Convo By Design®

Josh Cooperman
  • 0.0 (0)
  • DESIGN
  • UPDATED TWICE WEEKLY

A podcast dedicated to promoting the ideas of architects, artists, designers, tastemakers and those making a difference in the way we live. Design is personal as is a good conversation. Copyright © Fusion Media, Inc. 2013-2025 All rights reserved.

  1. 21 HR AGO

    CEDIA Expo & CIX – The Ride Along: Part Four | 647 | Jason McGraw, Dale Sandberg & Jim Garrett

    This week on the show, you’re going to ride along with me from the incredibly comfortable and stylish VW ID.Buzz, which served as the mobile podcast studio at CEDIA Expo / CIX this September in Denver, Colorado. Were going back for more conversations from the show. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep CEDIA (Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association) is the global trade association for home technology professionals, specializing in smart home, automation, audio-visual, networking, and integrated systems. Its mission is to advance the home technology industry through education, certification, advocacy, and networking. Members include integrators, designers, manufacturers, and consultants who shape the connected environments we live and work in. CEDIA Expo is the industry’s largest annual event for residential technology professionals. With hundreds of exhibitors, educational sessions, live demos, and global networking opportunities, it’s where new ideas and innovations in smart home and AV integration take center stage. The Commercial Integrator Expo (CIX), co-located with CEDIA Expo, focuses on commercial integration technologies—from conferencing and IT infrastructure to building automation and emerging AV solutions—bringing together commercial integrators, IT pros, designers, and tech managers. Jason McGraw | Group VP and Show Director, CEDIA Expo / CIX Scope of the Show: McGraw details the scale of CEDIA Expo 2025, featuring over 350 exhibitors and immersive demo rooms that showcase integrated audio, video, and control systems. Integration Meets Design: Discussion centers on the critical partnership between integrators and the design-build community (interior designers, architects, builders). McGraw emphasizes that technology—ranging from AI and energy management to lighting—must be a foundational element of the design process, not an afterthought. The Business Case: Designers are encouraged to view integrators as essential trade partners, similar to electricians or plumbers, to better service clients and protect home networks. Dale Sandberg | Product Manager for Electronics, Sonance Aesthetic Performance: Sandberg discusses Sonance’s philosophy that sound should support the design of a space rather than dominate it. The focus is on blending high-fidelity performance with discreet aesthetics. New Innovations: Highlights include the compact UA Series amplifiers designed to fit behind displays or in tight spaces, and the integration of professional-grade Blaze Audio amplifiers into the Sonance family. Outdoor Living: The conversation covers the growing trend of outdoor entertainment, where amplifiers and speakers are used to create immersive environments in backyards and outdoor kitchens. Jim Garrett | Senior Director of Product Strategy, Harman Luxury Audio Group Hidden Technology: Garrett addresses the challenge of eliminating “wall acne” through invisible speakers and design-integrated solutions that do not compromise acoustic performance. Pandemic Influence: The discussion explores how the pandemic shifted focus toward outdoor living and unconventional entertainment spaces, including garages and multi-generational gaming setups. Brand Portfolio: Insights into the product strategies for Harman’s luxury brands—JBL, Revel, Mark Levinson, and JBL Synthesis—and the importance of gathering direct feedback from integrators to drive R&D. Links & Resources CEDIA Expo Commercial Integrator Expo NKBA – National Kitchen & Bath Association KBIS – Kitchen & Bath Industry Show Show Topics & Outline CEDIA Expo 2025 Snapshot Denver, Colorado Convention Center 350+ exhibiting brands, 100+ conference sessions, 115 manufacturer trainings Demo rooms showcasing integrated audio, video, and control systems The Wave Effect of Trade Shows Innovation as unseen currents shaping the industry Ideas incubated at CEDIA spreading across markets and returning as trends Integration Meets Design Town hall insights with CEDIA’s Daryl Friedman & NKBA’s Bill Darcy Bridging integrators with interior designers, kitchen & bath professionals, and architects Untapped opportunities in collaborative smart home projects Technology as a Design Driver AI, energy management, lighting trends, and seamless AV systems Why technology must be discussed at the start of design projects Case studies: motorized shades, outdoor AV, invisible speakers, custom veneers Outdoor Living & Luxury Spaces Kitchens and backyards as multi-hundred-thousand-dollar investments Expanding living spaces through technology Luxury demo rooms and high-performance home theaters Why Designers Should Be Here Missing out on competitive advantages without CEDIA exposure Seeing products in person vs. static web images Real examples of design-centric AV solutions and invisible tech The Business Case Designers need integrators just as they need electricians, plumbers, and fabricators Protecting networks and ensuring cybersecurity in the home Service and maintenance as part of the client experience Looking Forward Progress and serendipity at trade shows Extending collaboration with KBIS and IBS (Orlando, 2026) Building lasting bridges between integrators and designers Links & Resources CEDIA Expo Commercial Integrator Expo NKBA – National Kitchen & Bath Association KBIS – Kitchen & Bath Industry Show Dale Sandberg on Sonance, New Electronics, and Designing for Sonic + Aesthetic Experience Dale Sandberg, new Product Manager for Electronics at Sonance, shares how the company is blending high-fidelity performance with discreet design solutions, introducing amplifiers and loudspeakers that elevate both sonic and aesthetic experiences in residential and commercial spaces. At his first CEDIA Expo, Dale highlights Sonance’s latest innovations, from compact UA Series amplifiers designed to disappear behind displays to Blaze Audio’s professional-grade amplifiers now integrated into the Sonance family. With a philosophy that sound should enhance the design of a space rather than dominate it, Sonance is shaping how integrators and designers deliver immersive, comfortable experiences both indoors and out. Guest: Dale Sandberg, Product Manager for Electronics, Sonance. Background: from pro audio to Sonance, less than one year with the company. Context: first CEDIA Expo experience, excitement about Sonance’s direction. New Product Highlights Loudspeakers High Output Series (professional side). Wedge speaker for outdoor/architectural blending. Re-engineered Power Pipe subwoofers for stronger low-end performance. UA Series Amplifiers Compact two-channel models (UA-125, ARC-enabled versions). Mountable behind TVs, under tables, or in tight spaces. Features T-slots for stacking/mounting other gear. Energy-efficient design with minimal heat output. Blaze Audio Amplifiers Sonance acquisition of Blaze Audio brand (Pascal, Denmark). Range from 60W per channel up to 400W bridged. Full DSP capability, rack-mountable, UL-rated. Outdoor applications via weather-rated cases. Design & Integration Perspective Compact electronics give designers freedom to hide gear while maintaining performance. Balancing performance and aesthetics: sound follows the design, not the other way around. Example: background music at parties that fills space without overwhelming conversation. Outdoor living trend: amplifiers and speakers enabling outdoor kitchens, theaters, and entertainment spaces. Company Ethos & Philosophy Mission: deliver complete audio solutions—amplification, processing, and speakers. Philosophy: the sonic experience should support the aesthetic experience of a home or space. Growth vision: expand residential dominance while building commercial presence. Takeaway: not just about volume—it’s about creating the right experience. Jim Garrett | Harman Luxury Audio Jim Garrett on Harman’s Audio Innovations, Hidden Tech, and Pandemic-Inspired Entertainment Jim Garrett, Senior Director of Product Strategy and Planning at Harman Luxury Audio Group, shares how the company balances high-performance audio with design aesthetics, explores emerging opportunities in outdoor and unconventional home entertainment, and highlights why integrator feedback is vital to shaping future products. From invisible speakers to immersive home cinema solutions, Jim Garrett takes listeners behind the scenes of Harman’s engineering and R&D process, discussing product development for brands like JBL, Revel, Synthesis, and Mark Levinson. He explains how the pandemic inspired new entertainment spaces, how technology can be seamlessly integrated into interiors, and why CEDIA Expo remains an essential hub for innovation, collaboration, and awareness in the custom electronics industry. Guest: Jim Garrett, Senior Director of Product Strategy & Planning, Harman Luxury Audio Group. Role: Oversees product roadmap, development direction, and exhibition strategy. Context: Recorded in Volkswagen ID.Buzz at CEDIA Expo 2025. CEDIA Expo 2025 Overview Largest booth shared with parent company Samsung. Opportunity to engage integrators directly and gather actionable feedback. Importance of listening to installation professionals to improve products. Product Strategy and Brand Focus Harman Luxury Audio Group brands: JBL, JBL Synthesis, Revel, Mark Levinson. Focus at Expo: JBL Synthesis for home cinema and immersive audio. Solutions include invisible speakers, wall/ceiling installations, and custom home audio products. Balancing Performance and Aesthetics Challenge: high-performance products that are visually unobtrusive. Goal: eliminate “wall acne” with invisible or design-integrated speakers. Inspiration drawn from evolution in lighting design to minimize visual clutter. Engineering and R&D Harman’s science-bas

    1h 12m

  2. 1 DAY AGO

    KBIS Series Part One | Beyond the Price Tag: Defining Luxury in Appliances & Design

    Luxury can be expensive, but it can also be subtle, practical, or deeply personal. Sometimes it’s about choice, sometimes restraint, sometimes the way a space or product simply works better for you. Through thoughtful discussion, the episode examines how luxury shows up in appliances and design—through performance, comfort, longevity, and everyday ease—and why it resonates differently for everyone over time This nuanced conversation explores the evolving meaning of luxury through multiple industry perspectives, featuring Devoree Axelrod, General Manager at AJ Madison, alongside industry expert Jill Cohen, Editor-in-Chief, Luxe Interiors + Design. KBIS Podcast Studio Resources: KBIS AJ Madison NKBA LUXE Interiors + Design SubZero, Wolf & Cove SKS | Signature Kitchen Suite Hearth & Home Technologies Kitchen365 Green Forrest Cabinetry Midea Luxury Isn’t a Price Point. It’s a Performance Standard. At the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show 2026, leaders from AJ Madison and Luxe Interiors + Design reframing luxury as durability, intentionality, and the ability of design to support how people actually live. The word “luxury” has become one of the most overused—and least defined—terms in the design industry. At KBIS 2026, a live conversation featuring Devoree Axelrod, General Manager of AJ Madison, and Jill Cohen, Editor in Chief of Luxe Interiors + Design, set out to recalibrate its meaning. What emerged was less about price and more about performance, longevity, and intent. For decades, luxury was shorthand for premium brands, higher costs, and visual distinction. Today, that definition is insufficient. The modern homeowner isn’t simply buying a product; they’re investing in how their home supports their routines, relationships, and future. Luxury, in this context, becomes the elimination of friction. It’s the appliance that performs reliably every day. It’s the kitchen designed around how a family actually cooks and gathers. It’s the confidence that decisions made today will still make sense twenty years from now. Cohen shared findings from Luxe’s upcoming national survey of 1,000 leading architects, designers, and builders, confirming that the kitchen remains the single most important area of homeowner investment. More significantly, appliances are often the first and most consequential decisions made in the design process. They establish the spatial, technical, and functional framework around which everything else follows. Axelrod reinforced this from her vantage point inside one of the country’s largest appliance retailers. Appliance selection determines infrastructure—electrical loads, ventilation, plumbing, and spatial relationships—making it foundational rather than decorative. When clients prioritize performance and usability first, the rest of the design aligns more effectively, both functionally and financially. The conversation also addressed the persistent myth of the fixed budget. In reality, budgets are fluid, shaped as much by emotion as by arithmetic. Homeowners may begin with a number in mind, but that number evolves as priorities clarify. The role of the designer and appliance advisor becomes essential: helping clients distinguish between what serves their lives and what merely satisfies aspiration. This shift is evident in how kitchens are expanding beyond their traditional boundaries. Secondary prep kitchens, beverage stations, outdoor kitchens, coffee bars, and integrated refrigeration throughout the home reflect a broader redefinition of convenience. These are not excesses for their own sake; they are extensions of daily life, driven by multigenerational living, remote work, and a deeper integration between hospitality and residential design. Perhaps most telling was the reframing of luxury itself. Neither Axelrod nor Cohen defined it by brand name. Instead, luxury was described as ease, time, and permanence. It is waking up and having what you need within reach. It is durability that eliminates the need for replacement. It is thoughtful planning that prevents regret. In this light, luxury is not what something costs. It is what something enables. And increasingly, what it enables is a home that works—quietly, reliably, and seamlessly—in service of the people who live there. Luxury is the measurable outcome of thoughtful design—where performance, longevity, and relevance align to support the way people actually live. Luxury is the removal of friction from daily life. Luxury is durability aligned with intent. Luxury is design that continues to perform long after the purchase is forgotten. Luxury is confidence—in function, longevity, and fit. Luxury is not what you spend. It’s what you never have to rethink. The Kitchen as the Primary Investment The kitchen remains the #1 homeowner investment nationwide. Homeowners are willing to exceed budget in the kitchen more than any other space. The kitchen is the most public and social room in the home. It represents identity: “I’m a cook,” “I entertain,” “I host.” Food equals memory; appliances enable those memories. Appliance-First Design Strategy Appliances determine electrical, ventilation, plumbing, and layout requirements. Major appliance decisions must precede cabinetry and finish selections. Early appliance specification prevents costly redesigns. Designers increasingly plan around cooking infrastructure first. Professional appliance advisors play a key role in product education and innovation updates. Budget Realities & Psychology Budgets are rarely fixed; they are often unstated or misunderstood. Clients frequently establish budgets before fully understanding what they want. Designers must define the intersection of “want” and “need.” Stretching budget in the kitchen feels justified because it is essential. Strategic trade-offs are common (invest in cooking, scale back secondary items). Transparency and cost clarity are critical in today’s climate. Surprises—especially tariff or pricing shocks—undermine trust. Professional designers protect clients from unrealistic expectations and long-term regret. The Expanding Kitchen Ecosystem Kitchens are no longer singular spaces—they expand throughout the home. Secondary kitchens (sculleries, prep kitchens, butler’s pantries) are rising. Beverage centers, bars, and wine storage are increasingly common. Coffee stations and en-suite kitchenettes are viewed as lifestyle enhancements. Outdoor kitchens are now expected in many markets. Refrigeration appears in bathrooms (skincare), offices, and guest suites. Multigenerational living drives multi-kitchen design. Post-COVID entertaining shifted bar culture into the home. Lifestyle-Driven Design Trends Hospitality influences residential expectations. Convenience and personalization outweigh pure status signaling. Aging in place is shaping appliance planning (drawer refrigeration, wall ovens). Durability is increasingly valued over trend-based aesthetics. Remote work drives integrated kitchenettes and beverage access in home offices. Multiple laundry setups reflect modern household logistics. Status vs. Practicality Status still influences resale-driven decisions in some cases. However, emotional connection tends to be with category (cooking, entertaining) rather than brand alone. Longevity and service reliability often justify premium selections. Magazine-driven or editorial glamour exists—but practical function ultimately wins. Role of the Professional Designer Designers provide budget discipline and scope management. They help clients make decisions faster, reducing cost creep. They balance aspiration with feasibility. Professional oversight protects long-term value. Design is positioned not as a privilege, but as a necessity. Market & Cultural Influences COVID permanently shifted how homes are used. Entertaining moved inward; bar and pizza oven sales spiked. Multigenerational living increased spatial complexity. Social media informs but can distort expectations. Consumers increasingly research via reviews and digital channels. Clients are more cautious amid economic and tariff uncertainty. Guiding Principle “Proper planning prevents poor performance.” Early, honest, and intentional planning reduces regret. Design is both a desire business and a service industry. The goal is not excess—it is alignment between space and life.

    53 min

  3. 5 DAYS AGO

    CXD Icon Registry February 2026 | 646 | Christine Anderson – In Memoriam

    The chill is still in the air as winter prepares to give way to spring. That time of year, depending on where in the world you happen to be, nature is beginning to remind us about the magic of renewal in small but familiar ways. We are reminded that the more things change, renewal is possible. Today’s Icon Registry episode celebrates our newest inductee, and those who have listened to the show for a while know her, and even though she left this world a few years ago, her spirit endures. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep Christine Anderson was a SoCal based publicist with a dedication to her clients, friends and colleagues rarely seen anymore. I had the opportunity to work with Christine on many occasions and she hosted the show more than any other guest show. You might even recall her hosting the ICON Registry episode featuring Woodson & Rummerfield.  This is Christine’s well deserved induction into the registry. What you are about to hear is Christine’s conversation with Dora Epstein Jones Dr. Dora Epstein Jones is a prominent architectural theorist, educator, and administrator known for her rigorous interrogation of the discipline’s boundaries. She is currently a Professor of Practice at the University of Texas at Austin School of Architecture, having joined the faculty in Fall 2023. The Convo By Design Icon Registry is presented by Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home, a Best Buy company and avid supporters of the design community. They help designers become the very best version of their professional selves through advocacy, educational opportunities and professional support.  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 Christine for your many years of friendship, partnership and collaboration, you are truly missed. 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, Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home,TimberTech & Shelter Republic. 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

    28 min

  4. 6 DAYS AGO

    WestEdge Wednesday Part Seven | 645 | Kitchen rEvolution: Crafted, Curated Spaces Created for an Evolving Clientele

    Kitchen Revolution: Elevating Kitchens and Baths for Lifestyle, Wellness, and Technology. Designers and innovators discuss how kitchens and bathrooms have transformed into lifestyle-focused, wellness-oriented, and tech-savvy spaces, shaping the homes of today’s discerning clients. From pandemic-driven shifts to smart appliances, spa-like bathrooms, and open-concept living, this panel explores the evolving demands of homeowners and the strategies designers use to balance aesthetics, function, and innovation. 1. Introduction Host Virzine Hovasapyan, Experience Director of Marketplace of Innovation for Pacific Sales, introduces the panel and sets the stage: kitchens and baths are no longer purely functional—they are deeply personal lifestyle environments. Emphasis on the convergence of beauty, comfort, and smart technology to meet wellness-focused and tech-savvy client needs. 2. Panel Introductions Karen Rideau, Kitchen Design Group: three decades of experience, expanding from kitchen and bath to full interior architecture. Holly Hollenbeck, HSH Interiors: bi-coastal firm specializing in remodels and new builds, high focus on kitchen and bath. Lori Hafele, Hafele Design: luxury cabinetry-focused design, hard surfaces specialist. Pam Barthold, Poziom Designs: national remodels, holiday decor focus, wellness integration. 3. Pandemic and Post-Pandemic Shifts Kitchens evolving into living spaces for family interaction and entertaining. Movement from segmented to open-plan living; the kitchen is now the “heart of the home.” Rise of furniture-like cabinetry and hidden storage to maintain aesthetic beauty. 4. Collaboration Between Designers and Showrooms Importance of collaboration between designers, manufacturers, and showrooms. Need for continuous education on appliance and technology innovations (steam ovens, microwaves/air fryers, modular units). Designers as knowledge bridges for clients. 5. Wellness in Kitchen and Bath Bathrooms now spa-like: steam showers, infrared saunas, cold plunges. Kitchens adapting for wellness-conscious lifestyles: beverage centers, accessible hot water, herb gardens, indoor/outdoor cooking integration. Efficiency for tech-savvy clients: proximity solutions, outdoor entertaining, smart layout adjustments. 6. Technology Integration Challenges of over-technology vs. simplicity: balancing clients’ desire for tech with usability. AI and digital inspiration may introduce non-buildable concepts; designers interpret and adapt. Circuit breaker capacity and smart appliance integration considerations. Strategies to educate clients and ensure the right technology fits their lifestyle. 7. Translating Client Dreams into Practical Design Process includes space planning, 3D renderings, vendor collaboration, and creative problem-solving. Importance of editing ideas to fit space and budget. Budget discussions start early; expectations around pricing, lead times, and custom millwork. 8. Setting Expectations & Discovery Use of robust client questionnaires to uncover lifestyle, wellness, and usage patterns. Managing timelines, trades, and supply chain realities. Addressing dual-client decision-making and educating clients on care and maintenance of appliances and materials. 9. Audience Q&A Highlights Managing open-plan kitchens and sound/visual separation through back kitchens, secondary prep spaces, and innovative layouts. 10. Key Takeaways Kitchens and bathrooms are now multifunctional lifestyle spaces, blending aesthetics, wellness, and technology. Collaboration, client discovery, and education are critical for successful design. Designers balance aspirational visions with practical realities to deliver functional, beautiful, and personalized homes. Links / Resources: Pacific Sales – West Coast leader in Kitchen, Bath, Outdoor, and Total Home solutions. Kitchen Design Group – Caren Rideau HSH Interiors – Holly Hollenbeck Hafele Design – Laurie Hafele Pazzam Designs – Pam Barthold

    56 min

  5. 17 FEB

    Building for the Next Century: Resilience, The Net Zero Trailer, and “Green Shoots” of Sustainable Architecture | 644 | Susan Heinking from Pepper Construction

    Architecture education is often romanticized as a pursuit of pure creativity, but in reality, it serves as a masterclass in grit. The studio environment, characterized by sleepless nights and public critiques, builds a specific kind of resilience necessary for navigating a risk-averse industry. While sectors like lighting have undergone rapid technological revolutions—moving from incandescent to LED in a decade—commercial construction moves at the speed of a massive vessel, slowed by liability concerns and ingrained methods. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep This hesitation, however, is slowly giving way to data-driven sustainability. The industry has shifted from making purely economic arguments for energy efficiency to focusing on human health and wellness, a transition accelerated by the pandemic. Tools like the Healthy Materials Database now allow teams to bypass greenwashing, using empirical data to guide tradespeople who might otherwise resist new specifications. By framing material changes as collaborative problem-solving rather than top-down mandates, the industry can bridge the gap between high-concept design and practical application. Nowhere is this practical application more evident than in the “Net Zero Trailer” project. Born from a desire to improve job site dignity and efficiency, this ten-week experiment successfully merged Passive House standards with trailer manufacturing. It proved that construction environments do not have to be uncomfortable energy hogs; they can be solar-powered hubs of productivity. This experiment serves as a microcosm for the industry’s broader challenge: how to scale innovation. Whether adapting to the massive energy demands of data centers or designing schools with a 100-year operational lifespan, the future of building requires looking beyond current codes. It demands a “green shoots” mentality where structures are designed not just for immediate occupancy, but for climate resilience and flexibility across generations. The Hedgehog Concept: A framework from the book Good to Great focusing on the intersection of passion, talent, and economic engines. Good to Great by Jim Collins USGBC & Healthy Materials: Susan discusses her work with the U.S. Green Building Council and managing a database of over 2,500 sustainable building products. U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Living Building Challenge The Net Zero Trailer: Pepper Construction’s experiment to create a solar-powered, Passive House-standard job site trailer in under 10 weeks. Pepper Construction Passive House Institute Trade Education & AGC: How general contractors are collaborating to educate tradespeople on green building methods and carbon tracking. Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) Climate Risk & 100-Year Buildings: The shift toward designing K-12 schools and community structures to withstand climate changes and serve communities for a century or more. Thanks for listening to Convo By Design, 13 years, over 700 episodes and 3 million downloads and listens to the show!

    1h 3m

  6. 11 FEB

    WestEdge Wednesday Part Six | 643 | Rebuilding LA: Resilience, Innovation and Design for the Future

    The Phoenix Effect: Designers and Architects Lead the Innovative Rebuild of Fire-Impacted LA. An impassioned panel featuring William Hefner, Jamie Rummerfield, and Gwen Sukeena discusses architectural preservation, fire-resilient design, and community-driven efforts to shape a more thoughtful, resilient Los Angeles in the wake of the devastating wildfires. The panel, moderated by Kelly Phillips Badal (Los Angeles Editor for Luxe Interiors and Design), focused on the challenges and innovative opportunities arising from the need to rebuild communities—specifically Altadena and the Palisades—after the recent devastating wildfires. The core themes were architectural preservation, fire-resilient building, and community collaboration. The Power of Preservation and Moving Homes (Gwen Sukeena): Interior designer Gwen Sukeena shared her deeply personal and compelling story of losing her own Altadena home to the fire and, determined to avoid building a “soulless” new structure, decided to save and move a 1910 Craftsman bungalow marked for demolition. The process was grueling, taking less than three months and costing approximately $400,000 (including move, deconstruction, and foundation work), saving about one-third of the cost of a new build. A significant finding revealed the house was originally built by the Milwaukee Building Company (later Meyer and Holler), known for iconic LA structures like Grauman’s Chinese Theater and the Egyptian Theater. Regulatory Advantage: Moving a pre-existing home allows it to be considered a remodel, exempting it from current Title 24 energy codes, which saves costs but requires creative fireproofing solutions (e.g., underneath shingles). Architectural Legacy and Community-Driven Guides (Jamie Rummerfield): Designer Jamie Rummerfield, co-founder of Save Iconic Architecture (SIA), detailed the initial community response and the need to combat “soulless box” tract homes during the speedy rebuild phase. In collaboration with the Design Leadership Network (DLN), SIA created a pattern language book called the Golden California Pattern Book. This field guide documents and celebrates the distinct eras that shaped Southern California living (Spanish Revival, Colonial Revival, California Modern, Cali Card), serving as a free resource for the public to understand and reference authentic regional design. The initiative launched recently at a town hall and is available online as The New California Classics. Fire Resilience and Replicating Character (William Hefner): Architect William Hefner (Studio William Hefner), a fifth-generation Californian, emphasized the goal of building fire-resilient structures that still maintain the character clients lost. His firm contributed plans to Case Study 2.0, focusing on variety, constructability, and designing for fire resistance using modern materials. Solutions involve deep dives into materiality, such as using fiberglass-reinforced concrete that mimics subtle wood texture without serving as kindling, and designing eaves that do not trap embers. He detailed a client who, after losing their 20-year-old California Italian Mediterranean Revival house, insisted on rebuilding it exactly as it was, underscoring how architecture is key to identity and emotional recovery. Concerns and Future Outlook: Panelists expressed concern about the upcoming explosion of building activity leading to opportunism (“land grabs,” unchecked development) and a lack of mindfulness regarding neighborhood character and streetscapes. The creative community’s response has been impressive, with architects and designers creating resources like the Foothill Catalog (in Altadena) and the New California Classics to provide high-quality, approachable options for rebuilding.

    57 min

  7. 10 FEB

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

    Recorded live from CEDIA Expo 2025, this two-part episode of Convo By Design explores how technology, design, and infrastructure are converging to reshape the way we live. From the evolving role of integrators to the growing importance of energy resilience, the conversation examines what it takes to design spaces that are intelligent, responsive, and future-ready. Featuring insights from EmeraldX’s Dan Farrisi and Rosewater Energy founder Joe Piccirilli, this episode connects strategy, storytelling, and engineering into a single, forward-looking narrative. Designer Resources Pacific Sales Kitchen and Home. Where excellence meets expertise. Design Hardware – A stunning and vast collection of jewelry for the home! TimberTech – Real wood beauty without the upkeep Two conversations, one shared theme: the future of the built environment depends on collaboration, foresight, and systems thinking. From CEDIA Expo’s show floor to the electrical panel itself, this episode explores how design, technology, and infrastructure must evolve together. This two-part episode of Convo By Design brings listeners inside CEDIA Expo 2025 for a wide-ranging discussion on where design, technology, and integration are headed—and why collaboration across disciplines has never been more important. The first conversation features Dan Farrisi, Group Editor for EmeraldX, who joins the show from the show floor to discuss the evolving role of trade events and the growing convergence between design and integration. Farrisi explains how CEDIA has become more than a technology showcase—it’s now a critical meeting ground for designers, integrators, manufacturers, and educators navigating a rapidly changing industry. He outlines how integrators are no longer simply installers but partners in shaping outcomes. As residential and commercial systems increasingly overlap, the conversation shifts toward experience design—how lighting, audio, controls, and infrastructure work together to support how people live, work, and interact. Farrisi also emphasizes the importance of storytelling, education, and advocacy in helping professionals communicate value in a crowded and often misunderstood marketplace. The discussion then transitions to the second interview, featuring Joe Piccirilli, founder and CEO of Rosewater Energy. With a career spanning more than five decades—from building Sound Advice into a public company to founding AVAD and later Rosewater—Piccirilli brings a deeply technical and philosophical perspective to the conversation. At the center of his work is a deceptively simple idea: most technology failures begin with power. Piccirilli explains how unreliable power, poor grounding, and inconsistent quality undermine even the most sophisticated systems. His solution, the Rosewater Hub, was developed to address these issues at the panel level—providing seamless backup, surge protection, and power conditioning in a single, engineered platform. The conversation explores how energy resilience has become essential to modern living. From medical equipment and remote work to safe rooms and climate-related disruptions, power stability is no longer optional. Piccirilli explains how his engineering-first approach led to solutions designed not for convenience, but for certainty—systems that work when everything else fails. Together, the two conversations form a complete picture of where the industry is heading. Farrisi frames the cultural and professional shift happening across design and integration, while Piccirilli provides the technical foundation required to support that shift. The result is a compelling look at how thoughtful design, reliable infrastructure, and interdisciplinary collaboration are shaping the next generation of built environments. Part One: Dan Farrisi – CEDIA Expo & Industry Convergence First impressions from CEDIA Expo 2025 Why trade shows still matter in a digital-first world EmeraldX’s role in connecting disciplines Integrators as experience partners, not installers Residential and commercial technology overlap Education, advocacy, and storytelling as industry drivers The future of collaboration between designers and technologists Part Two: Joe Piccirilli – Engineering Resilience Early career and the founding of Sound Advice Lessons from entrepreneurship and distribution Discovering the real problem: power quality The engineering logic behind Rosewater Energy Panel-level energy management and backup systems Designing for medical, safety, and critical-use environments The role of resilience in future home design Why engineering thinking matters more than ever Dan Farrisi, Group Editor for EmeraldX, joins Convo By Design from CEDIA Expo 2025 to share insights on the convergence of design, technology, and integration. He discusses the role of trade shows in shaping industry collaboration, the unique challenges integrators face, and the growing overlap between residential and commercial applications. Farrisi also explores why storytelling, education, and advocacy are critical to the future of connected experiences. Recorded live at CEDIA Expo 2025, this episode highlights how the integration industry is evolving beyond technology into holistic experience design. Dan Farrisi explains EmeraldX’s role in connecting professionals across disciplines, the importance of dialogue between designers and integrators, and how new applications—from smart homes to immersive environments—are redefining the industry. First Impressions at CEDIA 2025 Energy and innovation at the show floor. Why CEDIA remains a barometer for industry health. Role of EmeraldX How EmeraldX curates and amplifies industry conversations. Trade shows as hubs for education, networking, and advocacy. Integration Beyond Tech Moving from installer to outcome-driven partner. Why integrators need to collaborate earlier in design projects. Residential + Commercial Crossovers Lessons from commercial AV shaping residential expectations. Case studies in immersive experiences and security applications. Challenges & Opportunities Standards, interoperability, and client education. The importance of storytelling in communicating value. Looking Ahead The role of integrators in shaping future living spaces. EmeraldX’s vision for connecting industries through shared dialogue. Links & Resources EmeraldX → https://www.emeraldx.com/ CEDIA Expo → https://cediaexpo.com/ Convo By Design Podcast → https://convo-by-design.blubrry.net/

    56 min

  8. 4 FEB

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

    The panel explored the intersection of natural and man-made materials in landscape design, highlighting the balance between aesthetic, sustainability, and functional concerns. Participants discussed how interior and landscape designers borrow nature to create cohesive environments, including outdoor “rooms” and hardscape features softened with plantings. Material selection — stone, metal, glass, composite decking, and synthetic turf — was debated, with attention to local sourcing, durability, environmental impact, and client expectations. The panel also emphasized the sensory experience of landscapes, touching on sight, sound, smell, and taste, and how design can evoke memory and emotion. Sustainability, fire safety, maintenance, and longevity were recurring themes, particularly in the adoption of synthetic materials that mimic natural ones while reducing environmental or upkeep costs. Borrowed landscape: Using surrounding natural colors and textures to inform material choices in hardscape design. Softening hardscape: Plantings and layered design to maintain depth without overwhelming the property. Context-appropriate material selection: Stone, metal, glass, gravel, and concrete chosen according to environment, use, and climate. Trend toward natural imperfection: Broken edges, less precision, biophilic design responding to a highly digital, precise world. Sustainability tensions: Balancing natural and synthetic materials for longevity, cost, and environmental impact. Synthetic decking and recycled composites: TimberTech and similar products for durability, low maintenance, and fire safety. Artificial turf considerations: High-use areas, water savings, lifespan, recycling challenges. Sensory-driven design: Sight, sound, smell, and taste incorporated into landscapes for holistic human experiences. Childhood memory and emotional recall: Design that evokes personal sensory memory for users. Fire and climate constraints: Materials must meet modern safety and insurance standards.

    1h 3m
See All (297)

About

A podcast dedicated to promoting the ideas of architects, artists, designers, tastemakers and those making a difference in the way we live. Design is personal as is a good conversation. Copyright © Fusion Media, Inc. 2013-2025 All rights reserved.

Information

  • Creator
    Josh Cooperman
  • Years Active
    2014 - 2026
  • Episodes
    297
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2013-2025
  • Show Website
    Convo By Design®