In this episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen sits down with architect and Anguleris CEO Ben Glunz to explore Swatchbox’s new Second Life Samples™ program—a breakthrough initiative that’s redefining sustainability in the design world. Swatchbox has long helped designers streamline how they request and return product samples, but its new of…

Discover how HGA turned a former department store in the historic Woodies building in Washington, DC, into its thriving new regional headquarters in this In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) mini-episode, based on a recent article, titled, "HGA Overhauls Former Department Store Into New D.C. Headquarters," published on the i+s website on Feb. 18, 2025. In…

In this episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen sits down with Cheryl Durst, EVP and CEO of the International Interior Design Association (IIDA), to explore the future of interior design and IIDA’s central role in shaping it. Recorded ahead of NeoCon and Design Days in Chicago, the conversation highlights IIDA’s initiatives, including Revel …

Have you ever considered how hotels can incorporate adaptive design elements to proactively meet their guests’ needs? Listen to this In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) article read mini-episode in which we revisit an article titled, "Adaptive Furnishings and Fixtures Deliver Fully Inclusive Hotels," written by Evelyn Long and published on the i+s websit…

In this edition of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen delivers a wide-angle view of the current architecture, design, and construction landscape in 2025. Drawing from recent reports and economic indicators—including the AIA Billings Index, Sherwin-Williams' Construction Insights survey, and research from firms like Gensler, Perkins&Will, and Corga…

In this In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) article read mini-episode, we revisit an article titled, "What Does a Healthy Showroom Look Like?" published on the interiors+sources website on Feb. 18, 2025. Listen in to discover how Kimball International’s Boston showroom recently achieved WELL certification at the Platinum level, becoming the fifth of the …

In this special NeoCon 2025 preview episode, host Robert Nieminen chats with sustainability journalist and educator Kenn Busch, founder of Material Intelligence and Climate Positive Now. Together, they explore what’s in store at this year’s Material Intelligence Destination: NeoCon Pavilion—a hands-on, narrative-driven space that reframes how desig…

In this In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) mini article-read episode, we revisit an article published on the i+s website titled, "ASID Explores the Influence of Joy, Wellness, and Sustainability on 2025 Interior Design Trends," in which ASID's Lindsey Koren discusses how interior design is adapting to reflect emerging priorities that emphasize joy, well…

Marketing building products to architects and designers is more complicated than ever. In this episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen talks with Susan Fernandez, founder of Cast Carbon and partner at UpSpring, about what it really takes to break through the noise and connect with today’s A&D professionals. From her early days branding paver…

In this In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) article-read mini-episode, we commemorate Earth Day 2025 by revisiting an article published on the i+s website titled, "Creating a Climate-Resilient Blueprint for Schools," which explores the risks educational institutions face due to extreme weather-related events and the important role that resilient educatio…

With office vacancies rising and housing shortages mounting, the commercial real estate industry is at a tipping point. In this episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen sits down with Marissa Kasdan and Mark Oberholzer of KTGY to explore how adaptive reuse—and their bold Upcycle Tower concept—could reshape our cities. They discuss the real-wo…

In this In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) article read episode, we look back at an interview i+s Editor in Chief Carrie Meadows conducted with Principal Caleb Anderson of /AND Design (formerly Drake/Anderson), originally published online on Feb. 5, 2025, in which he talks about an approach for wider industry collaboration that harmonizes design concept…

In the final installment of our Women’s History Month series, we're honored to host Andrea Keller on this episode of I Hear Design. Andrea is a visionary architect and partner/designer of Star Tile who's redefining how we perceive design and its impact on human well-being. In this episode, we explore how incorporating these natural geometries into …

In this Women’s History Month episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen sits down with Sara Balderi and Deidre Hoguet of Designtex for an inspiring conversation on the growing field of neuroaesthetics. They explore how neuroscience, biophilia, and the psychology of space are reshaping commercial design—from healthcare to hospitality—with a foc…

In this episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen is joined by two influential women in the design industry—Alda Ly, founder and principal of ALA Studio (@_ala_studio), and Casey Baxter, vice president and general manager of HBF (@hbffurniture | @hbftextiles). As part of our Women’s History Month series, we explore their professional journeys,…

To kick off Women's History Month, host Robert Nieminen sits down with Kellie K. Sirna, founder of Studio 11 Design, to explore her journey from launching a boutique design firm to leading one of Dallas' most sought-after hospitality design teams. In this episode of I Hear Design, Kellie shares insights on managing a multi-generational workforce, t…

In this mini In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) article-read episode, we dive into an article published on the i+s website on Dec. 3, 2024, titled, "Discover the Versatility and Value of Chemical Fabrics and Film," that explores how vinyl products deliver customization, durability, and aesthetic excellence across industries from healthcare to hospitalit…

In this episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen sits down with design innovators Steven DuFresne and Dave Veeneman to reveal the fascinating journey behind the Anthros chair. Learn how years of experience in wheelchair seating and a commitment to rigorous scientific research led to a groundbreaking, ergonomic office chair that improves postu…

In this In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) article-read episode, we review an article recently published on the i+s website titled, "Office Furnishings Find a Second Life Through Designers and Distributors Embracing Sustainable Practices." Listen in as we discuss how sustainability and circularity, combined with newer tools and marketplaces for sourcing…

In this episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen is joined by industry experts Robert Siegel (Siegel Design), Steven South (Spectorgroup), and Erin McDannald (Elevated) to explore the business case for sustainability. The discussion covers how companies are leveraging sustainable design to improve ROI, boost employee well-being, and increase …

In this In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) mini-episode, we revisit a recent article published on the i+s website that explores how woven metal fabric is transforming healthcare infrastructure with its durability, biophilic properties, and versatility. From enhancing safety and privacy to reducing noise pollution, discover how this dynamic material is c…

In this insightful episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen sits down with industry leaders Pablo La Roche (Arcadis), Joe Mamayek (SGA), and Jonce Walker (HLW) to explore the evolving landscape of green building standards, including LEED v5 and its far-reaching implications. From cutting-edge technologies like geothermal and passive cooling t…

In this In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) episode based on a recent article published on the interiors+sources website, we explore how interior designers are uniquely responsible for promoting inclusiveness and meeting non-neurotypical groups’ needs through innovative office design—which can improve the overall occupant experience. Learn how to priorit…

In this episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen sits down with Yure Suarez (Perkins&Will), Ilijana Soldan (Hord Coplan Macht), and Ryan Smith (3form) to discuss the evolution of sustainable design in the second installment of a three-part series on sustainability. Discover how holistic approaches, resilience strategies, and circular design p…

Once considered expensive and difficult to operate, 3D printing has become far more accessible in recent years. Now, design firms can often afford to have 3D printers in-house, but there are also plenty of outsourcing options. The result is that we’re seeing a major increase not only in large-scale projects driven by this technology—such as a fully…

Join I Hear Design host Robert Nieminen as he sits down with Gensler Co-CEOs Jordan Goldstein and Elizabeth Brink to unpack their 2025 Design Forecast. Discover how five key trends—experience-driven lifestyle districts, sustainable design innovations, adaptive reuse, attainable housing, and the future workplace—are reshaping the built environment. …

In this In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) episode of I Hear Design, we explore the cutting-edge innovations showcased in the 2024 IIDA Healthcare Design Awards. From biophilic design that reconnects patients with nature to trauma-informed spaces that prioritize safety and calm, the winning projects highlight five transformative trends that are reshapin…

In this episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen welcomes Carrie Meadows, Editor-in-Chief of interiors+sources, for her podcast debut and an enlightening conversation with Adam Reeder, president of LightArt. Together, they delve into the fascinating relationship between LightArt and its materials partner, 3form, and explore how these industry…

In this “In Case You Missed It” (ICYMI) episode, we revisit an article titled, “Moody Nolan Shares School Initiatives that Serve Student Health,” published on iands.design on September 30, and written by Deb Kolesar, senior interior designer at Moody Nolan. You’ll discover how a “community school” or “wraparound services model” in K-12 schools are …

In this episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen takes listeners on a captivating journey through La Sagrada Familia, the world-famous cathedral in Barcelona. He recounts his recent visit to this architectural marvel, exploring the fascinating history behind Antoni Gaudí’s masterpiece and his nature-inspired designs. Discover the ongoing cons…

In this mini In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) episode of I Hear Design, we revisit an article titled, "OneDigital Unveils New Tech-Forward HQ, Designed to Elevate Work-Life and Collaboration," published on the i+s website on August 28, 2024. Designed by Hendrick, discover how this new corporate hub blends cutting-edge technology with a people-first et…

As the November political elections draw near, we sat down with designer and trend forecaster Stacy Garcia to discuss her thoughts on how consumer behaviors are shaped by the broader economic and political landscape and what that means for design professionals. From parallels between today’s climate and the 2008 recession to the emergence of bold, …

With hybrid and remote policies as the primary working model, many Gen Z employees are skeptical of the value of the office’s collective experience. Our challenge as workplace designers is finding the balance between these vastly different sets of expectations to ensure the office supports all staff and to prove the value of the physical office so …

In this episode of I Hear Design, we’ll dive into a topic that’s sparked a lot of debate over the years: the use of PVC in the built environment. In spite of its ubiquitous usage by designers and specifiers for a variety of applications, questions about its its sustainability claims continue to swirl, and many A&D firms as well as manufacturers hav…

Choosing finishes that meet the aesthetic needs of a space combined with inherent cleanability makes vinyl wallcovering an easy choice for today’s high-demand spaces like healthcare environments. With the latest innovation of digital wallcoverings, we’re able to take it up another level by creating less waste with custom-designed and measured wallc…

No industry is immune to the current wave of artificial intelligence, including architecture and design. The general consensus is that while AI for workplace design has great potential, it needs more time to mature. But the inroads are there, and the industry is headed for a significant pivot. In this In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) episode of the I …

In this episode of I Hear Design, we're diving into the dynamic world of urban design and mass transit projects. Our guests, Ana Francisca de la Mora and Donald Verbanac from Arcadis, explore the intricate challenges of creating vibrant, functional urban spaces with an eye toward of placemaking. We also discuss how urban planners and architects can…

In this In Case You Missed It episode, we recap an article written by Barbara Horwitz-Bennett that was originally published on the interiors+sources website on April 5, 2024, that explores some unlikely markets that provide a snapshot of a few projects getting it right in developing cities attracting tourists and locals alike.…

Well, folks, that's a wrap! We just returned from NeoCon and Design Days in Chicago, and the energy at The MART and Fulton Market was palpable. In this extended episode of I Hear Design, i+s Chief Content Director Robert Nieminen sits down with NeoCon movers and shakers, including IIDA's CEO Cheryl Durst, Hightower's co-founder and CEO, Natalie Har…

In this episode of I Hear Design, we talk to interiors+sources' long-time partner, journalist and educator Kenn Busch, about the launch of the new Climate Positive Solutions Gallery at NeoCon 2024. As the founder of Material Intelligence, Kenn is a go-to expert about educational messaging around architectural materials, informed by years of researc…

In this episode of the "I Hear Design" podcast, host Robert Nieminen discusses the topic of specifying sustainable and healthy furniture, focusing on understanding various sustainability standards. He is joined by Steve Kooy, technical director for health and sustainability at BIFMA, who provides insights into the development and integration of the…

In this In Case You Missed It episode, we recap an article written by ASID's Lindsey Koren that was originally published on the interiors+sources website on April 9, 2024, that uncovers highlights from ASID's 2024 Trends Outlook Report on refreshing trends emerging in the design of hospitality environments.…

Workplace design has seen significant shifts over the years, from the dreaded cubicle farms of decades passed to open plan offices and the hybrid model we’ve been hearing in the wake of the global pandemic. But where is workplace design now and where is it headed in the future? In this episode, Bethanne Mikkelsen, senior principal at Ankrom Moisan’…

In this In Case You Missed It Episode, we’re featuring a popular article from the interiors+sources website titled, “How Today’s Retail Design Influences E-Commerce” written by Nicki Gitlin, the owner and founder of Dang Design and Architecture, originally published online on March 26, 2024. Join us as we dive in to how customers today are familiar…

Technology has been the focal point of conversation across every industry in the past year, not the least of which has been the field of architecture. In this episode, Jack Chaffin, architect and principal at Seattle-based Johnston Architects, talks about how the firm is leveraging new technologies to enhance their designs and bring a greater level…

In this "In Case You Missed It" episode of I Hear Design, Chief Content Director Robert Nieminen reviews two recent articles from the i+s website that explore The Embodied Carbon in Construction Calculator, better known as EC3. The first is titled, “3 Designers Talk 3 Ways to Utilize EC3,” by Lona Rerick, sustainable design leader and architect at …

As the architecture and design industry becomes increasingly familiar with digital design tools and pre-construction services, knowing how they work and what to look for is paramount. How can tools like 3D Revit and digital twins address pain points for project teams, for example? Listen in as Armstrong's Nate Baxter answers this questions (among o…

In this In Case You Missed It Episode, we’ll be revisiting a popular article from the interiors+sources website titled, “9 Pillars of Thoughtful Project Management,” written by Kimberly M. Zeiser, senior associate in Gensler’s Chicago studio, originally published online on Feb. 1, 2024. Join us as we explore the strategies, tools, and best practice…

In its annual Design Forecast, global architecture and design firm Gensler identifies eight key trends at play that will help move the industry forward in 2024 and beyond. Stranded assets like offices are being re-thought and re-tooled into residential spaces to help with the housing crisis, for example, and leveraging technologies like AI and crea…

In this “In Case You Missed It Episode,” we highlight a recent article titled, "Perkins&Will Launches Open-Source Tool for Healthier Environments," that was originally published online on Dec. 11th, 2023 by the i+s staff. Listen in as we describe this new resource for architects and designers that leverages public health data to help better inform …