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.
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.
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
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.
In this episode, Pennoyer explores the balance between respecting historic streetscapes and embracing contemporary design, sharing insights on notable projects including French modern townhouses in Manhattan, Adirondack retreats, and reimagined New England homes. Listeners will hear about his approach to materials, light, and functionality, as well as the lessons learned from urban and natural environments. From small creative spaces to sweeping estates, Pennoyer reveals how architecture can feel both inevitable and personal.
Show Topics / Outline:
Early Influences
Growing up in NYC, next to an architect’s modernized Victorian townhouse.
Father’s role on the Art Commission (Design Review Commission) and early exposure to civic architecture.
Walking through the Metropolitan Museum during new wing constructions and its impact.
Philosophy of Context and Streetscape
Importance of buildings as parts of streets rather than standalone monuments.
Learning from historic architecture and urban fabric.
Balancing preservation with creative reinterpretation.
Firm Origins and Approach
Founding Peter Pennoyer Architects in 1990, NYC and Miami.
Learning along the way; responding to each commission individually.
Miami as a freer design environment vs. New York’s strict urban constraints.
Design Inspirations and Innovation
Interest in unusual historic ideas, color, and modern adaptation (e.g., Adirondack home with vibrant red windows).
Classical architecture as a living, evolving language.
Integrating modern functionality with traditional forms.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Let me start with a disclaimer—this isn’t a political editorial. It’s a conversation about ideas. Lessons from business, design, culture, and philosophy that might help us grow—individually and collectively. And if you disagree, email me at ConvoByDesign@Outlook.com. I welcome the debate.
As this year closes, I’m feeling a mix of frustration and optimism. This moment feels chaotic—as does most of life lately—which is why I often end the show with, “rise above the chaos.” We can’t eliminate it, but we can manage what’s within our control. The Stoics told us that long ago: focus on what you can control, release what you can’t, act with virtue, and let obstacles sharpen resilience. This essay is about taking back even a small amount of control through the work we do and the spaces we shape.
The Problem with Trend-Driven Design
This year, phrases and hashtags flew faster than ever—Quiet Luxury, Brat Green, Fridgescaping, Millennial Grey. Much like the “big, beautiful bill” language we’ve all heard tossed around in political discourse, design’s buzzwords can distract from what actually matters. They generate attention, not meaning. They look good on social media, not necessarily in the lived experience of a home, workplace, or public square.
So instead of centering our design conversations around fleeting edits, let’s pivot toward the global innovations that are transforming the built world in ways that truly matter.
Across the globe, designers, architects, and researchers are developing ideas that transcend buzz. These are the concepts with longevity—the ones shaping smart, resilient, human-centered spaces:
Biophilic Design, rooted in the work of Edward O. Wilson, Erich Fromm, and Japanese shinrin-yoku, continues to reframe our relationship with nature.
Net-Zero Architecture, pioneered in Canada, Germany, and Australia, redefines building performance through projects like Seattle’s Bullitt Center and Colorado’s RMI Innovation Center.
Smart Homes and Invisible Tech, building on early Asian innovation, hiding circuitry and functionality behind seamless design powered by Apple, Google, and Amazon ecosystems.
Prefab and Modular Construction, originally exemplified by structures like the Crystal Palace and the Sydney Opera House, now reimagined by firms such as Plant Prefab.
Passive House Design, born in Germany but rapidly shaping U.S. projects in California, New York, and the Pacific Northwest.
And the list goes on:
Self-Healing Concrete by Hendrik Marius Jonkers
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi by Frank Gehry
Bët-bi Museum in Senegal by Mariam Issoufou
Powerhouse Parramatta in Australia
Pujiang Viewing Platform in China by MVRDV
Landscape and biophilic approaches—Wabi-Sabi gardening, edimental gardens, climate-adaptive landscapes, and indoor biophilia—are redefining how we engage with natural systems in daily life.
Even infrastructure has become a site of innovation:
CopenHill/Amager Bakke, Denmark’s waste-to-energy plant with a ski slope
Urban Sequoias by SOM—skyscrapers designed as carbon sinks
3D-printed timber in Germany, Finland, and France
This is the work that deserves our attention—not the color of the week on TikTok.
Rethinking the Shelter Space
For years I described architecture as a language, design as a dialect, and landscape as the narrative. Mies van der Rohe famously introduced the concept of architecture as language. It caught on, and then the bandwagon effect took over. But today, the metaphor feels insufficient—especially for the shelter space, where people spend their lives, raise families, work, heal, and age.
The shelter space isn’t like a retail store or restaurant, where design is often intended for those who pass through briefly while the people who labor there navigate the leftover space. The shelter space must serve those who inhabit it deeply and continuously. And that shifts the conversation.
Design begins with the usual questions—purpose, function, users, goals, budget. But these questions don’t define design. They only outline it. There is no universal purpose of architecture or design, no single philosophy, no singular “right” answer. The shelter space varies as widely as the people living within it.
So instead of treating architecture and design as technical processes, we should approach them philosophically.
A Philosophical Framework for Design
Stoicism offers clarity:
Accept that budget overruns and changes will occur. Respect the expertise of the designer you hired. Invest in authenticity rather than dupes. Create environments that support health—clean air, clean water, noise reduction, resilience.
Utilitarianism reminds us that choices have consequences. If the design decisions you make are based on influencer content instead of expertise, the result is no surprise.
And now, a new framework is emerging that could transform our shared spaces entirely.
Sensorial Urbanism: Designing the City We Actually Feel
One of the most compelling movements emerging globally is Sensorial Urbanism—a shift from focusing on how the city looks to how it feels. It’s neuroscience, phenomenology, and inclusive design rolled into a multi-sensory toolkit.
Five Key Sensory Principles
Soundscaping
Water features masking traffic. Acoustic pavilions. Designed sound gardens.
Paris’ Le Cylindre Sonore. Soundscape parks in Barcelona and Berlin.
Smellscaping
Native flowers, herbs, and aromatic trees restoring identity—especially critical after disasters like wildfires.
Kate McLean’s smellwalks map a city’s olfactory signature.
Tactile Design
Materials that invite touch and respond to temperature—stone, wood, water—connecting inhabitants to place.
Visual Quietness
Reducing signage and visual clutter, as seen in Drachten, Netherlands, creates calmer, more intuitive environments.
Multisensory Inclusivity
Design that accommodates neurodiversity, PTSD, aging, and accessibility through tactile paving, sound buffers, and scent markers.
Why It Matters
Because cities didn’t always feel this overwhelming.
Because design wasn’t always rushed.
Because quality of life shouldn’t be compromised for aesthetics.
Sensorial Urbanism reconnects us with spaces that are restorative, intuitive, and emotionally resonant. A city is not just a picture—it is an experience.
The Takeaway for 2026
Rising Above the Chaos: Lessons from 2025 for a Smarter 2026
HED (3-sentence summary):
As 2025 closes, the design and architecture world has experienced unprecedented chaos and rapid trend cycles. In this episode, Soundman reflects on lessons from business, culture, and global innovation, emphasizing resilience, purposeful design, and human-centered spaces. From Stoic philosophy to sensorial urbanism, this conversation offers guidance for navigating the next year with clarity and intentionality.
DEK (Expanded description):
Twenty twenty-five tested the design industry’s patience, creativity, and adaptability. In this reflective episode, we explore the pitfalls of trend-driven design, the enduring value of service, and the innovations shaping architecture globally — from net-zero buildings to multisensory urbanism. With examples ranging from TimberTech decking to Pacific Sales’ trade programs, we examine how designers can reclaim control, prioritize meaningful work, and create spaces that heal, inspire, and endure. A philosophical lens, practical insights, and actionable guidance make this a must-listen for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Outline of Show Topics:
Introduction & Context
Reflection on the chaotic year of 2025 in design and architecture.
Disclaimer: this is a philosophical conversation, not a political editorial.
Invitation for audience engagement via email.
Trends vs. Meaningful Design
Critique of buzzwords like “quiet luxury” and “millennial gray bookshelf wealth.”
Emphasis on global innovation over social media-driven trends.
The gap between American design influence and international innovation.
Global Innovations in Architecture & Design
Biophilic design and its philosophical roots.
Net-zero buildings: Bullitt Center (Seattle), RMI Innovation Center (Colorado).
Smart homes, modular construction, and passive house adoption in the U.S. vs. abroad.
Focus on Service & Professional Support
Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home: Pro Rewards program and exceptional service.
TimberTech: innovation in sustainable synthetic decking.
Importance of performance, durability, and client-focused solutions.
Philosophical Approach to Design
Architecture as experience, not just a visual language.
Stoicism, utilitarianism, and mindfulness applied to design.
Sensorial urbanism: engaging all five senses in public and private spaces.
Emerging Global Examples of Innovation
Self-healing concrete (Henrik Marius Junkers), Copenhill (Denmark).
Returning to performance, resilience, and quality of life.
Practical guidance for designers in all regions, including overlooked U.S. markets.
Closing Reflections & New Year Outlook
Encouragement to rise above chaos and focus on what can be controlled.
Goals for 2026: intentional, human-centered, and innovative design.
Call to action: share, subscribe, and engage with Convo by Design.
Sponsor Mentions & Callouts
Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home
TimberTech
Design Hardware
If you enjoyed this long-form essay, share it with a friend. Subscribe to Convo By Design, follow @convoxdesign on Instagram, and send your thoughts to ConvoByDesign@Outlook.com.
Thank you to TimberTech, The AZEK Company, Pacific Sales, Best Buy, and Design Hardware for supporting over 650 episodes and making Convo By Design the longest running podcast of it’s kind!
For the past 2 years, you have been hearing about the Convo By Design Icon Registry. My version of a hall of fame. I started this reluctantly. Reluctantly?
Yes, for one reason. I have shared my disdain for the click-bait lists that many of the trade pubs and outlets offer. I think it’s disingenuous to put designers and architects on a list because there is really no way of valuing one creative over another, especially when these lists often have absolutely no methodology for why someone is chosen. It’s like a MadLib, the “insert here” 100, the “insert” Top 50, 30 Under 30, 40 Under 40, The “insert” of Design, The “insert” of the Year… You get me, right? And the last thing I wanted to do was offer up the same thing but on the other hand, this show is entering its 13th year. 2-years ago in the shadow of an incredible year 10, I wanted to celebrate and showcase some of the amazing talent featured on the show, celebrate them and enshrine them for their work, their selfless pursuit of sublime design, giving back to the industry and for the intangibles that make them so special. That really is the criteria for why these incredible creatives are celebrated here. That is the criteria for enshrinement.
The Convo By Design Icon Registry is presented by a remarkable partner. A partner who imbues these very criteria into the work they do and why I am so appreciative to Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home, a Best Buy company, for being the presenting partner of the Convo By Design Icon Registry.
We post a new Icon Registry episode on the third or fourth Thursday of every month with a whole new slate of inductees scheduled for 2026. And today, we are going to take a look back at each of the inductees from 2025 and allow you to hear from them again in this year end review. Right after this.
January – Adam Hunter
February – Leo Marmol
March – Cliff Fong
April – EYRC Architects
May – Joan Behnke
June – RAMSA
July – Jeff Andrews
August – Frances Anderton
September – Martyn Lawrence Bullard
October – The Novogratz
November – Sue Firestone
December – Woodson & Rummerfield
Thank you and congratulations to all of the 2025 Convo By Design Icon Registry Inductees. This is such an immense joy and privilege to share these scions of design and architecture with you. Thanks again to Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home for presenting this and making it possible.
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 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
California native Sue Firestone reflects on five decades of creativity, resilience, and reinvention—from Malibu’s fires to Montecito’s rebirth, from model homes to hospitality design, and from Disney resorts to her namesake product lines.SFA Design founder Sue Firestone to explore how her lifelong relationship with nature, her passion for authenticity, and her intuitive approach to design continue to shape California’s aesthetic identity. From building one of the largest model home merchandising firms in the country to collaborating with Disney and launching her own collections, Firestone shares how creative intuition, empathy, and mentorship have guided her through the shifting tides of design and business.
The Convo By Design Icon Registry is presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home, a Best Buy company. Pacific Sales is comprised of long time professionals who love design and architecture as much as you do. Which is why it is so fitting that they present this recognition of some of the worlds greatest design talent every month here on Convo By Design. You are going to hear all about hit, right after this.
Show Topics:
Origins of a Designer: Growing up in Malibu, studying pottery, and finding her way into interior design.
California’s Resilient Spirit: Reflections on natural disasters, community recovery, and the role of design in rebuilding.
Design as a Learned Craft: Why intuition helps, but practice, empathy, and listening are key to mastering the art.
From Model Homes to Hospitality: Building a design empire through flexibility, storytelling, and collaboration.
Inside the Disney Experience: Working under Michael Eisner, defining narrative-driven environments, and lessons in leadership.
Letting Go of Control: How to scale creativity—mentoring, trusting teams, and avoiding micromanagement.
The California Look: Organic, sustainable, and casual-luxury living as an enduring influence.
Product Design & Legacy: Transitioning from client work to her own branded lines with Kravet and A. Rudin.
Business of Design: How retail and social media shifted client behavior—and why great design still requires professionals.
The Next Generation: Why designers must remain storytellers, environmentalists, and lifelong learners.
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, Sue..
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
I had the opportunity to sit with down with Nick McWhirter or SHM Architects to explore the nuances of transitional design, the delicate dance between modern and traditional elements, and the intentionality behind every architectural choice. From furniture-driven layouts to aspirational lighting strategies, Nick shares the thought process, research, and we discuss philosophy that transform houses into harmonious, living machines. Listeners will gain insight into how design, balance, and playfulness converge to create both beauty and functionality in contemporary residential architecture.
LOME-AI.com, simple, inexpensive, text to video harnessing the power of AI to grow your firm, beautifully.
What makes a home truly exceptional isn’t just the materials or the finishes—it’s the careful orchestration of space, light, and style. In this episode, Nick breaks down his approach to transitional design, revealing how subtle choices like shutter placement, dormer adjustments, or color balance can shift a home’s aesthetic from modern to traditional. The conversation spans everything from lighting plans and hidden technology to furniture-first design principles and the philosophy behind architecture as a living, breathing machine.Of course, that idea comes from Le Corbusier and his thoughts on this very subject.We also discuss the role of photography, the tension between realism and aspirational imagery, and the evolving vernacular of form and function in modern homes. This episode is a masterclass in thoughtful, intentional, and style-agnostic design.
Topics and Ideas
Introduction & Context
Welcome and setup: Exploring transitional design
Nick’s philosophy: Style agnostic but deeply researched
Transitional Design: Modern vs. Traditional
Subtle moves: Shutters, dormers, cut stone, and symmetry
Playfulness in design: How small details create balance
Color palette: Black-and-white schemes as intentional high-contrast statements
Experimentation and editing: Knowing when less is more
Lighting as a Core Component
Invisible vs. visible fixtures: Philosophy of recessed lighting
Lighting as both function and art
Integration with technology: Wi-Fi, AV, and smart home systems
Photography, Aspirational Design & Reality
Balancing reality and idealized imagery in marketing
Photoshop as a tool to highlight design intent
How photography conveys quality of light, space, and atmosphere
Form Follows Function & Architectural Philosophy
Homes as “machines for living”
The role of beauty and human experience in architecture
Historical perspective: Corbusier, Frank Lloyd Wright, and modern vernacular
Outdoor Spaces & Technology Integration
Creative solutions: Two TVs on a patio
LED walls and emerging tech as part of design storytelling
Closing Thoughts & Personal Insights
The freedom in design: Few right or wrong answers
Nick’s passion for music, smoked meats, and lifestyle influence
Preview of future conversations and projects
Thank you, Nick for the time and conversation. 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 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
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.
LOME-AI.com, simple, inexpensive, text to video harnessing the power of AI to grow your firm, beautifully.
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
This episode of Convo By Design is scheduled for the week of July 8th, 2025. Intentionally so we can begin thinking about what’s coming. It’s hard to forget trauma, like what we saw in Pacific Palisades and Altadena earlier this year. But not impossible. Traditionally, “fire season” in California begins in August and ends around the end of October. Over the decades, there has been a creep into July, then June on the front end and then into November and December on the back end. Sadly, now, there is no longer a fire season, only an ongoing threat. Part of a recent California tour that started in the Bay Area and ended in Pasadena, I got an earful, and, because the mics are always on, so will you.In this special episode, you’re going to hear an extraordinary panel conversation in its entirety—one that explores the very real and immediate design challenges and opportunities facing architects, builders, designers, and manufacturers when creating residential projects in fire-prone areas. This conversation was recorded live and it’s one of the most practical, informative, and emotionally resonant discussions we’ve had about fire-resilient design. This was recorded live from Golden State Lumber in Concord, CA. It features amazing professionals from design, landscape design and architecture. We have industry insiders and those on the front lines, literally.
This episode features the full conversation in four parts and here are some important ideas to listen for:
Setting the Context—Urgency, Evolution, and Mindset Shifts
We open with a candid discussion about the evolving nature of wildfire—how modern firestorms are not the slow-moving ground fires of the past, but fast, intense, and unpredictable events that demand a complete rethinking of how homes are sited, designed, and built.
Listen for how the professionals on the panel are redefining “resilience”, not as a post-disaster reaction, but as a forward-thinking design responsibility.
There’s discussion about the emotional component—how clients are now asking for homes that not only reflect their aesthetic desires but also protect their families and investment.
You’ll hear the beginnings of a common theme: that collaboration across disciplines—architecture, landscape, materials, policy—is essential to progress.
Materials, Methods, and Design Strategy
This section dives into the specific building systems and material choices that can help defend a home against wildfire.
Pay close attention to the comparisons between wood vs. non-combustible materials, and the increasing use of metal roofs, cementitious siding, and Class A-rated assemblies.
There are valuable insights into decking, fencing, vents, and eaves—often overlooked but critical components in fire resistance.
The discussion touches on building codes and certifications, and how understanding these nuances can inform smarter material selection and design detailing.
Design Solutions in Action
This is where we get into real-world case studies. Panelists share examples of how they’ve adapted fire-resilient strategies in current projects and how clients are responding to new realities.
Listen for examples of reimagining exterior spaces—gravel moats, Mediterranean-inspired gardens, and drought-tolerant landscapes that are also fire-resistant.
There’s a growing theme of creative compromise—how to design beautiful homes that meet code, earn insurance, and still feel like home.
One of the strongest takeaways here is the growing influence of insurance companies as drivers of design decisions, often dictating what is and isn’t possible based on risk models.
Systems, Bureaucracy, and the Bigger Picture
The final section broadens the lens to policy, forest management, and societal responsibility.
You’ll hear passionate commentary on how municipal red tape and lack of funding are holding back fuel reduction and prevention efforts on public lands.
There’s a sharp critique of the conflicting policies surrounding water conservation versus the need to irrigate plants to keep them from becoming fire hazards.
Perhaps most striking is the discussion about emotional decision-making in real estate—how people choose to build in beautiful, risky places and the evolving responsibility of design professionals to help guide those decisions.
The panel ends with a moment of humor and honesty, reflecting on the risks of living in various climate zones, whether it’s fire, flood, tornado, or drought—and the universality of risk in a changing climate.
What you’re about to hear is the full conversation—raw, honest, and highly informative. It captures the crossroads where climate, design, policy, and personal responsibility meet. Whether you’re a designer, builder, municipal official, or homeowner, this discussion offers real, actionable insights into how we build safer, smarter, and more beautiful homes for a rapidly changing world.
That was the full conversation on designing and building for fire resilience—an important and timely topic that continues to evolve as our climate, policies, and expectations shift. Thank you to this amazing group; Mary Ann, Amy, Caroline, Jay, Ian, Robby, John and Dustin. I want to thank my partner sponsors who help make this show possible: Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home, a Best Buy Company, TimberTech, The AZEK Company 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.
This is a complex issue and one that requires both deeper thought and immediate action.I want to thank every one of our expert guests for their insights, time, and passion.
Today, we learned:
How climate change and wildfire risk are reshaping architecture and landscape design;
What role new materials and building products play in safeguarding homes;
How to design beautiful, fire-conscious landscapes that meet strict new codes;
The ways insurance, regulations, and policy gaps are changing the game;
And why client education and holistic collaboration across disciplines is more important than ever.
Huge thanks, as always, to you for joining the conversation and to our sponsors for supporting these meaningful stories.
If you found this episode valuable, share it with a colleague and subscribe to make sure you don’t miss what’s next. We’ll continue bringing you the people, ideas, and innovations pushing the design world forward.
Until next time, stay curious, resilient, 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
