Convo By Design®

Industry experts discuss the shift from “The Triangle” to “The Zone,” the explosion of ADUs in Southern California, and why your Pinterest board might be lying to you. Southern California builders, designers, and innovators to dissect the radical shifts in residential design since 2022. The conversation moves beyond simple aesthetics to explore how the “post-pandemic” home has become a multi-functional hub. From the technical complexities of “electrically heavy” kitchens to the rise of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) as multi-generational lifelines, this episode serves as a masterclass in the collaborative effort required to build a “forever home” in today’s market. The Participants Daniel Franco: DuMonde Builders Denise Fernandez & Tanisha Johnson Monroe: Johnson & Fernandez Interior Design J.R. Joseph Rodriguez: Joseph Interiors Verzine Hovasapyan: Director of Innovation for Pacific Sales 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 Great Post-Pandemic Kitchen Reset Leading builders and designers discuss the demise of the “work triangle,” the rise of multigenerational spaces, and why clients must stop scrolling Pinterest and start budgeting before remodeling. Summary of Key Concepts The Death of the “Work Triangle”: The traditional 1940s “work triangle” has been replaced by specialized “micro-zones” (e.g., breakfast stations, baking zones, “Mission Control” homework hubs) to accommodate multi-user and multi-generational households. The Intergenerational Anchor: As adult children and elderly parents move back, kitchens are expanding into living areas, becoming the specialized, central ecosystem that anchors the home. Specialization Over Cabinetry: Clients now prioritize hyper-specific, electrically heavy stations (like advanced smoothie stations with plumbing or complex water filtration for a coffee obsession) over a simple maximum quantity of cabinet boxes. Aging in Place & Wellness: Technology like steam ovens, induction cooktops (safer for both younger cooks and seniors), and automated, sensory lighting is being integrated to support lifelong wellness in “forever homes.” The Crucial Co-Lab: Designer + GC + Vendor: The most successful projects integrate the interior designer and the contractor from the discovery call, ensuring

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

Designing for Life: Architecture, Emotion, and the Long View Architect Cathy Purple Cherry challenges the idea that buildings are static objects, arguing instead that great architecture evolves with human behavior, emotion, and time. From biophilic design and post-pandemic living patterns to aging-in-place and purposeful restraint, Purple Cherry shares how architecture can improve quality of life across generations—without chasing trends or perfection. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep Shelter Republic – Request your membership invitation In this episode of Convo By Design, I share my first conversation with architect Cathy Purple Cherry for a wide-ranging conversation on architecture as a deeply human, emotionally driven discipline. Purple Cherry discusses how architects must design for decades—not design cycles—and how shifts in technology, work culture, and climate have fundamentally altered the way homes and workplaces should function. Everything that embodies a design icon… right here. The Convo By Design Icon Registry is presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home. An incredible partner in design. The conversation explores the lasting impact of biophilic design, the realities of working from home at different life stages, and why many contemporary office environments fail to support collaboration or productivity. Purple Cherry also reflects on aging, accessibility, and the importance of designing homes that support real relationships, not social-media perfection.

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.ma

The episode you are going to hear today was over a decade in the making. LuAnn Niagara is the host of A Well Designed Business. The podcast launched in 2016 and set the standard for what a business of design podcast should be. LuAnn’s focus was then and is today focused on helping designers up level their design studios. LuAnn was hosting a session for the KBIS Podcast Studio and we had some time during the show and I can’t remember who brought up the idea, I think it was me who suggested to LuAnn, that this would be a great time for us to record a conversation about our own journey and collaborate on a crossover episode. It could be fun! Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep Shelter Republic – Request your membership invitation Oh, it was fun. We talked about so much but what is really special about this… If you continue to listen here, you are going to get, I’m sure, a vastly different presentation. The exact same conversation will air on both feeds, but the context and philosophy is different. I have a tremendous amount of respect for LuAnn. She has done something special. If you are a designer, architect, maker, you know what I mean. She created something from nothing and every one of us here knows how hard that is.  In setting up this interview, I want to provide both context and a bit of storytelling. You are going to hear four very brief clips before we get to my conversation with LuAnn. It’s been a while since I shared this on the show, but in addition to my broadcast experience in music and sports, I was the general manager and program director for Playboy Radio. In that role, I hosted a show on the channel called the Playboy Radio Interview. She show was a one on one with guests that I thought would resonate by telling unique and personal stories about their journey. And what I want you to realize as you listen to these is that we all go through many of the same things, experience the same challenges and nobody in life achieves anything without a little luck and support. That support can come from family and friends, it can come from a trusted advisor and it can come in the form of hearing stories about others told by industry voices, like LuAnn or me. The first clip you are going to hear is US Mens National Hockey legend, Mike Eruzioni. You would up where you are due to a series of circumstances that aren’t always within your control. Guess what, nobody is. It’s what you do next and how you need to keep going because you never know where that big opportunity os going to come from. The next segment you are going to hear is actor, Tom Sizemore. Sizemore has since past but he sti

From the show floor at CEDIA Expo 2025, three distinct voices reveal an industry in the midst of transformation—where technology, design, and business are converging in new and unexpected ways. What emerges is not a story about gadgets, but about integration at every level: systems, teams, and ideas. The future of the home is being shaped as much by collaboration and communication as by innovation itself. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep Shelter Republic – Request your membership invitation Jason Knott, Hagan Kappler, and Bob Schuppe each bring a different lens to the evolving world of residential technology, exploring how integrators, designers, and architects must align to meet rising expectations around performance, aesthetics, and long-term value. Jason Knott | D-Tools Integration Over Innovation The industry has shifted from breakthrough moments (CDs, DVDs, early automation) to iterative refinement. https://www.d-tools.com Lighting as the Entry Point Lighting design is now the gateway for integrators to engage at the earliest stages of a project. https://www.lutron.com https://www.ketra.com Early-Stage Collaboration Integrators must be involved during architectural planning to avoid conflicts with structure, HVAC, and design intent. https://cedia.org The Designer–Integrator Language Gap Misalignment between aesthetics and performance leads to inefficiencies and compromised outcomes. “Wall Acne” and Invisible Technology The push to hide visible tech (switches, speakers, controls) has created a sub-industry of concealment solutions. https://www.framemytv.com https://www.futureautomation.net Business Software as Competitive Advantage End-to-end platforms improve efficiency, project management, and profitability (~13% increase). https://www.d-tools.com/system-integrator https://www.d-tools.com/cloud AI in Integration (Early Stage) AI is being applied to proposal generation and security analytics, though much of the market is still in hype phase. Resistance to Change Legacy workflows (Word, Excel) persist despite clear operational disadvantages. Designing for Reality Clien

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 spec

In this roundtable conversation, a diverse group of interior designers and kitchen specialists discuss how kitchen design has transformed in the post-pandemic era. Rising costs, shifting client expectations, and new technologies are forcing designers to rethink how kitchens function and how they are delivered to clients. The conversation explores everything from appliance innovation and zoning strategies to the emotional role of kitchens as gathering spaces. Designers also confront difficult realities such as escalating budgets, supply chain issues, and the need to guide clients through increasingly complex decisions. We gathered at the Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home showroom in San Diego. A beautiful and well appointed space with so much to see and the room to enjoy it. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep Shelter Republic – Request your membership invitation At its core, the discussion highlights a broader truth about the design profession today: kitchens are no longer simply rooms for cooking. They are ecosystems that reflect lifestyle, culture, wellness, and the evolving way people live in their homes. Ginger Rabe “During Covid everyone was home all day. Now I design for what happens when people come home after being gone all day.” “The hardest conversation now is telling clients that what cost $50,000 five years ago might be $185,000 today.” “Sometimes the challenge of designing a luxury kitchen for $22,000 is actually fun—it forces creativity.” “I build kitchens around how people really cook, not how kitchens are supposed to work.” “Designers today are often the first people explaining what a project actually costs.” Kendra Araujo “Clients are overwhelmed by information now—our job is guiding them through the process.” “The price conversation is happening much earlier than it used to.” “People want their dream kitchen, but the cost realities have changed dramatically.” “We’re constantly helping clients prioritize what actually matters most.” “There’s so much analysis paralysis today that designers have become translators.” Kaylee Blaylock “Function comes first—our job is to make the kitchen work for the client befor

New England designer Nicole Hirsch explains how the interior design profession evolved from service provider to brand identity, why craftsmanship still matters in a digital-first world, and how historic architecture shapes modern living. Since launching her firm, Nicole Hirsch, principal of Nicole Hirsch Interiors, has witnessed—and helped shape—the transformation of the interior design profession. What was once a service-driven industry has evolved into one defined by recognizable brands, signature aesthetics, and curated storytelling. For Hirsch, success today requires far more than talent; it requires clarity of voice, visual identity, and trust built through consistency. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep Shelter Republic – Request your membership invitation Drawing from her marketing background, Hirsch has developed a design philosophy rooted in timeless, demure, and textural interiors that balance modern functionality with historical reverence. Working throughout Boston and New England, she specializes in full-scale renovations and new construction projects that preserve architectural heritage while adapting homes for contemporary family life. In this conversation, Hirsch breaks down the realities of running a luxury design firm—from managing client expectations and navigating scope creep to understanding the evolving role of social media and editorial publishing. She also offers insight into the technical craftsmanship behind her work, revealing how thoughtful details—from custom millwork to concealed functionality—shape both the user experience and the visual narrative of a home. The Evolution of the Designer-as-Brand How the industry shifted from service provider to identity-driven brand Why visual consistency builds trust and attracts aligned clients The strategic influence of Hirsch’s marketing background Signature Style vs. Personalization Developing a recognizable aesthetic without creating repetitive projects The role of neutral palettes, layered textures, and timeless composition Why clients seek designers for perspective rather than replication The Craftsman Approach to Interior Design Designing beyond furnishings and décor Full architectural collaboration including: Millwork planning Custom elevations Stone and material specification The growing expectation for designers to function as technical project leaders Designing Within Historic New England Architecture

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 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 mem

Launching a design firm is hard. Launching one days before a global shutdown is something else entirely. In this episode of Convo By Design, I speak with interior designer Justine about building a solo practice during COVID, transitioning from sales to structure, and navigating the modern realities of design—from virtual collaboration and technical complexity to burnout, authenticity, and creative control. It’s an honest conversation about what it really takes to grow a design business today without losing yourself in the process. Designing Through Disruption | Convo By Design Podcast is hosted and published by Josh Cooperman. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep Interior designer Justine shares how launching a solo firm during COVID reshaped her business, creativity, and approach to authenticity in modern design. Interior Design Podcast, Solo Design Practice, Post-Pandemic Design, Interior Designer Business, Design Authenticity, Lighting Design, Residential Renovation, Convo By Design Episode Highlights Launching a design firm at the onset of COVID—and adapting without a roadmap Transitioning from sales and jewelry to residential design and construction The rise of the “one-woman studio” and the cost of wearing every hat How virtual meetings expanded access while eroding design community Why lighting plans are foundational—not optional Designing with intention under real budget constraints Choosing authenticity over polish in social media marketing Burnout prevention, creative resets, and the cautious use of AI tools “I didn’t just start a business during COVID—I learned how to design without a safety net.” “Virtual meetings made design more accessible, but they took away the intimacy that built real community.” “Lighting is the difference between a room that looks good and one that actually works.” “Being a one-woman studio means freedom—but it also means you feel every decision.” “Not every project needs to be Instagram-perfect to be successful.” “Clients don’t need more trends—they need clarity.” “Scaling sounds great until you realize what you might lose creatively.” “Burnout doesn’t happen all at once. It happens quietly.” “Authenticity isn’t a brand strategy—it’s a survival tool.” “AI can help with process, but instinct still drives good design.”

At KBIS 2026, Hearth 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. Cont

Transforming the Kitchen Experience: How Kitchen365 Streamlines Design, Specification, and Delivery At KBIS 2026, Bhavin Patel and Hiren Modi of Kitchen365 discuss how their end-to-end technology platform is reshaping the kitchen cabinet industry—making design faster, orders more accurate, and showrooms more agile. Digitizing Kitchen Design: Kitchen365’s design service accelerates the process from field measurement to final kitchen plan, completing in hours instead of a week. B2B Order Management System (OMS): Streamlines dealer and distributor interactions, supports tiered pricing, multi-warehouse fulfillment, and integrates with existing design software like ProKitchen. Consumer-Facing Digital Tools: Price estimators and visualizers allow homeowners to explore and configure kitchens online, reducing showroom dependency. Reducing Scope Creep & Specification Drift: Digital twins and high-fidelity visualizations ensure designs align with customer expectations, lowering errors and change orders. Process Integration & Efficiency: CSV-driven workflows reduce manual data entry, freeing staff for higher-value work and increasing accuracy. Hybrid Showroom Model: Physical showrooms serve as inspiration hubs, while digital platforms handle design, ordering, and lead generation. Democratizing Information: Transparency across pricing, inventory, and specifications strengthens trust between showrooms, designers, distributors, and clients. Competitive Advantage Through Workflow: Beyond products and aesthetics, efficiency and integration of design, data, and delivery create the next edge in the kitchen industry. At KBIS 2026, Kitchen365 is showcasing a transformative approach to the kitchen cabinet industry. Founded to address the fragmented workflows between designers, retailers, and manufacturers, Kitchen365 is more than a software company—it is a full-scale ecosystem that digitizes, automates, and scales the kitchen design process. Bhavin Patel, President, and Hiren Modi, Co-Founder and CEO, shared their journey of identifying inefficiencies in the industry. From lengthy design cycles that could take a week to fulfill to manual order entry prone to costly errors, the opportunity for modernization was clear. Kitchen365 first tackled this by offering a kitchen design service that allows designers to focus on client interactions while the platform handles technical drawings, reducing turnaround times to mere hours. The platform’s B2B Order Management System (OMS) revolutionizes distributor and dealer workflows. Tiered pricing, multi-warehouse inventory tracking, and CSV integrations with design software reduce manual errors and improve fulfillment speed. Retailers now have the ability to quickly provide quotes, place orders, and communicate with clients without extensive back-office staffing.<

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 illumi

The emotional impact of our surroundings, the challenges of a multi-year global project, and why the perfect kitchen starts with the “mother archetype.” Elana Tenenbaum Cline, architecturally trained-interior designer with a fascinating background rooted in both structured discipline and creative layering came into the virtual studio to share her journey from attending Syracuse University’s intensive architecture program to working on massive global projects like the Abu Dhabi Airport. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep The conversation explores the “practical creative” mindset, the importance of constraints in design, and the profound shift from large-scale architecture to the intimate human scale of interior design. Elana explains her philosophy that our surroundings completely impact how we perform and think, detailing how she uses personal narratives to craft spaces that truly resonate with her clients. The Architectural Foundation: Elana discusses growing up with a structured father and a creative mother, and how her five-year architecture degree informs her complex interior renovations today. The Emotional Connection: Why Elana pivoted to interior design to achieve a more intimate understanding of how people actually live—from how they serve coffee to their favorite childhood colors. We talk about running and The “Suck” of the Marathon: A unique analogy comparing the phases of a design project to running a marathon, specifically the “mile 20” moment where clients might lose the vision just before the finish line. Redefining Luxury: Why “luxury” in interior design might be as simple as a perfectly organized silverware drawer rather than just expensive materials. The Performance of Space: Insights into commercial projects like the West River Surgery Center, where the design’s primary goal is to evoke a sense of ease and calm for patients. Elements & Links E: Explore Elana’s portfolio and the “all senses” approach to residential and commercial design. Syracuse Architecture: Information on the intensive five-year program that shaped Elana’s professional background. Convo By Design Archive: Catch up on previous episodes featuring architects and designers. The Soul of a House: A recommended read on the emotional impact of interior spaces. “I

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

Bold Vision, Grounded Leadership, and the Relentless Pursuit of Purpose. In this deeply personal and strategic conversation, Corey Damen Jenkins shares the discipline, resilience, and intentional leadership behind his rise—from knocking on 779 doors to building a global design brand rooted in humility, creativity, and purpose. Corey Damen Jenkins is widely recognized for his exuberant interiors—fearless color, rich materiality, and a joyful sense of aspiration. But behind the visual confidence is a disciplined leader, strategic thinker, and resilient entrepreneur who built his career through persistence, focus, and unwavering belief in his purpose. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep In this conversation, Jenkins reveals the principles that guide both his creative and business decisions. His “toy box philosophy” of time management emphasizes prioritization and clarity, while his belief in editing—removing distractions in both design and business—ensures that his work remains intentional and impactful. Jenkins also shares the realities behind his success, including rejection, intellectual property challenges, and the pressures of leading a growing global brand. From licensing partnerships and product design to publishing and team building, every decision reflects his long-term commitment to protecting creative integrity and building something meaningful. More than a story of success, this is a conversation about purpose. Jenkins explains how staying grounded, hiring with intention, and embracing humility have allowed him to build not just a celebrated design firm, but a life aligned with creativity, impact, and service. Key Themes and Insights Purpose-Driven Career Transformation Transitioned from automotive corporate buyer to interior designer after a layoff. Launched his firm during the 2008 recession—one of the most challenging economic periods. Persistence defined his early career, including knocking on 779 doors to secure his first major client. The Toy Box Philosophy: Strategic Time and Energy Management Prioritize the most important commitments first. Apply discipline to protect creative energy and focus. Editing is essential in both design execution and business leadership. Editing as a Creative and Business Discipline Great design is as much about restraint as expression. Strategic clarity requires removing distractions and excess. Focus strengthens creative voice and brand identity. Leadership Through Humility and Intentional Hiring <li

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.

Luxury appliances are no longer defined by visibility—they’re defined by intentional invisibility, precision performance, and seamless integration. At KBIS 2026, SKS reveals how thoughtful innovation, AI integration, and designer collaboration are reshaping the kitchen into a quieter, smarter, more intuitive environment. This is the emergence of a new user: the Technicurean. John Russo explains how Signature Kitchen Suite is redefining luxury through purposeful technology, invisible induction, behavioral AI, and collaborative product development. The future kitchen doesn’t demand attention—it anticipates needs, enhances experiences, and disappears into the architecture. At the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show, innovation isn’t simply introduced—it’s tested, challenged, and refined in real time. For Signature Kitchen Suite, KBIS functions as a live laboratory where designers, builders, and specifiers provide critical feedback that directly shapes future product development. John Russo shares how SKS approaches innovation deliberately, prioritizing purposeful performance over novelty. From invisible induction cooktops integrated beneath countertops to AI-powered refrigeration that anticipates user behavior, the goal is not to showcase technology—but to integrate it so seamlessly that it enhances daily life without disrupting it. This conversation explores the rise of the Technicurean—a new luxury consumer who values precision, connectivity, and design harmony equally. Through quiet luxury, behavioral intelligence, and deep collaboration with the design community, SKS is building an ecosystem where appliances become architectural infrastructure rather than standalone objects. KBIS as a Live Product Development Environment KBIS functions as a real-world testing ground for future innovation. Designers provide immediate feedback that shapes product refinement. Concept products are introduced early to validate design direction. Direct interaction between engineers and specifiers accelerates innovation. Quiet Luxury: The New Definition of Premium Quiet luxury shifts focus from visual dominance to experiential excellence. Core principles: Appliances integrate seamlessly into architecture. Minimal visual disruption supports design continuity. Performance becomes more important than appearance. Acoustic comfort is essential—refrigeration operating around 38–39 dB. Luxury is defined by how appliances make life easier, not how they look. Invisible Induction and Architectural Integration SKS is exploring cooktop technology that disappears completely into the countertop. Implications: Cooking surfaces no longer interrupt architectural surfaces. Light-guided induction zones provide precision without visual clutter.</

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 nec

Calgary-based designer Stephanie Martin shares the story of launching her firm during the 2008 financial crisis, the gap between design education and reality, and why hand-crafted authenticity remains vital in the age of AI. She also takes us inside the Rideau Residence, a project blending modern aesthetics with sentimental family history. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep Calgary Roots & Business Resilience Launching in a Recession: Stephanie discusses starting her firm in 2008 during the financial crisis, which heavily impacted Calgary’s oil and gas-driven economy. She attributes her early success to “door-to-door” marketing and building a reputation through exceptional service rather than just aesthetics. The “Cowboy Town” Reality: A look at Calgary’s diverse culture, strong job market, and affordable housing, countering its reputation as just a “cowboy town.” Service Over Style: Stephanie emphasizes that the core of her business is caring about the clients’ lives, a lesson she learned early on that differentiates her firm today. The Evolution of Design Practice Education vs. Reality: A candid discussion on how design schools often focus on exaggerated creativity while overlooking practical skills like budgeting, timelines, and coordination. Post-Pandemic Expectations: Clients now prioritize emotional connections and functional spaces over mere aesthetics, seeking designs that actively enhance their well-being. Sustainability: The conversation touches on the necessity of sustainable building practices, including Stephanie’s experience with passive homes. Technology & Authenticity The AI Debate: Stephanie and Josh discuss the rise of AI in design. While Stephanie is optimistic about AI for efficiency, she argues for maintaining “hand-crafted” creativity to ensure designs remain meaningful. Authentic Marketing: In an era of AI-generated content, Stephanie commits to keeping her social media presence true to her values by showcasing only authentic, human-created work. Project Spotlight: The Rideau Residence Modern-Traditional Mix: A deep dive into the kitchen design which juxtaposes modern elements with sentimental details, specifically a brick backsplash sourced from the owner’s grandmother’s house. Space Transformation: How a formal dining room was reimagined into a dark, masculine office space that contrasts sharply with the rest of the light-filled home. Links & R

How Behavior-Driven Design Is Defining the Future of the Home KBIS Series 2026, findings and experiences from the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show, recorded live from the KBIS Podcast Studio presented by AJ Madison. This was the second year of this program and we built on last year’s show with even more experts in the industry sharing experience, findings and industry-leading insights. KBIS Podcast Studio Resources: KBIS AJ Madison NKBA LUXE Interiors + Design SubZero, Wolf & Cove SKS | Signature Kitchen Suite Hearth & Home Technologies Kitchen365 Green Forrest Cabinetry Midea What happens when home innovation prioritizes real-world habits over flashy, unnecessary features? This conversation explores how a deep understanding of how people use their appliances every day leads to intentional solutions that fit every lifestyle.  Join Justin Reinke, Head of Product Marketing at Midea, and Ryan Shaffer, Sr. Technical Product Planning Engineer at Midea, to discuss how hundreds of hours of in-home observation drive breakthroughs in everything from acoustic comfort to specialized hygiene. By analyzing universal pain points—like the rise of sustainable drinkware and open-concept living—we examine the R&D required to make daily chores easier through practical, performance-driven design that works harder for the household. For decades, appliance innovation followed a predictable formula: more features, more technology, more complexity. Digital displays replaced analog controls. Connectivity introduced remote operation. Artificial intelligence promised optimization. But somewhere along the way, innovation lost sight of its most important objective—serving the human being. Today, that philosophy is changing. At KBIS 2026, one of the most important conversations wasn’t about technology itself, but about behavior. Appliance manufacturers are increasingly recognizing that true innovatio

When interiors meet intention: a dynamic panel on how color theory, holistic living, sustainable materials, and design thinking come together to redefine residential spaces for 2025 and beyond. Sherwin Williams set out to cover Earth with beautiful colors over 150 years ago. 1866, Henry Sherwin and Edward Williams founded the company in Cleveland, Ohio, on a mission really. And the result is a company dedicated to delivery of the  best in paints, coatings and related products to discerning clients all over the world. That dedication was evident from the start with the hiring of Percy Neyman, the very first chemist employed by an American paint manufacturer. Sherwin Williams continues to set the bar high and provide the design community with the essential tools to create superior projects. Sherwin Williams is commitment to supporting the design community, which is why they sponsor programs, like this one. They are also dedicated to a betterment philosophical approach which is why they selected ‘wellness” as the topic for this talk.Thank you Sherwin Williams for your tireless support. In this timely conversation, experts from across interior design and sustainable living explore what it means to design for wellness in 2025. Moderated by Sue Wadden and Ashlynn Bourque of Sherwin-Williams, the panel features voices from: Jeanne Chung (Cozy, Stylish, Chic) — known for crafting spaces that blend comfort, style, and emotional balance. Julee Ireland (Julee Ireland Design Studio) — bringing a refined, intentional aesthetic rooted in longevity and livable elegance. Greg Roth (CarbonShack) — spotlighting eco-conscious material sourcing, sustainable practices, and climate-aligned living environments. Together they examine how interior design can be a catalyst for holistic living — from color palettes that promote calm and emotional balance, to spatial planning that supports aging in place, to circadian lighting and neurodiversity-friendly layouts. The discussion underscores a rising trend: residential interiors inspired by hospitality, wellness, and sustainability principles. Listeners will come away with fresh ideas on turning their homes into future-proof sanctuaries — design-forward, earth-conscious, and emotionally attuned. Health span-focused design: Designing spaces that help residents live longer, healthier lives at home. Aging in place: Home layouts that accommodate long-term functionality and wellness. Home gyms, saunas, cold plunges: Integrating spa-level wellness amenities in private residences. Dual kitchens: Inspired by Italian family homes for multigenerational living. Collaboration with architects: Designers as integral contributors to maximize natural light and spatial flow. VR visualization: Helping clients experience proportion, sca

I have a confession to make. I’m exhausted. In the best possible way after a week in Orlando, Florida for the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show. I have so much to share with you today! My journey started on the Monday before the show began for a travel day, sound check and confirming the final details form the show. In addition to hosting the KBIS Podcast Studio again this year, moderating a panel on the NEXT Stage and recording conversations for the show, I wanted to help you prepare for the show next February in Las Vegas. But Josh, next February is like 11 months away. That’s true, but here’s a secret. Come a little closer, it’s just us. KBIS is the essential American kitchen and bath show, full stop. It’s about learning, seeing, connecting and putting all of the pieces together to understand how the American market is setting up for the next year and the trending ideas that have staying power for the next 5-10 years. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep You can listen to Convo By Design for the conversations with industry insiders. If I were a designer, I would. I believe that this show tells the stories that you should really know to get a feel for directionality of the industry. Specifiers are the plus of the industry and the ideas emanating from the show this year covered the technology revolution taking place from an AI perspective, but there’s more. The kitchen is in the midst of a wholesale change. And it’s exciting to see it happen in real time. Learning was a key theme this year. If you were not at the show this year, you are behind the curve. I don’t say this to scare you, I tell you this so you make the time to get to the show next year. All three days and plan to see as much as you can. But, I wanted to share some of the key ideas from the show this year. For additional details, check the show notes. Luxury is the measurable outcome of thoughtful design—where performance, longevity, and relevance align to support the way people actually live. Luxury is the removal of friction from daily life. Luxury is durability aligned with intent. Luxury is design that continues to perform long after the purchase is forgotten. Luxury is confidence—in function, longevity, and fit. Luxury is not what you spend. It’s what you never have to rethink. The Kitchen as the Primary Investment The kitchen remains the #1 homeowner investment nationwide. Homeowners are willing to exceed budget in the kitchen more than any other space. The kitchen is the most publi

The New Appliance Ecosystem: Translating Value, Technology, and Human-Centric Design The modern appliance conversation has shifted beyond features and price into something far more consequential: value, usability, and human-centered design.  Designers, manufacturers, showrooms, and independent testing labs now operate as an interconnected ecosystem guiding consumers through increasingly complex decisions. The future of appliance specification belongs to those who can translate technology into meaningful, intuitive, lifestyle-driven solutions. Featuring insights from Nicole Papantoniou of the Good Housekeeping Institute, Jeff Sweet of Sub-Zero Group Inc., and Christa Mallinger of AJ Madison, this conversation explores how appliances have evolved from commodities into lifestyle infrastructure—and why education, not persuasion, defines the next era. KBIS Podcast Studio Resources: KBIS AJ Madison NKBA LUXE Interiors + Design SubZero, Wolf & Cove SKS | Signature Kitchen Suite Hearth & Home Technologies Kitchen365 Green Forrest Cabinetry Midea The appliance industry has entered a human-centric phase, where performance, intuitive use, and real lifestyle benefit outweigh raw features or price alone. Designers act as translators of lifestyle, manufacturers as problem-solvers, and showrooms as educators—collectively helping consumers navigate increasingly sophisticated choices. Panelists discussed the shift from feature-driven sales toward performance-driven value, emphasizing longevity, ease of use, and frictionless integration into daily life. They also explored the growing role of education, testing standards, showroom partnerships, and post-installation support in helping consumers fully realize the value of their investment. Technology remains central, but its success depends entirely on reducing friction—not adding novelty. The conversation revealed that the future of appliance

The Accidental Empire: Marmol Radziner on Preservation, Prefab, and Fighting the Tyranny of the Nimby. Leo Marmol and Ron Radziner discuss the 36-year evolution of their design-build firm, tracing its roots in a student co-op to becoming a leader in modern residential architecture, restoration, and the urgent need for sustainable urban density in Los Angeles. The conversation features Leo Marmol and Ron Radziner, co-founders of Marmol Radziner, detailing the firm’s history, their design philosophy, and their views on the current state of preservation and sustainability in LA. Origin Story and The Return to Modernism: The co-founders met as students at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, living in “The Ark,” a condemned co-op. This environment of free rein to alter the building foreshadowed their later design-build approach. They founded their firm in 1989 during the “dying days of postmodernism,” quickly committing to the modernist ideal of clarity, reduction, and the connection between design and craft (Bauhaus). They attribute the firm’s early success to aligning with the eventual return to California modernism, driven by its rich history in the region. Milestone Projects and Preservation: The first major flag-planting project was the Gutentag Studio (a small, pure concrete block and cedar studio), followed by the new Ward Residence. Their watershed moment in preservation was the Kaufmann House restoration (1993) in Palm Springs. At the time, there was virtually no industry for modern restoration, forcing the firm to develop the roadmap for approaching these aging buildings. They view restorations as “classrooms” that inform their new work, maintaining a healthy split of one-third restoration and two-thirds new construction. Preservation Today: The Fetish vs. Functionality: Marmol and Radziner argue they are often at odds with the preservation community because they believe historic properties must evolve to remain functional and relevant, cautioning against a “fetish” that prevents necessary change. They criticize the current situation where every modern building is deemed “sacred,” citing the contentious, successful fight to demolish the Barry Building on San Vicente as an example of overreach where the building’s significance did not rise to the level requiring preservation. The Problem of Scale (“McModerns”) and Efficiency: They express concern over the proliferation of “McModerns” and elephantine houses, driven by high property values and the pressure to “max out the buildable area” on a site. They emphasize that their modern perspective is less about style and more about the fundamental im

This week on the show, you’re going to ride along with me from the incredibly comfortable and stylish VW ID.Buzz, which served as the mobile podcast studio at CEDIA Expo / CIX this September in Denver, Colorado. Were going back for more conversations from the show. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep CEDIA (Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association) is the global trade association for home technology professionals, specializing in smart home, automation, audio-visual, networking, and integrated systems. Its mission is to advance the home technology industry through education, certification, advocacy, and networking. Members include integrators, designers, manufacturers, and consultants who shape the connected environments we live and work in. CEDIA Expo is the industry’s largest annual event for residential technology professionals. With hundreds of exhibitors, educational sessions, live demos, and global networking opportunities, it’s where new ideas and innovations in smart home and AV integration take center stage. The Commercial Integrator Expo (CIX), co-located with CEDIA Expo, focuses on commercial integration technologies—from conferencing and IT infrastructure to building automation and emerging AV solutions—bringing together commercial integrators, IT pros, designers, and tech managers. Jason McGraw | Group VP and Show Director, CEDIA Expo / CIX Scope of the Show: McGraw details the scale of CEDIA Expo 2025, featuring over 350 exhibitors and immersive demo rooms that showcase integrated audio, video, and control systems. Integration Meets Design: Discussion centers on the critical partnership between integrators and the design-build community (interior designers, architects, builders). McGraw emphasizes that technology—ranging from AI and energy management to lighting—must be a foundational element of the design process, not an afterthought. The Business Case: Designers are encouraged to view integrators as essential trade partners, similar to electricians or plumbers, to better service clients and protect hom

Luxury can be expensive, but it can also be subtle, practical, or deeply personal. Sometimes it’s about choice, sometimes restraint, sometimes the way a space or product simply works better for you. Through thoughtful discussion, the episode examines how luxury shows up in appliances and design—through performance, comfort, longevity, and everyday ease—and why it resonates differently for everyone over time This nuanced conversation explores the evolving meaning of luxury through multiple industry perspectives, featuring Devoree Axelrod, General Manager at AJ Madison, alongside industry expert Jill Cohen, Editor-in-Chief, Luxe Interiors + Design. KBIS Podcast Studio Resources: KBIS AJ Madison NKBA LUXE Interiors + Design SubZero, Wolf they’re investing in how

The chill is still in the air as winter prepares to give way to spring. That time of year, depending on where in the world you happen to be, nature is beginning to remind us about the magic of renewal in small but familiar ways. We are reminded that the more things change, renewal is possible. Today’s Icon Registry episode celebrates our newest inductee, and those who have listened to the show for a while know her, and even though she left this world a few years ago, her spirit endures. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep Christine Anderson was a SoCal based publicist with a dedication to her clients, friends and colleagues rarely seen anymore. I had the opportunity to work with Christine on many occasions and she hosted the show more than any other guest show. You might even recall her hosting the ICON Registry episode featuring Woodson & Rummerfield.  This is Christine’s well deserved induction into the registry. What you are about to hear is Christine’s conversation with Dora Epstein Jones Dr. Dora Epstein Jones is a prominent architectural theorist, educator, and administrator known for her rigorous interrogation of the discipline’s boundaries. She is currently a Professor of Practice at the University of Texas at Austin School of Architecture, having joined the faculty in Fall 2023. The Convo By Design Icon Registry is presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home, a Best Buy company and avid supporters of the design community. They help designers become the very best version of their professional selves through advocacy, educational opportunities and professional support.  This wraps up another episode of the Convo By Design Icon Registry. A celebration and recognition of a true master in the art of design and the mastery of all that encompasses in the pursuit of making better the lives of those they serve. And, giving back along the way. Thank you Christine for your many years of friendship, partnership and collaboration, you are truly missed. Thanks for listening to Convo By Design. Thank you to my partner sponsors, Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home for presenting the Convo By Design Icon Registry and Convo By Design partner sponsors, Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home,TimberTech & Shelter Republic. And thank you for taking the time to listen. I couldn’t do this without you, wouldn’t want to. I hope this show helps you stay motivated, inspired and focused so you can rise above the chaos. -CXD

Kitchen Revolution: Elevating Kitchens and Baths for Lifestyle, Wellness, and Technology. Designers and innovators discuss how kitchens and bathrooms have transformed into lifestyle-focused, wellness-oriented, and tech-savvy spaces, shaping the homes of today’s discerning clients. From pandemic-driven shifts to smart appliances, spa-like bathrooms, and open-concept living, this panel explores the evolving demands of homeowners and the strategies designers use to balance aesthetics, function, and innovation. 1. Introduction Host Virzine Hovasapyan, Experience Director of Marketplace of Innovation for Pacific Sales, introduces the panel and sets the stage: kitchens and baths are no longer purely functional—they are deeply personal lifestyle environments. Emphasis on the convergence of beauty, comfort, and smart technology to meet wellness-focused and tech-savvy client needs. 2. Panel Introductions Karen Rideau, Kitchen Design Group: three decades of experience, expanding from kitchen and bath to full interior architecture. Holly Hollenbeck, HSH Interiors: bi-coastal firm specializing in remodels and new builds, high focus on kitchen and bath. Lori Hafele, Hafele Design: luxury cabinetry-focused design, hard surfaces specialist. Pam Barthold, Poziom Designs: national remodels, holiday decor focus, wellness integration. 3. Pandemic and Post-Pandemic Shifts Kitchens evolving into living spaces for family interaction and entertaining. Movement from segmented to open-plan living; the kitchen is now the “heart of the home.” Rise of furniture-like cabinetry and hidden storage to maintain aesthetic beauty. 4. Collaboration Between Designers and Showrooms Importance of collaboration between designers, manufacturers, and showrooms. Need for continuous education on appliance and technology innovations (steam ovens, microwaves/air fryers, modular units). Designers as knowledge bridges for clients. 5. Wellness in Kitchen and Bath Bathrooms now spa-like: steam showers, infrared saunas, cold plunges. Kitchens adapting for wellness-conscious lifestyles: beverage centers, accessible hot water, herb gardens, indoor/outdoor cooking integration. Efficiency for tech-savvy clients: proximity solutions, outdoor entertaining, smart layout adjustments. 6. Technology Integration Challenges of over-technology vs. simplicity: balancing clients’ desire for tech with usability. AI and digital inspiration may introduce non-buildable concepts; designers interpret and adapt. Circuit breaker capacity and smart appliance integration considerations. Strategies to educate clien

Architecture education is often romanticized as a pursuit of pure creativity, but in reality, it serves as a masterclass in grit. The studio environment, characterized by sleepless nights and public critiques, builds a specific kind of resilience necessary for navigating a risk-averse industry. While sectors like lighting have undergone rapid technological revolutions—moving from incandescent to LED in a decade—commercial construction moves at the speed of a massive vessel, slowed by liability concerns and ingrained methods. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep This hesitation, however, is slowly giving way to data-driven sustainability. The industry has shifted from making purely economic arguments for energy efficiency to focusing on human health and wellness, a transition accelerated by the pandemic. Tools like the Healthy Materials Database now allow teams to bypass greenwashing, using empirical data to guide tradespeople who might otherwise resist new specifications. By framing material changes as collaborative problem-solving rather than top-down mandates, the industry can bridge the gap between high-concept design and practical application. Nowhere is this practical application more evident than in the “Net Zero Trailer” project. Born from a desire to improve job site dignity and efficiency, this ten-week experiment successfully merged Passive House standards with trailer manufacturing. It proved that construction environments do not have to be uncomfortable energy hogs; they can be solar-powered hubs of productivity. This experiment serves as a microcosm for the industry’s broader challenge: how to scale innovation. Whether adapting to the massive energy demands of data centers or designing schools with a 100-year operational lifespan, the future of building requires looking beyond current codes. It demands a “green shoots” mentality where structures are designed not just for immediate occupancy, but for climate resilience and flexibility across generations. The Hedgehog Concept: A framework from the book Good to Great focusing on the intersection of passion, talent, and economic engines. Good to Great by Jim Collins USGBC & Healthy Materials: Susan discusses her work with the U.S. Green Building Council and managing a database of over 2,500 sustainable building products. U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Living Building Challenge The Net Zero Trailer: Pe

The Phoenix Effect: Designers and Architects Lead the Innovative Rebuild of Fire-Impacted LA. An impassioned panel featuring William Hefner, Jamie Rummerfield, and Gwen Sukeena discusses architectural preservation, fire-resilient design, and community-driven efforts to shape a more thoughtful, resilient Los Angeles in the wake of the devastating wildfires. The panel, moderated by Kelly Phillips Badal (Los Angeles Editor for Luxe Interiors and Design), focused on the challenges and innovative opportunities arising from the need to rebuild communities—specifically Altadena and the Palisades—after the recent devastating wildfires. The core themes were architectural preservation, fire-resilient building, and community collaboration. The Power of Preservation and Moving Homes (Gwen Sukeena): Interior designer Gwen Sukeena shared her deeply personal and compelling story of losing her own Altadena home to the fire and, determined to avoid building a “soulless” new structure, decided to save and move a 1910 Craftsman bungalow marked for demolition. The process was grueling, taking less than three months and costing approximately $400,000 (including move, deconstruction, and foundation work), saving about one-third of the cost of a new build. A significant finding revealed the house was originally built by the Milwaukee Building Company (later Meyer and Holler), known for iconic LA structures like Grauman’s Chinese Theater and the Egyptian Theater. Regulatory Advantage: Moving a pre-existing home allows it to be considered a remodel, exempting it from current Title 24 energy codes, which saves costs but requires creative fireproofing solutions (e.g., underneath shingles). Architectural Legacy and Community-Driven Guides (Jamie Rummerfield): Designer Jamie Rummerfield, co-founder of Save Iconic Architecture (SIA), detailed the initial community response and the need to combat “soulless box” tract homes during the speedy rebuild phase. In collaboration with the Design Leadership Network (DLN), SIA created a pattern language book called the Golden California Pattern Book. This field guide documents and celebrates the distinct eras that shaped Southern California living (Spanish Revival, Colonial Revival, California Modern, Cali Card), serving as a free resource for the public to understand and reference authentic regional design. The initiative launched recently at a town hall and is available online as The New California Classics. Fire Resilience and Replicating Character (William Hefner): Architect William Hefner (Studio William Hefner), a fifth-generation Californian, emphasized the goal of building fire-resilient structures t

Recorded live from CEDIA Expo 2025, this two-part episode of Convo By Design explores how technology, design, and infrastructure are converging to reshape the way we live. From the evolving role of integrators to the growing importance of energy resilience, the conversation examines what it takes to design spaces that are intelligent, responsive, and future-ready. Featuring insights from EmeraldX’s Dan Farrisi and Rosewater Energy founder Joe Piccirilli, this episode connects strategy, storytelling, and engineering into a single, forward-looking narrative. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home! TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep Two conversations, one shared theme: the future of the built environment depends on collaboration, foresight, and systems thinking. From CEDIA Expo’s show floor to the electrical panel itself, this episode explores how design, technology, and infrastructure must evolve together. This two-part episode of Convo By Design brings listeners inside CEDIA Expo 2025 for a wide-ranging discussion on where design, technology, and integration are headed—and why collaboration across disciplines has never been more important. The first conversation features Dan Farrisi, Group Editor for EmeraldX, who joins the show from the show floor to discuss the evolving role of trade events and the growing convergence between design and integration. Farrisi explains how CEDIA has become more than a technology showcase—it’s now a critical meeting ground for designers, integrators, manufacturers, and educators navigating a rapidly changing industry. He outlines how integrators are no longer simply installers but partners in shaping outcomes. As residential and commercial systems increasingly overlap, the conversation shifts toward experience design—how lighting, audio, controls, and infrastructure work together to support how people live, work, and interact. Farrisi also emphasizes the importance of storytelling, education, and advocacy in helping professionals communicate value in a crowded and often misunderstood marketplace. The discussion then transitions to the second interview, featuring Joe Piccirilli, founder and CEO of Rosewater Energy. With a career spanning more than five decades—from building Sound Advice into a public company to founding AVAD and later Rosewater—Piccirilli brings a deeply technical and philosophical perspective to the conversation. At the center of his work is a deceptively simple idea: most technology failures begin with power. Piccirilli explains how unreliable power, poor groundin

The panel explored the intersection of natural and man-made materials in landscape design, highlighting the balance between aesthetic, sustainability, and functional concerns. Participants discussed how interior and landscape designers borrow nature to create cohesive environments, including outdoor “rooms” and hardscape features softened with plantings. Material selection — stone, metal, glass, composite decking, and synthetic turf — was debated, with attention to local sourcing, durability, environmental impact, and client expectations. The panel also emphasized the sensory experience of landscapes, touching on sight, sound, smell, and taste, and how design can evoke memory and emotion. Sustainability, fire safety, maintenance, and longevity were recurring themes, particularly in the adoption of synthetic materials that mimic natural ones while reducing environmental or upkeep costs. Borrowed landscape: Using surrounding natural colors and textures to inform material choices in hardscape design. Softening hardscape: Plantings and layered design to maintain depth without overwhelming the property. Context-appropriate material selection: Stone, metal, glass, gravel, and concrete chosen according to environment, use, and climate. Trend toward natural imperfection: Broken edges, less precision, biophilic design responding to a highly digital, precise world. Sustainability tensions: Balancing natural and synthetic materials for longevity, cost, and environmental impact. Synthetic decking and recycled composites: TimberTech and similar products for durability, low maintenance, and fire safety. Artificial turf considerations: High-use areas, water savings, lifespan, recycling challenges. Sensory-driven design: Sight, sound, smell, and taste incorporated into landscapes for holistic human experiences. Childhood memory and emotional recall: Design that evokes personal sensory memory for users. Fire and climate constraints: Materials must meet modern safety and insurance standards.

Just in time for KBIS this year, I sat down with Jason McGraw from EmeraldX and Leanne Wood with Flying Camel to talk about the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) to preview the upcoming 2026 event in Orlando. This conversation dives deep into the strategic shifts for this year’s show, including the expansion of the floor plan to nearly 1.2 million net square feet and the introduction of a new editorial format for product debuts. A major theme for KBIS 2026 is the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across the industry. From the dedicated “Technology” track in the Voices from the Industry (VFTI) conference to live panel debates on AI’s role in luxury design, the show is positioning itself as the epicenter for modern design workflows. The team also discusses practical “pro-tips” for navigating the massive Orange County Convention Center, ensuring attendees maximize their time between the West, South, and North halls. You still have time to register and prepare for a groundbreaking event that will shape the way you think about your design business and sharpen your specification skills. And if you are going to the show this year in Orlando, please make sure you stop by the KBIS Podcast Studio and say hello. The KBIS 2026 Footprint: With over 700 exhibitors and 100,000+ expected professionals, Jason McGraw explains the logistical expansion into the Discovery District (located in the Rosen Centre) and how to navigate the skybridges and shuttles. Innovation Hour: Replacing the traditional “Design Bytes,” this new fast-paced “show + tell” session at noon on February 17th allows brands to present tactile stories. The audience will vote live for “Most Innovative” and “Most Unexpected.” AI and Technology: Leanne emphasizes how AI is no longer a “future” concept but a daily tool. This year features a “Technology Activation” and sessions focused on AI-powered customer journeys and smarter design workflows. The Best of KBIS Awards: The awards have expanded to seven categories, including “Sustainable Standout” and “Wellness Trailblazer.” Winners will be announced live on the NEXTStage on February 18th. The KBIS Podcast Studio: Now relocated to the West Hall Lobby, the studio—hosted by Josh—will feature 12 live sessions covering leadership, luxury, and the “business of design.” Wellness & Sustainability: For the first time, these two tracks have been merged into a unified focus, reflecting the interconnected nature of healthy, resilient living environments. Applicable Links & Resources Official Event Site: KBIS 2026 Registration & Info Educational Programming: Voices From the Industry (VFTI) Schedule Award Progra

Rebuilding After the Fire: How Designers, Architects & Community Leaders Are Reimagining Livability in Southern California A panel of architects, designers, sustainability experts, and community advocates explore what the 2025 Palisades and Altadena fires taught us about resilience, materiality, community loss, rebuilding timelines, economic displacement, and the future of Southern California living. Moderated by Adam Hunter. The 2025 Palisades and Altadena fires delivered a historic and deeply personal shock to Southern California communities, reshaping not only homes but expectations for safety, materiality, and resilience. In this WestEdge Wednesday conversation moderated by Adam Hunter, the panel digs into both the physical and emotional layers of rebuilding. Architect Richard Manion contextualizes the fires as a “perfect storm”—a wind-driven event functioning like a flamethrower—requiring a more holistic approach to resilient construction. Sarah Malek Barney highlights the risks of long-standing industry shortcuts in material selection and emphasizes the renewed value of fire-resistant, performance-proven products. Marcella Oliver outlines actionable guidance from USGBC California and the Net Zero Accelerator, underscoring vetted building strategies and digital-twin modeling as essential tools for community education. Stacy Munich brings forward the human consequences: underinsurance, temporary housing, and the emotional weight of rebuilding while navigating uncertainty. She explores prefab/precision-built housing as a potential solution for families priced out of traditional custom rebuilding. Todd Paolillo expands on the challenge of unifying a large number of well-intentioned contributors across agencies, nonprofits, and design sectors—and why true leadership must emerge to align them. Throughout the discussion, key themes emerge: Holistic resilience (materials, landscape, climate risk, embers, structural vulnerabilities) Community cohesion vs. community erosion Education gaps for homeowners suddenly forced into complex architectural decisions Economic realities shaping who can return and who is pushed out Long rebuilding timelines and the risk of “enthusiasm fatigue,” as Adam Hunter notes Avoiding both prefab monotony and hyper-luxury displacement in the Alphabet Streets The panel collectively reinforces a core message: rebuilding isn’t simply architecture—it’s long-term community-making. And it requires every discipline to show up. PARTICIPANTS & WEB LINKS (Links provided to official homepages or primary professional sites) Adam Hunter — Moderator https://adamhunterinc.com Richard Manion, Architect https://richardmanion.com Sarah Malek Barney – Band

This program explores the collision of tariffs, sustainability, design business acumen and shifting client expectations, offering a roadmap for navigating the volatility of the 2026 design landscape. Recorded live at Design Hardware in Los Angeles, I gathered a panel of industry leaders to dissect the economic and social forces shaping interior design as we head into 2026. Featuring Eva Hughes (Black House Beige), Shelly Sandoval (The Lauzon Collective), Rachel Grachowski (RHG Architecture), and Priya Vij (Hapny Home), the conversation confronts the “chaos” of the current market—from tariff-induced supply chain disruptions to the critical shortage of skilled labor. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep The discussion pivots from the technical challenges of “designing for disaster” and uninsurability to the creative opportunities found in circular economies and intentional sourcing. The panelists argue for a shift away from “fast fashion” interiors toward a “friendliness” of durability, prioritizing materials that pass the “grandparent test” of longevity. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes that in a volatile market, the most valuable currencies are transparency, deep vendor relationships, and educating clients on the true cost of craftsmanship. The “Friendliness” of Durability: A move toward “legacy” materials—like solid brass hardware and high-quality hardwood—that age gracefully and avoid the landfill, countering the disposable nature of current trends. Supply Chain as Design Driver: How tariffs and stock volatility are forcing firms to adopt “high-low” budgeting and pre-purchase models (buying and storing materials early) to protect projects from price surges. Designing for Disaster: The reality of rebuilding in fire-prone zones (like Altadena and the Palisades) is driving a demand for non-toxic, fire-resistant materials and a “circular economy” approach where building products can return to the earth safely. The Labor Crisis: A candid look at the “graying” of the trades; as master craftsmen retire without a new generation to replace them, the industry faces a loss of institutional knowledge and execution capability. Intentionality Over “Modern”: The panel discusses abandoning vague buzzwords like “wellness” and “modern” in favor of deep-dive mood boarding and psychological profiling to align client expectations with reality. Resources Design Hardware: designhardware.com Black House Beige (Eva Hughes): blackhousebeige.com<

This month’s Convo By Design Icon Registry inductee is architect, Peter Pennoyer, FAIA who shares his lifelong passion for architecture, tracing its roots to his upbringing in New York City and the rich urban fabric that shaped his design philosophy. From classical influences to modern interventions, in this conversation recorded in 2021, Pennoyer discusses how context, history, and creativity inform his work across New York, Miami, and beyond. This episode offers a rare glimpse into Pennoyer’s process, highlighting how tradition and innovation coexist in his projects. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home! TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep In this episode, Pennoyer explores the balance between respecting historic streetscapes and embracing contemporary design, sharing insights on notable projects including French modern townhouses in Manhattan, Adirondack retreats, and reimagined New England homes. Listeners will hear about his approach to materials, light, and functionality, as well as the lessons learned from urban and natural environments. From small creative spaces to sweeping estates, Pennoyer reveals how architecture can feel both inevitable and personal. Show Topics / Outline: Early Influences Growing up in NYC, next to an architect’s modernized Victorian townhouse. Father’s role on the Art Commission (Design Review Commission) and early exposure to civic architecture. Walking through the Metropolitan Museum during new wing constructions and its impact. Philosophy of Context and Streetscape Importance of buildings as parts of streets rather than standalone monuments. Learning from historic architecture and urban fabric. Balancing preservation with creative reinterpretation. Firm Origins and Approach Founding Peter Pennoyer Architects in 1990, NYC and Miami. Learning along the way; responding to each commission individually. Miami as a freer design environment vs. New York’s strict urban constraints. Design Inspirations and Innovation Interest in unusual historic ideas, color, and modern adaptation (e.g., Adirondack home with vibrant red windows). Classical architecture as a living, evolving language.</

Beyond the Sketchbook: Mastering the Business of Design with Industry Leaders. Esteemed practitioners Keith Granet, Grant Kirkpatrick, Tom Stringer, and Louis Taylor share candid insights into the origin stories, critical business skills, and forward-looking strategies necessary to build and sustain a successful design practice. Moderated by Cheryl Durst (EVP and CEO of IIDA), the panel focused on the transition from being a talented designer to running a thriving, resilient business, covering genesis, operations, talent management, branding, and future-proofing. Origin Stories and Industry Appreciation: The panelists shared diverse paths into design. Some were drawn in early (Grant and Tom), while others arrived via finance and business consulting (Keith and Louis). Louis Taylor (Finance, SchappacherWhite) noted that, coming from auditing various industries, design is “absolutely the best industry to work in by far.” The 80/20 Rule of Entrepreneurship: A critical takeaway for design professionals is understanding that running a firm is primarily a business function. Keith Granet and Grant Kirkpatrick stressed that the time split is often 70–80% focused on business (HR, finance, marketing, systems) and only 20–30% on actual design work. Keith Granet (Granet and Associates, Leaders of Design) emphasized that good systems and data tracking (like a monthly “executive summary” of financials) are “freeing” and allow for greater creativity by alleviating stress over payroll and rent. Infrastructure and Skill Development: Hire Your Weaknesses: The consensus was to surround yourself with great consultants (finance, PR, marketing) and “hire your weaknesses” to empower the principal designer to focus on their “highest and best use.” Future Talent Gap: Louis Taylor noted that junior staff coming out of school often require significant training in “soft skills” (people skills, professional email etiquette, presentation, listening) to bridge the gap between conceptual learning and the real-world practice. Branding and Storytelling: Effective messaging must be authentic and focus on an idea bigger than the work itself. Grant Kirkpatrick (KAA Design Group) detailed their use of “The Five Whys” to articulate a vision, which for his firm is the belief that “design elevates the human spirit.” Tom Stringer (Tom Stringer Design Partners) built his brand around his personal value of adventure, which attracts clients who are “kindred spirits.” He emphasized that design is predicated on building trust over multiple generations. Future Proofing and Resilience:</b

The design industry has changed more in the past five years than in the previous two decades. In this episode, Amy Courtney and I unpack how technology, social media, and shifting client expectations have transformed the way designers work, communicate, and create. From in-person collaboration to photography, craftsmanship, and professional credibility, the conversation explores what it really means to practice design today. A candid discussion about design after 2020, the rise of digital culture, evolving client behavior, and why experience still matters more than visibility. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home! TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep I sat down with designer Amy Courtney and together, we are going to examine how dramatically the design industry has shifted since 2020—and what those changes mean for designers, clients, and the creative process itself. What began as a necessity during the pandemic has evolved into a permanent shift in how projects are managed, communicated, and perceived. The conversation opens with how in-person collaboration has largely been replaced by screens, emails, and digital presentations. While technology has made certain aspects of design more efficient, it has also introduced new challenges: endless email threads, over-reliance on links and screenshots, and a growing disconnect between how spaces are discussed and how they are actually experienced. Both speakers reflect on the loss of face-to-face interaction and how it has altered everything from client relationships to decision-making. From there, the discussion moves into how design has become more visible—and more misunderstood—than ever before. With social media and image-driven platforms shaping expectations, clients often arrive with highly specific visual references but little understanding of how those ideas translate into real-world construction. The conversation explores how designers now spend much of their time educating clients, explaining limitations, and helping them understand the difference between inspiration and execution. Photography plays a major role in this shift. Where designers once photographed only select projects, today’s market pressures encourage constant documentation. The episode unpacks the financial and creative cost of professional photography, the tension between editorial standards and reality, and how images can sometimes misrepresent how spaces actually function. The discussion also touches on how publication expectations and sponsorships can influence what gets shown—and what gets left out. Another central

At WestEdge, a panel of accomplished designers opened up about the emotional highs and lows of a career in creative design. The conversation delved into the toll that challenging clients can take, emphasizing that boundaries are not just beneficial but necessary for longevity in the industry. Panelists reflected on early career experiences, noting that optimism and the desire to see the best in clients can sometimes lead to depletion when projects are mismatched. These stories reinforced the idea that learning to say “no” and choosing the right clients is both a practical and emotional necessity. Beyond client challenges, the panel explored ways designers replenish their creative energy. Travel, flea markets, and tactile art projects, such as creating feathered artworks or doodling with Sharpies on rocks, were highlighted as powerful methods to reconnect with the craft. Attendees also shared experiences with artist dates, personal excursions that nurture inspiration outside work routines. For many, small, seemingly mundane moments—like walking barefoot on the beach or exploring museum exhibits—serve as vital opportunities to recharge. Central to the discussion was the notion of hope and intention in design. Designers are not only crafting spaces but facilitating transformative experiences for their clients. From arranging reveal days to curating details that clients cannot yet envision, designers play a key role in shaping both the aesthetic and emotional outcome of a home. These moments, when clients recognize the thought and care embedded in every choice, provide a profound sense of validation and joy for the designer. Technology emerged as both a boon and a challenge. Tools like Google Banana Nano and reverse image searches empower clients but can also accelerate expectations, requiring designers to continually adapt. To maintain balance, panelists suggested strategies such as phone lockboxes, one-word reset practices (e.g., travel, camping, art), and engaging in the tactile and analog experiences that digital feeds cannot replicate. Magazines were championed as a crucial resource in the digital age, offering tactile, spontaneous inspiration that cannot be algorithmically curated. They allow designers to explore beyond the bounds of client constraints and rediscover creative joy in a medium that encourages discovery and reflection. Ultimately, the WestEdge panel underscored the importance of integrating self-care, boundaries, and intentional creative practices into the professional life of a designer. Burnout is inevitable at times, but with mindfulness, grounding practices, and opportunities to reconnect with the joy of creation, designers can sustain their passion and continue to deliver transformative experiences for their clients. The panel left attendees with actionable insights and inspiration to navigate the demanding yet rewarding world of design. About: Convo By Design is a platform designed to share and promote the ideas of those

Design is more than aesthetics—it’s about understanding how people live, move, and connect with their spaces. In this episode, Kristin Mullen and I explore how sourcing, observation, and thoughtful decision-making shape interiors that feel authentic and functional. From Round Top to kitchen design to client relationships, the conversation reveals why the best work begins with listening and ends with purpose. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home! TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep A thoughtful conversation on antiques, design philosophy, client trust, and why the most successful spaces are built on intention rather than trends. You are going to hear from designer Kristin Mullen. We’re exploring the deeper thinking behind successful interior design—where process, perspective, and human behavior matter as much as aesthetics. The conversation opens with a discussion of the Round Top Antiques Show, which Kristin describes as an essential destination for designers seeking character, craftsmanship, and pieces with history. While digital sourcing has its place, both agree that nothing replaces the experience of seeing and understanding objects in person. Round Top, in particular, offers an immersive environment that encourages discovery, education, and creative connection. From there, the conversation turns inward, examining how a designer’s background and worldview shape their approach. Kristin shares how her early training in speech and language pathology sharpened her ability to read clients, recognize unspoken preferences, and interpret behavior—skills that now inform every project she takes on. That sensitivity, paired with her passion for antiques, results in spaces that feel layered, personal, and grounded in story rather than surface-level trends. A central theme throughout the episode is redefining what “value” means in design. Josh and Kristin challenge the idea that good design is about price or status. Instead, they discuss how meaningful spaces come from clarity, intention, and thoughtful editing. The role of the designer, they explain, is often to simplify—helping clients focus on what truly matters and guiding them away from choices that don’t support how they actually live. The conversation naturally moves into kitchens, where function and behavior intersect most clearly. From layout and stone selection to lighting and storage, Josh and Kristin explore how small decisions can dramatically affect daily life. They discuss the importance of planning for real habits rather than idealized ones, and how photographic trends often misrepresent how spa

Since areas of Los Angeles, entire communities burned to the ground in January, 2025, the world around us has jumped in with opinions on how to rebuild.  Moderated by: Allison Holdorff Polhill, LAUSDFeaturing: Reza Akef, Polaris Homes; Sue Kohl, Pacific Palisades Community Council; Ron Marome, Fleetwood Windows and Doors; Rob Jernigan, Clayco; May Sung, SUBU Design Architecture; and Matt Talley , AECOM I made a promise to those in attendance that I would do my homework and find resources, phone numbers, contacts… And I have. It’s voluminous but you will find many of these links in the show notes of this episode. I will also continue to dig and share my findings on Instagram so please follow along. Convo X Design and email me if you would like more information and resource contacts. Convo By Design at Outlook dot com. Key Agencies & Contacts for Rebuild / Recovery in Pacific Palisades 1. City of Los Angeles Los Angeles City Planning Palisades Rebuild & Recovery Team — Email: [email protected] City Planning+1 One‑Stop Rebuilding Center (city permit center): 1828 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025 City Planning+1 Departments represented at the One‑Stop: LADBS (Building & Safety) City Planning Bureau of Engineering (BOE) City Planning StreetsLA / Urban Forestry City Planning LADWP (Water & Power) City Planning LADOT (Transportation) City Planning LAFD (Fire Department) City Planning LA Housing Department (LAHD) City Planning LA Sanitation and Environment (LASAN) City Planning Bureau of Contract Administration (BCA) City Planning SoCalGas (utility) City Planning Los Angeles Emergency Management Department For recovery inquiries: [email protected] L.A. Emergency Management Their 2025 Wildfire Recovery page includes resources for disaster‑rebuild. L.A. Emergency Management Mayor’s Office – Resilient Rebuild Advisory Committee Under Emergency Executive Order 5 (2025), a Resilient Rebuild Advisory Committee was established. Los Angeles Mayor’s Office 2. Los Angeles County (for areas in the County jurisdiction) LA County Recovers Main Recovery Website: recovery.lacounty.gov LA County Recovers Public Works Hotline (for rebuilding / debris): 844‑347‑3332 LA County Recovers+1 Fire Debris Removal Permit: call 888‑479‑7328 for fire debris removal help. LA County Recovers LA County Public Works – Building & Safety Contact for building, grading, and drainage issues: via their offices. LA County Public Works Geotechnical & Materials Engineering (soils, geology): (626) 458‑4925 LA County Public Works Fire Prevention (County Fire): LACoFD Headquarters (323) 890‑4132 LA County Public Works LA County Department of Regional Planning Zoning, planning, rebuilding permitting: (213) 974‑6411 LA County Public Works The “Road to Rebuilding” program provides one-on-one concierge appointments (Public Works / Planning / Fire / Public Health) for Palisades rebuilding. LA County Public Works LA County Environmental Health For septic system (onsit

Late last year, I moderated an event hosted by Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home with the goal of breaking down kitchen desires and needs of todays well informed and demanding design clients. You would think this is an easy conversation to have. I assembled an all star cast of design and architecture talent for an incredible conversation. One that you might want to save and re-listen every now and then. Late last year, I moderated an event hosted by Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home with the goal of breaking down kitchen desires and needs of todays well informed and demanding design clients. You would think this is an easy conversation to have. I assembled an all star cast of design and architecture talent for an incredible conversation. One that you might want to save and re-listen every now and then. At Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home in Torrance, leading architects, designers, and industry specialists gathered to examine how pandemic-era shifts, rising client expectations, and rapid product innovation are reshaping the future of kitchens and baths. Their insights reveal an industry moving beyond trend talk toward highly personalized, wellness-driven, and performance-first design. The kitchen is no longer just a workspace, and the primary bath is no longer just a retreat. Over the past five years, these rooms have become emotional anchors, wellness centers, hospitality zones, tech platforms, and reflections of how people believe they should live. At Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home in Torrance, a cross-section of the industry’s leading voices came together to discuss how the profession is adapting—and what clients now expect designers to deliver. For Sayler Design Studio founder Beth Sayler (https://saylorstudio.com), the shift is rooted in emotion. After years of pandemic-related uncertainty, material shortages, and insurance-driven rebuilds, clients want spaces that feel personal, restorative, and meaningful. Her projects now lean into “experience design,” where primary suites might include refrigeration drawers, espresso stations, integrated audio, and hospitality-level details. Her biggest tool is expectation-setting—helping clients redefine what’s realistic, what’s essential, and what will ultimately make them feel at home again. Architect Luis Escalera of LMD Architecture Studio (https://www.lmdarchitecturestudio.com) experiences the evolution through the lens of constraints. Small lots, stricter codes, and the ongoing battle between mandated electrification and client cooking preferences require tight onboarding, detailed questionnaires, and careful translation of desires to built form. The modern kitchen triangle now includes the deck, yard, and pool—one interconnected lifestyle zone that must function as a unified system. For Jessica Nicastro Design (https://www.jessicanicastrodesign.com), the challenge is volatility. Pri

Let me start with a disclaimer—this isn’t a political editorial. It’s a conversation about ideas. Lessons from business, design, culture, and philosophy that might help us grow—individually and collectively. And if you disagree, email me at [email protected]. I welcome the debate. As this year closes, I’m feeling a mix of frustration and optimism. This moment feels chaotic—as does most of life lately—which is why I often end the show with, “rise above the chaos.” We can’t eliminate it, but we can manage what’s within our control. The Stoics told us that long ago: focus on what you can control, release what you can’t, act with virtue, and let obstacles sharpen resilience. This essay is about taking back even a small amount of control through the work we do and the spaces we shape. The Problem with Trend-Driven Design This year, phrases and hashtags flew faster than ever—Quiet Luxury, Brat Green, Fridgescaping, Millennial Grey. Much like the “big, beautiful bill” language we’ve all heard tossed around in political discourse, design’s buzzwords can distract from what actually matters. They generate attention, not meaning. They look good on social media, not necessarily in the lived experience of a home, workplace, or public square. So instead of centering our design conversations around fleeting edits, let’s pivot toward the global innovations that are transforming the built world in ways that truly matter. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home! TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep Real Innovation Worth Talking About Across the globe, designers, architects, and researchers are developing ideas that transcend buzz. These are the concepts with longevity—the ones shaping smart, resilient, human-centered spaces: Biophilic Design, rooted in the work of Edward O. Wilson, Erich Fromm, and Japanese shinrin-yoku, continues to reframe our relationship with nature. Net-Zero Architecture, pioneered in Canada, Germany, and Australia, redefines building performance through projects like Seattle’s Bullitt Center and Colorado’s RMI Innovation Center. Smart Homes and Invisible Tech, building on early Asian innovation, hiding circuitry and functionality behind seamless design powered by Apple, Google, and Amazon ecosystems. Prefab and Modular Construction, originally exemplified by structures like the Crystal Palace and the Sydney Opera House, now reimagined by firms such as Plant Prefab. Passive House Design, born

For the past 2 years, you have been hearing about the Convo By Design Icon Registry. My version of a hall of fame. I started this reluctantly. Reluctantly? Yes, for one reason. I have shared my disdain for the click-bait lists that many of the trade pubs and outlets offer. I think it’s disingenuous to put designers and architects on a list because there is really no way of valuing one creative over another, especially when these lists often have absolutely no methodology for why someone is chosen. It’s like a MadLib, the “insert here” 100, the “insert” Top 50, 30 Under 30, 40 Under 40, The “insert” of Design, The “insert” of the Year… You get me, right? And the last thing I wanted to do was offer up the same thing but on the other hand, this show is entering its 13th year. 2-years ago in the shadow of an incredible year 10, I wanted to celebrate and showcase some of the amazing talent featured on the show, celebrate them and enshrine them for their work, their selfless pursuit of sublime design, giving back to the industry and for the intangibles that make them so special. That really is the criteria for why these incredible creatives are celebrated here. That is the criteria for enshrinement. The Convo By Design Icon Registry is presented by a remarkable partner. A partner who imbues these very criteria into the work they do and why I am so appreciative to Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home, a Best Buy company, for being the presenting partner of the Convo By Design Icon Registry.  Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home! TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep We post a new Icon Registry episode on the third or fourth Thursday of every month with a whole new slate of inductees scheduled for 2026. And today, we are going to take a look back at each of the inductees from 2025 and allow you to hear from them again in this year end review. Right after this. January – Adam Hunter February – Leo Marmol March – Cliff Fong April – EYRC Architects May – Joan Behnke June – RAMSA July – Jeff Andrews August – Frances Anderton September – Martyn Lawrence Bullard October – The Novogratz November – Sue Firestone December – Woodson & Rummerfield  Thank you and congratulations to all of the 2025 Convo By Design Icon Registry Inductees. This is such an immense jo

Creating Timeless Elegance: How Woodson & Rummerfield Bring Hollywood Regency into the 21st Century. From celebrity estates to curated collectibles, Jamie Rummerfield and Ron Woodson share their philosophy on bold, elevated design, preservation of iconic architecture, and the art of collaboration in Los Angeles. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home! TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep To celebrate this episode of the Convo By Design Icon Registry, Christine Anderson sits down with Jamie Rummerfield and Ron Woodson of Woodson & Rummerfield House of Design. The duo discuss their signature approach to interiors—melding the opulence of old Hollywood with sleek modern sensibilities for a discerning clientele. They share stories from celebrity projects, the thrill of collecting one-of-a-kind pieces, and the lessons learned from running a showroom on La Cienega. Jamie and Ron also discuss their nonprofit foundation, CA Projects, dedicated to preserving Southern California’s iconic architecture, emphasizing the importance of heritage in contemporary design. Show Topics & Segment Outline: Introduction & Guest Backgrounds Christine introduces Jamie Rummerfield and Ron Woodson. Overview of their design style: Hollywood opulence meets modern refinement. Design Philosophy & Influences Hollywood Regency roots and modern adaptations. Influence of Los Angeles history, old Hollywood cinema, and personal family heritage. Fashion-forward client expectations and balancing boldness with timelessness. Collaboration & Partnership How Jamie and Ron complement each other creatively. Problem-solving, brainstorming, and the synergy of their partnership. Career Highlights & Notable Projects Celebrity estates and high-profile commissions (without naming clients). Influence of their La Cienega showroom as a “three-dimensional calling card.” Philosophy on sourcing rare furniture, art, and collectibles. Preservation & Advocacy Founding of CA Projects to save iconic Southern California architecture. Importance of protecting hist

Architecture is evolving faster than ever, especially in healthcare, where design intersects with technology, patient experience, and operational efficiency. In this episode, principals Rebecca MacDonald and Kyle Basilius of Parkin Architects discuss the changing landscape of hospital design, from universal versus private healthcare systems to the integration of AI and robotics. Discover how architecture shapes outcomes for patients, families, and staff, while anticipating the healthcare challenges of tomorrow. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home! TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep Join us for a deep dive into the world of healthcare architecture with Parkin Architects. Rebecca McDonald and Kyle Basilius share insights from decades of experience designing hospitals across Canada, the U.S., and Europe. From flexible master planning and lifespan considerations to advanced lighting, patient control systems, and automated logistics, they reveal how design can directly impact health, wellness, and operational efficiency. We explore how emerging technologies like AI, remote diagnostics, and robotics are beginning to influence design decisions and operational planning, creating safer, more adaptive, and human-focused healthcare environments. Whether you’re interested in the philosophy of design, future-proofing healthcare infrastructure, or the intersection of technology and empathy, this conversation highlights the practical and visionary approaches shaping hospitals today. Talking Points: Introduction current principal overseeing cancer hospital design, philosophy of integrating empathy into architecture. Healthcare Systems & Design Philosophy Comparison: Single-payer/universal heal

From Halifax to the four Maritime provinces, Stil James founders share how timeless design, regional sensibilities, and entrepreneurial grit shape their work and new cabinetry brand, Loran. There’s a kind of quiet confidence in the design work coming out of Canada’s Maritime provinces—projects that don’t chase trends but instead reflect the rhythm of life shaped by weather, culture, and community. In this episode of Convo By Design, I’m talking with the founders of Stil James, a Halifax-based design studio that embodies this spirit of regional purpose. Their approach blends design restraint with deep practicality, and their new cabinetry brand, Loran, takes that philosophy even further. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home! TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep In this episode, we explore how two designers are navigating generational shifts in lifestyle, climate challenges, and a conservative market while building a business rooted in curiosity, learning, and partnership. From kitchens and mudrooms to cabinetry and color palettes, they reveal what it means to design for both function and future in Atlantic Canada. We talked about how the pandemic reshaped design thinking in the Maritimes—how open spaces replaced formal dining rooms, and how designers are reimagining older homes to suit how families actually live. The team at Stil James described the region’s unique relationship with design: working “ten to fifteen years behind the trends” not as a limitation, but as an advantage that allows for timelessness and reflection. They draw more inspiration from Europe than North America, taking cues from craftsmanship, heritage, and texture rather than fleeting style cycles. Our conversation moved into climate resiliency—a constant design driver in Atlantic Canada, where homes must withstand everything from coastal winds to heavy snowfall. Mudrooms become essential transitional spaces, designed for the reality of shifting weather and active family life. Clients are increasingly focused on systems, materials, and sustainable practices that ensure their homes can adapt with the climate. We also discussed how lifelong learning has become central to the Stil James ethos. They encourage their team to attend design shows, seek global perspectives through digital tools, and value soft skills—resilience, empathy, and curiosity—just as highly as formal training. Then came Loran, their new cabinetry venture, born out of a clear