Architecture Is More Political Than Politics — The Hidden Power Buildings Have to Shape Society, Identity & Human Behavior – Episode 144 with Isun Kazerani
About this episode
The episode explores the profound impact of architecture on society, identity, and human behavior through a conversation with architect Isun Kazerani.
This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with architect, researcher, educator, and design leader Isun Kazerani for a fascinating conversation that explores architecture far beyond buildings themselves. Drawing on her international experience across Australia and the United States, Isun shares how architecture intersects with fashion, culture, politics, mindfulness, and human identity—and why architects have a far greater influence on society than many realize. The discussion explores everything from the surprising parallels between fashion and architecture to regenerative design, adaptive reuse, sensory experience, and the responsibility architects have to shape healthier, more equitable communities. Isun explains why timeless design matters, how architecture can encourage mindfulness through movement and materiality, and why slowing down the design process often produces more meaningful and enduring buildings. She also reflects on the lessons she has learned leading her own practice, conducting doctoral research on human experience in architecture, and working across multiple countries and design cultures. The conversation also dives into the…
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