. The glass framing is one such interface and it can have a profound impact on overall building envelope thermal performance. Peter explains how GlasCurtain used the right materials, the right way, to radically improve the insulation on glazing sy...
2023-11-2932 min
Better Buildings For HumansSafety and Mental Health in the Educational Environment – Sonny Thadani - Episode 12Students in public schools across America are feeling more isolated, while simultaneously feeling overwhelmed. Students, teachers and school administrators are struggling to manage the challenges in our modern education system. When we fail to manage these challenges, the results can be catastrophic. In this episode, we speak with Sonny Thadani, the CEO and co-founder of Robin, an organization that has developed programs to help students, faculty and staff develop the skills to thrive in today’s educational environment. The built environment has a profound impact on student’s academic success – but the way we operate within that environment is also e...
2023-11-2237 min
Better Buildings For HumansA Rocket Scientist Talks about Passive Design and Daylighting – Ale Menchaca - Episode 11Dr. Alejandra Menchaca is a master practitioner of passive design. You may know her as the co-creator of the famous “thermal comfort tool”. Listen to this expert in daylighting as well as passive heating and cooling explain why she gave up being a rocket scientist to help create better buildings for humans!
2023-11-0944 min
Better Buildings For HumansPioneering Sustainable Design - Keith Robertson - Episode 4A pioneer when it comes to sustainable design, Keith Robertson was known as a 'tree hugger' in his early days as an architect. Keith wasn’t a ‘tree hugger’, he was and still is, a pragmatic idealist. Nowadays, the architectural world has caught up to his ideals and is embracing his way of thinking. This conversation is a must listen if you value sustainability.
2023-10-2329 min
Better Buildings For HumansThe Importance of Sleep and Circadian Rhythms - Russell Foster - Episode 10In this deep dive into the science of sleep, circadian rhythms and their impact on human health, Joe speaks with Dr. Russell Foster, Professor of Circadian Neuroscience at the University of Oxford. Listen to learn about the need to bring natural light into buildings to reset our internal clock and maintain the integrity and alignment of our circadian system. The conversation takes an extraordinary journey into Russell’s two main areas of research: How is environmental light detected and processed for the regulation of circadian rhythms? How are circadian rhythms generated and what happens when these systems break down in disease and...
2023-10-2037 min
Better Buildings For HumansAn Entrepreneur's Guide to Healthy Buildings - Chuck Morrison - Episode 9This episode is as much a business lesson in entrepreneurialism as it is a conversation about healthy buildings. Chuck Morrison is the Founder and CEO of INVZBL. A serial entrepreneur, Chuck’s latest venture provides disinfecting/sanitizing equipment and services for laptops and tablets – but in the wake of COVID 19, he has created systems to purify indoor air. INVZBL focuses primarily on schools with the objective of providing clean air for kids so as to minimize the transmittance of disease and to provide a comfortable learning environment. Their simple, intuitive monitoring systems will make air quality a priority for ever...
2023-10-1441 min
Better Buildings For HumansThe Healthier Buildings of the Future with Blaine Brownell - Episode 8In our most forward-looking episode yet, we explore the new materials and techniques that will reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, reduce our dependence on materials that end up in landfills, and discover what will allow us to create healthier buildings for occupants with guest Blaine Brownell, an architect and the Director of the David R. Ravin School of Architecture at the University of North Carolina in Charlotte. Blaine studies emerging materials and sustainable building technologies. He also shares his well-informed opinions on the lack of design in “green design."
2023-10-1449 min
Better Buildings For HumansA Miracle Material and What Building Owners are Thinking - James Satterwhite & Janelle Penny - Episode 7In this special two-guest episode, the CEO of Advanced Glazings, James Satterwhite talks about how the miracle material, aerogel, has allowed translucent glazings to achieve insulation levels that are comparable to opaque walls. This is vitally important because architects can continue to create large glass facades that bring in lots of natural light, provide those critical views to building occupants, and still meet building energy codes. Then, Joe interviews Janelle Penny, the Editor-in-Chief of Buildings Magazine. Janelle shares the steps that building owners are taking to entice their workers to get back to the office post COVID-19. There is...
2023-10-1438 min
Better Buildings For HumansHow Green Globes Certification Promotes Sustainability and Wellness - Vicki Worden - Episode 6In this episode, Joe interviews Vicki Worden, CEO of The Green Building Initiative, providers of the Green Globes Building Certification program. Vicki explains GBI's mission, the objectives of Green Globes Certification, and the ways in which Green Globes is different. This conversation is valuable for anyone seeking to better understand the valuable features of this certification program, that has seen widespread adoption for its sustainable design and occupant health and wellness standards for the multi-family building sector. Learn how GBI stays connected with the latest research in building science, the importance of indoor environment quality, and the occasional trade...
2023-10-1433 min
Better Buildings For HumansBusting Myths About Visual and Thermal Comfort - Alstan Jakubiec - Episode 5This conversation challenges many common myths. Do you know the best way to predict glare? Do you understand non-image forming light? Do you understand how to design to account for circadian rhythms? What about the best way to counter the urban heat island effect? Alstan Jakubiec, an Assistant Professor in both the Faculty of Design and the School of Environment at the University of Toronto, answers these questions and more. Alstan studies visual and thermal human comfort, environmental performance simulation, and the interaction between the two. Join us for this insightful conversation.
2023-10-1434 min
Better Buildings For HumansLeading Edge Innovations in Occupant Comfort - Stefano Schiavon - Episode 3Stefano Schiavon is a world leading expert on building occupant comfort. His research is showing that so much of our conventional wisdom and current practices are just plain wrong. Joe talks with Stefano about methodologies for discovering which factors most affect comfort. Stefano also makes the case for measuring and controlling comfort factors to suit individual needs.
2023-09-0142 min
Better Buildings For HumansConsolidating Daylight, Energy Modeling and other Advancements in Daylighting Research - David Geisler-Moroder - Episode 2In this episode, Joe speaks with Dr. David Geisler-Moroder from University of Innsbruck about advancements in research in the field of daylighting and energy modeling and what software tools are available to architects and researchers.
2023-09-0127 min
Better Buildings For HumansDaylight, Indoor Environment Design and Occupant Health - Michael Kent - Episode 1Daylight and views are critical to the well being of building occupants. The world's leading researchers are confirming this fact and learning more about why every single day.
In this episode, Joe speaks with Dr. Michael Kent from UC Berkeley about indoor environment design and its importance in meeting the visual, health and comfort needs of the building occupants. It's an amazing conversation!
Michael Kent's LinkedIn
If you want to include daylight in your next project, reach out to: advancedglazings.com/contact
2023-08-0443 min