Category Archives: International Design

The Ride Along Part 3: Dan Ferrisi of EmeraldX and Joe Picarrilli of RoseWater Energy | 642 | Connected Worlds, Design, Technology, and the Future of Integrated Living

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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 grounding, and inconsistent quality undermine even the most sophisticated systems. His solution, the Rosewater Hub, was developed to address these issues at the panel level—providing seamless backup, surge protection, and power conditioning in a single, engineered platform.

The conversation explores how energy resilience has become essential to modern living. From medical equipment and remote work to safe rooms and climate-related disruptions, power stability is no longer optional. Piccirilli explains how his engineering-first approach led to solutions designed not for convenience, but for certainty—systems that work when everything else fails.

Together, the two conversations form a complete picture of where the industry is heading. Farrisi frames the cultural and professional shift happening across design and integration, while Piccirilli provides the technical foundation required to support that shift. The result is a compelling look at how thoughtful design, reliable infrastructure, and interdisciplinary collaboration are shaping the next generation of built environments.

Part One: Dan Farrisi – CEDIA Expo & Industry Convergence

  • First impressions from CEDIA Expo 2025
  • Why trade shows still matter in a digital-first world
  • EmeraldX’s role in connecting disciplines
  • Integrators as experience partners, not installers
  • Residential and commercial technology overlap
  • Education, advocacy, and storytelling as industry drivers
  • The future of collaboration between designers and technologists

Part Two: Joe Piccirilli – Engineering Resilience

  • Early career and the founding of Sound Advice
  • Lessons from entrepreneurship and distribution
  • Discovering the real problem: power quality
  • The engineering logic behind Rosewater Energy
  • Panel-level energy management and backup systems
  • Designing for medical, safety, and critical-use environments
  • The role of resilience in future home design
  • Why engineering thinking matters more than ever

Dan Farrisi, Group Editor for EmeraldX, joins Convo By Design from CEDIA Expo 2025 to share insights on the convergence of design, technology, and integration. He discusses the role of trade shows in shaping industry collaboration, the unique challenges integrators face, and the growing overlap between residential and commercial applications. Farrisi also explores why storytelling, education, and advocacy are critical to the future of connected experiences.

Recorded live at CEDIA Expo 2025, this episode highlights how the integration industry is evolving beyond technology into holistic experience design. Dan Farrisi explains EmeraldX’s role in connecting professionals across disciplines, the importance of dialogue between designers and integrators, and how new applications—from smart homes to immersive environments—are redefining the industry.

  1. First Impressions at CEDIA 2025
    • Energy and innovation at the show floor.
    • Why CEDIA remains a barometer for industry health.
  1. Role of EmeraldX
    • How EmeraldX curates and amplifies industry conversations.
    • Trade shows as hubs for education, networking, and advocacy.
  1. Integration Beyond Tech
    • Moving from installer to outcome-driven partner.
    • Why integrators need to collaborate earlier in design projects.
  1. Residential + Commercial Crossovers
    • Lessons from commercial AV shaping residential expectations.
    • Case studies in immersive experiences and security applications.
  1. Challenges & Opportunities
    • Standards, interoperability, and client education.
    • The importance of storytelling in communicating value.
  1. Looking Ahead
    • The role of integrators in shaping future living spaces.
    • EmeraldX’s vision for connecting industries through shared dialogue.

Links & Resources

WestEdge Wednesday Part Five | 641 | Inspired by Nature: Exterior Spaces Built to Last

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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.

WestEdge Wednesday Part Four | 639 | Designing for Disaster: Intelligent Design for a Resilient Southern California

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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

Architecture for the 21st Century

Sarah Malek Barney – Band Design
https://www.bandd.com

Stacy Munich – Stacy Munich Interiors
https://www.stacymunichinteriors.com

Todd Paolillo – CCA Design Group
https://www.ccadesigngroup.com

Marcella Oliver – USGBC California
https://www.usgbc.org
(Net Zero Accelerator) https://netzeroaccelerator.org

I. Opening Context

  • Adam Hunter describes his own displacement in the Palisades fires
  • Acknowledgment of community members who lost homes and businesses

II. Materiality & Rebuilding After Fire

  • Shortcut culture in residential construction (Sarah)
  • Fire-resistant materials, embers, and construction techniques (Richard)
  • The “flamethrower” dynamic of the 2025 event

III. Community-Scale Impacts

  • Rebuilding as a multi-block, multi-stakeholder challenge (Marcella)
  • Community cohesion among displaced residents (Stacy)
  • Education gaps for homeowners suddenly navigating design/architectural choices

IV. Leadership & Coordination

  • Who should be leading discussions?
  • The role of USGBC California and the Net Zero Accelerator (Marcella)
  • Design community mobilization & town halls (Todd)

V. Economics, Insurance & Rebuilding Pathways

  • Underinsurance and cost prohibitions (Stacy)
  • Prefab/precision-built options
  • Avoiding both tract-home rebuilding and ultra-luxury exclusivity (Richard, Adam)

VI. Visualization & Future Planning

  • Digital twins for community workshops
  • Landscape resilience
  • Neighborhood-scale guidelines

VII. Psychological & Long-Term Impacts

  • Rebuilding fatigue
  • Multi-year rebuilding timeline (10+ years)
  • Keeping optimism and community support alive (Adam)

Translating Design in a Chaotic Market, A Shifting Landscape in Focus 2026 | 637 | Forces Shaping the Industry

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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

Thank you, Eva, Rachel, Shelly and Priya for taking the time to share your thoughts. Thank you to my incredible partner sponsors; Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home, TimberTech and Best Buy. Their sponsorship of Convo By Design allows me to seek out sublime design, stories from beyond the work itself and showcase unique personalities chasing new ideas and changing the way we think about design and architecture.. And present it to you so please give them an opportunity on your next project.

Thank you for listening and sharing this journey of ours. 2026 marks thirteen years of constant publication of the podcast with over 700 interviews and three million downloads, streams, and listens.  Please keep those guest suggestions coming as well as thoughts about where you would like the show to record live. Convo By Design at Outlook and on Instagram, Convo X Design, with an “X”.

Thanks again for listening, until next time, be well, focused and driven so you can rise above the chaos. -CXD

CXD Icon Registry January 2026 | 636 | Peter Pennoyer, FAIA

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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:

  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
    • Integrating modern functionality with traditional forms.
  1. Key Projects
    • Adirondacks Retreat: Rustic materials, vibrant accents, blending modern and traditional.
    • French Modern Townhouse, Upper East Side: Maximizing light in a constrained footprint; stair design, flow, and functionality.
    • New England House: Rebuilding a landmarked site with respect to site and history.
    • Fifth Avenue Maisonette: Reimagining space for luxury, comfort, and personal lifestyle integration.
  1. Architecture and Society
    • Lessons from pandemics and historical health-driven design.
    • Flexibility in modern living: home and work blending, privacy, and adaptability.
    • The balance of aesthetics, comfort, and livability in contemporary classical design.
  1. Process and Collaboration
    • Importance of team and long-term partnerships in shaping projects.
    • Working with interior designers and artisans to achieve cohesive spaces.
    • Creative problem-solving under structural, site, and regulatory constraints.

Links & References:

  • Peter Pennoyer Architects – Official Website
  • Adirondack Long Barn Project
  • Upper East Side French Modern Townhouse
  • New England Landmark House Rebuild
  • Fifth Avenue Maisonette

WestEdge Wednesday Part Three | 635 | Planting Roots: Future Proof Your Design Business

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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:
    • AI and Technology: The panelists recognized AI as a powerful, unavoidable tool that will alleviate mundane tasks and enhance existing work, though it also presents a significant challenge (“scares the shit out of us,” noted Keith). Firms must embrace it.

* **Talent Retention:** **Institutional knowledge** is key to longevity. Firms are focusing on creating exceptional workspaces, competitive benefits (like sabbatical programs), and internal culture to recruit and **retain the best talent.**

* **Mentorship:** Mentoring should be a fundamental part of a firm’s **culture**, not a forced, rigid program. It is essential at all career stages, providing wisdom and long-term connections that help owners stay agile and resourceful.

Creativity in the Age of Screens: Craft, Credibility, and the Changing Nature of Practice | 634 | Amy Courtney, Amy Courtney Design

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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 theme is the difference between designers and tastemakers. Courtney and I examine how social platforms have blurred professional lines, allowing anyone with a strong aesthetic to claim authority. We discuss the growing confusion this creates for clients and the importance of experience, education, and technical understanding in producing successful projects. While inspiration is everywhere, execution still requires training, judgment, and accountability.

The episode also dives into the influence of upbringing and mentorship. From growing up around construction and craftsmanship to learning directly from tradespeople, the conversation highlights how hands-on experience shapes a designer’s confidence and decision-making. This background, combined with curiosity and respect for process, becomes the foundation for meaningful work.

The conversation closes with a reflection on credibility, creativity, and the responsibility designers have to guide clients honestly. In a culture driven by speed and visibility, the episode argues for a return to thoughtful process, clear communication, and design rooted in real-world understanding.

  • How design practice has changed since 2020
  • The impact of remote work and screen-based communication
  • Photography, social media, and shifting industry expectations
  • The difference between designers and tastemakers
  • Client education and managing unrealistic inspiration
  • The value of construction knowledge and hands-on experience
  • Navigating publication standards and editorial pressure
  • Why credibility and process still matter

Design has never been more visible—or more misunderstood. As technology reshapes how people engage with spaces and professionals, the role of the designer has become both more complex and more essential. This episode makes the case for slowing down, valuing experience, and remembering that great design is built on knowledge, intention, and trust—not algorithms or aesthetics alone.

WestEdge Wednesday Part One | 631 | Home Again: How the Palisades is Reclaiming its Future

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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: Planning.PalisadesRebuild@lacity.org 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: EmergencyUpdates@LACity.org 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 (onsite wastewater) approvals: contact the Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS) team via Public Health. LA County Public Works Water “Will‑Serve” letter (potable water) – Drinking Water Program: required for some rebuilds. LA County Public Works LA County Assessor’s Office For tax reassessment after fire damage (“Misfortune & Calamity”): call (213) 974‑8658. LA County Recovers State / Federal Agencies California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) As a major state-level emergency agency, they coordinate recovery resources. (Generic contact: via caloes.ca.gov) Gather ADU Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) For disaster assistance (debris removal, housing, financial help): contact FEMA at 1-800-621-3362 for general assistance. Gather ADU U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (for debris removal specifically): their LA mission office is reachable; per FEMA, call center 213‑308‑8305. FEMA Recommended Approach / Strategy Start at the One‑Stop Rebuilding Center (LA City or County as applicable) — this gives you a “concierge” experience with multiple departments in one place. Follow up with direct department emails (e.g., Planning, Public Works) for specialized issues (soils, septic, fire‑safety). Use FEMA / CalOES early — get registered for federal/state disaster relief. Engage community‑based networks (ENLA, local recovery groups) — they often have the most up-to-date, local practical advice. Document everything — keep track of all contacts, permit numbers, and correspondence. Additional Information will be posted to the Convo By Design website. Convo By Design is a platform designed to share and promote the ideas of those shaping design and architecture today. We provide inspiration to the design and architecture community. In constant pursuit of sublime design. ©2013-2026 https://www.convobydesign.com

Convo By Design Icon Registry December 2025: Woodson & Rummerfield | 628 | Hollywood Glam Meets Modern Elegance and Opulent Interiors

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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:

  1. Introduction & Guest Backgrounds
    • Christine introduces Jamie Rummerfield and Ron Woodson.
    • Overview of their design style: Hollywood opulence meets modern refinement.
  1. 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.
  1. Collaboration & Partnership
    • How Jamie and Ron complement each other creatively.
    • Problem-solving, brainstorming, and the synergy of their partnership.
  1. 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.
  1. Preservation & Advocacy
    • Founding of CA Projects to save iconic Southern California architecture.
    • Importance of protecting historically significant homes and estates.
    • Public involvement and future plans for the foundation.
  1. Personal Passions & Lifestyle
    • Weekend hobbies, travel, research, and inspiration.
    • How personal passions inform design work.
  1. Future Plans & Product Development
    • Upcoming secret projects and product lines.
    • Speaking engagements and experiential presentations for design communities.
  1. Closing Remarks
    • How to connect with Jamie and Ron: WanderDesign.com, Instagram @WanderDesign.
    • Preview of CA Projects website: SIAPROJECTS.com.
    • Invitation for designers and architects to share projects with Convo By Design.

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 Jaime and Ron for your many years of friendship, partnership and collaboration. This was the first time we met and the episode was hosted by Christine Anderson, I miss her.

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, TimberTech and Design Hardware. 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

Designing the Future of Healthcare | 626 | Architecture, AI, and Human-Centered Spaces; Rebecca MacDonald and Kyle Bassilius of Parkin Architects

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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:

  1. Introduction & Context
    • Host sets the stage: the evolution of architecture in healthcare, AI, and technology in shelter and commercial spaces.
    • Brief MIT course on AI and machine learning as inspiration for the discussion.
  1. Guest Introductions
    • Rebecca McDonald: 12 years at Parkin Architects, focus on healthcare planning, personal motivation from family experiences in healthcare.
    • Kyle Basilius: Design and planning across the U.S., Denmark, and Canada; current principal overseeing cancer hospital design, philosophy of integrating empathy into architecture.
  1. Healthcare Systems & Design Philosophy
    • Comparison: Single-payer/universal healthcare vs. two-payer U.S. system.
    • Operational implications: access, staff wellness, patient and family experience.
    • Budgeting and stewardship of public funds in large-scale projects.
  1. Hospital Lifespan & Flexibility
    • Typical hospital lifecycle: 50 years; planning for technological and programmatic changes.
    • Importance of flexible core and shell design to accommodate renovations, evolving patient care, and technology integration.
    • Master planning: phased renewals, mixed-use inpatient and outpatient strategies.
  1. Technology & AI in Healthcare Design
    • AI as a tool for operational efficiency and patient care improvement.
    • Automation: AGVs and AMRs for logistics and staff support.
    • Potential for remote surgeries, telemedicine, and hub-and-spoke care models.
  1. Emergency Department Design
    • Throughput and triage-focused planning: neighborhood-style zones for low, high, and trauma acuity patients.
    • Mental health challenges and patient volume impacts on design.
    • Opportunities for tech integration to improve patient flow and staff experience.
  1. Lighting & Environmental Control
    • LED and circadian lighting systems for patient comfort, sleep, and recovery.
    • Flexibility and control for staff and patients.
    • Integration with intuitive interfaces to improve operational workflow and care delivery.
  1. Staff Wellbeing & Operational Efficiency
    • Reducing injury through thoughtful design and automation.
    • Leveraging AI and technology to improve staff retention and productivity.
    • Supporting patient-centered care while optimizing building operations.
  1. The Future of Healthcare Architecture
    • Planning for technological advances, flexible programming, and patient-focused design.
    • Anticipating evolving care delivery models, population growth, and community needs.
    • Emphasis on human-centered design as the core of architectural innovation.
  1. Closing Thoughts
    • Key takeaways: design is as much about the people using the space as it is about the physical structures.
    • The evolving role of technology and AI as supportive tools rather than replacements.

Thank you Rebecca, thank you Kyle and everyone at Parkin Architects for craft special places with purpose.

Thank you for listening. If you liked this episode, share it with a friend or colleague who loves design and architecture like you do, subscribe to Convo By Design wherever you get your podcasts. And continue the conversation on Instagram @convo x design with an “x”. Keep those emails coming with guest suggestions, show ideas and locations where you’d like to see the show. Convo by design at outlook.com. 

Thank you to my partner sponsors, TimberTech, The AZEK Company, Pacific Sales, Best Buy, and Design Hardware for supporting the publication of over 650 episodes and over 3,000,000 streams, downloads and making Convo By Design the longest running podcast of its kind. These companies support the shelter industry so give them an opportunity on your next project. Thanks again for listening. Until next time, be well, stay focused and rise about the chaos. -CXD