Shows
Building Green#060 - Jachen Schleich: What Happens When Swiss Green Standards Hit Mexico and Why Mexico’s Timber Industry Is BrokenSwiss architect Jachen Schleich shares how he’s adapting Minergie - Switzerland’s leading green building standard - for Latin America, why most timber buildings in Mexico still rely on imported wood, and what it will take to create a truly local timber industry. From ancient chinampas inspiring his Venice Biennale installation to banks unexpectedly driving sustainable construction, this episode is full of surprising insights on how we can build greener, smarter, and more locally.To learn more about Jachen Schleich and his work, you can follow him on LinkedIn, Instagram and visit their website. To le...2025-07-291h 08
Building Green#059 - David Leventhal: Luxury Without Guilt - Why Slow & Regenerative Travel Is the FutureWhat if luxury meant living with nature, not apart from it?If you're an architecture lover or you love traveling, and you’ve ever scrolled through one of the big architecture magazines, I’m sure you’ve seen the image of those incredible bamboo treehouses at Playa Viva in Mexico: iconic, elevated, and completely immersed in nature. Well, our guest today, David Leventhal, is one of the visionaries behind that.David went from a career in media to co-founding one of the world’s most unique eco-hotels, and now his mission goes far beyond just one loca...2025-07-1551 min
Building Green#058 - Liz Olivier: $8 Billion of Glamour, Millions of Tons of Waste - Behind the Scenes of the Beauty IndustryCelebrity makeup artist Liz Olivier reveals how beauty became one of the world’s most wasteful industries - and what needs to change. From seaweed packaging to circular design, she shares smart, surprising ways to clean up beauty without losing the glamour.To explore more about Liz Olivier and her work, you can follow her on Instagram or visit her store where you can buy everything sustainable, clean and beauty.Join me, Ladina, on this green journey, and don't forget to subscribe for more insightful conversations about sustainable living and architecture, and drop us a re...2025-07-0152 min
Building Green#057 - Andrew Patterson: This Building Will Last 1,000 Years. Its Carbon Footprint - Less Than One Flight. Why Beauty Is the Key to True Sustainability in ArchitectureWhat if the most sustainable building is also the most beautiful one?New Zealand architect Andrew Patterson shares how ancient villages, earthquake rubble, and cliffside cottages have shaped his belief that buildings should belong to the land. He explains why true sustainability starts with beauty - and how architecture can help us feel at home on the planet.To explore more about Andrew Patterson and his work, you can follow him on Instagram, and visit their company website, Instagram and YouTube to check out their local projects.Join me, Ladina...2025-06-1748 min
Building Green#056 - Justin Den Herder: Mass Timber Is Not Always the Answer - What Engineers Get Wrong And Why Hyper-Optimized Buildings Might Fail the FutureWhat can trees teach us about better buildings and better cities?In this episode, structural engineer Justin Dan Herder shares why “hyper-optimized” buildings aren’t always the smartest choice, and why saving old structures can often be the most sustainable move. He explains how mass timber can add life to old buildings - but also why it’s not always the right answer.We hear stories from Justin’s own journey, from watching his dad draft by hand to learning why trees and forests are nature’s best architects. He opens up about “structural poetics” - his idea that...2025-06-0358 min
Building Green#055 - Derek Hoeferlin: Adapting to Rising Seas: Smarter, Softer Solutions Than Concrete WallsWhen you think of rivers, you probably don’t think of architects. But Derek Hoeferlin has made it his life’s work to prove why you should. As an architect, chair of Landscape Architecture, and author of Way Beyond Bigness, Derek advocates for a radical shift in how we design with water—not against it.He’s studied watersheds across the Mississippi, Mekong, and Rhine, learning how infrastructure, culture, and community intersect. Whether it’s rethinking the 20th-century concrete-heavy mindset, or collaborating with Mekong farmers growing salt-tolerant crops as a response to rising sea levels, Derek shows that every...2025-05-2056 min
Building Green#054 - Aishwarya & Karina: Third Places: The Secret Cure to Loneliness in CitiesEver wondered what makes a city truly great to live in—or why some places feel safer than others at night?In this episode, urban designers Karina and Aiswarya unpack how cities affect our everyday lives, from safety and loneliness to mobility and community connection. You'll hear why simply building more apartments isn't enough, how places like Mumbai, Curitiba, and Atlanta shape the way we move, and what “third places” are (hint: they’re your favorite hangouts between home and school or work!). Plus, discover easy ways you can help improve your own neighborho...2025-05-131h 01
Building GreenMOMENT 1 - The Mind Blowing Story Behind This Carbon Fiber Chair - John HamiltonWhat if your chair could last for generations and never end up in a landfill?THIS MOMENT IS A HIGHLIGHT FROM EPISODE #040.John Hamilton is the kind of designer who sees beyond just the object - he sees the story, the connection, and the legacy it can create. From his work with groundbreaking materials like carbon fiber and mycelium packaging to his belief that furniture should quietly support the people using it, John has spent decades pushing the boundaries of design and sustainability.In this conversation, we discuss the surprising ways AI is giving...2025-05-1205 min
Building Green#053 - William Dodge: Design That Hits Harder Than a Billion-Dollar Eco CityWhat if the greenest building isn’t the one with the best tech - but the one people love the most?Award-winning designer William Dodge shares the story behind a powerful $50K flood memorial that’s changing how the world sees sustainability. It’s built on the same site where his childhood friend drowned and was finished 25 years to the day after his death.But this isn’t just a story about one powerful project. This is a conversation about:How to do more with lessHow to create beauty with constrai...2025-05-0658 min
Building Green#052 - Ankita Chachra: Playgrounds are Burning: Why Urban Design Must Change NowIf you're a parent, grandparent, or caregiver, you already know: cities were not built with you in mind. One third of all city trips are for caregiving - so why are we still designing cities around commuting?Ankita Chachra has spent her career asking questions like this - and designing better answers. From Delhi to The Hague to Brooklyn, she’s seen how small choices in city design - like where a bench goes, what material covers a playground or how fast a car can drive - have a huge impact on how safe, connected, and livable ou...2025-04-2945 min
Building Green#051 - Caplow Manzano: Miami’s Modern Luxury - Inside the World’s First WELL-Certified Home: Flood-Resistant, Healthy, and SmartWhat if your home could outsmart floods, reduce energy bills, and make you healthier - all at once? Architect Nathalie Manzano walks us through the world’s first WELL-certified house in Miami, built for 100-year floods and designed to be fully taken apart, not torn down. This isn’t your typical Miami home… This house might just be a living blueprint for the future of sustainable living. It’s built using a method called hypo-struction, it’s part fortress, part wellness retreat - and entirely unlike anything else on the market.To...2025-04-2217 min
Building Green#050 - Caplow Manzano: Redefining Luxury - How to Build a House That Lasts 100 Years, Without Making You SickIf you're careful about what you eat, why not care about what your house is made of?Nathalie and Ted didn’t just build a house - they created a whole new way of thinking. Instead of following the usual short-term approach that’s common in South Florida, they decided to do the opposite.Nathalie started in public health, researching how homes affect people’s well-being. Ted comes from an engineering background, with experience in renewable energy and food systems. Together, they built the world’s first WELL-certified home - designed to support both the planet a...2025-04-1556 min
Building Green#049 - David Augé: The Shocking Truth About Sustainability: It's Not About Saving the Planet. Lessons from Bees and Locusts, and Why Finding Your 'Why' Is the Only Path to a Sustainable FutureOur future depends on how we organize society. The question is: are we getting it right?David Auge argues that we’ve been looking at it all wrong. In his book “Man’s Search for Sustainability”, he explores how honeybees and desert locusts - two extreme insect societies - hold surprising lessons for how we build our own communities.In this episode, David reveals:why stress is essential for growth, how human society mirrors both, the order of bees and the chaos of locust swarms, and why history - not just i...2025-04-0845 min
Building Green#048 - Sheena Zhang: This Autodesk Experiment Changed Everything About Carbon Reporting - How Good Architects Make Bad Carbon Decisions (Without Knowing)Why did six top firms get six very different answers - to be exact they varied by 34% - when measuring the same building’s carbon footprint?Most architects want to design sustainable buildings, but the reality is - sustainability tools are often complicated, expensive, or come into the process too late to make a real impact. That’s exactly what Sheena Zhang is working to fix. As a Sustainability Strategist at Autodesk, she helps develop tools like Forma and Insight that make it faster and easier to design greener buildings.Sheena breaks down:h...2025-04-0148 min
Building Green#047 - Karl Feldman: How to Spot Greenwashing and Win Clients With Proof. Don’t Market Sustainability - Sell What Clients Actually Care AboutThis one shift in how you talk about your business could bring in massive growth. Karl Feldman explains how. He helps architecture, engineering, and consulting firms turn their expertise into real business growth. As a managing partner at Hinge Marketing, he uses research - not guesswork - to show companies how to stand out, attract the right clients, and prove their value without relying on empty buzzwords.This episode was especially interesting to me because, as some of you know, I'm also the co-founder of a marketing agency for architects and interior designers, Ma...2025-03-2551 min
Building Green#046 - Ethnie Xu: How AI is Changing Architecture (And Why Universities Are Banning It) - Bridging AI, Architecture & Real Estate for a Smarter FutureCould AI and modular design be the future of architecture? In this episode, we sit down with Ethnie Xu, an architect and real estate expert, to explore how technology, sustainability, and business intersect in the built world. From surviving a devastating earthquake at age 10 to designing resilient, AI-driven buildings, Ethnie shares how we can build smarter, greener, and more affordable cities. We break down the biggest myths about sustainable design, the real potential of AI in construction, and why adaptive reuse is the key to the future of our cities.🎧 Tune in for insights that coul...2025-03-1852 min
Building Green#045 - Blaine Brownell (Top Materials Expert): FORGET EXTERNAL BATTERIES - The ‘Concrete Foundation’ Could Replace Your Tesla Powerwall moreCan buildings store electricity like a battery?Blaine Brownell is a leading voice in sustainable architecture and material innovation, with a career spanning over 20 years. Starting as an architect in Seattle during the rise of the LEED green building movement, he transitioned to academia, where he now directs the School of Architecture at UNC Charlotte. His research focuses on the future of sustainable materials, and he has authored nine books on the topic, including Transmaterial and Radical Green.Blaine challenges conventional thinking with ideas like:Cities made of sky, where buildings...2025-03-0459 min
Building Green#044 - Zak Kostura: Al vs. Architects-Who Designs the Future?Can AI design a better, greener future?Zak Kostura is the leader of the innovative team using AI and genetic algorithms to rethink sustainable architecture and urban planning at Arup. From designing New York’s NRDC headquarters with 3,000+ net-zero options, to optimizing entire transportation networks without building new roads, Zak shares how technology is transforming the built environment.Discover the future of smart, and efficient design - and why the biggest challenge isn’t the tech, but changing how people work.To explore more about Zak Kostura and his work, you...2025-02-2548 min
Building Green#043 - Scott Kelly & David Salamon: Future-Proofing Architecture—Beyond Net ZeroHow can we design buildings centered only minimize environmental harm, but actively contribute to better world?That's exactly the mission of Re:Vision Architecture. Architects Scott Kelly and David Salamon reveal why true sustainability isn’t just about adding solar panels—it’s about designing smarter from the start. They share eye-opening lessons from decades of experience, including why beautiful buildings last longer, how to cut energy waste without breaking the bank, and why the best approach is to "think more, build less."To explore more about David Salamon, Scott Kelly, and their work, visit their...2025-02-1852 min
Building Green#042 - Vivian Loftness: Why Modern Buildings Are Suffocating UsWhy are so many buildings designed to shut out nature instead of working with it?Vivian Loftness has spent 50 years advancing sustainable architecture, focusing on climate-responsive design, energy efficiency, and healthier buildings. Her career began during the first energy crisis, leading her to research passive solar design and climate-adaptive architecture. She studied in Finland, where she learned from architects who prioritized daylighting and material efficiency.As a professor at Carnegie Mellon University and a leader in organizations like the US Green Building Council and the International Living Future Institute, she has pushed for buildings that...2025-02-1152 min
Building Green#041 - Lee Stewart: The Triple C Framework Your Business Needs to Turn Climate Challenges into WinsWhat if sustainability wasn’t just about saving the planet - but also the key to growing a successful business?
Best-selling author of “How to Build Sustainability into Your Business Strategy”, Lee Stewart has helped major companies turn climate challenges into business opportunities. From securing multi-million-dollar contracts through green initiatives to debunking the biggest myths about sustainability, Lee shares practical insights every business leader, architect, and entrepreneur needs to hear.
What you'll learn:- Why sustainability is not just a cost - it’s a competitive advantage.- The Triple C Framework: Confidence, Commitment, and Consiste...2025-02-0447 min
Building Green#040 - John Hamilton: Designing Timeless Furniture with Innovative Materials Like Carbon Fiber, Making Packaging with Mushrooms and How AI is Changing DesignWhat if your chair could last for generations and never end up in a landfill?
John Hamilton is the kind of designer who sees beyond just the object - he sees the story, the connection, and the legacy it can create. From his work with groundbreaking materials like carbon fiber and mycelium packaging to his belief that furniture should quietly support the people using it, John has spent decades pushing the boundaries of design and sustainability.
In this conversation, we discuss the surprising ways AI is giving designers time back - to think bigger, innovative...2025-01-2858 min
Building Green#039 - Alfonso Hernandez: How Gensler Uses AI & Data to Build Greener CitiesHow can technology help us design buildings that stand the test of time? 🌍
Alfonso Hernandez is Sustainability Director at Gensler, the world’s largest architectural firm, where he focuses on decarbonization, resilience, and future-proofing buildings. Using computational tools like energy modeling and daylight optimization, Alfonso describes his work as creating a “cone of certainty” to guide design decisions.
We’ll talk about how software is reshaping architecture, why developers now see sustainability as a selling point, and how balancing upfront costs with long-term impacts is key to smarter design.
If you want the list of the...2025-01-2151 min
Building Green#038 - Vinciane Albrecht & Anne Carcelen: The Power of Timber in Sustainable ArchitectureCould the cities of tomorrow thrive by reimagining the structures of today?
Vinciane Albrecht talks about the mass timber buildings designed by her partner Anne Carcelen in France, showcasing their approach to sustainability and design. Together, they’ve developed concepts like hybrid city and inter-building - a three-step method to preserve existing structures, build smarter, and bridge the past with the future.
OulipO, a transatlantic architecture studio, is reshaping how we approach sustainable building. Rooted in the belief that “constraint is ground for inspiration,” OulipO brings new life into existing structures, leveraging innovations like prefabrication and th...2025-01-1456 min
Building Green#037 - Scott Bishop: What’s The Secret To Designing Homes That Work With Nature, Not Against It? What Every Architect Should Know About Human Ecology.Is your garden harming or helping the environment?
Landscape architect Scott Bishop, founder of Bishop Land Design, uncovers why green roofs are so important, how microforests and de-lawning can revolutionize biodiversity, and what we can all do - even in small ways - to improve our neighborhoods.
From the hidden magic of soil to designing cities that work with the environment, Scott’s insights will leave you inspired to rethink the spaces around you.
Tune in to learn how simple changes can make a massive impact on our planet!
To explore mor...2025-01-0759 min
Building Green#036 - James Andrews: The Science Behind Homes That HealHow can the spaces we live in shape our mental health and well-being?
Architect James Andrews shares how he teamed up with IKEA to design a tiny home that helps people recover from trauma and homelessness. Discover how architecture can heal, boost wellness, and challenge what we think we know about spaces - like why open-plan living might not be as great as it seems.
Plus, learn why adding nature to your home is more powerful than you think. And if you’re wondering when you’ll see these tiny homes on IKEA shelves, you’ll hav...2024-12-3155 min
Building Green#035 - Shay Kurzinski: Why Cutting Trees Could Actually Help Fight Climate ChangeCan wood really replace steel and concrete in skyscrapers? The answer might surprise you.
In this episode, Shay Kurzinski, Assistant Professor of Construction Management at Roger Williams University, talks about everything we need to know about the game-changing potential of mass timber. From its surprising strength to its ability to reduce carbon emissions and speed up construction timelines.
Shay shares the science behind why cutting down trees can actually help the planet (yes, really!), explains how mass timber panels are like "Lego pieces" for buildings, and confronts the biggest myth of all: fire safety. Plus...2024-12-2445 min
Building Green#034 - Laia Bonet: How Restoring Nature Can Save Cities from Floods and Rising SeasWhat can we learn from communities and ecosystems to create greener, safer cities?In this episode, Laia Bonet shares her inspiring journey from designing buildings in Switzerland to tackling climate resilience challenges across Africa. After moving to Cameroon and later Nairobi to work with UN-Habitat, Laia shifted her focus from architecture to creating solutions for rapidly growing urban areas in Sub-Saharan countries like Comoros, Mozambique, Madagascar, Malawi and in the Sahel region.She explains the power of nature-based solutions, like restoring mangroves in Madagascar, which protect against floods, absorb CO2, and support...2024-12-1752 min
Building Green#033 - Christiane Conrads: The Real Impact of ESG on Buildings, Cities, and SustainabilityWhat if real estate could help save the planet? 🌎
In this episode, Christiane Conrads, PwC's Global Real Estate ESG leader, joins the conversation to share how sustainability is influencing the future of buildings and cities. From her background in environmental law to leading global ESG initiatives, Christiane’s work is all about finding simple, powerful solutions - from solar-powered green spaces to biodiversity-focused cities.
We talk about:
How different regions like the U.S., Europe, and Asia are tackling sustainability
What "ESG" really means and why it's critical in real estate
...2024-11-1944 min
Building Green#032 - Paul Paterson: The Carbon Challenge - Why Leed Platinum Isn’t Enough and How to Close the Performance GapCan sustainable buildings actually save you money?
Paul Paterson, founder of Elevation Sustainable Building Solutions, explains how energy-efficient designs don’t have to cost more - and can even reduce both, building and operational expenses.
With decades of experience in engineering and construction, Paul shares his journey from Scotland to Dubai and discusses how he’s closing the 'performance gap' to make buildings more efficient. You’ll learn about common misconceptions, like why achieving Leed Platinum certification isn’t enough, and the innovative materials and technologies that are driving the futu...2024-11-0544 min
Building Green#031 - Dr. Gayatri Keskar: Why Wood Isn’t Always the Greenest ChoiceEver wonder what key factors actually make a material sustainable for each situation?
Dr. Gayatri Keskar is a materials scientist and sustainability expert, committed to revealing the facts about sustainable materials. She shares her fascinating journey, from growing up in an engineering family to working on cutting-edge innovations in material science. In this conversation, we take a closer look at the surprising factors behind renewable materials like wood, leather alternatives, and even concrete’s huge carbon footprint.
Dr. Gayatri also busts myths about recycling, explains the role of 3D printing in construction, and reveals how ti...2024-10-2259 min
Building Green#030 - Graeme Labe: Building Sustainable Luxury Hotels in the World's Most Remote PlacesEver wondered what it’s like to sleep under the stars in the middle of a wildlife reserve?
In this episode, we sit down with Graeme Labe, the visionary behind Luxury Frontiers, to explore the world of luxury hospitality designed to connect people with nature. Find out how Graeme redefines luxury in hospitality, discover how he built safari lodges in the Okavango Delta while living on top of a Land Rover, why biophilic design is key to creating meaningful experiences, and how bamboo and timber are used to blend architecture with the environment. Plus, hear the incredible st...2024-10-081h 04
Building Green#029 - Thomas Hundt: Circular Economy and Digitalization in Temporary ExhibitionsWhat if temporary buildings could be as sustainable as permanent ones?
In this episode, we talk with Thomas Hundt, co-founder of Jangled Nerves, about the sustainable future of exhibitions and architecture. Thomas shares fascinating stories, including the Mercedes-Benz Red Pavilion, where nearly all materials were reused or resold, making it a model of sustainability in temporary construction. He also explains how working under tight restrictions - like time and budget - can actually boost creativity, leading to some of his most innovative designs.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:
The powe...2024-10-0137 min
Building Green#028 - Karim Elnabawy: Sustainability Isn't Optional - Why Climate Resilience is CriticalHow do we build for the future without harming the planet?
In this episode, we talk to Karim Elnabawy, a senior sustainability manager who's working on some of the biggest projects in Saudi Arabia.
He breaks down the challenges of building in the desert and using 100% renewable energy for projects like Neom. He discusses the misconceptions about the cost of sustainable buildings, how the client is always the driver behind any sustainable movement and the responsibilities of policy makers. He also shares his real-world experiences in turning innovative concepts into practical, sustainable solutions - one...2024-09-1448 min
Building Green#027 - Charles Gallavardin - Can We Stay Cool Without AC? Exploring Bioclimatic DesignEver wondered if it's possible to build a comfortable home in the tropics without air conditioning?
Meet Charles, a pioneering architect who’s redefining sustainable design in Southeast Asia. In this episode, Charles shares how he uses bioclimatic design and natural materials like rice husk and bamboo to cool buildings, while avoiding high-tech, energy-consuming solutions.
Discover why timber might not be the best choice in some regions, and learn about his award-winning project, the Coconut Club, where he created a naturally cool space without relying on AC. Plus, Charles debunks the myth of the "smart cit...2024-08-2444 min
Building Green#026 - Ali Al-Sammarraie: Why Your Electric Car Isn’t As Green As You Think - The Untold Story of Electric Cars and the Future of Green CitiesIs your electric car really saving the planet?
In this eye-opening episode, we challenge the myths around sustainability and explore what it takes for truly sustainable projects to become the norm.
Our guest, Ali Al-Sammarraie, a leading expert in urban planning, isn’t just focused on sustainable design - he’s also dedicated to making sure these designs bring economic value and align with the priorities of different stakeholders. He emphasizes the importance of including the 'minority of the minority' in his projects, ensuring that no one is left behind. Tune in to find out how we...2024-08-1056 min
Building Green#025 - Todd Jersey & Katy Reynolds: Tackling the Housing Crisis with Sustainable and Profitable ArchitectureHow can architecture help us pay back our ecological debt?
In this episode, I chat with Todd Jersey and Katy Reynolds, two pioneers in green architecture and sustainable building practices. Todd shares his journey from traditional building to creating eco-friendly designs, inspired by permaculture principles. Katy, a former investment banker, tells us how she transitioned to green homebuilding and founded Shibusa Systems to tackle the housing crisis with innovative, sustainable solutions.
Key Points:
Learn about ecological debt and why it's important to build with the earth in mind - and how it’ll ev...2024-08-0359 min
Building Green#024 - Prof. Hisham Elkadi: Transforming Cities with Nature’s Wisdom - The Secrets Behind Sustainable Urban DesignEver wondered how nature can teach us to build better cities? Professor Hisham Elkadi is a pioneer in sustainable urban development. He shares everything he learned in his extensive research about how ecological principles can shape smarter, more resilient cities and why flexibility is key in design.
Key Points:
Learn how Professor Elkadi transformed Geelong, a city in Australia, by using nature's own methods to prevent flooding and create beautiful green spaces.
Understand why working with nature, not against it, is crucial for sustainable architecture.
Discover the paradox between energy efficiency...2024-07-2748 min
Building Green#023 - Erica Anesi: How PBA is Revolutionizing Hardware with the Three Pillars of Sustainable DesignUncover the real cost of sustainability and why it’s not what you think. Erica Anesi, CEO of women-owned hardware company PBA, reveals some unexpected insights about sustainable design that might just change your perspective.
Curious? Here’s a sneak peek:
How focusing on the three dimensions of sustainability is revolutionizing the way PBA is producing award-winning sustainable hardware.
How to measure the long-term value of sustainability?
What importance does elegance have in sustainable design?
How does inclusivity play a crucial role in sustainable design?
Which groundbreaking proj...2024-07-2058 min
Building Green#022 - Tony Ip: How Leadership and Behavior Change Can Make or Break Sustainable DevelopmentDid you know a city in Brazil recycles 70% of its waste? Tony Ip, founder of Tony Ip Green Architects, shares how a transformative trip to Curitiba completely changed his approach to urban planning and sustainable architecture. Learn how Tony led the construction of Hong Kong's first zero-carbon building using passive design principles and cutting-edge technology. Inspired by Curitiba’s forward-thinking mayor, Tony reinforces the role of great leadership in sustainability.
He emphasizes that true sustainability stems not just from how buildings are designed, but from transforming how people live in those buildings. Discover Tony's innovative project that tra...2024-07-1354 min
Building Green#021 - Cany Ash: The Power of Sustainable Materials and Ending Loneliness in Cities - From Hemp Walls to Shared SpacesDid you know you can build robust, eco-friendly walls using hemp and lime? In this episode, Cany Ash, founding director of multi award-winning architects Ash Sakula, shares how they build 500mm thick walls without any plastic. Learn about her project where a village in the center of London was built from recycled materials from the Olympics and how she envisions "adaptable neighborhoods" that reduce loneliness and foster community. Cany also discusses the innovative use of bio-materials like mushroom bricks and oyster shells, aiming to revolutionize how we think about sustainable architecture
To explore more about Cany Ash...2024-06-2948 min
Building Green#020 - Omar Alayli: The Future of In-Orbit Logistics - Creating an Amazon for Space, Life in Zero Gravity and Sustainability in SpaceDiscover how space logistics can revolutionize space exploration with Omar Alayli, founder of Future Space Architecture. Learn about the challenges and innovations in developing in-orbit logistics and how space technology can enhance sustainability on Earth. Dive into the exciting possibilities of interstellar travel and life beyond our planet.
To explore more about Omar Alayli and his work, you can follow him on Linkedin, or visit his website futurespacearchitecture.com.
Join me, Ladina, on this green journey, and don't forget to subscribe for more insightful conversations about sustainable living and architecture and drop us a review...2024-06-2248 min
Building Green#019 - Jason Pomeroy: The Underrated Importance of Cultural Sustainability and How Sky Gardens and Floating Farms are Elevating Urban LifeHow can we make cities less dense without sacrificing functionality and beauty? Award-winning architect Jason Pomeroy discusses how sky gardens impact our perception of the city and what role floating farms play in our future. Learn about the designs that could shape the next generation of urban spaces and the role of culture in cities like Singapore.
To explore more about Jason Pomeroy and his work, you can follow him on X @pomeroystudio for his design work, visit his websites pomeroyacademy.sg for research and education and jasonpomeroy.sg for his broadcast media and books or on...2024-06-1549 min
Building Green#018 - Miroslav Naskov - An Architect’s Journey from Zaha Hadid to the Metaverse, the Challenges of Designing with AI, and the Positive Effects of Integrating Nature in ArchitectureMiroslav Naskov is an architect who believes in the power of nature. Discover his creative journey, from building shelters as a child to creating innovative projects in the real world and the Metaverse, including his experience working with Zaha Hadid Architects and Patrik Schumacher.
We discuss his unique approach to architecture that includes the use of AI from an early stage and local fabrication. Learn about his favorite projects and the challenges he faces in turning visionary designs into reality. Miroslav talks about his research on the positive effects of integrating nature into living spaces. This episode...2024-06-0844 min
Building Green#017 - Jon Ackroyd - The Unexpected Ways Radical Retrofits Are Shaping London, Implementing VR For Sustainability, Visions for Greener, Denser CitiesJon Ackroyd, co-founder of Akroyd Lowrie, shares his journey from struggling with dyslexia to leading creative retrofit projects in London, like the transformation of Camberwell Magistrates Court. Discover how his "radical retrofit" philosophy reimagines old buildings using sustainable materials and creative solutions. Tune in to learn how the use of VR helps in the sustainability of designs and Jon's vision for greener, denser cities and rewilded rural areas.
To explore more about Jon Ackroyd and his work at Ackroyd Lowrie, you can visit their website ackroydlowrie.com or follow them on Instagram @ackroydlowrie and list...2024-06-0247 min
Building Green#016 - Paul Schwarz: The Surprising Link Between Noise and SustainabilityIt is not obvious to most people what role acoustics play in sustainable building design, as they don’t have an impact on the reduction or efficiency of materials - actually, stringent acoustic criteria often require an increase in materials and the density of the same.
The Technical Director of Dubai Acoustic Research Laboratory, Paul Schwarz, takes us on a journey through the often-overlooked but vital role of acoustics in creating sustainable and livable environments.
Expect to learn:
- Why the sustainable impact of sound is an issue of improving the longevity of a...2024-05-2558 min
Building Green#015 - Tomislav Dushanov, Herzog & De Meuron - Brazilian Favela Project Arena Do Morro: The Sustainability Performance Nobody Talks AboutThe project of Arena do Morro by architects Herzog & De Meuron is mainly known for its social impact on the community in the favela. In this episode we focus on its sustainability performance, as its remarkable energy and microclimate concept, remain overlooked due to its social focus.
Tomislav Dushanov, Associate at Herzog & De Meuron, sheds light on the transformative power of sustainable architecture in favela communities. Tomislav dives into the heart of the Arena do Morro project in Brazil - a project that not only built a resilient community but also set a benchmark for environmental sustainability...2024-05-151h 02
Building Green#014 - Fabiano Sartori - Temporary Solutions, Lasting Impact: Refugee CampsFabiano Sartori is an architect and urban planner with a strong focus on integrating sustainability into humanitarian action. His career evolved from founding his Brazilian architecture studio to influencing major humanitarian projects all over the world.
In this episode, discover:
- The challenges of making cities and refugee camps sustainable while helping people in need
- The powerful impact of thoughtful design on communities and the environment
- What refugee camps have in common with planning for the Olympics
- The difficulties of building sustainable spaces in different parts...2024-05-1059 min
Building Green#013 - Kourosh Salehi, LWKP - Sustainability Doesn't Need To Be ExpensiveKourosh Salehi is the Design Director at global architecture firm LWK +Partners, and he's based in Dubai.
Kourosh shares his extensive journey in architecture, emphasizing the critical role of "contextual metabolism" in shaping cities and buildings that reflect the cultural, environmental, and social fabric of their settings.
Kourosh challenges the notion that sustainability is an expensive luxury, proposing instead that thoughtful, well-integrated design can lead to long-lasting solutions.
Hear Kourosh’s stories about specific projects where he has successfully applied his philosophy of contextual metabolism, demonstrating how architecture can foster community engagement, economic stab...2024-05-0447 min
Building Green#012 - Ivana Kildsgaard, Tengbom - The Future of our Cities: AI, Circularity, and the Quest for Sustainable LivingIn this episode of "Building Green," I delve into an inspiring conversation with Ivana Kildsgaard, Sustainability Director at Tengbom, one of Scandinavia’s leading architecture practices, and Chairman of 100 Gruppen, which focuses on how to create circular and sustainable interiors.
Ivana brings a fresh perspective to the integration of sustainability in architectural design and urban planning. Throughout our discussion, she highlights the transformative impact of innovative design solutions and her efforts to integrate artificial intelligence into sustainable building practices. She shares how these technologies can optimize material usage and enhance building efficiency, driving forward the architectural industry’s co...2024-04-2958 min
Building Green#011 - Akbar Hassonjee, KETTLER - Investing in Sustainable Real EstateIn this episode of "Building Green: Tomorrow’s Architecture Today," our host, Ladina Schöpf, sits down with Akbar Hassan, not an architect, but Senior Investment Analyst at Kettler, to explore the intersection of real estate finance and sustainable architecture.
Akbar shares his journey from his beginnings at New York University to his role at Kettler, through very different touchpoints with sustainable architecture. He brings to light how incorporating sustainable practices in building and investment not only reduces carbon footprints, but also enhances economic value.
Listen to this episode if you’re a homeowners looking to adop...2024-04-2548 min
Building Green#010 - Jessica Van Schalkwyk - Bridging the Gap between Disaster Risk and Sustainable ArchitectureJoin us on this episode of “Building Green” as host Ladina Schöpf welcomes Jessica Van Schalkwyk, a professional disaster manager and founder of Disaster Nomad. From surfing the waves of South Africa to working in international disaster zones, Jessica’s journey is driven by a passion for integrating effective disaster management strategies with sustainable elements.
Dive into Jessica’s insights on the critical intersection between building resilient infrastructures and understanding cultural nuances to enhance disaster preparedness worldwide. Explore her unique approach to sustainable disaster solutions that consider both environmental impacts and community needs.
Whether you’re a...2024-04-2054 min
Building Green#009 - Jaafar Sijelmassi, Omar Mawlawi - How they built BOSCH headquarters with rammed earth, a traditional Moroccan building methodIn this inspiring episode of 'Building Green,' host Ladina Schöpf engages with architects from Casablanca, Jaafar Sijelmassi and Omar Mawlawi, to discuss the innovative use of sustainable, local materials in modern architecture.
They delve deep into the challenges and triumphs of constructing the new Bosch headquarters in Casablanca, using traditional earth building techniques. They share their journey in advocating for low-tech, sustainable solutions in architecture, emphasizing the use of local resources like earth and stone to not only preserve cultural identity but also to minimize environmental impact.
This episode explores how ancient techniques can be reimagined for contemporary con...2024-04-1342 min
Building Green#008 - Andreu Villagrasa - La única guía comprensible del estándar Passivhaus [Spanish]En este episodio de "Building Green", Ladina Schöpf conversa con Andreu Villagrasa, un pionero en arquitectura sostenible y eficiencia energética. Residiendo en Barcelona, Andreu comparte su transición de arquitecto técnico a defensor de la arquitectura bio-climática y del estándar Passivhaus (casa pasiva).
Andreu revela cómo su experiencia en certificación energética y simulación termo-dinámica le ha permitido guiar a clientes hacia prácticas de construcción más sostenibles y eficientes. Este diálogo captura los desafíos y oportunidades del movimiento Passivhaus, derribando mitos y subrayando la importancia de...2024-04-1054 min
Building Green#007 - Dr Matt Sawyer - Green Practices in Healthcare: A Doctor's PrescriptionIn this episode of "Building Green," host Ladina Schöpf talks with Dr. Matthew Sawyer about the synergy between healthcare and environmental sustainability. They dive into the UK's Healthcare Net Zero Plan, discussing its ambitious goals to reduce the carbon footprint across 40,000 primary care buildings and the challenges in making healthcare facilities greener.
Sawyer shares insights from his journey from a general practitioner to an advocate for sustainable healthcare, highlighting energy efficiency, renewable energy use, and the role of technology in creating a sustainable future. The discussion broadens to cover the impact of green spaces on patient c...2024-03-2953 min
Building Green#006 - Hélène Chartier, C40 - The Urban Strategy Behind Resilient CitiesJoin us on this episode of "Building Green" as host Ladina Schöpf welcomes Hélène Chartier, the Director of Urban Planning and Design at C40. With a vibrant career that took her from advising the Mayor of Paris to global consultancy with Arup, Hélène embodies dedication to sustainable urban futures. She leads C40’s efforts in fostering resilient and environmentally conscious city planning across the globe.
Dive into Hélène’s journey, her insights on the collaborative essence of urban planning, and the innovative strategies cities are adopting to become more sustainable. Discover how sustainability, and the 15-m...2024-03-1648 min
Building Green#005 - Satyendra Pakhalé -What are the Roots of Sustainability in Design?In the fifth episode of "Building Green," Ladina Schöpf engages in a captivating conversation with Satyendra Pakhalé, a renowned designer known for his innovative approaches that transcend traditional disciplines. Satyendra, with roots in India and a career that has flourished in Amsterdam, shares his journey. His work, celebrated globally, includes collaborations with leading brands and institutions, and his designs are featured in prestigious museums such as the Victoria and Albert Museum and Centre Pompidou.
Throughout the episode, Satyendra delves into his philosophy of blending technology with craftsmanship and his advocacy for design that harmonizes functionality with po...2024-03-0252 min
Building Green#004 - Mark Zahran - What Makes Vertical Farming Sustainable?In this episode, we journey into the realm of innovative agricultural solutions with Marc Zahran, an architect and co-founder of Yasai, a company at the forefront of sustainable agriculture.
Marc delves into the fascinating world of vertical farming, explaining how this approach not only conserves space but significantly reduces water usage and eliminates the need for harmful pesticides. By controlling the environment rather than the plant, Yasai champions a sustainable method of producing fresh, local produce year-round. Marc's passion for reimagining our food systems shines through as he discusses the potential of vertical farms to revolutionize urban...2024-02-2438 min
Building Green#003 - Kelai Diebel - Why You Don't Have Enough Plants in Your OfficeIn our third episode of "Building Green," I delve into an enlightening conversation with Kelai Diebel, a visionary in sustainable design and a key member at Make of Sustainable Spaces (MOSS) in Amsterdam. Kelai brings a fresh perspective to the integration of greenery in urban landscapes.
Throughout our discussion, Kelai illuminates the significant impact of urban green spaces on mental well-being and creativity. She reveals how nature's presence in our daily urban environments can lead to improved memory and reduced stress levels.
Kelai's journey from her early childhood fascination with nature to her professional experiences in Shanghai provides a captivating...2024-01-2749 min
Building Green#002 - Gaia Sonzogni - Exploring a Sustainable Luxury Home in MiamiDuring an exclusive house tour in our very first "Building Green" episode, sustainable architect Gaia Sonzogni revealed the design choices behind a sustainable luxury home in Miami Beach. She emphasized the importance of orientation for optimal light and temperature, and the strategic use of local materials like stucco, coral stone, and wood to reduce carbon footprint. This practical glimpse into a real-world application of sustainable architecture brought her concepts to life.
Gaia’s hope, to inspire influential figures and the public to see sustainable living as not just necessary but also cool and desirable, resonates with the mi...2024-01-1325 min
Building Green#001 - Gaia Sonzogni - Combining Luxury and Sustainability in ArchitectureKicking off our very first "Building Green" episode. I had the pleasure of chatting with Gaia Sonzogni, an architect who's reshaping the way we think about luxury living and sustainability. Throughout our conversation, she shared valuable insights on integrating sustainability into home design without compromising on elegance and comfort. Her expertise in passive architecture and the subtleties of climate consideration shone a light on how we can all live more sustainably.
Gaia's hope, to inspire influential figures and the public to see sustainable living as not just necessary but also cool and desirable, resonates with the mission...2023-12-3041 min