Better Buildings For Humans
BBFH is hosted by Joe Menchefski and brought to you by Advanced Glazings, Ltd.
Welcome to the BBFH podcast. More often than not, when we think about health and wellness, our thoughts turn to diet and exercise. However, most of us spend two-thirds or more of our day inside buildings. The quality of the environment in those buildings has been proven to have a dramatic impact on our well being and our productivity, both at work and at home. There is little discussion about this in the mainstream media. It’s time to start a public dialogue about how we are affected by the buildings where we live, work and play. Thanks for listening! ht...
Is Traditional Air Conditioning Outdated? Smarter Cooling for a Warming World – Ep 74 with Dorit Aviv
In 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
Are Our Buildings Breaking Us? How Architecture Shapes Mental Resilience – Ep 73 with Marta Delgado
In 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 pro
The Price of Going Tall: Hidden Challenges in Skyscraper Sustainability – Ep 72 with Peter Simmonds
In 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 c
Blurring Boundaries: How Modern Design Challenges Tradition – Ep 72 with Brian MacKay-Lyons and Doug Milburn
In 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
The Hidden Cost of Poor Design in Healthcare Spaces – Ep 70 with Roger Wilkerson
In 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 safe
Designing for Healing—Neuroaesthetics, Biophilia, and Beauty in Buildings – Ep 69 with Mahwish Syed
In 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
Is Demolition Outdated? The Case for Adaptive Reuse – Ep 68 with Phillip Kuehne
In 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
Healing Through Design: The Bold Promise of Neuroarchitecture – Ep 67 with Yohany Albornoz
In 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 hosp
Cracking the TEDI Code: The Metric That’s Disrupting Sustainable Design – Ep 66 with Alejandra Menchaca
In 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
Are Schools Failing Students? How Better Design Could Be the Solution – Ep 65 with Craig Schiller
In 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 buil
Are Your Lights Making You Sick? The Hidden Dangers of LED Lighting – Ep 64 with Scott Zimmerman
In 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, an
Shattering Limits: How ‘Ideal’ Translucent Glazings Are Changing Architecture Forever – Ep 63 with Doug Milburn
In 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. Th
Courtyards, Community, and Controversy: Rethinking Multifamily Living – Ep 62 with Frances Anderton
In 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
Behind the Mass Timber Boom: Can It Overcome Supply and Code Challenges? – Ep 61 With Dean Lewis
In 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 adopt
Is There A Dangerous Gap in Sustainable Design? Beyond Energy Efficiency With Minjia Yang – Ep 60
In 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
Beyond Walls: Designing Buildings That Heal – Ep 59 With Liz McCormick
In 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 t
Roofing Revolution: Heidi Ellsworth on Sustainability, Innovation, and Empowering Women in Construction – Ep 58
In 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 pla
Is Architecture Failing Us? How FAME Rethinks Design to Enhance Everyday Living – with David Bruce Lee and Marina Bourderonnet- Episode 57
In 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 con
From Plastic Pollution to Pure Wellness: How Alkemis Paint is Changing the Game – with Maya Crowne and Price Latimer - Ep 56
In 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
Designing for a Hotter World: Climate-Responsive Architecture with Alpha Arsano - Ep 55
In 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
“Who is the Elon Musk of the Built Environment?” - Ep 54 with Adam Muggleton
In this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, we’re joined by Adam Muggleton, host of the Edifice Complex podcast and Chief Technical Officer at AESG, to discuss the critical need for change in the building industry. Adam pulls no punches as he dives into the rampant defects, lack of innovation, and corner-cutting practices that plague the sector. He also explores how we can spotlight great work and role models, rethink the RFP process, and tackle social housing.
From carbon accounting to zero
Balancing Comfort and Sustainability in Modern Buildings With David Heinzerling - Ep 53
In 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 certificat
Lighting Our Way to Better Buildings: Insights from Dr. Jennifer Veitch on Light, Health, and Human-Centric Design - Ep 52
This 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 enh
Is Mass Timber the Answer to Greener Buildings? With Patrick Crabbe - Ep 51
This week on Better Buildings for Humans, we’re joined by Patrick Crabbe, Director of Mass Timber at Bird Construction, to explore the game-changing potential of mass timber in modern construction. Patrick dives deep into how this innovative material not only reduces embodied carbon but also offers surprising fire resistance, thanks to its natural charring properties. He also shares how the biophilic benefits of wood in interior design can enhance occupant well-being and productivity. With insig
Is the Future of Architecture Alive? Discover Prostruction with Eric Corey Freed - Ep 50
This 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
Biophilic Design: The Secret to Smarter, Healthier Schools? With Katie Becker - Ep 49
How 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
Green Building or Greenwashing? What You Need to Know, With John Bleasby - Ep 48
This 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 o
The Magic of Aerogel: Insulating Space Shuttles, Electric Cars, and Glass! With Elise Strobach - Ep 47
Get ready for an exciting journey into the future of building materials! In this episode, we’re joined by Elise Strobach from AeroShield Aerogel to uncover the secrets of aerogel, the lightest and highest insulating material in the world.
Discover how this ultra-light, super-insulating, and translucent marvel is revolutionizing the built environment. Elise explains how AeroShield is developing innovative aerogel sheets that attach to glass, drastically improving energy efficiency and reducing he
Cracking The Comfort Code With Robert Bean - Ep 46
In this episode we jump into the world of thermal comfort and indoor environmental quality with Robert Bean, an ASHRAE Fellow. Robert shares his extensive background in engineering, human physiology, and psychology, providing a rich understanding of how thermal comfort impacts human well-being.
Join us as we explore the concept of Umwelt and its crucial role in understanding the physiological and psychological effects of indoor environments. Robert emphasizes the need for a better grasp of stres
Secrets to Healthier Buildings With Dr. Ayesha Batool - Ep 45
Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Ayesha Batool, an esteemed architect and sustainability advisor. In this episode, Dr. Batool delves into the vital importance of window views and their impact on our health and well-being. With her rich experience in projects across Pakistan and the UK, she shares insights from constructing a school and a hospital.
Dr. Batool also introduces us to the concept of Jali screens—traditional architectural elements offering shading, privacy, and ventil
Sound Matters: The Impact of Acoustics in Building Design with Benjamin Markham - Ep. 44
This 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 u
Sustainability Secrets: Insights from a Green Building Guru with Debra Shepard - Ep 43
Join us as Debra Shepard, founder of RiverStone Sustainability, shares her journey in sustainability consulting. Discover the importance of integrating sustainability into organizations and influencing decision-makers to adopt greener practices.
Debra explores how buildings can become living labs, promoting environmental responsibility. Learn about zero waste operations and practical steps to minimize waste. She emphasizes resiliency in building design, planning for climate change impacts, and b
The Dark Side of LEDs: Health Implications Explored - with Dr Glen Jeffery - Ep 42
In 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
Revolutionizing Architecture: The Metal Building Boom with Tony Bouquot - Ep 41
In 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 archi
Illuminating the Future: Natural Light, Sustainability, and Innovation with VELUX - Ep 40
Join 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
LED Lights and Your Health: Separating Fact from Fiction with Dr. Martin Moore-Ede - Ep 39
This week, we're joined by “The Light Doctor”, Dr. Martin Moore-Ede, director of the Circadian Light and Research Center, to explore the profound impact of light on our health and well-being. Dr. Moore-Ede shares his fascinating journey from being a surgeon to studying circadian rhythms and the effects of light on the human body. The dangers of blue light at night and the minimal amount of red light in the LED spectrum is truly detrimental to our health. Dr. Moore-Ede also challenges the con
Bright Ideas with Dr. Shelley James - How Light Transforms Health and Happiness- Ep 38
Join 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 ho
Unlocking the Secrets to Beautiful, Energy-Efficient Buildings - with Ken Levenson - Ep. 37
The 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 com
Daylight As A Fundamental Human Right - With Seth Warren Rose - Ep 36
In 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 f
The Power of Climate Responsive Design with Erik Olsen - Ep. 35
This 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 st
Rethinking Residential: Sam Rashkin’s Journey to Housing 2.0
In this episode, we sit down with Sam Rashkin, self-proclaimed recovering architect, founder of Tru Home Facts, and the visionary behind the Housing 2.0 framework. Sam shares his invaluable insights on the pivotal role of programs like ENERGY STAR and Zero Energy Ready Home in advancing energy efficiency and sustainability in homes. Explore Housing 2.0, a groundbreaking framework developed by Sam that focuses on optimizing community, design, performance, quality, and value in residential buildin
Sustainable Facades and Daylight Dynamics – Sahar Abdelwahab - Ep. 33
Explore the intricacies of sustainable building design through the lens of daylight utilization and facade system control with esteemed researcher, Sahar Abdelwahab.
Sahar unravels the delicate balance between enhancing daylight intake and optimizing thermal performance using the groundbreaking Kaleidocycle Typology. Discover how cultural factors and visual privacy play pivotal roles in facade design and learn about the trade-offs between speed and accuracy in daylight modeling.
Sahar also she
Luxury Meets Legacy: Volvo’s Commitment to Sustainability
In this episode, Julian Pastore from Volvo Car Canada and Bryce Jarman from RH Carter Architects Inc. discuss the Volvo Retail Sustainability Experience (VRSE) program, which focuses on creating sustainable and customer-centric dealerships.
They highlight the goals of VRSE, including providing a premium Scandinavian experience for customers and creating a comfortable and productive environment for employees. The design of the showrooms incorporates elements such as Solera® glass, renewable ener
Volvo's VRSE Program Creates Sustainable Retail Experiences
In this episode, Julian Pastor from Volvo and Bryce German from RH Carter discuss the VRSE program, which focuses on creating sustainable and customer-centric dealerships. They highlight the goals of the program, including providing a premium Scandinavian experience for customers and creating a comfortable and productive environment for employees. The design of the showrooms incorporates elements such as Solera glass, renewable energy, permeable paving, and sustainable furniture. The feedback fr
Advocacy through Architecture - With Pascale Sablan - Ep. 31
Pascale 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 t
Glass Viewpoints: Shattering Expectations with Nick Bagatelos - Ep. 30
Nick 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!
Changing Our World by Reducing Energy Loss in Framing Systems - Steve St. Pierre and Kurt Miglas – Ep. 29
Views 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 Ku
Inspired Design: Discussing Music, Architecture, Philosophy and Social Change with James Garrett Jr. Ep. 28
What 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 epi
On the Cutting Edge of Glass Innovation with Patrick Flannery - Ep. 27
Patrick 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
What You Should Learn about Daylight with Paula Longato - Ep. 26
Nothing 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.
The Lighted Environment's Impact on Health and Well-Being – Jennifer Brons - Ep. 25
In 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 r
Human-Centered Design Discussion with a Legend of Sustainability and Daylighting – Lisa Heschong - Ep. 24
Lisa Heschong is a legend in the world of sustainable and human-centered design. She has been promoting the value of daylighting for more than 40 years and developed the now universally accepted “Spatial Daylight Autonomy” methodology. In this amazing episode, Lisa talks about her early years as one of the lone voices promoting human-centered design as well as energy efficiency. She talks about the latest research related to the value of views and the potential correlation between the myopia epi
Sustainable Building Design and More with the Energy Manager for Sobeys – Megan Sykes - Episode 23
In 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 em
Passive House Standards: What You Should Know – Chris Ballard - Episode 22
Chris Ballard is the CEO of Passive House Canada. Chris helps us to understand Canada’s role in creating the modern passive house standards and how those standards were driven by logic and common sense. Listen to this episode to understand how Passive House standards provide design freedom while ensuring the creation of energy efficient, comfortable, healthy homes and buildings. You will also hear how Passive House Canada is leading the way in adding embodied carbon goals to Passive House’s famo
Discussing Daylight and More with a Building Science Rockstar
Christoph 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
Architecture as Activism – Jeremy Knoll - Episode 20
Architecture 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.
Proper Façade Installation and New Building Envelope Technologies – Adrian Lowenstein - Episode 19
Many 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 em
Interior Design's Role in Indoor Environmental Quality – Samantha Frew - Episode 18
Interior 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
How Anthropology Can Inform Sustainable Building Design – Marcel Harmon - Episode 17
Can 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.
Leveraging the Power of Partnerships for Cost-Effective Energy Efficiency – Alexandre Belisle - Episode 16
The 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 e
How Architecture and the Art of Building Design Impacts Wellness – Lila Allen - Episode 15
Lila 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.
Designing Truly Sustainable Buildings – Steve Kemp - Episode 14
Steve 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
Improving the Energy Performance of Buildings By Using the Right Materials, the Right Way – Peter Dushenski – Episode 13
Improving 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
Safety and Mental Health in the Educational Environment – Sonny Thadani - Episode 12
Students 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
A Rocket Scientist Talks about Passive Design and Daylighting – Ale Menchaca - Episode 11
Dr. 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!
Pioneering Sustainable Design - Keith Robertson - Episode 4
A 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.
The Importance of Sleep and Circadian Rhythms - Russell Foster - Episode 10
In 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 processe
An Entrepreneur's Guide to Healthy Buildings - Chuck Morrison - Episode 9
This 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 an
The Healthier Buildings of the Future with Blaine Brownell - Episode 8
In 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
A Miracle Material and What Building Owners are Thinking - James Satterwhite & Janelle Penny - Episode 7
In 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
How Green Globes Certification Promotes Sustainability and Wellness - Vicki Worden - Episode 6
In 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 standard
Busting Myths About Visual and Thermal Comfort - Alstan Jakubiec - Episode 5
This 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 performa
Leading Edge Innovations in Occupant Comfort - Stefano Schiavon - Episode 3
Stefano 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.
Consolidating Daylight, Energy Modeling and other Advancements in Daylighting Research - David Geisler-Moroder - Episode 2
In 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.
Daylight, Indoor Environment Design and Occupant Health - Michael Kent - Episode 1
Daylight 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!
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If you want to include daylight in your next project, reach ou