Convo By Design®

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

In this conversation with the principals of Tim Barber Architects, the discussion explores how architecture has evolved since 2020. The pandemic fundamentally changed how people live in their homes, forcing architects to rethink everything from spatial organization and material choices to health, resilience, and long-term adaptability. The architects describe a profession balancing client desires, environmental realities, and community responsibility. Topics include aging in place, the shift away from open floor plans, rebuilding after wildfire loss, and the growing role of resilience and sustainability in residential design. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep Shelter Republic – Request your membership invitation The conversation also examines larger systemic issues—from the housing crisis and the loss of architectural criticism to concerns about deregulating the architectural profession and the future pipeline of architects. Ultimately, the discussion reveals architecture as both a creative discipline and a civic responsibility. Tim Barber, Kelly Becker, David Stone, Ari Engleman, Katie Peterson-Hesketh Post-Pandemic Spatial Design Homes are now workplaces, classrooms, and wellness environments. Architects are designing more flexible, compartmentalized spaces rather than large open rooms. The Reassessment of the Open Floor Plan Open layouts are losing popularity as homeowners seek acoustic separation, privacy, and spatial hierarchy. Healthy Homes Clients increasingly ask about air quality, non-toxic materials, EMF concerns, and overall wellness in the built environment. Aging in Place & Multigenerational Living Homes are being designed for lifelong occupancy, with elevators, adaptable bathrooms, and secondary primary suites. Housing Crisis Misconceptions The problem is not a lack of housing overall but a shortage of affordable, well-located housing. Sustainability Through Longevity The most sustainable building is the one that already exists. Adaptive reuse and generational homes are key strategies. Fire Resilience and Climate Adaptation Wildfire rebuild projects are forcing architects to rethink materials, structural resilience, and building codes. “Performance Spending” Homeowners must choose between visible luxury and invisible resilience investments. Architects as Client Advocates Architects frequently guide clients away from poor decisions through education and alternatives rather than simply saying “no.” Material Uncertainty and Construction Cost Volatility Rapid cost changes and new materials create challenges for planning and specification. Professional Deregulation Concerns Removing architectural licensing protections could threaten safety, quality, and professional standards. Education and Knowledge Sharing The firm runs an internal “university” model to continuously train staff and share knowledge. Loss of Architectural Criticism The disappearance of critics and serious architectural journalism has created a cultural vacuum in evaluating design. Adaptive Reuse and Density Office conversions and moderate urban density may become major architectural trends. Future of Residential Design Homes may become smaller but more sophisticated—prioritizing performance, durability, and resilience.

Every now and then, I like to hop into the wayback machine and share a fresh listen to conversations that influenced our current times. The one you are going to register to today was recorded live in 2014 from DIEM, Design Intersects Everything Made symposium presented by the West Hollywood Design District featuring Frances Anderton, then with KCRW ad Jeff Denby, co-founder and then with Pact. A clothing brand you will be hearing more about. The following conversation was focused on values based capitalism, an economic model with which places value on profit generation that also generates positive social impact. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep Shelter Republic – Request your membership invitation As you listen to this chat between Frances and Jeff, you might notice the “feel-good” vibes and high ideals that come from a focus on values based consumerism patterns. Buy well-made products that come from sustainably based materials and made by people who are valued to those producing the products and then by those who buy the product. At the time of this recording, this idea was catching on and even now, companies that have a value-system connected directly to products speak openly about the social capital being generated. I would argue we hear far less now because sustainability has been linked politically to DEI, and there is a group of people who see that has more of a social ill, than a societal benefit. I’m not here to change any minds, only share different perspectives. And this is one worth sharing with the hope that it will make a return, not just in fashion or consumer packaged goods, but in the home decor and architectural materials sectors. Consumer Awareness Evolution How Whole Foods and the food industry educated consumers about product origins. Extension of that curiosity to body care and apparel: understanding what goes on the skin and into daily wear. The role of design in making sustainable products attractive and desirable. Philanthropy and Social Impact Early collaborations with nonprofits through limited-edition collections and direct aid. Shift toward improving the lives of workers within the supply chain. Emphasis on economic, environmental, and social impact as part of the business model. Challenges of Domestic Manufacturing Difficulties of reviving large-scale apparel production domestically, including labor costs, fractured supply chains, and compliance issues. Comparison with global supply chains and the decision to work where systems already exist. Insights from attempts at localized production and the challenges of sustainable sourcing. Product Expansion and Market Strategy Focus on apparel basics for the emerging generation of socially conscious consumers. Building a generational brand by appealing to evolving values. Commitment to price accessibility while maintaining sustainability and ethical production. Supply Chain Ethics and Certification Working exclusively with certified factories and farms to ensure fair labor practices. Ensuring worker protections and representation, including female supervisors. Direct engagement with farmers and supply chain partners to secure market access and stability. Sustainability and Waste Management Recycling factory scraps and leftover materials into new products. Finding secondary uses for garment remnants, including mattress filling. Factories incentivized to reduce waste as part of both economic and environmental sustainability. Consumer Education and Transparency Educating customers about the human and environmental story behind clothing. Leveraging social media, coalition branding, and events to communicate supply chain practices. Positioning Pact as a non-toxic apparel brand with safe-for-skin products. Research and Industry Collaboration Participation in textile and sustainability coalitions with like-minded brands. Supporting the growth of organic cotton farming and sustainable supply chains. Promoting transparency in manufacturing practices and educating the public on chemical exposure in conventional apparel. Ethical apparel requires intentional design, transparent supply chains, and collaboration across the industry. Consumers increasingly demand products that are safe, well-designed, and socially responsible. Philanthropy is most effective when integrated into the core business, benefiting both workers and communities. Scaling sustainability in mass-market apparel is challenging but possible with careful planning, partnerships, and public education. Conscious Basics: How Textiles Can Be Ethical, Sustainable, and Stylish In an era when consumers increasingly demand transparency and ethical responsibility, Pact is reshaping the apparel industry by marrying sustainability, social impact, and thoughtful design. Co-founder Jeff Denby spoke with Frances Anderton in 2014 about the philosophy behind the brand, tracing a journey from organic cotton farms in India to certified factories in Turkey, all with the goal of delivering high-quality, accessible clothing that respects both people and the planet. Denby notes that consumer awareness has evolved in stages. Shoppers first became curious about food origins, learning that groceries come from farms, not just shelves. This consciousness extended to body care products, as people began asking what they were putting on their skin. Apparel is the next frontier. “People want to know what they’re wearing every day,” Denby explains. “They want products that are beautifully designed, sustainable, and safe, without having to reinvent what underwear or socks should look like.” Early in Pact’s history, the company experimented with philanthropic partnerships, designing collections that supported nonprofit causes. These initiatives provided aid to communities abroad, from distributing lanterns in Haiti to rebuilding community centers in Japan. However, Denby realized the brand could make a deeper impact by focusing inward—supporting the lives of the workers who create the products. By investing in stable, ethical supply chains, Pact achieves a triple bottom line: economic, social, and environmental benefits. Reviving large-scale apparel manufacturing in the United States proved impractical for Pact. Labor costs, fractured supply chains, and limited domestic processing infrastructure made it impossible to produce affordable basics at scale. Instead, the brand partnered with existing factories abroad, ensuring they meet strict certifications such as the Global Organic Textile Standard. Denby emphasizes that these certifications guarantee fair labor practices, gender equity, and safe working conditions—factors often overlooked in conventional apparel production. Beyond ethical sourcing, Pact prioritizes product safety and environmental responsibility. Cotton cultivation and traditional textile processing can involve significant pesticide use and harmful chemicals. Pact works with organic cotton farmers and certified dye houses, eliminating heavy metals and carcinogens from their products. Waste management is also integral; leftover yarn and fabrics are recycled into new garments or repurposed for other industries, demonstrating that sustainability extends from field to factory to finished product. Denby envisions Pact as the “basics brand for the change generation,” appealing to consumers who value ethics, transparency, and design. The brand is part of a coalition with other sustainable apparel companies, collaborating to secure fair market access for farmers, grow organic cotton production, and educate the public on the human stories behind clothing. Social media and events provide direct channels to communicate these values, allowing consumers to engage with the brand and understand the people and processes behind the garments they wear. For Pact, the mission goes beyond selling clothing. It is about proving that everyday apparel can be ethical, well-designed, and accessible, while creating meaningful social impact. By integrating philanthropy, sustainability, and consumer education into the business model, Pact is showing that the basics—underwear, socks, and t-shirts—can carry a powerful message: that fashion can be responsible, thoughtful, and inclusive.

Building Beyond Aesthetics in the Twin Cities Residential architecture in the Twin Cities requires a unique blend of grit and intentionality. From the “Scandinavian tradition” of high-level craftsmanship to the technical demands of a 115-degree annual temperature swing, designing in this environment is an exercise in functional resilience. This conversation explores how extreme climates and a “Midwest mindset” shape the way we live and the ways homes must evolve to meet the needs of multi-generational families. The following conversation I had with PKA Architecture’s Kristine Anderson, Andrew Edwins and Ryan Fish was wide ranging and dove deep into; Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep Shelter Republic – Request your membership invitation The Architecture of Endurance In the heart of the Twin Cities, architecture is less about making a statement and more about surviving a cycle. To design a home in Minnesota is to engage in a high-stakes negotiation with physics. When the mercury drops to -15°F and climbs to 100°F within the same calendar year, materials don’t just sit there—they breathe, swell, and contract at a cellular level. As the team from PKA Architecture notes, this environment serves as a rigorous training ground. If a design can thrive in the Twin Cities, it possesses the technical “confidence” to perform anywhere in the world. This technical necessity has birthed a culture of craftsmanship that distinguishes the region. Rooted in Scandinavian cabinet-making traditions, local builders and architects push one another toward a level of precision where “half-assing” is not an option—the weather simply won’t allow it. It is a pragmatic form of beauty where the “Midwest mindset” rejects the flashy labels of coastal luxury in favor of quiet, intentional excellence. Moreover, the modern home is being asked to do more than provide shelter; it is becoming a flexible vessel for the human lifecycle. The conversation highlights a significant shift toward long-term master planning. Homeowners are increasingly looking ten years down the road, asking how a space can adapt to adult children returning home or elderly parents moving in. By moving away from the “phantom buyer” of resale-focused design, architects are helping clients create homes that are deeply personal and functionally resilient. Whether it is through the seamless integration of invisible technology or the preservation of “ritual spaces” for calm, the goal remains the same: making life easier for those who inhabit the space, one season at a time. Resiliency as a Design Requirement: Extreme temperature swings expose construction flaws quickly, leading to a local culture that prioritizes performance and durability over surface-level trends. The Intentionality of “Midwest Modern”: A pragmatic approach to design that rejects “excess” but holds craftsmanship—rooted in the region’s Scandinavian heritage—to an incredibly high standard. Life Beyond the “Phantom Buyer”: A shift toward designing for the current inhabitant’s actual life rather than future resale, including planning for multi-generational living and aging in place. Integrating Technology Naturally: Embracing technology as a design layer—such as half-inch recessed lighting—that enhances daily life without overwhelming the home’s aesthetic. Materiality and the Seasons: The “one-year seasonal change” is a standard expectation in local construction, allowing wood and metal to settle through the intense humidity shifts of the Midwest.

I sat down with Ron Radziner and Leo Marmol to dig into why building in Southern California feels like an uphill battle and how we can actually fix it. After their talk at WestEdge, I caught up with Ron and Leo to process everything discussed. We’re at a major inflection point in Southern California, and I wanted to know how their perspective has shifted since they started back in ’89. We dove into the “fucking NIMBYs,” the skyrocketing costs of construction, and why our current zoning laws are essentially a slow-motion economic disaster. From the lessons of the Palisades fires to the potential of prefab, we explored what it actually takes to build a sustainable community when the deck is stacked against you. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep Shelter Republic – Request your membership invitation The Cost of Inequality: Ron shared his deep worry about the growing gap between the middle class and the ultra-wealthy, and how rising construction costs are making it nearly impossible to provide housing for anyone in between. Zoning is the Real Bottleneck: We agreed that the talent and desire to build are there, but we lack the political will to let architects do their jobs. Our current planning and zoning laws are the primary hurdles to building quickly and affordably. The Density Myth: Leo pushed back hard on the idea that density is the problem. He pointed out that 72% of our residential land is locked into single-family homes, which simply can’t support the housing volume we need. Stopping the Sprawl: We talked about the need to stop sprawling into high-risk wildfire zones like Riverside County and instead focus on density and infill within the urban core. Limits on Community Vetoes: While community input matters, Leo argued there has to be a point where the litigation stops. We can’t let individual voices stall essential progress like bike lanes and sustainable housing forever. The Prefab Opportunity: With so many similar lots needing to be rebuilt in the Palisades and Altadena, Ron sees a massive opening for high-quality prefab construction to get people back into homes faster. Lessons from Lortondale: I brought up my move to Tulsa and the Lortondale community—a whole neighborhood of mid-century modern tract homes that are still intact, in demand, and haven’t been commodified out of reach. It’s proof that mass-produced architecture can have a soul and stay accessible. Applicable Elements and Links Marmol Radziner: https://www.marmol-radziner.com/ WestEdge Design Fair: https://www.westedgedesign.com/ Lortondale, Tulsa: https://www.lortondale.com/ California Coastal Commission: https://www.coastal.ca.gov/ California ADU Handbook: https://www.hcd.ca.gov/policy-and-programming/accessory-dwelling-units CEQA Overview: https://wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/CEQA

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In the wake of the devastating January 2025 fires, the architectural community in Southern California is facing a reckoning. The conversation at the recent panel I hosted at Ganahl Lumber in Torrance made one thing clear: the old metrics of “durability” are no longer enough. The industry is moving toward a philosophy of resilience. For Anthony Poon of Poon Design and Ben Ballentine of Ballaetine Architects, the challenge lies in balancing this need for hardened structures with the fundamental human desire for beauty and light. As Poon noted, a building could be made entirely fireproof, but if it ends up looking like a “bomb shelter,” the architecture has failed its purpose. The goal is now “kinetic” and “resourceful” design—structures that don’t just survive a disaster but facilitate the recovery of the families within them. The panel also addressed the friction between rapid rebuilding and thoughtful design. With developers racing to fill the housing shortage by “plopping down” identical units, Luis Murillo of LMG Architecture Studio raised concerns about the loss of neighborhood character. Meanwhile, Jay Williams of TimberTech highlighted how material science—blending the aesthetics of natural wood with the fire-rated performance of advanced PVC and fiber cement—is bridging the gap between safety and style. Ultimately, the consensus was that technology, from AI-driven detailing to digital twin visualizations, is shrinking the production timeline but cannot replace the human element. The architect’s role is evolving from a pure designer into a “civic leader” and “marriage counselor,” navigating a world where clients are armed with TikTok-sourced ideas and a desperate need for a sense of home in an increasingly volatile environment. Key Concepts Resilience vs. Strength: The shift from making buildings “unbreakable” to making them “recoverable” and resourceful after a cataclysm. The “Bomb Shelter” Dilemma: The struggle to meet strict fire and safety codes (like hardening the building envelope) without sacrificing natural light and aesthetic appeal. Material Science Innovation: The rise of high-performance composites (James Hardie/TimberTech) that offer Class A fire ratings while mimicking the warmth of natural materials. Architectural Accountability: The increasing need for architects to provide highly specific, litigious-level detailing due to shifting contractor liabilities. The AI Influence: How AI is revolutionizing visualization and R&D, while simultaneously creating “educated but misinformed” clients. Rebuilding Ethics: The tension between the speed of rebuilding in burn areas and the opportunity to rethink density and multifamily housing.

A candid conversation with interior designers Arianne Bellizaire and Sara Malek Barney on navigating burnout, emotional labor, client management, and creative growth in today’s unpredictable design industry. From boundary-setting to decision fatigue, social media pressures, and sustaining ambition, this episode explores the strategies and mindsets designers use to remain successful, resilient, and inspired amid market volatility and personal demands. Identity & Evolution in Design Designers must periodically redefine themselves and their work to remain relevant. Personal growth and evolving priorities shape professional identity and approach. Burnout vs Ambition Burnout is not a badge of honor; it results from overextension and emotional labor. Ambition aligns energy with superpowers and opportunities, creating sustainable growth. Setting boundaries is essential to differentiate productive ambition from harmful overwork. Emotional Labor & Client Management Design work involves managing client emotions, expectations, and second-guessing. Designers act as liaisons between clients, contractors, and teams, absorbing invisible pressures. Managing scope creep and change orders is a practical strategy to protect both energy and profitability. Social Media & Comparison Culture Social media can amplify unrealistic expectations and unhealthy competition. Designers often feel compelled to accommodate clients’ desires, sometimes overextending themselves to maintain a positive perception. Decision Fatigue & Process Control Guiding clients with structured processes reduces decision fatigue and builds trust. Transparent communication about costs, changes, and expectations protects both designer and client satisfaction. Sustaining Creativity Exposure to new experiences, products, peers, and travel is vital for creative rejuvenation. Nature, walks, and offline activities clear mental clutter and inspire problem-solving. Intentional “point-to-point” efforts—committing to new experiences—promote growth despite discomfort. Financial & Business Literacy Designers must balance artistry with business realities. Collecting payments, understanding scope, and setting clear expectations are critical professional skills. Empowering team members while maintaining accountability ensures operational efficiency. Resources: AJ Madison KBIS Arianne Bellizaire – Arianne Bellizaire Interiors Sara Malek Barney – BANDD/DESIGN In today’s unpredictable design industry, thriving requires more than talent—it demands resilience, strategy, and self-awareness. On this episode, interior designers Arianne Bellizaire and Sara Malek Barney dive into the complex landscape of professional design, sharing candid insights on burnout, emotional labor, client management, and sustaining creativity in chaotic times. Designers often redefine their professional identity to adapt to evolving personal and industry priorities. As Bellizaire notes, “We are always changing, and how we describe ourselves now reflects our growth, our aspirations, and the life we’re building.” Similarly, Sara emphasizes the importance of aligning professional actions with personal values to maintain relevance, profitability, and balance. Burnout, long treated as a badge of honor in design, is reframed here as a clear warning signal. Emotional labor—managing client expectations, facilitating collaboration, and resolving conflicts—often goes uncredited yet drives the success of every project. Both guests stress the importance of boundaries, scope management, and distinguishing between what one can do versus what one should do, emphasizing that ambition thrives when energy is strategically invested in core strengths. Social media and comparison culture add another layer of complexity. Designers frequently face unrealistic expectations from clients influenced by curated online content, which can pressure them into overextending themselves. Establishing clear processes, communicating cost implications, and structuring client decisions effectively are key strategies for reducing stress while maintaining creative integrity. Decision fatigue, a common challenge in high-stakes residential projects, can be mitigated by guiding clients through structured choices while fostering trust. Sustaining creativity amid chaos is a recurring theme. Arianne and Sara highlight exposure to new experiences, peers, travel, and even nature walks as essential methods to refresh the mind and spark innovative thinking. “A simple daily walk,” Arianne reflects, “can clear clutter, inspire problem-solving, and restore energy in ways that sitting at a desk never will.” Committing to uncomfortable but growth-oriented experiences, a “point-to-point principle,” is a subtle but critical habit for creative professionals. Finally, the conversation underscores the business side of design. Designers must balance artistry with operational responsibility, from collecting payments to managing scope creep and training staff. Financial literacy and professional boundaries ensure that creative freedom does not come at the cost of personal wellbeing or firm profitability. This episode offers an unfiltered look at what it takes to thrive in a chaotic, competitive industry. With honesty, humor, and hard-earned wisdom, Ariana and Sara provide strategies for navigating emotional, creative, and financial pressures while staying grounded, inspired, and relevant. For any designer striving to balance ambition with wellbeing, this conversation is both a blueprint and a call to action. About Convo By Design: Convo By Design is the longest running podcast of its kind. The show is hosted, produced and published by Josh Cooperman. The podcast has been running since January, 2013. The show has published over seven hundred episodes, featured more than fifteen hundred designers and architects and has garnered over three million streams, downloads making it one of the most listened to design and architecture podcasts as well as being the first design podcast of its kind. For guest suggestions and show inquiries, please message us on Instagram @convoxdesign.

At KBIS 2026, Hearth & Home Technologies reveals how fireplaces are evolving from overlooked amenities into high-value, design-forward features that enhance both homes and builder offerings. We explore the emotional, aesthetic, and technological dimensions of modern fireplaces, from indoor-outdoor integration to bespoke U-shaped configurations. Designers, architects, and builders alike share insights on leveraging fireplaces for resale value, client engagement, and standout home experiences. Mike Swanson – Director, Segment Marketing | Hearth & Home Technologies Fireplaces are no longer just a cozy addition—they are strategic assets in home design, builder differentiation, and lifestyle storytelling. Consumer Demand & Builder Value Fireplaces rank high on buyer wish lists; 77% of homebuyers desire a fireplace. Adding a fireplace can increase home value by 10%, comparable to adding a garage. Fireplaces differentiate homes and engage buyers beyond square footage, integrating lifestyle and personality into living spaces. Design & Technology Integration Indoor and outdoor placement flexibility, including direct vent and electric fireplaces. Heat management technology enabling safe TV placement above fireplaces. Smart home integration, LED flame effects, and Wi-Fi connectivity. Design-forward considerations: feature walls, proportion, architectural integration, and bespoke finishes. Custom & Premium Solutions U-shaped, L-shaped, and multi-sided fireplaces offer signature focal points. Customization options include firebox décor, decorative panels, and the Enlight Collection’s fireproof image panels. Aligning fireplace sizing with flat-panel TVs and overall home layout for maximum impact. Builder & Designer Partnerships Education and engagement through Pro Advantage series, continuing education (AIA, IDEC), and builder programs. National distribution network ensures on-time delivery and installation support. Strategies for integrating fireplaces into model homes, luxury projects, and production homes across price points. Collaboration between architects, designers, and builders to maximize aesthetic, functional, and financial value. Innovation & Future Outlook New electric and digital flame technologies (e.g., SimpliFire Allusion Edge, SimpliFire Allusion Heritage). Product refreshes every three years to maintain style-forward, timeless appeal. Continuing to expand placement possibilities and premium customization for design-forward homes. At KBIS 2026 in Orlando, Hearth & Home Technologies showcased how the modern fireplace is evolving from a standard home feature into a high-value, design-forward element that serves builders, designers, and homeowners alike. The conversation revealed that fireplaces are not just a source of warmth—they are strategic tools for engagement, differentiation, and lifestyle storytelling in residential design. Research consistently shows that fireplaces are among the most desired features in new homes, with 77% of buyers listing them as a priority. Beyond emotional appeal, fireplaces offer tangible value: they can add up to 10% to a home’s resale value—equivalent to a garage—while remaining relatively accessible, starting at approximately $2,000. For builders, fireplaces help differentiate offerings in competitive markets, enhance staging appeal, and align with buyer desires for personalization and interaction. Modern fireplaces extend well beyond traditional living rooms. Hearth & Home Technologies’ portfolio includes indoor, outdoor, and indoor-outdoor configurations, allowing architects and designers to integrate fireplaces into kitchens, bathrooms, ensuites, and shared spaces. Electric fireplaces offer unprecedented placement flexibility, while gas units with direct vent technology allow designers to position flames virtually anywhere without compromising air quality. Heat management innovations also enable TVs to be safely mounted above fireplaces, merging functionality with aesthetic appeal. Customization and premium finishes remain a hallmark of Hearth & Home’s strategy. Their U-shaped and L-shaped designs, multi-sided fireplaces, and the Stellar by Heat & Glo Enlight Collection’s fireproof image panels demonstrate the growing appetite for bespoke elements that reflect homeowners’ individuality. Proportion, scale, and feature integration—such as firebox décor, stone slabs, or quartz surrounds—allow designers to create compelling focal points that harmonize with the broader home environment. Equally important is the company’s commitment to builder and designer partnerships. Their Pro Advantage program, continuing education courses through AIA and IDEC, and extensive distribution network ensure that both builders and designers have the knowledge, tools, and on-site support to incorporate fireplaces seamlessly. Builders benefit from reliable supply chains and flexible pricing options, while designers gain access to innovative solutions that align with client expectations. Technology continues to play a central role in Hearth & Home’s product evolution. Wi-Fi-enabled fireplaces, LED rotisserie flames, and digital flame technologies like the SimpliFire Allusion Edge, SimpliFire Allusion Heritage allow homeowners to control ambiance remotely and safely. Wood-burning fireplaces adhere to EPA standards, ensuring environmentally conscious solutions for diverse markets. The company also emphasizes timeless design, prioritizing chic, intentional, and adaptable products over fleeting trends. As KBIS 2026 demonstrates, fireplaces are more than decorative features—they are emotional anchors, value drivers, and design catalysts. By combining technology, customization, and education, Hearth & Home Technologies positions the fireplace as an essential component of modern residential architecture, offering builders, designers, and homeowners a tool to elevate both experience and value. Learn More: Hearth & Home Technologies: https://www.hearthnhome.com Stellar by Heat & Glo: https://stellar.heatnglo.com/ AIA Continuing Education: https://www.aia.org/education AJ Madison

From high-end residential “wealth” to AI-responsive environments, top designers discuss why lighting is the most under-recognized—yet essential—element of the built environment. Lighting is often the ghost in the machine of interior design: when it’s perfect, you don’t notice it; when it’s wrong, it’s all you can see. In a wide-ranging discussion featuring architectural lighting experts and residential designers, the conversation shifts from the utility of “turning on the lights” to the high-stakes world of experiential design. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep For firms like Focus Lighting and their partners like GRADE, the challenge lies in the nuance of the environment. Whether it’s the high-octane spectacle of the Times Square ball or the restrained elegance of a Chelsea penthouse, the philosophy remains the same: lighting should highlight architectural moments and art without revealing the source. This “invisible” approach is what separates a standard renovation from a truly bespoke residence. The dialogue also touches on the psychological divide between “rich” and “wealthy” clients. While some desire flashy, obvious fixtures, the most sophisticated projects utilize layers of light—integrated into millwork, hidden in suede-pedal ceiling features, or tucked behind undulating panels—to create a sensory experience that feels natural and inevitable. Looking forward, the industry is on the cusp of a technological revolution. We are moving toward responsive homes where AI recognizes individual inhabitants, adjusting the lighting plan to their specific preferences and moods in real-time. As designers push into new frontiers like luxury yachting and “Zoom-ready” home offices, the goal remains human-centric: using innovation not just because we can, but to make life better through the deliberate application of light. Today, you are going to hear from Focus Lighting’s, Mike Cummings and partners of theirs in GRADE NY’s Edward Yedid and Thomas Hickey. Were talking about lighting and how the skilled application in design makes a difference in not just beauty, performance but quality of experience. Core Concepts: The Power of Layers: Effective lighting isn’t about one bright source; it’s about a “team” of layers (decorative, accent, and task) working in tandem. The “Wealthy” Aesthetic: High-end design is shifting away from flashy fixtures toward “restrained” lighting where the source is hidden, but the effect is transformative. Collaboration is Mandatory: The most innovative solutions—like lighting art with tiny bronze heads or illuminating glass tables with “water droplet” fixtures—come from the friction between a designer’s vision and a lighting engineer’s technical skill. The Future is AI-Responsive: We are moving toward a “switch-less” world where homes utilize motion sensors and machine learning to anticipate a resident’s path and preference. Residential vs. Hospitality: In hospitality, the light source is often a celebrated feature; in residential, the goal is for the lighting to disappear into the architecture. Resources & Applicable Elements Focus Lighting: An architectural lighting design firm known for projects ranging from Times Square to private luxury residences. GRADE NY: Since GRADE’s founding in 2004, it has been our belief that integrating architecture and interior design from the outset creates the most beautiful, balanced and cohesive solutions. Lutron Systems: A leader in lighting control and automated shading solutions mentioned as a “hook” for homeowners entering the world of smart design. Carpenters Workshop Gallery: Mentioned for their innovative, reactive light fixtures that respond to sound and motion. KBIS (Kitchen & Bath Industry Show): The premier event for kitchen and bath design professionals. The Highlight Reel “If someone hasn’t used a lighting designer before, they ask us why we need one. If someone has used one before, they can’t wait to use them again.” — Eddie “Lighting design is a double-edged sword. The better job I’m doing, the less you appreciate it.” — Michael “Rich people are flashier—they want to see the light fixture. Our clients are wealthy… to them, this is just their world.” — Thomas “I can come to your house… and like a doctor, diagnose why you don’t like [the lighting] and then use those words to create a new design.” — Michael “You never hear anybody say ‘no’ in New York, because somebody else will say ‘yes’ right behind you.” — Eddie “We’re not lighting designers. We’re definitely not structural engineers… when we push the boundaries of our design, we want to have teammates who can say, ‘Oh, I’ve never done that before. Let’s figure out a solution together’ instead of ‘No.'” — Thomas

In a category often defined by tradition, Green Forest Cabinetry is applying data science, manufacturing discipline, and cross-industry thinking to challenge long-held assumptions about cabinetry. Their approach reveals how operational precision—not marketing—creates real value for designers, builders, and homeowners. Green Forest Cabinetry’s leadership team including, CEO, John Morgan, COO, Nathan Boone and CIO, Michael Boone share how treating cabinetry as an information-driven business, not just a manufacturing process, has enabled dramatic gains in quality, efficiency, and affordability. From machine learning and performance-based compensation to packaging innovation and cultural transformation, their story illustrates how operational clarity creates competitive advantage. Cabinetry has long been viewed as a static category—functional, necessary, but rarely innovative. Yet beneath the surface, a new generation of manufacturers is redefining what cabinetry can be by focusing not on materials alone, but on systems, data, and human performance. In this conversation, Green Forest Cabinetry’s leadership explains how they built a manufacturing culture centered on measurable output, accountability, and continuous improvement. Their approach borrows heavily from industries like automotive manufacturing, Formula One racing, and technology, where precision, repeatability, and efficiency are essential. By applying machine learning to packaging optimization, implementing transparent performance metrics across their workforce, and prioritizing supply chain flexibility, the company has achieved a damage and defect rate of just 0.69%—far below the industry average of 2.5–3.5%. These gains not only reduce operational costs but dramatically improve reliability for designers, builders, and homeowners. Ultimately, this conversation reveals a powerful truth: cabinetry is no longer just a product. It is a system. And the manufacturers who treat it as such are redefining the future of the industry. Cabinetry as an Information Business, Not Just a Manufacturing Business Green Forest views cabinetry as a data and logistics challenge as much as a fabrication process. Accurate information flow is more valuable than machinery alone. Data governs production timing, quality control, fulfillment, and service. Reliability—not just product quality—defines customer satisfaction. Why It Matters: Designers and builders don’t just need beautiful cabinetry—they need dependable delivery and complete orders. Relevant Links: Green Forest Cabinetry https://www.greenforestcabinetry.com https://nkba.org

Beyond Technology: The New Design Frontier of Integration and Experience. Recorded live at CEDIA Expo 2025, Dan Ferrisi of EmeraldX and Caitlin Stewart of Leon Speakers explore how integration is evolving from technical infrastructure into a design-driven discipline—where storytelling, collaboration, and intentional product design define the future of connected environments. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep Integration X Design: Why the Future of Connected Living Depends on Collaboration At CEDIA Expo 2025, two parallel conversations revealed a shared reality: the future of technology in the built environment will be defined not by innovation alone, but by integration—and integration, increasingly, is a design discipline. Dan Ferrisi, Group Editor for EmeraldX, has a front-row seat to the evolution of the integration industry. Through his editorial leadership and involvement in industry events, he sees a clear shift underway. Integrators are no longer viewed simply as technical specialists installing equipment at the end of a project. Instead, they are becoming essential collaborators—professionals who shape how people experience their environments through sound, light, security, and automation. This evolution mirrors what Caitlin Stewart sees from her position at Leon Speakers. The Ann Arbor-based manufacturer has built its identity around a simple but powerful premise: technology must serve design. Rather than forcing architecture to accommodate equipment, Leon develops audio and concealment solutions that complement materials, finishes, and spatial intent. For Stewart, the challenge isn’t technical—it’s cultural. Designers have historically minimized or hidden technology in order to preserve aesthetic integrity. The opportunity now is to create products that belong within the design language of the space itself. Trade shows like CEDIA play a vital role in accelerating this transformation. They provide a platform where manufacturers, integrators, media, and designers can align around shared goals. They foster dialogue, education, and partnership—critical ingredients in a rapidly evolving ecosystem. The message from both conversations is clear: integration is no longer about devices. It is about experience. And the professionals who understand how to merge technology with design intention will define the future of connected living.

Innovation Under Pressure: Prefab, Modular, and the Future of Resilient Design Under Pressure. Architecture is evolving faster than ever, driven by natural disasters, technology, and client expectations—but how do designers balance innovation with risk, regulation, and lifestyle priorities? Josh Cooperman hosts an unfiltered conversation with Drew Davis, Brian Pinkett, Aaron Neubert, and Joseph Dangaran about prefabrication, modular construction, client programming, and the challenges of rebuilding communities in fire- and flood-prone regions. From the Palisades to Paris, they explore how architecture must adapt—or risk falling behind. 1. Introduction and Context Host introduction: Josh Cooperman, Convo By Design. Acknowledgements: Kim Gordon Designs (venue), Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home (sponsor and industry supporter). Why the discussion matters: natural disasters as a case study in architecture’s evolving role. Personal anecdote: Josh’s wildfire experience in 1983 highlighting the urgency of resilient design. 2. Guest Introductions Drew Davis, Partner, Kligerman Architecture & Design, NYC – Residential expertise nationwide. Brian Pinkett, Principal, Landry Design Group – High-end, global custom homes, with focus on innovation and sustainability. Aaron Neubert, Principal, Annex – Residential and hospitality projects in LA & Las Vegas. Joseph Dangaran, Founding Partner, Woods & Dangaran– West Coast single-family homes, high-end interiors. 3. Critical Thinking vs. Design Education Discussion of Brian Pinkett’s insight: architecture school teaches critical thinking, not design itself. How critical thinking shapes the conversation about innovation and client expectations. The influence of NIMBYism and cultural resistance on design risk-taking. 4. Client Literacy and Innovation How clients’ exposure to Instagram, travel, and boutique experiences shapes design expectations. Balancing aspirational ideas with practical constraints: budget, schedule, site conditions. Scenario-based design and programming as a tool to understand lifestyle priorities. 5. Prefabrication and Modular Construction Defining terms: prefabrication vs. modular, and their misconceptions in high-end architecture. Historical examples: Eiffel Tower (prefabricated in 1889), Wallace Neff bubble homes. Case studies: past Malibu prefab project, Arts District hotel project. Discussion of benefits (speed, quality, cost) and challenges (flexibility, client acceptance, perception). 6. Lifestyle vs. Shelter in Rebuilds How trauma and loss after disasters impact client priorities. The tension between rebuilding for necessity vs. recreating lifestyle and memory. Temporary housing solutions and lessons from disaster response (Shigeru Ban, Fresno pre-approved plans). 7. The Role of Regulation in Innovation Flood, fire, and safety regulations: both barriers and catalysts for creativity. Discussion of over-regulation and its impact on rebuilding efficiency, particularly in high-demand areas like Pacific Palisades. 8. The Future of Architectural Innovation Emerging materials, prefabrication, and modular design for high-end custom homes. How technology enables flexibility and quality at scale. The challenge of evolving architectural vernacular to reflect contemporary technology. The importance of balancing client desires, regulatory frameworks, and architectural creativity. 9. Closing Thoughts Necessity drives invention, but adaptation and education are key. Designers’ role in guiding clients through uncertainty and risk. Encouragement to rethink traditional paradigms: innovation in practice, materials, and process. 10. Callouts / Quotes for Social Media “Innovation isn’t about change for change’s sake—it’s about solving the problem you didn’t know existed.” – Brian Pinkett “Prefabrication isn’t a compromise. It’s a new way to design for speed, quality, and scale.” – Aaron Neubert “The goal isn’t just shelter. The goal is lifestyle.” – Joseph Dangaran 11. Links & References Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home: pacificsales.com Convo By Design: www.comvobydesign.com Kim Gordon Designs: kimgordondesigns.com Klingerman Architecture & Design: klingerman.com Landry Design Group: landrydesigngroup.com Anx: https://a-n-x.com/ Woods & Dangaran: woodsanddangaran.com