Architecture Beyond

Brandon A. Gibbs, AIA NOMA
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Discover the impact and opportunities around the World of Architects hearing stories from talented people in and around the architecture industry influencing the world around us.Stay tuned every two weeks for a new episode about Architecture and the world around us, including guides for making a difference and finding opportunities in the field, Episodes posted on 1st of each month, stay tuned!

  1. 6d ago

    Why Frank Lloyd Wright Still Matters: How He Redefined American Architecture | AB Ep 45

    Architecture Beyond | Saturday Studio What makes architecture endure? Watch Video episode here:  Is it the beauty of a building, the innovation of its structure, or the ideas that continue inspiring generations long after the architect is gone? In this special Fourth of July edition of Saturday Studio, host Brandon Gibbs explores the remarkable life and enduring influence of Frank Lloyd Wright—one of America's most celebrated architects and one of the defining creative voices of the twentieth century. Rather than simply recounting Wright's biography, this episode examines the historical forces that shaped his career, the architectural questions he sought to answer, and why his work continues to influence architects, designers, engineers, and students around the world. From the rebuilding of Chicago after the Great Fire to the emergence of a uniquely American architectural identity, discover how Wright challenged convention while building upon centuries of architectural knowledge from Europe and beyond. Learn how his apprenticeship under Louis Sullivan, the collaborative culture of Taliesin, and his relentless pursuit of design excellence transformed the profession and redefined what architecture could become. The episode also explores a question that remains especially relevant today: What is the architect's responsibility in a world increasingly driven by technology, speed, and commercial demands? Through projects including Fallingwater, the Robie House, Taliesin, the Usonian Houses, the Guggenheim Museum, Unity Temple, Johnson Wax Headquarters, and the Imperial Hotel, we examine not only the buildings themselves, but the enduring ideas they introduced—ideas that continue shaping contemporary architecture long after the original projects were completed. Whether you are an architect, architecture student, engineer, contractor, designer, or simply someone who appreciates remarkable places, this episode offers practical lessons about creativity, collaboration, leadership, and the responsibility of shaping the built environment. In This Episode Frank Lloyd Wright's early life and architectural educationThe influence of Louis Sullivan and the Chicago SchoolWhy America searched for its own architectural identityThe Taliesin Fellowship and Wright's collaborative design studioOrganic Architecture and designing with natureThe lasting impact of Fallingwater, Robie House, Taliesin, the Usonian Houses, the Guggenheim MuseumWhy Wright spent his career defending the importance of architectureWhat architects, designers, and students can still learn from his work todayHow thoughtful design continues to shape communities, culture, and everyday lifeFeatured Projects FallingwaterRobie HouseTaliesinUsonian HousesSolomon R. Guggenheim MuseumKey Takeaways Great architecture begins with ideas, but succeeds through disciplined execution.Creativity and technical excellence are strongest when they work together.The architect's role is not only to solve problems, but to imagine better possibilities.Collaboration strengthens architecture without diminishing design leadership.The most influential buildings leave behind ideas that continue shaping future generations.Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world. We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere. Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

    42 min

  2. Jun 21

    A Conversation About the Structural Logic Behind Great Design With Terrance L. Nash | AB Ep 44

    What truly allows great architecture to stand the test of time? Behind every inspiring space, iconic building, and thriving community is an often-unseen framework of structural thinking. While architecture is frequently celebrated for its aesthetics and experience, the success of great design ultimately depends on systems that can safely support people, adapt to changing needs, and endure for generations. In this episode of Architecture Beyond, host Brandon Gibbs sits down with structural engineer Terrance Nash to explore the critical relationship between architecture and engineering. Drawing from decades of experience across Tennessee and the Mid-South, Terrance shares practical lessons from the field, insights into structural design, and perspectives on the future of building safer and more sustainable projects. Together, Brandon and Terrance discuss the realities of collaboration between architects and engineers, lessons learned from community-focused projects, and the structural logic that transforms ambitious ideas into successful buildings. About Our Guest Terrance Nash is the Principal Structural Engineer of Nash Engineers, LLC and brings more than two decades of experience designing and evaluating structures throughout the United States. His unique background includes education and professional experience in both architecture and structural engineering. Terrance holds a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering from Tennessee State University, a Master of Engineering with a Structural Engineering emphasis from Vanderbilt University, and a Master of Architecture from Southern Illinois University. Throughout his career, he has contributed to projects ranging from residential and commercial buildings to healthcare, civic, and community-focused developments, helping teams create structures that are safe, efficient, and enduring. In This Episode Topics Include: The relationship between architecture and structural engineeringWhat architects should understand earlier about structural systemsLessons learned from real-world project collaborationThe future of American building methodsDesigning for safety, resilience, and sustainabilityCommon coordination challenges between architects and engineersThe value of interdisciplinary education and leadershipBuilding stronger communities through thoughtful designWhy This Conversation Matters Many of the most important decisions affecting a building's success happen long before construction begins. For architects, engineers, students, contractors, and owners alike, understanding structural thinking can lead to better design decisions, stronger collaboration, and more resilient projects. This conversation offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from a professional who understands both sides of the design process and who has dedicated his career to helping great architecture become great buildings. Special Listener Offer from Iamthestudio Architecture Beyond listeners can continue developing their professional skills through Iamthestudio's growing library of courses covering: RevitGrasshopperRhino.InsideDynamoSketchUpComputational DesignAI for Design ProfessionalsDocumentation & BIM WorkflowsExclusive Offer Use coupon code: ABENGINEERING2026 to receive 25% OFF all individual courses and subscription memberships. Additionally, the first 20 listeners who enroll using this code will receive a special bonus professional development resource package. Redeem Offer: Visit Iamthestudio Coupon Code: ABENGINEERING2026 Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world. We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere. Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

    57 min

  3. May 31

    Remembering Two Towers And The Reasons We Go To Studio // Saturday Studio AB Ep 43

    Architecture Beyond In this reflective Saturday Studio episode, Architecture Beyond takes a different approach — moving away from a traditional presentation format and into a spoken-word narrative about memory, architecture, and the purpose of studio. Remembering a Tower and the Reasons We Go to Studio reflects on the relationship between architecture, tragedy, imagination, and the human need to create places that carry meaning. About This Episode This episode begins with a young architecture student arriving in New York City for his first Saturday Studio on September 8, 2001. Just three days later, the events of September 11 changed the world — and reshaped how many people understood cities, towers, memory, and loss. Through that contrast, the episode explores a deeper question: Why do we go to studio? Not simply to learn drawing, modeling, or software — but to develop the ability to imagine, care, collaborate, and create meaning through the built environment. Key Themes Architecture as memoryThe emotional meaning of towers and skylinesStudio as a place of possibilityThe role of architecture after lossWhy buildings matter because people matterThe idea that “I am the studio”Architecture as a collective act of imagination, relationships, materials, geometry, and storiesWhy This Episode Matters Architecture is often discussed through projects, styles, awards, and famous designers. But this episode returns to something more fundamental: the personal and collective reasons people enter the field in the first place. It asks listeners to consider architecture not only as a profession, but as a gift — one shaped by cities, tragedy, community, memory, and the responsibility to imagine what does not yet exist. Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world. We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere. Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

    8 min

  4. May 17

    Beyond Geometry | Advanced Form-Finding Frontiers for Architects With Grasshopper & Kangaroo With Arie Willem de Jongh | AB Ep 42

    What happens when architects stop designing static forms — and start designing with forces, behavior, and physics? In this episode of Architecture Beyond, we sit down with Arie Willem de Jongh, innovative designer and Co-Founder of ThinkParametric, to explore the rapidly evolving world of Applied Design Physics and Computational Form-finding. From parametric workflows to advanced simulations in Grasshopper and Kangaroo, this conversation dives into how architects and designers can create more intelligent, efficient, and responsive architecture through physics-based design methodologies. Whether you're a student discovering computational design, a professional architect exploring advanced workflows, or a designer interested in pushing beyond traditional geometry, this episode offers practical insights into the future of digital practice. Full episode video interview available here:  In This Episode  How Arie Willem de Jongh first discovered parametric and computational design  The growing importance of Applied Physics in architecture  How tools like Grasshopper and Kangaroo enable advanced formfinding workflows  Real-world examples of major firms using physics-driven design methodologies  The relationship between geometry, structure, material behavior, and performance  Common beginner mistakes in computational and physics-based workflows  Practical advice for architects learning Grasshopper and Kangaroo  Why physics-based workflows are shaping the future of architecture and design technology Why This Topic Matters Studies have shown that physics-based optimization methods can significantly improve structural efficiency while reducing material waste. At the same time, architects are increasingly using environmental and behavioral simulations to improve daylighting, airflow, adaptability, and overall building performance. As computational workflows continue to evolve, architects who understand formfinding and applied design physics are gaining new tools to create architecture that is not only visually compelling, but also more intelligent and responsive. Featured Tools & Topics  Grasshopper for Rhino  Kangaroo Physics  Computational Design  Parametric Architecture  Digital Formfinding  Physics-Based Simulation  Structural Optimization  Generative Design Workflows About the Guest Arie Willem de Jongh is an innovative computational designer and educator best known as the Co-Founder of ThinkParametric, one of the leading educational platforms for parametric and computational design. Through advanced tutorials, courses, and industry education, ThinkParametric has helped designers worldwide learn cutting-edge workflows in Grasshopper, Rhino, AI-assisted design, and advanced architectural technologies. Explore More from ThinkParametric Be sure to explore the latest educational content from ThinkParametric, including their growing line of AI design and prompt generation courses for architects and designers looking to stay ahead in the future of digital practice. Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world. We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere. Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

    49 min

  5. Mar 29

    Letters to Ms. 1000 Begins - Christian Joosse On Architecture Writing and Purpose | Part 1 | AB EP 41

    Architecture is not only shaped by buildings. It is shaped by memory, mentorship, authorship, and the voices that help define who belongs in the profession. In this episode of Architecture Beyond, Brandon Gibbs sits down with architect, academic, and writer Christian Joosse for Part I of a two-part conversation centered on her path into architecture and the deeper foundations behind Letters to Ms. 1000. Christian is the editor, co-author, and curator behind Letters to Ms. 1000: Words of Wisdom from African American Women Architects, Vol. 1, a book created to share encouragement and mentorship through the lived experiences of Black women architects. This first conversation begins before the book. We talk about Christian’s background in architecture, the role writing has played in her life since childhood, and how design, research, and storytelling began to intersect in her work. As an architect at Moody Nolan and an educator working across multiple disciplines, her perspective offers a powerful reminder that architecture can reach far beyond traditional practice.  Essentials In Part I This episode is for architects, students, emerging professionals, mentors, and anyone interested in how personal voice and professional impact come together.In  Part I, you’ll hear: how Christian’s architectural journey took shape  why writing became an important parallel to design  what it means to build a career that includes practice, teaching, and advocacyWhy come back for Part II Part II is where the larger message comes fully into focus. In the next episode, we go deeper into Letters to Ms. 1000 itself: the purpose behind the title, the journey of gathering and curating voices, the significance of self-publishing, and why mentorship and representation remain essential to the future of architecture. The book is described as a collection of wisdom from African American women architects intended to mentor and encourage the next generation, and Part II explores that mission more directly.  If Part I gives you the origin, Part II delivers the full impact. Learn more about Letters to Ms. 1000 You can explore the book and learn more through the official Letters to Ms. 1000 site here: https://empowering1000.wixsite.com/letters-to-ms--1000  You can also follow the project on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/letterstoms.1000/ This episode is supported by CDP Architecture. Thank you to CDP Architecture for supporting thoughtful conversations around design, community, leadership, and the future of the profession. https://www.cdparchitecture.com/ Related episodes to keep listening If this conversation resonates with you, continue with these Architecture Beyond episodes on impact, leadership, and service: Affordable Housing with Kelsey Oesmann A conversation on housing, dignity, and the long-term impact architects can have on communities through thoughtful development and design. NOMA Leadership with Dillon Dunn A powerful episode on equity, leadership, service, and what it means to strengthen community through architecture. See full video episode here: Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world. We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere. Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

    13 min

  6. Mar 28

    Zaha Hadid: The Architect Who Redefined Form and Possibility For All Designers // Saturday Studio AB Ep 40

    Welcome to Saturday Studio, a series from Architecture Beyond where we study architectural pioneers and connect their thinking to how we design today. In this episode, we explore the life and impact of Zaha Hadid — an architect known for redefining form through fluid geometry, advancing computational design, and building a global practice rooted in research and experimentation. 🎙 What This Episode Covers  Zaha Hadid’s early life, education, and career trajectory  Her role in advancing parametric and computational design  Challenges as a woman and outsider in the profession  The evolution from conceptual drawings to built work  The importance of collaboration across teams and clients We examine three defining projects: Vitra Fire Station (1993) — concept to built form MAXXI Museum (2009) — spatial flow and circulation Heydar Aliyev Center (2012) — integrated parametric design 🧠 Design Research & Practice A key theme is the role of research in shaping practice. Zaha Hadid maintained strong ties to the Architectural Association School of Architecture, particularly the Design Research Lab. These ideas were further developed within Zaha Hadid Architects alongside collaborators like Patrik Schumacher and engineers such as Arup. 🛠 Featured Design Exercise We explore a parametric tower study inspired by Galaxy Soho using Rhino 8 and Grasshopper, highlighting how computational tools support form exploration and control. 📚 Learning Resources Books Zaha Hadid: Complete WorksZaha Hadid Architects: EvolutionZaha Hadid and SuprematismVideo & Research  Lectures and interviews with Zaha Hadid  Project features from Zaha Hadid Architects ThinkParametric for advanced workflows 🧭 Key Takeaways  Exploration drives innovation  Collaboration makes ideas real  Persistence defines impactWatch Video Episode & Tutorial Here: https://www.iamthestudio.com/saturdaystudio_zahahadid/ Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world. We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere. Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

    47 min

  7. Mar 15

    When to Hire an Architect: The Early Decisions That Shape Great Projects | AB Ep 39

    One of the most common questions in the building industry is simple but incredibly important: When should you bring an architect into a project? Many people assume the architect is needed once the vision is clear and it’s time to produce drawings. But in reality, some of the most important decisions in a building project happen long before design documents are created. In this episode of Architecture Beyond, host Brandon Gibbs explores how the timing of architectural involvement can influence the success of a project—from early feasibility conversations to long-term building performance. Whether you’re a property owner, developer, community leader, or emerging design professional, this conversation looks at how early collaboration helps projects move forward with clarity, coordination, and confidence. What You’ll Learn in This Episode In this episode we discuss: • The earliest stages where architects add the most value  • Why many project challenges begin before drawings are created  • What can happen when design teams are brought into projects too late  • How early conversations help align goals, budgets, and feasibility  • Practical ways to find the right architect or design professional The goal of this discussion is simple: to make the first conversation with an architect easier and more productive for everyone involved. Why This Conversation Matters Building projects involve many moving parts—owners, designers, engineers, contractors, and communities. When architects are involved early in the process, they can help guide discussions around: Site feasibilityProject goals and prioritiesBudget alignmentLong-term building performanceThese early conversations often shape decisions that affect the entire life of a project. Watch Video Episode here: https://www.iamthestudio.com/when-to-hire-an-architect/ Explore Related Episodes If you enjoyed this episode, you may also want to watch these conversations on Architecture Beyond: Built For A Lifetime: How To Craft A Sustainable Future With Building Management | AB Ep. 22 A discussion on how long-term thinking and building management strategies influence sustainability and project success. Leading with Design: Chad Polk on Building Joyful Architecture & Strong Communities | AB Ep. 33 A conversation about design leadership, collaboration, and how architecture can support thriving communities. Sponsor This episode is supported by CDP Architecture. Their support helps make conversations like this possible—sharing insights that help clients, communities, and design professionals better understand the process of creating meaningful architecture. Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world. We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere. Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

    39 min

  8. Mar 1

    Paul R. Williams: Elegance, Leadership, and Lasting Impact in American Architecture // Saturday Studio AB Ep 38

    Architecture Beyond | Saturday Studio Welcome to the first installment of Saturday Studio, a new Architecture Beyond series where we study architectural legends and translate their thinking into principles you can apply today. This episode features Paul R. Williams — often called “Hollywood’s Architect.” Over a five-decade career, Williams designed more than 2,000 projects, shaped the visual identity of Los Angeles, contributed to civic institutions including St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and became the first Black architect admitted to the AIA College of Fellows before ultimately receiving the AIA Gold Medal. But this episode is not simply a biography. It is a study in: Proportion and compositional disciplineFirm leadership and collaborative practiceProfessional composure in an exclusionary industryThe long-term development of architectural craft🎙 What You’ll Learn in This Episode The historical context of Williams’ career and key milestonesHow he built and sustained a national architectural practiceThe structural and proportional logic behind his Mediterranean residential workWhat emerging architects can learn from his commitment to excellenceWhy understanding architectural lineage strengthens contemporary BIM and computational design workflowsWe also break down one of his signature balcony compositions and model it using modern tools — demonstrating that timeless principles remain foundational in today’s digital environment. 📖 Companion Blog Post For expanded historical details, key project dates, additional references, and modeling notes: 👉 Read the full companion article here: https://www.iamthestudio.com/saturdaystudio_paul-r-williams/ Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world. We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere. Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

    30 min
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Discover the impact and opportunities around the World of Architects hearing stories from talented people in and around the architecture industry influencing the world around us.Stay tuned every two weeks for a new episode about Architecture and the world around us, including guides for making a difference and finding opportunities in the field, Episodes posted on 1st of each month, stay tuned!

Information

  • Creator
    Brandon A. Gibbs, AIA NOMA
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    46
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Architecture Beyond
  • Show Website
    Architecture Beyond