Austin-based interior designer Viki Chupik brings the city’s unique spirit into every project she touches. From its rolling hills and cultural quirks to its understated expressions of wealth, Chupik sees Austin as a place where authenticity and individuality still matter. In this conversation, she explains how to design for a city in flux. Like most of the cities people flooded to during and post-pandemic—balancing creativity, cultural heritage, and the realities of today’s economic pressures.
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Viki Chupik of Chupik Design unpacks Austin’s evolving design landscape, from post-pandemic migration and rising costs to the homogenizing pull of social media trends. She shares how she navigates client expectations, resists algorithm-fed aesthetics, and champions designs that are rooted in nature, personal stories, and lasting quality. Along the way, Chupik explores functional planning, economic design strategies, and her vision for the future of the American home.
The Austin Effect
How Austin’s natural beauty and geography shape lifestyle and client priorities.
The city’s evolution from “hippie government town” to tech-creative hub.
Why “Keep Austin Weird” is about individuality and local culture, not just quirky aesthetics.
Understated expressions of wealth versus flash seen in other Texas cities.
Design Influenced by Lifestyle
Incorporating travel, life experiences, and personal artifacts into home design.
Creating spaces that reflect a client’s narrative rather than a preset style.
Prioritizing true customization over formulaic trends.
Austin’s Cultural Capital
Influence of UT, major festivals, and historic districts on the city’s identity.
Embracing quirks—bats, music, history—in design and urban character.
Post-pandemic migration: challenges and benefits of new creative influx.
Viki Chupik’s Design Fingerprint
Calm, collected, nature-inspired aesthetic.
Timeless design choices: earthy palettes, organic materials, and visual serenity.
Rejecting trend-chasing in favor of enduring appeal.
Design vs. Trends
Critique of social media–driven “trendification” and AI-generated design content.
Seeking out artisans, unique finds, and unexpected pairings.
Why individuality in design is harder—and more important—than ever.
The Budget Reality
Impact of rising costs from tariffs, materials, and labor.
Emphasis on quality investments over disposable design.
Importance of involving designers early in architectural planning.
Functional Design in Changing Times
Rethinking square footage for smarter, more livable spaces.
Evaluating the real utility of specialty rooms and features.
Applying the “Are you going to use it?” test to every decision.
Portable Kitchens & the Future of Home
Considering modular, moveable kitchens inspired by European models.
How rising land values could shift the role of the house toward adaptability.
The tension between permanence and flexibility in residential design.
Thank you, Viki. Amazing. Loved our chat and appreciate the time. 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, LOME-AI and Design Hardware. 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
Today, you are going to hear a deeply candid conversation with Phil Norman, principal of Norman Design Group, to explore the complex, often contradictory realities of luxury residential design. With over 25 years of experience crafting high-end interiors in Southern California, Phil brings both practical wisdom and an unfiltered perspective on the challenges designers face today. And part of exploring these ideas, is a willingness to be open and candid about the challenges as well as the solutions.
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Honesty About Budgets: The Ultimate Luxury
Phil dives headfirst into one of the most taboo topics in interior design: the budget. He explains why being forthright—even when the numbers are higher than a client expects—is not just necessary, but an act of professional integrity. He shares strategies for diffusing tension around cost conversations and how client trust is forged in transparency, not fantasy.
“People can handle a bigger number. They can’t handle being blindsided,” Phil says. “The danger is in pretending it can be done for less.”
Educating the Client: Battling Pinterest, Misinformation & HGTV
Phil reflects on the modern design client’s double-edged sword: unprecedented access to ideas… and a flood of misinformation. Whether it’s misconceptions about pricing, timelines, or what’s even possible, Phil sees part of his job as “un-educating” clients before re-grounding them in real-world processes.
He describes the delicate balance of respecting a client’s inspiration while also anchoring expectations in logistical and structural realities. “Everyone’s seen a Pinterest kitchen,” he says, “but that doesn’t mean it works in their space, or within their scope.”
Home as Sanctuary: A Pandemic Shift
Phil shares how the pandemic permanently shifted his clients’ priorities—from “how it looks” to “how it feels.” There’s now an increased desire for tactile comfort, flexibility, and timeless quality. The home is no longer just a showpiece—it’s a retreat, a workplace, a classroom, a safe space.
He emphasizes the growing importance of durability and livability over trends, noting that luxury now means emotional connection, not just expensive finishes.
“Design has to feel like home—not just like a magazine spread.”
Kitchen as Mission Control: Designing with Precision
Phil also explores how kitchens have evolved into the emotional and operational hubs of the home. With every family interaction, from weekday breakfasts to weekend entertaining, passing through this space, it’s no longer just about cabinetry and counters—it’s about lifestyle programming.
He discusses layout strategies, appliance coordination, lighting zones, and how technology and wellness are being layered into the modern kitchen environment.
Design Leadership: Advocacy, Not Subservience
Phil argues that successful design professionals must step into the role of advisor and advocate—not order-taker. He calls out the danger of defaulting to client appeasement and encourages designers to protect the integrity of the design process, even if it means challenging a client’s assumptions.
“We’re not there to just say yes. We’re there to guide—to lead with experience.”
This conversation isn’t just about design—it’s about leadership, trust, and emotional intelligence in a high-stakes creative business. Whether you’re a seasoned designer, a rising star in the field, or simply someone dreaming of building a home that feels like home, Phil Norman offers a masterclass in how to do it right—with candor, clarity, and craft.
Thank you, Phil. Amazing. Thank you for listening. If you liked this episode, share it with a friend who loves design, 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.
Thank you to my partner sponsors, TimberTech, The AZEK Company, Pacific Sales, Best Buy, LOME-AI and Design Hardware. 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
When I was growing up, radio was my solace. I loved it so much that I chose it for my career. I can remember being 10 years old with my transistor radio listening to 10Q and KHJ. Later, it was KLOS, KMET, KNAC and KROQ. The call letters were cool, the music and bands remain bookmarks in my life. I can pretty much tell you how old I was, where I was and what was going on by the songs. But my friends were the dj’s. Jeff Goner, Steve Downs, Bob Coburn, Rita Wilde, Dangerous Darren, Richard Blade, Rodney on the Rock. It was the people who told the stories about the music, the bands and what was happening behind the scenes. Many of us love design and architecture in the same way. And on that rare occasion when there is a combination of the two, well that’s special. And this months induction into the Convo By Design Icon Registry is one such individual. This person is truly special and I have had the good fortune to work with her on a number of occasions.
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Frances Anderton describes herself, “I tell stories and distill ideas about design, architecture and the cityscape of Los Angeles through print, broadcast media, exhibitions and public events.” All true, and she has the street crew to back that up. What Frances didn’t mention is that she herself is part of the zeitgeist of Los Angeles. Nor would she, that would be weird. But one of the most wonderful things about Frances is her willingness to get into a topic and chop it up, refine it, reorganize it and play with it until she has boiled it’s very essence into something consumable by anyone who with a modicum of interest. That is special.
To celebrate Frances and her induction into the Convo By Design Icon Registry, I want to reshare her moderating a panel conversation that aired on Convo By Design in 2015. Frances was a fixture for the 2-years that the West Hollywood Design District produced a wonderful event called DIEM, which stands for design intersects everything made. The programs were curated by Mallory Roberts Morgan, another remarkable LA gem of an individual. You don’t know this, but you will in a minute… Mallory and Frances were huge influences on me as I launched the show in 2013 and for the first few years. Quite simply, I wanted to make people think and question the way they did. To tap into curiosity the way they did. To come up with really interesting angles like Mallory and rip the niceties away so we could really chop it up the way Frances did and does. This panel from 2015 featured, Stephan Simpkowitz, Carolina Miranda and Steven Goldberg. As you listen to this conversation, notice a few things. First, the topic they were discussing a decade ago has since fully matured and blossomed as LA became the global art destination it always wanted to be. Notice too how Frances leverages the talents and skills of her guests in such an effortless way. Quite simply, due to the very nature of this topic, it could have gone a very different way. This conversation is as relevant today as it was then. And Frances is a treasure.
The Convo By Design Icon Registry is presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home, a Best Buy Company and best friend to designers and architects everywhere. The business has become more complicated and Pacific Sales reverses that, find out how by checking the links in the show notes.
So there you go, our newly inducted icon and a fantastic conversation from 2015. Thank you Frances, for all you do and all you have given back.Thank you to my partner sponsors, Design Hardware, TimberTech and Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home, a Best Buy company and friend to specifiers near and far. Thanks for listening to Convo By Design. I couldn’t do this without you, wouldn’t want to. I hope this show help you stay motivated, inspired and focused so you can rise above the chaos. –Convo By Design
In this episode, I sit down with the incredibly insightful Rosa Santiago Zimmerman for a rich and wide-ranging conversation about the state of the interior design industry, the evolving nature of creative work, and the deeper values that guide us as professionals. Our dialogue spans everything from our recent experiences at major trade shows like KBIS and IBS to the strategic and emotional challenges that come with building and sustaining a design business today.
Rosa shares how she has navigated an often unpredictable industry landscape—from the 2008 financial crisis to the more recent impact of COVID-19—emerging stronger by focusing on clarity in communication, refining her client base, and anchoring her business in authenticity and trust. We explore her decision to operate by referral only, a bold move that allows her to take on projects that align deeply with her values while maintaining creative control and long-term vision.
One of the most resonant parts of our conversation is Rosa’s approach to client relationships and project storytelling. She believes that every project begins with truly understanding the people behind it—their story, lifestyle, and what brings them joy. Her philosophy goes far beyond aesthetics; it’s about designing spaces that are meaningful, personal, and connected.
We also dive into the practical but often overlooked aspects of the business: the need for strong contracts, the complexity of product sourcing in a globalized market, and the legal risks surrounding intellectual property. Rosa doesn’t shy away from hard truths. She emphasizes that every line of a contract must be intentional, and every expectation clearly defined to avoid the kinds of misunderstandings that can derail even the most promising projects. I couldn’t agree more. As we both acknowledged, there’s a growing need in our industry to better educate clients—especially those new to working with designers—so they can become thoughtful, empowered partners in the creative process.
Our talk also turns toward education, mentorship, and the next generation of talent. Rosa speaks passionately about the importance of showing children—and especially young Latinas—that the design industry can be a space for them. Her journey from a background in medicine to a thriving creative career is a powerful reminder that following one’s passion is not only possible, but necessary. We discuss the lack of business training in design schools, and how that gap often leaves talented creatives unprepared for the realities of entrepreneurship. Rosa’s upcoming book, which touches on the idea of discovering one’s “superpower,” promises to be an inspiring resource for aspiring designers and leaders alike.
Throughout our conversation, I was struck by Rosa’s clarity, generosity, and refusal to compromise on what matters. We also talk about future collaborations and visits—from potentially recording a future episode in Atlanta to attending next year’s KBIS event in Orlando. I’m hopeful for the opportunities ahead and grateful for the chance to share this honest, inspiring exchange.
This episode is for anyone who’s passionate about design, business, and the human stories that fuel creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, a student, or just curious about what it takes to build something meaningful in a fast-changing world, I think you’ll find a lot to take away from this one. And we’ll get to it, right after this.
Thank you, Rosa, loved our chat and grateful to have run into you at KBIS! And, of course, thank you to our amazing partners: TimberTech, Pacific Sales, and Design Hardware. These are incredible companies and true friends of the trade. Please keep them in mind for your next project.
Thanks to you for listening, subscribing, and sharing the show with your friends and colleagues. If you haven’t subscribed yet, go ahead and hit that button so you get each new episode delivered straight to your feed.
I always love hearing from you, so keep those messages coming—email me at convo by design at outlook dot com and follow along on Instagram, @ConvoXDesign (with an “X”).
Until next week—thank you for spending this time with me. Be well, stay focused, and now that it has really settled in… do your best to rise above the chaos.
As hard as it is for me to believe, it’s August. It’s hard for me to believe it’s August because it just felt like it was January. I was feeling a little tense about a number of things on the horizon at that time. Thank goodness none of the feared chaos materialized. (6SS)
Okay, perhaps a little… Perhaps a lot. It might surprise you to know that it wasn’t Kelly Clarkson who came up with that concept. It was German philosopher, Fredrich Nietzsche. It can be found in his book, from 1888 called Twilight of the Idols. It’s an expanded philosophical approach to post-traumatic growth. This year has been the most stressful since the 2020-2022 Pandemic Era. If you recall, those challenges made our industry stronger, made us stronger. It’s a challenge to talk about life and death in the context of design. But it’s not a stretch at all to discuss these concepts while framing the quality of life and design.
Today, you are going to hear from Barrie Sprang of Sapphire Pear.
Barrie shared her background in design, influenced by her grandmother’s interest in design school and her father’s work in high-end real estate in Cleveland. She expressed her lifelong passion for using color and bold textures in design, citing personal experiences with how colors can impact emotions and spaces. Josh praised her work for its use of color and texture but expressed a critique about her sometimes conservative approach, particularly given her background in the traditionally traditional Midwest.
Barrie and I discuss the challenges of balancing client preferences with personal design philosophy, particularly regarding color choices. Barrie explained how her firm was built around bold, colorful designs, though she still accommodates clients who prefer neutral tones by incorporating subtle pops of color. They explored the impact of design trends, including the “Color of the Year” phenomenon, with Barrie noting that while it can inspire, it often leads to over-saturation in the market and potentially regrettable choices for clients.
We talk about the influence of coastal trends on Midwest culture, particularly in Ohio, where different cities like Cincinnati, Columbus, and Cleveland have distinct styles. Barrie explained that post-pandemic, there has been an influx of people moving to Ohio from coastal cities, attracted by its affordable cost of living, lack of natural disasters, and the ability to work remotely. This migration has positively impacted Barrie’s business, allowing for more creative and custom design work at a lower cost due to lower labor and trade costs, as well as access to skilled Amish carpenters.
How the decline of traditional design centers, noting that the Cleveland Design Center has largely closed, and they now travel to Chicago for client meetings means to those affected. That the model has become less effective due to several factors, including the opening of design centers to the public, which made pricing confusing and diminished the special experience for designers and clients. They also observed that the proliferation of design houses and the ease of finding products online has watered down the quality of design experiences previously offered by these centers.
And how the challenges in the furniture industry, particularly regarding pricing, availability, and logistics are changing the way designers specify. How the pandemic and tariffs have affected supply chains, leading to long lead times and unexpected issues. Barrie emphasized the importance of maintaining strong relationships with manufacturers and showrooms to navigate these challenges. They also touched on the logistics of furniture production and distribution, noting the inefficiencies of the current point-to-point system in the U.S. and the potential benefits of a regional approach for some designers.
Barrie discussed several design projects, focusing on a colorful maximalist bedroom, a multi-color kitchen in Shaker Heights, and a whimsical bathroom in Rocky River. Barrie explained the design process and client preferences for each project, highlighting the use of custom elements and color palettes. Make sure to go to the show notes and click the link to see her work as she explains it.
I think these conversations can accomplish a few things that include; allowing you to hear how other creatives are experiencing the same thing you are and how they chose to address these issues. And you are going to hear all about it, right after this.
That was Barrie Sprang of Sapphire Pear. A magnificent kitchen designed for a thruple. That is a first on the show and I love that.Thank you, Barrie. Loved our chat. Since I opened with Nietzsche, I’ll close with a quote of his.
“And those who were seen dancing were thought to be insane by those who could not hear the music.”
While widely credited to Nietzsche, there is no evidence he actually said it. But there was no internet in the 1800’s, so I choose to believe he said it. And just how important this idea is. Being true to the ideals, morals and vision that drive you as a creative will always be challenge to maintain. As the philosophical force known a Steelers Wheel once pondered, “Clowns to the left of me, jokers to the right, here I am, stuck in the middle with you. Don’t let the clowns and jokers define you or your work. It’s easier said than done. I know.
Thank you for listening. If you liked this episode, share it with a friend who loves design, 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.
Thank you to my partner sponsors, TimberTech, The AZEK Company, Pacific Sales, Best Buy and Design Hardware. These companies support the shelter industry so give them an opportunity on your next project. Thanks again for listening. Until next time, stay focused and rise about the chaos. -CXD
California’s escalating wildfire crisis is forcing a radical rethink in residential architecture. With fires growing in intensity, frequency, and unpredictability, architects, planners, and policymakers are coming together to define a new blueprint for resilient, sustainable living in the wildland-urban interface. In May, I journeyed to Design Hardware for the Spring Design Thought Leadership Summit, something we do four times ayear at Design Hardware to delve into trending ideas and concepts bubbling up through the design and architecture community. After hosting these events for over 6-years at Design Hardware, I always come away with a fresh perspective on emerging ideas and this time was no exception. The idea this time was to isolate the concepts and ideas that are needed now to address climate change, specifically fire related issues and develop them into actionable strategies for building—and rebuilding—homes in fire-prone areas.
California’s escalating wildfire crisis is forcing a radical rethink in residential architecture. With fires growing in intensity, frequency, and unpredictability, architects, planners, and policymakers are coming together to define a new blueprint for resilient, sustainable living in the wildland-urban interface. In May, I journeyed to Design Hardware for the Spring Design Thought Leadership Summit, something we do four times ayear at Design Hardware to delve into trending ideas and concepts bubbling up through the design and architecture community. After hosting these events for over 6-years at Design Hardware, I always come away with a fresh perspective on emerging ideas and this time was no exception. The idea this time was to isolate the concepts and ideas that are needed now to address climate change, specifically fire related issues and develop them into actionable strategies for building—and rebuilding—homes in fire-prone areas.
The day was broken down into two parts. The first was specifically about fire-related building issues discussed during a panel featuring architect Greg Chasen of Chasen Architects and Ben Stapleton and Becky Feldman Edwards of the USGBC-CA. The second panel covered Market and supply chain issues being affected by both a surge in demand due to rebuilding and exacerbated by the on-again-off-again tariffs. That program will be published here as well so check back for publication.
This panel covers a lot. Here are some of the broader topics covered:
Developed with global design firm Arup, USGBC CA’s Rebuilding Guide is a cornerstone resource for homeowners, builders, and municipalities. It demystifies complex codes and synthesizes building science into digestible recommendations—ranging from site selection to material resilience, insurance options, and fire-adapted landscaping.
Common Language for Safety
One of the guide’s goals is to bridge communication gaps. “We have to be speaking the same language,” says Becky. Misunderstandings about what terms like “non-combustible” mean can lead to critical design flaws. The guide standardizes terminology to ensure that homeowners, contractors, and code officials are aligned.
3. Materials Matter: Vetting for Performance
The Rebuild Marketplace
To combat this, USGBC CA created the Rebuild Marketplace, a centralized database of rigorously vetted materials. By aggregating third-party certifications, performance data, and supplier information, it streamlines product selection and ensures homeowners aren’t left to navigate a confusing and inconsistent market on their own.
4. Passive Design for Active Protection
Building Without Vents
5. Codes, Compliance & Insurance Gaps
Aligning Codes and Insurance
6. Rethinking Density and Land Use
Smart Growth Strategies
7. Innovations in Housing Delivery
Housing innovation is also key to faster, more affordable recovery. Chasen outlines the benefits and limitations of prefab and modular construction, noting that while these methods reduce waste and speed up timelines, they aren’t always cheaper. He also encourages more creative approaches, such as:
ADUs as interim housing. These can serve displaced families during reconstruction and offer long-term rental income later.
Basements for cooling and shelter. Subterranean spaces provide thermal stability and potential fire refuge.
Fire-adapted finishes. Materials like thermally modified wood and fiber cement can replicate traditional aesthetics with modern protection.
8. Resilient Infrastructure Beyond the Home
Wildfire resilience extends beyond individual parcels. “These technologies exist, but we’re not implementing them,” says Ben, citing innovations like:
Buried power lines to reduce ignition risk.
Automatic water shutoffs for firefighting.
Community-scale solar and battery systems for grid independence during outages.
Investment in resilient infrastructure must parallel private construction to ensure collective security.
9. Regulating Rebuilds to Avoid Gentrification
Post-fire redevelopment often attracts large developers aiming to maximize profits. Chasen criticizes this dynamic: “You’re getting cheap, maximum-footprint homes with no real investment in community.” Without local involvement and regulation, fire-impacted areas risk displacement and gentrification.
Community-Led Planning
USGBC CA advocates for inclusive rebuild processes that prioritize original residents, especially those underinsured or living in high-risk zones. Incentives for owner-builders, design review standards, and community land trusts are potential tools to maintain affordability and equity.
10. From Reaction to Resilience: A Cultural Shift
I often say, “It’s always too soon… until it’s too late.” Rebuilding with intention requires proactive engagement, long-term thinking, and coordinated leadership. Communities can emerge stronger if they view wildfire not just as a hazard, but as a catalyst for transformation.
We cover a lot here and you are going to hear it all for Design Hardware, right after this.
Thank you Becky, Ben and Greg for taking the time to have this important conversation and providing so much actionable information! Check the show notes for details and links. Thank you for making the time during your busy day to listen to the show, subscribe and share with colleagues. Thank you to my partners sponsors; Pacific Sales, Best Buy, The AZEK Company, TimberTech and Design Hardware. All of these companies make a concerted effort to support the design industry through support of publishers like Convo By Design and sharing content and materials created to make our industry better and more resilient. Please give them an opportunity on your next project.
I created Convo By Design to serve a robust and incredibly creative design and architecture industry through programming like this. I hope you enjoy it. Please let me know. Send me an email with show and guest suggestions, convobydesign@outlook.com and join in the conversation on Instagram @ConvoXDesign, with an “X”. Thanks for listening to Convo By Design. Until next time—be well, I hope this show help you stay motivated, inspired and focused so you can rise above the chaos. -CXD
Today, we are getting in the way way-way back machine, back to February of this year for a journey to Las Vegas for KBIS, the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show. It’s funny to me that even though this was only a few months back, it feels like a lifetime ago. So much has happened this year. But if you recall, in February, before protests, riots, big bills, big balls, tariffs, and all the rest of the chaotic shenanigans, there was KBIS. It was an extraordinary show this year. Part of that were the conversations that took place. I am going to share three of them with you today:
Amazing, right? Thank you Sharon, Jamie and Hannah. Thank you to all of the incredible people from KBIS, NKBA, Emerald, Flying Camel, Leeann, Rachael and everyone else who made this experience possible, and made it possible for me to bring it to you. I want to thank my partner sponsors who help make this show possible: Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home, a Best Buy Company, TimberTech, and Design Hardware. Thank you for listening, subscribing, and sharing the show with your colleagues. Your support means everything, and it helps grow this conversation across the design community.
Make sure you subscribe to Convo By Design so you never miss an episode. We have more incredible guests, ideas, and conversations coming your way.
Please keep those emails coming. You can reach me directly at convoByDesign@outlook.com, and be part of the conversation on Instagram, @ConvoXDesign—that’s Convo X Design with an “X”..
These are complex issues that requires both deeper thought and immediate action.I want to thank every one of our expert guests for their insights, time, and passion. We are surrounded by complex issues, are we not? That’s why I have been encouraging you to manage these complicated times. Because it’s real. It’s exhausting. But, from transition, comes opportunity. It is just a matter of thinking about it differently and finding the shiny, glimmering opportunities amongst dark and ominous clouds. So, stay focused and rise above the chaos. – CXD
New product discovery is one of the most important tasks designers face today. The challenge of simply working with the brands you know is hard enough. Today, we’re diving into a new brand to you and color, chemistry, culture—a whole new approach to what goes on your walls. You are about to hear from Maya Crowne and Price Latimer,, the visionary duo behind Alkemis Paint, a brand attempting to redefine the paint industry through sustainability, style, and substance.
Launched in 2023 after over three years of rigorous R&D, Alkemis was born out of the pandemic with a mission: to eliminate toxic chemicals from our living spaces and replace them with mineral-based, eco-conscious, air-purifying alternatives. But this isn’t just about cleaner paint—it’s about redefining how we think about surfaces, health, and design.
With a background steeped in creativity and a love for reggae and dub influencing their bold palette, Maya and Price are creating more than color—they’re creating a movement. We’ll talk about the science behind their unique formula, the challenges of launching a purpose-driven product in a tough market, and why education, authenticity, and collaboration are core to their growth.
This is a story about design with depth, color with conscience, and paint that actually breathes. Let’s get into it, right after this.
Thank you Maya and Price. Alkemis Paint, and if you’re like me, you’re walking away from this conversation with a renewed sense of what’s possible in the world of design materials.
Alkemis isn’t just making paint—they’re making a statement. One rooted in health, sustainability, and the kind of creative authenticity that sticks with you. From CO₂-absorbing finishes to culturally inspired hues, they’re bringing an entirely new mindset to the surface of modern interiors.
If you’re a designer, architect, or even a homeowner thinking about your next project, consider what Alkemis is doing. It’s more than a product—it’s a philosophy. And in a world where every choice we make leaves a mark, it’s refreshing to find a brand that’s thinking far beyond the brush.
Thanks for listening to Convo By Design. Until next time—be well, I hope this show help you stay motivated, inspired and focused so you can rise above the chaos. -CXD
Welcome to the Convo By Design Icon Registry episode for June, 2025, and today’s episode is something special. I’m joined by four extraordinary architects—Gary Brewer, Randy Carell, Grant Marani, and Roger Schiefter—partners at Robert A.M. Stern Architects, a firm globally recognized for its enduring elegance and rigor in design. Collectively, they represent decades of leadership and legacy, and I’ve dubbed them, affectionately, the Fab Four of architecture.
We’re exploring their latest book, Houses, a breathtaking volume showcasing RAMSA’s residential work from across the globe. This isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about architecture that works, endures, and adapts. As someone who values tactile design and the subtle elegance of spaces that feel lived in, I was especially drawn to the honesty and detail these architects bring to their craft.
We’ll talk about how RAMSA evolved from a small, hands-on firm into a global powerhouse using a unique studio structure, how the architects grew up within a culture of high expectations, and how they now design homes as full ecosystems—self-contained, resilient, and deeply personal. And, how the pandemic changed the way we think about domestic space, and why, despite digital tools, the printed page still holds unmatched power in architectural storytelling.
So, whether you’re an architect, designer, student, or someone who just loves great design, this conversation is full of insight, humor, and heart. And you will hear it all form this months inductees, right after this from our Convo By Design Icon Registry presenting partner, pacific Sales Kitchen & Home.
That was Gary Brewer, Randy Carell, Grant Marani, and Roger Schiefter—four voices with a shared vision, yet distinct design perspectives, brought together in Houses, a book that feels more personal, more immersive, and more intimate than past RAMSA monographs.
What struck me most is their deep respect—for clients, for context, and for the act of living itself. Whether it’s a house in East Hampton rebuilt with reverence for sycamore trees, a modern reinterpretation of a black-and-white colonial home in Singapore, or Roger’s own renovation of a Southern California midcentury gem, these projects aren’t just beautiful—they’re functional, thoughtful, and designed for longevity.
In a world increasingly obsessed with speed and spectacle, these homes offer something slower and deeper. As one client said after moving into her RAMSA-designed house: “All I had to buy was a tablecloth.” That’s not just a compliment—it’s a blueprint for what design should be: complete, coherent, and truly lived-in.
Print may be fighting for its place in a digital age, but books like Houses remind us why it still matters. It’s not about nostalgia—it’s about permanence. About slowing down to experience a space the way the architects intended.
Thanks for listening to Convo By Design. Thank you to my partner sponsors, Pacific Sales, 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 help you stay motivated, inspired and focused so you can rise above the chaos. -CXD
In a thoughtful and far-ranging conversation, architect Mitch Rocheleau sits down with me to discuss the deeper layers of architecture, the critical importance of reflection in design, and the challenges—and opportunities—presented by rebuilding in the face of disaster. Throughout our exchange, Rocheleau consistently returns to one core belief: architecture is not merely about aesthetics or function, but about the human experience.
“I think architecture, if you study and reflect on it, write about it, think about it deeply, can be in some ways a storybook,” Rocheleau said early in the conversation. “You can read it and gain profound insights into the people that were building it.” Which is such a dynamic idea and one we just don’t often consider.
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Until next week, thank you for sharing this time together, until the next episode, be well, stay focused and now that it has arrived in earnest, try to rise above the chaos.
The Power of Writing in Design
Rocheleau has become known not just for his architectural practice, but for his written reflections on the field. These writings—available via Rust Architects—provide critical insight often missing from mainstream discussions of architecture.
What drives this urge to document and reflect? Rocheleau sees it as an essential part of the creative process.
“As I’ve gone through that process [of creating], I’ve begun to feel the intuition or this need to reflect,” he explained. “To say, okay, what am I actually doing? Where is this coming from? What is the work I’m putting into the world?” Such purposeful cogitation creates the framework for managing creative ideas for a greater purpose.
This emphasis on writing as a reflective tool, rather than simply a vehicle for promotion or analysis, places Rocheleau in a tradition of architectural thinkers who seek deeper meaning in their work. He draws inspiration from historical figures such as John Ruskin, seeing the built environment as both a product and reflection of civilization.
Bridging School and Reality
A particularly compelling moment in the interview, for me, came when Mitch and I discuss a comment from architect Brian Pinkett: that architecture school doesn’t teach students how to design, but rather how to think critically. Rocheleau agreed, but pointed out a troubling disconnect between that training and the professional world.
“It seems to me that there may be in the path of architecture… a primary path, and then along the way, a series of possibly distractions,” he said. These distractions include software, rendering techniques, and other technical tools that—while valuable—can steer young architects away from their original, human-centered purpose.
Rocheleau’s concern is that without conscious reflection, the architectural process becomes reactive, not intentional. He views writing, philosophy, and psychology as tools to reconnect with that original path.
“At its essence, it all can come back to the idea of the human and what’s going on in the human’s mind as we’re walking through space.”
A Lens on the Farnsworth House
Mitch and I discuss one of his recent writings on the Farnsworth House by Mies van der Rohe. While often seen as a minimalist icon of modernism, Rocheleau sees it through a more emotional and humanistic lens.
“There was this really maybe sensitive approach from Mies van der Rohe about the human experience,” Rocheleau explained. “Which is a strange thing, because I think he often doesn’t really get credit for that type of thinking.”
He views the Farnsworth House not just as an object of design, but as a symbol of a new, more transparent way of living—one that connects people more directly with their surroundings. The building, in his view, represents not only architectural purity but emotional vulnerability.
“It’s massively freeing to think that it’s possible to live that way,” he said of the open, glass-walled structure.
Lessons from the Past: Venice as a Living Artifact
Turning to another of Rocheleau’s essays, I highlighted a piece on the architectural history of Venice—an improbable city that, as the architect pointed out, “shouldn’t exist.” The challenges Venice faced gave rise to unique solutions, like the Venetian chimney, which doubled as both an artistic feature and a fire safety measure.
“It’s this confluence of beautiful art and necessity,” Rocheleau explained. “Somebody’s in a challenging place, and they’re problem solving.”
For Rocheleau, Venice exemplifies how constraints and adversity often lead to innovation. He contrasted this with the top-down, utopian visions often proposed by urban planners—visions that may be beautiful but are often divorced from lived reality.
“Without those challenges, that city would not be what it is today,” he noted. “There’s a bit of hollowness in a plan that hasn’t faced resistance.”
Rebuilding After Disaster: Southern California’s Moment
Los Angeles and Southern California in the wake of wildfires that have devastated communities. With the surge in rebuilding efforts provide both risk and an opportunity.
Rocheleau sees parallels with Venice’s resilience—suggesting that, just as hardship led to innovation in the past, today’s crises could inspire smarter, more human-centered urban planning.
Rocheleau agrees that now is a time to reflect deeply on what kind of environments truly serve humanity—not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually.
“I think we should reflect as a collective society… to help us get a better compass for how to proceed with architectural work in the future.”
The Takeaway: Thought Before Form
Throughout the discussion, Mitch Rocheleau makes a compelling case that architecture is as much about thought as it is about form. His writings, rich with philosophy, psychology, and historical insight, aim to bring intentionality back into a profession often overwhelmed by trends and tools.
In a world dealing with climate disasters, urban sprawl, and shifting cultural values, his voice is a reminder that architecture has always been—and should remain—a human art.
Rebuilding Los Angeles: Balancing Urgency, Legacy, and Vision for the Future
In the wake of disaster, the urgency to rebuild is often overwhelming. Families are displaced, communities fractured, and infrastructure shattered. It’s entirely human to want to move quickly—to restore normalcy, provide shelter, and begin again. But what if moving fast risks missing the chance to do something truly transformational?
This tension is especially evident in places like Los Angeles—a sprawling, layered urban environment that defies easy categorization. To understand LA is to understand that it’s not one unified city but a complex mosaic of neighborhoods, each with its own identity, architecture, and community fabric. In a region so rich in diversity and history, rebuilding isn’t just about putting walls back up—it’s about deciding how we live, why we build, and what legacy we leave behind.
The Dangers of Rebuilding in Haste
The instinct to rebuild quickly is understandable, especially after catastrophe. But speed can come at the cost of quality, thoughtfulness, and long-term resilience. As one architect reflected, there’s a real risk in responding with haste: the impulse to recreate the same structures, to replicate familiar patterns without taking the time to reflect on what worked, what didn’t, and what could be improved.
Rather than defaulting to “build back the same,” there’s a compelling argument for pausing—just long enough—to ask deeper questions. What are the values of the community? How should infrastructure serve people today, and tomorrow? And how can the rebuilt environment contribute not just to housing needs, but to culture, identity, and connection?
Preservation vs. Progress: A Los Angeles Dilemma
Los Angeles faces a unique architectural paradox. On one hand, it houses some of the most iconic mid-century and modernist structures in the country. On the other, it is a living, breathing organism that constantly evolves—one that doesn’t (and arguably shouldn’t) preserve everything for the sake of nostalgia.
Take the example of Eichler homes. Built as part of the post-World War II housing boom, these homes reflect a critical shift in how Americans thought about suburban living. With open courtyards, indoor-outdoor flow, and modern materials, Eichlers weren’t just houses—they were a statement about a new way of life. They marked a philosophical and aesthetic evolution, one that mirrored broader changes in society.
But here’s the irony: while Eichlers are celebrated today as architectural gems, they were once just part of a larger tract housing movement—one often dismissed for its uniformity and lack of design rigor. This contradiction highlights the challenge of preservation: how do we decide what is “worth” saving? What makes one tract home a heritage site, while another is fair game for demolition?
A Moment of Opportunity
Today, Southern California has a rare opportunity—perhaps the greatest since the postwar boom—to reshape the urban landscape for generations to come. Disaster, as tragic as it is, presents a unique chance to not just restore, but to reinvent.
It’s a chance to take what we’ve learned—about materials, sustainability, equity, and design—and apply it at scale. To create housing that isn’t just affordable, but beautiful and dignified. To craft public spaces that foster connection. To reimagine density not as a threat, but as a solution to sprawl, climate strain, and social isolation.
This isn’t about tearing down the past. It’s about learning from it—and building a better future because of it.
The Role of Architectural Language
Architecture is a language, and like any language, it evolves. Styles shift, materials change, needs adapt. Yet at its core, good architecture speaks to the human experience. It tells a story—about how we see ourselves, our values, our aspirations.
In the absence of nuanced architectural criticism, however, these stories are often lost. Today’s social media environment favors snapshots over substance, impressions over inquiry. A photo of a sleek facade might go viral, but who explains the deeper design choices? Who critiques whether a building works—not just visually, but emotionally, functionally, and socially?
This is why thoughtful architectural voices are needed now more than ever. Not just to defend preservation or promote innovation, but to interpret, contextualize, and push the conversation forward.
Learning from the Masters—And Moving Beyond Them
Even the most revered architects had blind spots. Visiting Frank Lloyd Wright’s Price Tower in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, one is struck by its grandeur and ambition—but also by its shortcomings. The dramatic design includes soaring glass expanses and rich materials, but also narrow hallways and impractical living spaces. One secretary’s desk was placed beneath a half-wall that blocked her view, despite floor-to-ceiling windows nearby. It’s a reminder that architectural vision can sometimes ignore human needs.
These imperfections don’t diminish Wright’s legacy—but they do highlight the importance of designing not just for expression, but for experience. Today’s architects must balance vision with empathy, aesthetics with usability.
Toward a New Los Angeles
What does the next Los Angeles look like? That depends on the questions we’re willing to ask—and how brave we are in answering them.
Can we build faster and better? Can we honor the past while embracing the future? Can we move beyond labels—“modernist,” “traditionalist,” “preservationist”—and simply strive to create environments that work for people?
The answer lies not in one master plan, but in many conversations—among architects, planners, community members, and leaders. It lies in resisting the pressure to rush, and instead seizing this moment to do something deeper.
Los Angeles is not static. It never has been. But it can be intentional. And in that intention lies the hope of a more resilient, equitable, and inspiring city for the next generation.
