Category Archives: Icon Registry

CXD September 2026 Icon Registry | 686 | Paul Murdoch Architects: Designing sacred Ground, The Architecture of Memory at the Flight 93 National Memorial

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A Common Field Forever: Architect Paul Murdoch on the Architecture of Remembrance at the Flight 93 National Memorial. Convo By Design Icon Registry is presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home.

In this special episode timed for the anniversary of September 11th, I sit down with architect Paul Murdoch to explore the profound responsibility of designing a national place of remembrance. Murdoch’s firm was selected from more than 1,100 international entries to create the Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville, Pennsylvania—a 2,200-acre site honoring the 40 passengers and crew members who fought back against highjackers on 9/11.

We discuss the critical evolution from initial, spontaneous outpourings of grief—like roadside fences lined with personal tributes—to permanent architectural expressions built to sustain historical weight across generations. Murdoch walks me through the spatial narrative of the park, explaining how the landscape itself carries the scale of heroism. From the Wall of Names positioned directly along the plane’s flight path to the central field of honor, the integrated Visitor Center, and the 93-foot-tall Tower of Voices housing 40 wind chimes, Murdoch reveals how intentional editing, spatial restraint, and environmental integration can turn a site of immense tragedy into a timeless sanctuary of collective healing.

  • The Transition of Memorialization: Murdoch contrasts the initial, intense emotional outpouring of temporary tributes—such as the murals that emerged worldwide following Kobe Bryant’s tragic death or the original chain-link fence aggregated with personal items in Pennsylvania—with the profound challenge of designing a permanent national memorial. A lasting monument must suspend that raw, immediate grief just enough to preserve its historical weight for future generations, while still embedding emotional resonance into its core.
  • Defining Heroes, Not Victims: In developing the narrative framework, Murdoch notes a defining stance held by the families of the passengers and crew: they do not refer to their lost loved ones as victims, but as heroes. The design was tasked with capturing the collective, democratic action of forty everyday citizens who voted to fight back in real-time.
  • The Scale of a Memorial Landscape: Encompassing 2,200 acres (roughly two and a half times the size of New York’s Central Park), the site’s vast rural setting allowed the design team to utilize the geography itself rather than relying on heavy architectural objects. Murdoch emphasizes that a standard monument would have been completely dwarfed by the environment, forcing them to reshape the land itself to project a sense of heroism.
  • The Blueprint of Remembrance:
    • The Crash Site & Hemlock Grove: The final resting place remains a restricted, sacred zone. The public is brought to the very edge, where a ceremonial gate opens exclusively on September 11th alongside a wall of 40 marble slabs engraved with the heroes’ names, tracking the plane’s precise flight path.
    • The Field of Honor: Utilizing a quote originally written on a quilt by an LAFD captain before it was officially adopted into the competition brief (“A common field one day, a field of honor forever”), a sweeping circular walkway traces the rim of what was once an open-pit coal mine.
    • The Tower of Voices: Standing 93 feet tall near the park’s main highway entrance, this soaring vertical structure acts as both a gateway landmark and an acoustic monument, housing 40 unique wind chimes to honor the final memories of those who used their voices to connect with loved ones from the sky.
  • The Power of the Creative Edit: Murdoch stresses the rigorous testing required to distill the memorial to its absolute essence. By choosing to exclude a heavy narrative presence from the landscape, the Visitor Center became the designated home for storytelling. Murdoch restricted the center’s layout to a single space with five double-sided walls, explicitly fighting against a cluttered, “antique store” aesthetic or an insular “black box” exhibit style, opting instead for natural light that shifts with the moods of the surrounding environment.
  • Navigating Bureaucracy with Purpose: Building a brand-new national park from scratch required aligning a massive ecosystem of stakeholders, including the Federal Advisory Commission, the Families of Flight 93, the National Park Service, and environmental entities like the Army Corps of Engineers. Murdoch shares how the firm maintained the integrity of its design vision when confronted with institutional frameworks and standardized federal infrastructure plans.

Applicable Elements & Links

Convo By Design Icon Registry | 681 | HMC Architects

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In an un-siloed world where public spaces face evolving threats, Kirk Rose and Sergio Lechuga detail how intentional design, community trust, and “invisible layers” protect people without building prisons. This is only a part of what makes HMC Architects a people-focused firm and one built for the future. he Convo By Design Icon Registry is presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home.

In this follow-up conversation, I attempt to anchor a deep dive into the changing nature of safety and security in architectural design. Kirk Rose (Healthcare Practice Leader at HMC Architects) and Sergio Lechuga (Director of Interior Design at HMC Architects).

The dialogue builds upon a previous conversation to explore how architects, acting as true futurists who design structures to last 75 to 150 years must proactively engineer spaces for unthinkable modern threats. From emergency room protocols to K-12 campus layouts and civic centers, Kirk and Sergio break down how rigid, intrusive security (like airport-style metal detectors) can erode human experience and mental well-being. Instead, they champion an approach of subtle, “porous” architectural layers and operational human protocols. The trio bridges these heavy commercial insights with residential realities, concluding that real safety relies heavily on human awareness, technological adaptation, and the ultimate luxury: a connected community. And this is just partly why the entire HMC Architects firm are inductees for the month of August, 2026 in Convo By Design Icon Registry presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home.

  • Architects as Futurists vs. Designers: Josh establishes that while interior designers typically plan for 5-to-25-year cycles (allowing for aesthetic refreshes), architects must project safety, utility, and durability 100+ years into the future.
  • The Psychology of Security: Walking through metal detectors or staring through barred windows drastically alters a child’s or a patient’s state of mind. Sergio explains how HMC organizes K-12 buildings to act as a natural perimeter courtyard, eliminating the need for aggressive fencing while maintaining clear sightlines and controlled points of access.
  • The Fallibility of the Metal Detector: Kirk highlights a counterintuitive healthcare trend: many public hospitals are actively removing physical metal detectors. Because weapons can be bypassed or thrown over gates, facilities rely instead on roving security, trained staff, and strict internal “back-of-house” zoning accessible only by keycard.
  • The “Aleatory Space” & Community Trust: Drawing on an architectural concept of un-owned public property (aleatory space), the guests argue that the true front line of residential security isn’t just an automated floodlight or a ring camera—it is genuine rapport and old-fashioned communication between neighbors.
  • High-Tech Human Interventions: Kirk shares sophisticated backend systems used in modern maternal wards, such as infrared infant abduction systems paired with “delayed egress” alarms. These systems demonstrate that effective security is always a blend of automated tech and rapid human operational protocol.
  • Security as the New Ultimate Luxury: Pre-pandemic design focused heavily on air, water, and sound quality. Today, Josh and the guests observe a market evolution where invisible, seamless security infrastructure has officially shifted from an afterthought to a core luxury expectation.
  • Featured Architecture Firm: Learn more about regional planning, K-12 innovations, and evidence-based environment modeling at HMC Architects.

From Luxury Hyde to Design Empire | 680 | Kyle Bunting on Authenticity, the “Favor Bank,” and Navigating Industry Shifts

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This design icon shares how doubling down during macroeconomic uncertainty, and expanding his signature brand into wool and silk was the most obvious and challenging options in the evolution of his business

In this episode of the show, I reconnect with Convo by Design Icon Registry inductee Kyle Bunting for an open, wide-ranging conversation about personal transition, business philosophy, and industry evolution. 

We look back at our popular Kyle Bunting and Friends podcast micro-series before diving into the core values that have defined Kyle’s career. He emphasizes a service-first approach inspired by his small-business upbringing, summarized by the unforgettable advice from an early mentor: “Never run a deficit in the favor bank.” Finally, Kyle reveals how his brand elegantly navigated sudden tariff changes by doubling down on customer commitment, ultimately driving the evolution of Kyle Bunting from a specialized luxury hyde company into a diversified design powerhouse spanning wool, silk, wall coverings, and commercial hospitality.

Key Takeaways & Discussion Points

  • The “Favor Bank” Philosophy: A core tenant of Kyle’s business is building genuine, frictionless relationships. By prioritizing the designer’s timeline and vision over the transaction, the brand builds deep relational equity that sustains it through industry downturns.
  • Weathering Macroeconomic Storms: Instead of implementing aggressive price hikes or sending “passive-aggressive emails” during recent tariff rollouts, Kyle Bunting extended incentives on their new product launches, capturing a 75% higher sales volume than anticipated by absorbing risks alongside their clients.
  • Combatting “Dupe” Culture: Josh and Kyle discuss the rise of theft culture and replication in design driven by social media. Kyle highlights that while budgets remain fixed despite rising material costs, true authenticity and original artistry always stand out.
  • A Evolution of Materiality: Long known exclusively for high-end decorative hide, Kyle discusses the intentional 24-to-36-month pivot to turn the brand into a multifaceted, diversified entity incorporating wool, silk, synthetics, and wall coverings for both residential and non-residential spaces.

Applicable Links & Elements Mentioned

  • Brand Partnership: Check out the custom mural work done by Kyle’s team for the new Tecovas retail location in Tulsa.
  • Tulsa in Pop Culture: The conversation highlights Tulsa’s rising cultural footprint via productions like Taylor Sheridan’s Tulsa King, the Ethan Hawke-directed project, and Martin Scorsese’s Killers of the Flower Moon.
  • Design Legends Featured: Revisit the work of Texas design trailblazers Jan Showers and Fern Santini, who previously starred in the Kyle Bunting and Friends micro-series.
  • The Brand Portfolio: Explore the newly diversified collections of hide, wool, and silk architectural elements at Kyle Bunting.

At the heart of Bunting’s approach is what an early mentor termed the “Favor Bank” philosophy—the practice of building deep relational equity by prioritizing a designer’s timeline, storage constraints, and vision long before discussing the product. By eliminating friction and absorbing logistical headaches, the brand establishes a reservoir of goodwill that serves as a vital cushion during industry downturns.

This relationship-first model faced a true test during recent macroeconomic storms. While many competitors sent passive-aggressive emails announcing immediate price hikes amid sweeping tariff rollouts, Bunting chose to double down on his clientele. The company absorbed the risk, maintaining a 20% introductory incentive on their latest collections. This bold stance paid off, yielding a stunning 75% higher sales volume than projected and capturing significant market share.

This commitment to authenticity provides a powerful antidote to the rising “dupe culture” on social media. While copycats try to replicate high-end looks with cheap alternatives, Bunting notes that true artistry cannot be easily duplicated, even as fixed client budgets collide with inflation.

To meet these changing demands, the brand completed a profound 24-to-36-month pivot. Long celebrated exclusively for decorative hide, Kyle Bunting has evolved into a multifaceted powerhouse. The current portfolio seamlessly integrates wool, silk, synthetics, and custom wall coverings—now splitting its output between ultra-luxury residential spaces and a rapidly growing roster of commercial, hospitality, and retail environments.

CXD July 2026 Icon Registry | 676 | Mary Ann Schickedanz: Blending European Longevity with Western Resiliency

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The Studio Schickedanz founder is inducted into the Convo By Design Icon Registry, showcasing three decades of sustainable innovation, material intelligence, and integrated architectural practice.

This episode celebrates the installation of Mary Ann Schickedanz, founder of Carmel-based Studio Schickedanz, into the Convo By Design Icon Registry. Bringing a foundational Austrian perspective where buildings are crafted to endure for generations, Schickedanz has spent over thirty years pioneering sustainable architecture across the American West. The conversation highlights her holistic approach to environmental integration—combining high-performance building science with deep material intelligence to combat regional ecological pressures like drought and wildfire risks. The episode also revisits a poignant 2019 archival interview from the La Cienega Design Quarter (LCDQ) Legends event, where she discusses her creative process, storytelling, and the influence of Austrian modernist pioneer Josef Hoffmann on her multidisciplinary practice.

  • The Icon Registry Induction: Recognized for achieving the highest tier of performance and intentionality in the design industry, proudly presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home.
  • Material Intelligence & Eco-Integration: Schickedanz’s work prioritizes site-specific architecture, featuring native rooftop flora, local granite, and earth-toned integral plaster that allow structures to坐 sit seamlessly within their ecologies, achieving LEED certification and net-zero status.
  • Modular Construction & Innovation: Her multi-family compound at the Santa Lucia Preserve demonstrates how high-end factory fabrication can deliver sustainable, all-electric, manufactured housing assembled on-site in just seven hours to minimize environmental disruption.
  • The Integrated Studio Model: A key differentiator where architects, interior designers, and horticulturalists collaborate from project inception to ensure a fluid connection between the structural shell and the natural landscape.
  • Honoring Heritage at LCDQ: The episode reflects on her 2019 window vignette at Mansur Carpets during the La Cienega Design Quarter Legends event, channeling the comprehensive maker-designer philosophy of Josef Hoffmann alongside collaborations with Shirley Robinson Wallpaper and furniture from Design Within Reach.

Designing for Generations: The Material Intelligence of Mary Ann Schickedanz

The contemporary architecture landscape frequently wrestles with the concept of “intentionality,” yet Mary Ann Schickedanz has quietly spent the last thirty years operationalizing it. Inducted into the Convo By Design Icon Registry, the Austrian-native and founder of Studio Schickedanz has permanently altered how the American West approaches luxury residential design by rejecting “disposable architecture” in favor of ancestral longevity.

Schickedanz’s design philosophy bridges a European reverence for multi-generational structural permanence with the acute ecological demands of California’s topography. Rather than treating sustainability as a surface-level checklist, her methodology relies on deep material intelligence and total environmental integration. From pioneering the first LEED-certified projects in Big Sur and Carmel-by-the-Sea to engineering net-zero contemporary estates, her structures are designed to function as living, breathing extensions of their native ecosystems.

This is achieved primarily through her firm’s integrated studio model. By seating architects, interior specialists, and regional horticulturalists at the same table from day one, she eliminates the traditional fragmentation of design. Structural concrete, local granite, and native exposed-root rooftop flora are specified in tandem, maximizing thermal efficiency and wildfire resiliency while anchoring buildings seamlessly into rolling topography.

Her forward-thinking mindset extends equally to modern building science and historic preservation. Whether rewriting the narrative around modular housing by assembling a luxury, all-electric compound at the Santa Lucia Preserve in a single day, or meticulously updating the performance of a 1948 Henry Hill midcentury landmark, Schickedanz proves that high design and strict environmental metrics are not mutually exclusive. Ultimately, her work champions a vital shift in the industry: shifting away from an architectural “etch-a-sketch” mentality and moving toward purposeful, permanent spaces built right the first time.

Building a Safe Harbor for Creative Growth: A Family Affair | 675 | Introducing Shelter Republic

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Today is one of the most incredible episodes of the show I have ever produced. I don’t say this lightly. Today, you are going to hear about a new project called Shelter Republic, officially launching although if you are an avid listener, you have probably heard me talking about it as we prepared for launch. Well, it’s here, and it’s official. And You are going to hear from my co-founder…I’m sitting down with computer engineer and Shelter Republic co-founder Jack Cooperman to discuss the platform’s structural architecture, functionality, purpose, and the necessity for safe places to explore ideas amongst peers.

  • The Genesis of Shelter Republic: Jack and I reflect on the evolution of the platform, tracking its roots back to when Jack and his sister first visited Josh on stage at the WestEdge Design Fair. The community was built to bridge regional gaps and provide a collaborative, peer-to-peer ecosystem for architects and designers.
  • Designing UX for Geographic Context: Jack outlines the structure of the platform, which is divided into five nationwide micro-communities (including the Mountain Atlantic and Southwest regions). This allows for highly localized discussions on styles, culture, and business norms while keeping a unified national hub.
  • Cultivating a “Safe Place to Fail”: The co-founders debate the nature of failure in school versus a creative career. Josh emphasizes that Shelter Republic is deliberately engineered as a vetted, invite-only environment to protect accomplished creatives from public “dogpiling” or algorithmic scrutiny when exploring new, untested concepts.
  • Platform Features & Onboarding: Built to avoid user-data exploitation and ad clutter, the platform operates via direct invitation and QR codes. Features include text-based feeds, real-time messaging, direct networking via professional member bios, live video-conferencing rooms, and educational modules—including Josh’s masterclass, Podcasting for Creatives.
  • Addressing Industry Disruptions (AI & Legislation): The conversation dives into how early-career junior designers are transitioning into technology facilitators due to AI studio integration. They also discuss how the platform serves as a “modern town crier” for critical industry news, citing a recent user post by a Southern California designer regarding the engineered quartz ban in California due to silicosis risks.
  • Cooperation Over Competition: Drawing a contrast with the competitive nature of the design world, Josh shares a lesson from his time covering the Playboy Jazz Festival, where legendary jazz musicians prioritized mentoring the next generation to keep the collective genre alive. Shelter Republic aims to foster that exact cross-regional mentorship.

Thank you Jack. I know I have already said it, but I have enjoyed every moment putting this together and we are thrilled to share it. Note on Access: Shelter Republic is entirely free, and does not collect user data except when stated like the use of polls and prompts for professional input. To maintain community standards and security, entry is restricted to verified industry professionals via peer invitation or direct QR code scanning at upcoming events.

Building Ethical Products, Leaning in on Values Based Specification | 668 | Legacy Reissue 2014 feat Frances Anderton & Jeff Denby

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Every now and then, I like to hop into the wayback machine and share a fresh listen to conversations that influenced our current times. The one you are going to register to today was recorded live in 2014 from DIEM, Design Intersects Everything Made symposium presented by the West Hollywood Design District featuring Frances Anderton, then with KCRW ad Jeff Denby, co-founder and then with Pact. A clothing brand you will be hearing more about. 

The following conversation was focused on values based capitalism, an economic model with which places value on profit generation that also generates positive social impact.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Shelter Republic – Request your membership invitation

As you listen to this chat between Frances and Jeff, you might notice the “feel-good” vibes and high ideals that come from a focus on values based consumerism patterns. Buy well-made products that come from sustainably based materials and made by people who are valued to those producing the products and then by those who buy the product. At the time of this recording, this idea was catching on and even now, companies that have a value-system connected directly to products speak openly about the social capital being generated. I would argue we hear far less now because sustainability has been linked politically to DEI, and there is a group of people who see that has more of a social ill, than a societal benefit. I’m not here to change any minds, only share different perspectives. And this is one worth sharing with the hope that it will make a return, not just in fashion or consumer packaged goods, but in the home decor and architectural materials sectors.

Consumer Awareness Evolution

How Whole Foods and the food industry educated consumers about product origins.

Extension of that curiosity to body care and apparel: understanding what goes on the skin and into daily wear.

The role of design in making sustainable products attractive and desirable.

Philanthropy and Social Impact

Early collaborations with nonprofits through limited-edition collections and direct aid.

Shift toward improving the lives of workers within the supply chain.

Emphasis on economic, environmental, and social impact as part of the business model.

Challenges of Domestic Manufacturing

Difficulties of reviving large-scale apparel production domestically, including labor costs, fractured supply chains, and compliance issues.

Comparison with global supply chains and the decision to work where systems already exist.

Insights from attempts at localized production and the challenges of sustainable sourcing.

Product Expansion and Market Strategy

Focus on apparel basics for the emerging generation of socially conscious consumers.

Building a generational brand by appealing to evolving values.

Commitment to price accessibility while maintaining sustainability and ethical production.

Supply Chain Ethics and Certification

Working exclusively with certified factories and farms to ensure fair labor practices.

Ensuring worker protections and representation, including female supervisors.

Direct engagement with farmers and supply chain partners to secure market access and stability.

Sustainability and Waste Management

Recycling factory scraps and leftover materials into new products.

Finding secondary uses for garment remnants, including mattress filling.

Factories incentivized to reduce waste as part of both economic and environmental sustainability.

Consumer Education and Transparency

Educating customers about the human and environmental story behind clothing.

Leveraging social media, coalition branding, and events to communicate supply chain practices.

Positioning Pact as a non-toxic apparel brand with safe-for-skin products.

Research and Industry Collaboration

Participation in textile and sustainability coalitions with like-minded brands.

Supporting the growth of organic cotton farming and sustainable supply chains.

Promoting transparency in manufacturing practices and educating the public on chemical exposure in conventional apparel.

Ethical apparel requires intentional design, transparent supply chains, and collaboration across the industry.

Consumers increasingly demand products that are safe, well-designed, and socially responsible.

Philanthropy is most effective when integrated into the core business, benefiting both workers and communities.

Scaling sustainability in mass-market apparel is challenging but possible with careful planning, partnerships, and public education.

Conscious Basics: How Textiles Can Be Ethical, Sustainable, and Stylish

In an era when consumers increasingly demand transparency and ethical responsibility, Pact is reshaping the apparel industry by marrying sustainability, social impact, and thoughtful design. Co-founder Jeff Denby spoke with Frances Anderton in 2014 about the philosophy behind the brand, tracing a journey from organic cotton farms in India to certified factories in Turkey, all with the goal of delivering high-quality, accessible clothing that respects both people and the planet.

Denby notes that consumer awareness has evolved in stages. Shoppers first became curious about food origins, learning that groceries come from farms, not just shelves. This consciousness extended to body care products, as people began asking what they were putting on their skin. Apparel is the next frontier. “People want to know what they’re wearing every day,” Denby explains. “They want products that are beautifully designed, sustainable, and safe, without having to reinvent what underwear or socks should look like.”

Early in Pact’s history, the company experimented with philanthropic partnerships, designing collections that supported nonprofit causes. These initiatives provided aid to communities abroad, from distributing lanterns in Haiti to rebuilding community centers in Japan. However, Denby realized the brand could make a deeper impact by focusing inward—supporting the lives of the workers who create the products. By investing in stable, ethical supply chains, Pact achieves a triple bottom line: economic, social, and environmental benefits.

Reviving large-scale apparel manufacturing in the United States proved impractical for Pact. Labor costs, fractured supply chains, and limited domestic processing infrastructure made it impossible to produce affordable basics at scale. Instead, the brand partnered with existing factories abroad, ensuring they meet strict certifications such as the Global Organic Textile Standard. Denby emphasizes that these certifications guarantee fair labor practices, gender equity, and safe working conditions—factors often overlooked in conventional apparel production.

Beyond ethical sourcing, Pact prioritizes product safety and environmental responsibility. Cotton cultivation and traditional textile processing can involve significant pesticide use and harmful chemicals. Pact works with organic cotton farmers and certified dye houses, eliminating heavy metals and carcinogens from their products. Waste management is also integral; leftover yarn and fabrics are recycled into new garments or repurposed for other industries, demonstrating that sustainability extends from field to factory to finished product.

Denby envisions Pact as the “basics brand for the change generation,” appealing to consumers who value ethics, transparency, and design. The brand is part of a coalition with other sustainable apparel companies, collaborating to secure fair market access for farmers, grow organic cotton production, and educate the public on the human stories behind clothing. Social media and events provide direct channels to communicate these values, allowing consumers to engage with the brand and understand the people and processes behind the garments they wear.

For Pact, the mission goes beyond selling clothing. It is about proving that everyday apparel can be ethical, well-designed, and accessible, while creating meaningful social impact. By integrating philanthropy, sustainability, and consumer education into the business model, Pact is showing that the basics—underwear, socks, and t-shirts—can carry a powerful message: that fashion can be responsible, thoughtful, and inclusive.

Convo By Design May 2026 ICON Cathy Purple Cherry | 665 | Designing for Life: Architecture, Emotion, and the Long View

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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.

Convo By Design Icon Registry April 2026 | 659 | Essential Design, The Journey and Philosophy: Roman Alonso

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Explore the life, philosophy, and creative process of a designer whose global upbringing and eclectic career shaped the essentialist approach of Commune Studio. From Caracas to Los Angeles, from fashion to interior design, he shares how formative experiences, partnerships, and a pursuit of quality have defined both a firm and a design philosophy centered on purpose, craft, and essential beauty. This is the April, 2026 Convo By Design Icon Registry episode featuring our newest inductee, Roman Alonso presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home.

Designer Resources

Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise.

TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep

Shelter Republic – Request your membership invitation

Alonso grew up in Caracas, Venezuela, experiencing both urban and rural life; early road trips fostered observational skills and appreciation for simplicity. You heard him on the show in 2025 where he told his story. Moved to Miami in 1978, then Boston for college (BU, class of 1987), followed by New York and eventually Los Angeles.

Worked across fashion, publishing, and editorial (including New York Times Magazine and a publishing venture with Lisa Eisner).

Early exposure to high-quality design and aesthetics shaped design sensibilities. He later was part of a team that formed Commune.

Influences on Design

Latin American upbringing emphasized simplicity, rustic charm, and authentic beauty.

Exposure to fashion (Isaac Mizrahi), PR, and the Pressman family shaped understanding of color, detail, and quality.

Personal journey included absorbing lessons from diverse experiences rather than formal design training.

Product and Collection Development

Starts with identifying gaps or problems in the market (e.g., linear sconces, bathroom accessories).

Combines functional necessity with craftsmanship and subtle aesthetics.

Collaborates closely with partners (like David at Remaine) to maintain quality, usability, and accessibility.

Every product is prototyped and tested in real projects before public launch.

Personal Philosophy and Values

Stoicism: focus on controlling what is controllable and striving for virtue.

Commitment to fairness, thoughtful creation, and ethical production.

Imposter syndrome acknowledged as a persistent aspect of creative life.

Approach prioritizes listening to clients, understanding needs, and curating experiences rather than self-expression alone.

Evolution of the Firm

Studio evolved from a small, highly collaborative team to a large firm, then deliberately scaled back to maintain culture and creative flexibility.

Growth now pursued through products, partnerships, and retail rather than studio expansion.

CXD ICON Registry March 2026 | 654 | Corey Damen Jenkins on Leadership, Resilience, and Building a Meaningful Creative Life

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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

  • Values humility, integrity, and character over pure talent.
  • Builds teams based on trust, collaboration, and shared values.
  • Leadership grounded in humility creates resilience and longevity.

Protecting Creative Vision Through Licensing and IP Strategy

  • Strategic licensing partnerships expand reach while protecting creative authorship.
  • Collaboration with global brands strengthens business stability.
  • Intellectual property protection is essential in today’s copy-driven market.

Designers as Emotional and Strategic Partners

  • Designers serve as advisors, therapists, and trusted confidants.
  • Design has emotional, psychological, and lifestyle impact.
  • Interiors shape not only how spaces look—but how people live and feel.

Corey Damen Jenkins:

  • “Success requires focus. You have to put the big priorities in first.”
  • “Rejection isn’t failure—it’s part of the journey.”
  • “Humility keeps you grounded and makes you a better leader.”
  • “Design isn’t just about beauty. It’s about transformation.”
  • “I didn’t just want a career. I wanted a purpose.”

Purpose Before Prestige: Corey Damen Jenkins on Building a Life—and Career—by Design

Corey Damen Jenkins has built a career defined by bold interiors, fearless creativity, and unmistakable confidence. But the true foundation of his success isn’t aesthetic—it’s discipline, humility, and purpose.

Long before his work appeared in books, product collections, and design publications, Jenkins faced the uncertainty of reinvention. After losing his corporate job, he committed fully to interior design, launching his firm during one of the most volatile economic periods in recent history. The early days tested his resolve. He knocked on 779 doors before securing his first major client—a defining experience that shaped his perspective on perseverance and belief.

Today, that same discipline informs every aspect of his work. Jenkins approaches both design and leadership with intentional focus. His “toy box philosophy”—prioritizing the most important commitments first—guides how he manages his time, his studio, and his creative energy. Editing, he believes, is essential not only to great interiors but to building a meaningful business.

As his influence has grown, Jenkins has expanded into licensing, publishing, and product design, carefully selecting partnerships that align with his values and protect his creative voice. Yet despite his success, he remains grounded in humility—a principle he considers essential to leadership, growth, and longevity.

For Jenkins, interior design is more than aesthetics. It is emotional, personal, and transformative. Designers shape how people experience their homes and their lives.

His journey serves as a reminder that meaningful success isn’t defined by visibility or recognition. It’s defined by purpose, resilience, and the courage to pursue a creative life with intention.

WestEdge Wednesday Part Ten | 652 | Green Shoots: Evolving Materials, Innovative Mindsets

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Innovation Under Pressure: Prefab, Modular, and the Future of Resilient Design Under Pressure. Architecture is evolving faster than ever, driven by natural disasters, technology, and client expectations—but how do designers balance innovation with risk, regulation, and lifestyle priorities? Josh Cooperman hosts an unfiltered conversation with Drew Davis, Brian Pinkett, Aaron Neubert, and Joseph Dangaran about prefabrication, modular construction, client programming, and the challenges of rebuilding communities in fire- and flood-prone regions. From the Palisades to Paris, they explore how architecture must adapt—or risk falling behind.

1. Introduction and Context

  • Host introduction: Josh Cooperman, Convo By Design.
  • Acknowledgements: Kim Gordon Designs (venue), Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home (sponsor and industry supporter).
  • Why the discussion matters: natural disasters as a case study in architecture’s evolving role.
  • Personal anecdote: Josh’s wildfire experience in 1983 highlighting the urgency of resilient design.

2. Guest Introductions

  • Drew Davis, Partner, Kligerman Architecture & Design, NYC – Residential expertise nationwide.
  • Brian Pinkett, Principal, Landry Design Group – High-end, global custom homes, with focus on innovation and sustainability.
  • Aaron Neubert, Principal, Annex – Residential and hospitality projects in LA & Las Vegas.
  • Joseph Dangaran, Founding Partner, Woods & Dangaran– West Coast single-family homes, high-end interiors.

3. Critical Thinking vs. Design Education

  • Discussion of Brian Pinkett’s insight: architecture school teaches critical thinking, not design itself.
  • How critical thinking shapes the conversation about innovation and client expectations.
  • The influence of NIMBYism and cultural resistance on design risk-taking.

4. Client Literacy and Innovation

  • How clients’ exposure to Instagram, travel, and boutique experiences shapes design expectations.
  • Balancing aspirational ideas with practical constraints: budget, schedule, site conditions.
  • Scenario-based design and programming as a tool to understand lifestyle priorities.

5. Prefabrication and Modular Construction

  • Defining terms: prefabrication vs. modular, and their misconceptions in high-end architecture.
  • Historical examples: Eiffel Tower (prefabricated in 1889), Wallace Neff bubble homes.
  • Case studies: past Malibu prefab project, Arts District hotel project.
  • Discussion of benefits (speed, quality, cost) and challenges (flexibility, client acceptance, perception).

6. Lifestyle vs. Shelter in Rebuilds

  • How trauma and loss after disasters impact client priorities.
  • The tension between rebuilding for necessity vs. recreating lifestyle and memory.
  • Temporary housing solutions and lessons from disaster response (Shigeru Ban, Fresno pre-approved plans).

7. The Role of Regulation in Innovation

  • Flood, fire, and safety regulations: both barriers and catalysts for creativity.
  • Discussion of over-regulation and its impact on rebuilding efficiency, particularly in high-demand areas like Pacific Palisades.

8. The Future of Architectural Innovation

  • Emerging materials, prefabrication, and modular design for high-end custom homes.
  • How technology enables flexibility and quality at scale.
  • The challenge of evolving architectural vernacular to reflect contemporary technology.
  • The importance of balancing client desires, regulatory frameworks, and architectural creativity.

9. Closing Thoughts

  • Necessity drives invention, but adaptation and education are key.
  • Designers’ role in guiding clients through uncertainty and risk.
  • Encouragement to rethink traditional paradigms: innovation in practice, materials, and process.

10. Callouts / Quotes for Social Media

  • “Innovation isn’t about change for change’s sake—it’s about solving the problem you didn’t know existed.” – Brian Pinkett
  • “Prefabrication isn’t a compromise. It’s a new way to design for speed, quality, and scale.” – Aaron Neubert
  • “The goal isn’t just shelter. The goal is lifestyle.” – Joseph Dangaran

11. Links & References