There is a new paradigm for today’s architects. Traditionally, the problems we solved for clients—in most cases—fit nicely and neatly into the parameters of our job descriptions. But can we do more to make a real, lasting social impact? Today, we understand better the sheer complexity of the issues at play when we plan and design … Continued
Sometimes, the best way to move forward is to look back. Many of the earliest examples of architecture and design responded to both site and climate and incorporated natural “passive” climate control strategies. It was only with the advent of cheap energy and advances in environmental system controls that designers were able to decouple building … Continued
In talking with A/E/C leaders, we have discovered that as an industry, we have not yet achieved a common vocabulary of terms and ideas around regenerative design. In order for regenerative design to come to scale and become the new standard of design that everyone follows—in the way sustainability has scaled to a point through … Continued
Architects, engineers and designers are stepping outside of the bounds of traditional practice to make a difference in our communities and our environment. DesignIntelligence talked with Dan Watch—principal, science and technology practice leader of Perkins+Will, Atlanta—who was dissatisfied with the direction of politics in the U.S. He decided to run for a city council seat … Continued
The World Bank provides financial and technical assistance to reduce poverty and build shared prosperity in developing countries. Commitment to sustainability and the environment is a cornerstone of all the Bank’s work. DesignIntelligence recently sat down with Enzo de Laurentiis, Chief Procurement Officer for World Bank, to talk about how sustainability underpins the Bank’s new … Continued
The international movement toward increased sustainability in the built environment is strong, but local differences vary greatly in their impact on the design community. To paraphrase Christina Figueres, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, in her remarks when accepting the 2018 NY Architecture League award for her work on the … Continued
There is a dichotomy when it comes to the relationship between architects and the framework for policy and the building codes and standards within which we work. In one camp, design professionals have a view of this framework as “other”—as something created and established by separate entities and organizations and that we must abide by … Continued
Though firms face uncertainty from many directions such as technology, changing roles and relationships in design and delivery, and the economics of real estate, no challenge is so important or vexing as talent—hiring, compensating, retaining and engaging employees. As the economy strengthens and backlogs fill, finding top talent is an increasing challenge for professional practices. … Continued
The challenge of climate adaptation in the SF Bay area highlights a shift taking place in our collective consciousness about sustainability. The need to mitigate impacts to the climate is still urgent; however, the threat of climate change that is already underway demands attention and proactive planning. The Urban Land Institute began sounding the alarm … Continued
Eric Carbonnier, Eera Babtiwale, & Bruce Boul
Pablo La Roche
Jason F. McLennan
Dan Watch
Enzo de Laurentiis
Nico Kienzl
Anica Landreneau
DesignIntelligence
Sandy Mendler