The Building Culture Podcast

Austin Tunnell
The Building Culture Podcast

Fusing the liberal arts with architecture, construction and real estate to build a more beautiful, resilient, and thriving world for PEOPLE. I believe a more thriving world is possible through restoring our built environment. But today's hyper-segregated, financialized building industry is not conducive to solving complex problems or creating dynamic places for human flourishing. I interview a wide range of guests involved with crafting the built world: developers, architects, urban designers, builders, investors, inventors & officials, exploring holistic solutions to a better human habitat.

  1. #31 Wrapping Up the Year: Building a Business, Management, Branding & Vision, Tech Stack, Resources, Updated Thinking, and a Merry Christmas from Building Culture

    2 DAYS AGO

    #31 Wrapping Up the Year: Building a Business, Management, Branding & Vision, Tech Stack, Resources, Updated Thinking, and a Merry Christmas from Building Culture

    Hi everyone! I’m excited to share our final episode of the year, marking one full year of the Building Culture Podcast! This episode is a solo reflection—something new for me—where I dive into the evolution of our brand, key business learnings, our tech stack, updated thinking, and personal growth. I explore how Building Culture has grown from focusing on structural masonry to a broader mission of creating durable, human-centered architecture and thriving communities. Adapting to challenges like rising costs and supply chain disruptions, I reflect on how staying versatile has helped us remain true to our mission of fostering human flourishing through the built environment. This episode also includes lessons learned from raising capital, building a team, and refining processes with tools like Superhuman and AppFolio. I share how inspiring books, podcasts, and thinkers—like Make Something Wonderful and Andrew Huberman’s work—have shaped my perspective. On a personal note, I open up about recovering from a life-changing injury, the importance of pursuing meaningful goals, and how embracing life’s challenges has brought deeper fulfillment. I’ve found that happiness is fleeting, but meaning endures. I hope this episode inspires you to reflect on your own journey and take away something valuable for your life or business. Thank you for an incredible year, and here’s to building a thriving future together! CHAPTERS  00:00 Navigating Real Estate Syndication and Fundraising 33:41 Indefinite Hold Strategy in Real Estate Investment 39:45 Understanding Dopamine and Motivation 45:35 The Importance of Free Speech in Society 54:00 The Importance of Free Speech 01:00:05 The Case for Masonry in Modern Construction 01:07:01 Personal Development and New Ventures 01:14:28 Creating Your Own Heaven or Hell TAKEAWAYS Building Culture has shifted from a focus on structural masonry to creating human-centered architecture and thriving communities. Regular feedback, delegation, and alignment have strengthened team culture and efficiency. Viewing architecture as a human habitat highlights its role in fostering well-being and community. Adapting to rising costs and personal setbacks underscores the value of flexibility in pursuing long-term goals. Pursuing meaningful, challenging goals leads to deeper fulfillment and personal growth. Austin shares aspirations for Building Culture’s role in creating resilient, human-centered communities.   CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE https://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ SPONSORS Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast! Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

    1h 19m
  2. #30: Sarah Campbell: All About Windows for Design Nerds

    DEC 12

    #30: Sarah Campbell: All About Windows for Design Nerds

    In this episode, I chat with Sarah Campbell, an architectural consultant at Sierra Pacific, to explore the key details that matter when selecting one of the most significant investments in any building: windows. Whether you're an architect, developer, builder, or planning a home renovation or new construction, this episode is packed with valuable insights just for you. CHAPTERS 00:00The Importance of Quality Windows 02:14Introduction to Window Technology 07:43The Evolution of Windows Through History 11:53Understanding Glass Technology 18:04Modern Window Design and Energy Efficiency 24:06The Longevity and Maintenance of Windows 31:37The Importance of Educated Consumers 38:34Craftsmanship and Quality in Window Manufacturing 45:29The Future of Window Manufacturing: Technology and Innovation 50:08Exploring Advanced Glass Technologies 54:23Understanding the Cost of Specialty Windows 56:36Custom Solutions and the Role of Contractors CONTACT SARAH & SIERRA PACIFIC WINDOWS Website: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/  Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/sierrapacificwindows/?hl=en  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SierraPacificWindows/  Sarah’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/campbell-sarah/ Sierra Pacific Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sierra-pacific-windows/ CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE https://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ SPONSORS Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast! Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

    1h 3m
  3. #29 DEBATE: Chuck Marohn & Nolan Gray - Strong Towns & YIMBY Approach to the Housing Crisis

    NOV 26

    #29 DEBATE: Chuck Marohn & Nolan Gray - Strong Towns & YIMBY Approach to the Housing Crisis

    In this episode, I sit down with Chuck Marohn from Strong Towns and Nolan Gray from California YIMBY to tackle one of the most pressing issues of our time: the housing crisis in America.  It started with an exchange on X (Twitter) where I saw Nolan and Chuck disagreeing. Surprised, I asked them on the podcast to discuss areas of overlap and disagreement between the YIMBY movement and Strong Towns. They were kind enough to agree. In this episode we discuss the complex web of factors driving housing unaffordability, from financialization and zoning laws to the ripple effects of inflation and outdated building codes. We dive into the historical context of these challenges and debate the influence of investors, policymakers, and local governments in shaping the future of housing. Along the way, we uncover where the Strong Towns and YIMBY movements align—and where they diverge—especially on the role of financialization in housing supply. TAKEAWAYS Financialization of housing has created a feedback loop driving up prices, turning homes into investment assets rather than places to live. Zoning and building codes play a critical role in either enabling or hindering the ability to increase housing supply. There is significant overlap between Strong Towns and YIMBY movements, particularly in their shared focus on practical, community-oriented solutions to housing challenges. Local governments can play a crucial role in financing housing development and supporting small builders to create a more diverse housing market. Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) offer quick, scalable housing solutions that align with incremental development strategies. Policy changes are essential to create a more flexible and affordable housing market that meets the needs of diverse communities. CHAPTERS 00:00 Understanding Housing Affordability and Supply Chain Dynamics 02:46 Introduction to the Debate: Strong Towns vs. YIMBY 06:29 Exploring the Financialization of Housing 12:32 The Role of Financialization in Housing Crisis 19:11 Historical Context: Financialization and Housing Policy 24:07 The Impact of Institutional Investors on Housing 29:15 Navigating the Future of Housing Affordability 31:03 The Impact of Financialization on Housing Supply 34:46 Addressing the Affordability Crisis 39:57 The Role of Local Governments in Housing Development 43:42 Zoning, Financing, and the Housing Market 50:56 Inflation and Its Effects on Construction Costs 57:51 Balancing Incremental Development with Market Needs 01:02:36 Addressing the Affordable Housing Crisis 01:11:01 The Role of Incremental Change in Housing 01:19:19 Financing Solutions for Accessory Dwelling Units 01:27:40 Debating Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Strategies 01:30:17 The Future of Housing Movements CONTACT NOLAN & MENTIONED RESOURCES: X: https://x.com/mnolangray?lang=en  Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/mnolangray/?hl=en  Website YIMBY:https://cayimby.org/author/nolangray/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mnolangray  Book:https://islandpress.org/books/arbitrary-lines#desc  CONTACT CHUCK & MENTIONED RESOURCES: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlesmarohn/?hl=en  Strong Towns Website:https://www.strongtowns.org/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlesmarohn  Books:https://www.strongtowns.org/book  Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/marohn/  Strong Towns Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strong_towns/?hl=en CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE https://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ SPONSORS Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast! Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

    1h 32m
  4. #28 Jen Griffin: Fast-Tracking Affordable Housing: How Pre-Approved Building Plans Are Enabling Infill & Changing Communities

    NOV 14

    #28 Jen Griffin: Fast-Tracking Affordable Housing: How Pre-Approved Building Plans Are Enabling Infill & Changing Communities

    In this episode, I sat down with architect and advocate Jennifer Griffin to delve into real-life examples of missing-middle, pre-approved plan programs and their potential to transform local development. While fixing zoning laws is essential, it’s not enough to significantly increase missing middle and infill housing—a reality I understand firsthand as a small developer and builder. Pre-approved plan programs aim to fast-track infill projects by providing community-vetted, permit-ready plans with associated budget estimates, giving small developers a clearer idea of construction costs. While these estimates may vary over time and with specific project details, having a ballpark figure helps developers make informed decisions quickly. This approach is a significant win for communities struggling with housing shortages. We discussed case studies from South Bend and Kalamazoo, where these initiatives have been tested, and highlighted the real challenges and successes associated with implementing them. A key takeaway from our conversation was the importance of community involvement. Successful programs require more than just plan approval; cities must also invest in infrastructure to support these developments, making it easier for local developers to participate. Financing the first project is often the hardest step, but pre-approved plans can mitigate some of the risk for builders. We also explored how city collaboration with lending institutions can further enhance these programs' success. Combining pre-approved plans with incremental zoning changes can lead to long-term benefits for both the community and developers. For cities looking to adopt these programs and for architects, developers, and advocates seeking to get their local governments on board, Jennifer provided valuable resources and insights to help kickstart the process. TAKEAWAYS Pre-approved building programs speed up infill development, tackling housing challenges head-on. Local developers benefit by reducing risks and securing easier project financing. Community involvement and city investment in infrastructure are essential for success. Incremental zoning changes can make a big impact on housing diversity and neighborhood character. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Pre-Approved Plans 02:54 Understanding Pre-Approved Building Programs 05:58 Benefits of Pre-Approved Plans for Communities 08:49 Empowering Local Developers and Builders 11:58 Case Studies: South Bend and Kalamazoo 15:03 Challenges in Infill Development 18:04 Resources and Next Steps for Cities 20:55 Conclusion and Future Outlook CONTACT JENNIFER & MENTIONED RESOURCES: Jen’s Email:  jennifer@jgriffindesignllc.com Liberty House Plans: https://libertyhouseplans.com/ South Bend Pre Approved Plans: https://southbendin.gov/bsb/preapprovedplans/ Kalamazoo Pre Approved Plans: https://issuu.com/kalamazoocity/docs/preapproved_plans_comp CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE https://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ SPONSORS Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast! Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

    56 min
  5. OCT 31

    #27 Steve Mouzon: Catching Up with an OG in the New Urbanist Movement

    In this episode, I sit down with OG Steve Mouzon, a well-known architect, designer and instigator of the New Urbanist movement, to explore the art of building places that truly matter. Steve shares compelling stories from his journey in urbanism, including projects like Mahogany Bay Village and Providence in Huntsville, Alabama, where he brought local materials and craftsmanship to life in unique, resilient ways. Steve makes a bold case for why "impossible" projects bring out the best in urban design, inspiring us to rethink what’s achievable. We discuss how generalist thinking, leadership, and a willingness to challenge outdated regulations are essential to creating sustainable, beautiful spaces. This conversation goes beyond theory, offering real insights on creativity, humility, and the power of community involvement in transforming our cities. TAKEAWAYS: Preserve Land Character Through Simplicity and Local Craftsmanship: Beautiful, sustainable spaces are achieved by honoring the land’s character and using regional materials and crafts. Embrace a Generalist Approach for Holistic Solutions: Urbanists should adopt a broad, adaptable mindset, enabling them to see connections and address complex urban challenges creatively. Challenge the Status Quo to Drive Innovation: Innovative urban solutions emerge when architects and planners push beyond conventional practices and embrace fresh perspectives. Community Involvement and Intergenerational Exchange Lead to Thriving Spaces: Engaging with the community and drawing on insights across generations helps foster urban environments that truly serve their residents. Simplicity Over Complexity in Sustainable Design: Simple, resilient designs often outperform complex systems, enhancing sustainability and adaptability in a way that prioritizes human flourishing. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Preserving Land Character and Urbanism 02:48 Steve's Journey in Architecture 08:00 Innovative Projects and Community Building 24:06 Barriers to Building Better Places 41:15 Leadership and Overcoming Challenges 45:12 Exploring Local Patterns and Historical Insights 51:01 Building Codes and Egress Regulations 57:31 The Complexity of Urban Planning and Building Standards 01:03:27 The Importance of Generalist Thinking in Urbanism 01:10:54 The Fragility of Modern Construction Methods 01:19:21 Simplicity vs. Complexity in Sustainable Building Practices 01:30:05 The Vision of Adaptability and Simplicity 01:31:30 Competing Visions in Sustainability 01:33:54 Foundations of Sustainable Places 01:37:48 Intergenerational Exchange in Urbanism 01:40:29 Innovative Developments in Urban Design 01:47:31 Common Threads of Successful Projects 01:52:11 The Importance of Generosity and Humility 01:57:26 Lessons from Pain and Innovation STEVE’S RECOMMENDED PLACES TO VISIT ​Providence​Mahogany Bay​Carlon Landing​Wheeler​South Main, CO​Seaside, FL​Rosemary, FL​I'on​Habersham​NW ArkansasCONTACT STEVE: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevemouzon/ X: https://x.com/stevemouzon?lang=en Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.originalgreen?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Book: The Original Green Websites:  newurbanguild.com (New Urban Guild) originalgreen.org (Original Green) katrinacottages.com (Katrina Cottages) CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE https://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ SPONSORS Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast! Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

    2h 13m
  6. OCT 10

    #26 Daniel Herriges: The Strong Towns Approach to the Housing Crisis

    In this episode I sit down with Daniel Herriges, the new Policy Director for Parking Reform, and co-author of The Housing Trap, a book he wrote alongside Strong Towns' Chuck Marohn. We delve into the complex issue of housing affordability, discussing how it goes far beyond the usual culprits of capitalism or zoning. Daniel provides great insights into the financial, legal, and cultural forces that have shaped our current housing crisis. We discuss how housing has become a financial product intertwined with national economic stability, and explore how the suburban experiment, government mortgage programs, and zoning laws have locked many communities into unsustainable patterns of development. Daniel also shared a compelling vision for moving forward, advocating for more incremental and local solutions that empower individuals to take small steps towards improving their communities. TAKEAWAYS 1. Housing Affordability is Complex: The housing crisis can't be blamed solely on capitalism or zoning—it's the result of a mix of financial, legal, and cultural factors that have developed over decades. 2. Housing as a Financial Product: Housing in the U.S. has evolved into a financial asset tied to the national economy, creating a system where prices must remain high to avoid financial collapse, even if that means homes are unaffordable. 3. The Suburban Experiment's Impact: Post-WWII suburban development, backed by government mortgage policies, has locked us into a system where housing is separated by strict zoning laws, limiting organic neighborhood growth and adaptability. 4. Zoning Laws as a Barrier: Outdated zoning regulations make it nearly impossible to build affordable housing in many desirable areas, restricting supply and pushing up prices. 5. The Need for Incremental Development: Instead of massive top-down solutions, Daniel advocates for smaller, local infill projects like backyard cottages or duplexes that can quickly and affordably add housing in existing neighborhoods. 6. Cultural Shift is Key: Beyond policy changes, there must be a cultural shift where communities accept neighborhood evolution and recognize the value in incremental, human-scale development over rigid, large-scale planning. CHAPTERS 00:00 Understanding the Housing Crisis 04:10 Historical Context of Housing Affordability 09:14 The Complexity of Housing Affordability 11:07 The Suburban Experiment and Its Impact 17:50 The Financialization of Housing 33:30 Legal and Regulatory Challenges in Housing 34:00 Cultural Shifts in Housing Perception 44:26 Planning for Permanence in Neighborhoods 45:55 The Impact of Zoning and Redlining 49:41 The Decline of Affordable Housing Strategies 51:34 Understanding the Role of Capitalism in Housing 52:53 The Future of Suburban Developments 56:05 The Importance of Incremental Development 01:00:20 Building Culture and Community Engagement 01:06:12 Escaping the Housing Trap: A Cultural Shift 01:17:03 The Future of Housing Policy and Community Development CONTACT DANIEL housingtrap.org Email: herrigas@gmail.com Book: Escaping the Housing Trap Parking Reform: https://parkingreform.org/2024/04/03/meet-our-new-policy-director/ https://x.com/dpherriges https://www.linkedin.com/in/dherriges/ CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE https://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ SPONSORS Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast! Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

    1h 28m
  7. SEP 26

    #25 Jaime Izurieta: Reviving Main Street - Designing Authentic Experiences with “The Storefront Guy”

    I sit down with Jaime Izurieta, founder of Storefront Mastery, to explore the transformation of local businesses into powerful engines for community engagement and downtown revitalization. Drawing on his diverse background in architecture, urban planning, and retail design, Jaime shares how he helps small businesses reinvent themselves by focusing on experience and authenticity. We dive into the importance of local businesses as cultural stakeholders, how Main Streets can compete in today’s convenience-driven world, and the role of design in shaping customer experiences. Jaime also discusses the evolution of Main Streets into destinations, not just transactional spaces, while providing insights from his book Main Street Mavericks. TAKEAWAYS The Experience Economy Shift: Jaime highlights the importance of local businesses evolving from transactional models to creating rich, memorable experiences that attract foot traffic and build community loyalty.   Small Businesses as Cultural Anchors: Local businesses have a critical role in shaping the identity and resilience of a downtown area by contributing to economic, social, and civic value. Designing for Feelings: Successful design is not just about aesthetics, but about how it makes people feel. Jaime shares his approach to designing customer interactions and creating meaningful experiences within spaces. Unreasonable Hospitality: Inspired by Will Guidara’s concept of unreasonable hospitality, Jaime encourages businesses to go above and beyond to make customers feel valued and special, turning ordinary transactions into transformative moments. Downtowns as Destinations: Austin and Jaime discuss how downtowns should be reimagined as events—places people go to for an experience, rather than a collection of shops for convenience. Downtowns need to embrace walkability and human-scale design to thrive. Decentralization and Community Building: Jaime offers a hopeful vision for the future, where decentralized communities and individuals create localized impact, fostering stronger, more vibrant neighborhoods. CHAPTERS 00:00 The Essence of Hospitality in Business 02:20 Jamie Izurieta: A Journey Through Design and Community 08:04 The Experience Economy: Redefining Local Business Success 12:25 Local Businesses as Community Stakeholders 17:08 Transforming Downtowns: The Role of Local Businesses 21:56 Creating Memorable Experiences: The Power of Hospitality 28:14 Lessons from Bookstore Design: User Experience Matters 34:05 Redefining the Closing Process: A Journey of Experience 39:15 Unreasonable Hospitality: Going Above and Beyond 43:05 Building Community Through Local Businesses 49:14 The Importance of Place in Urban Design 55:16 Decentralization: A Hopeful Future for Communities CONNECT WITH JAIME Recommended Books: The Experience Economy Unreasonable Hospitality The Network State Contact www.storefrontmastery.com https://x.com/izurietavarea https://www.linkedin.com/in/izurietavarea/ https://www.instagram.com/storefrontmastery/ https://www.facebook.com/public/Jaime-Izurieta/ Book: Mainstreet Mavericks Storefront Renaissance League Great Urban Places to Visit Savannah, GA South Beach, Miami Laguna Beach, CA Seattle, WA NYC Istanbul CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE https://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell SPONSORS Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

    1h 20m
  8. SEP 5

    #24 Thomas Dougherty: Designing a One Acre Infill Townhome Neighborhood & Good Suburban Development

    I invited Thomas Dougherty, or lead urban designer, back on the Podcast to discuss real life lessons behind several of our current projects at Building Culture.  We discuss Townsend, a 1+ acre infill site with 19 townhomes, a couple live/works and 10,000 SF of boutique commercial, that we are nearing approvals on.  We get into some really practical stuff we’ve learned, such as how we are parking it, dealing with trash, utilities, and balancing privacy with connection. We also discuss an 80-acre master plan we are working on and how we are taking a slightly different approach than many current TNDs. And of course, we bring it back to the human experience, and how we can serve people through building and architecture! If you are reading this, I'd greatly appreciate it if you took a moment to leave us a 5 star review! Enjoy. TAKEAWAYS Innerblock development creates human-scale spaces within blocks, allowing for the creation of vibrant and intimate urban environments. Centers and courtyards are essential elements of innerblock development, providing identifiable and delineated spaces for human interaction. Utilities and fire safety are important considerations in innerblock development, and creative solutions such as geothermal HVAC systems and land condos can address these challenges. Balancing public and private spaces is crucial in creating a cohesive and livable urban environment. Thoughtful design and attention to detail, such as trash management and parking solutions, can enhance the overall experience of innerblock development. Public spaces play a crucial role in fostering community and building relationships. Missing middle building types and diverse housing options are essential for creating inclusive and attainable communities. The design of a community should be responsive to the topography and natural surroundings. The layout of streets and the integration of nature can enhance the pedestrian experience and create a sense of place. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Overview 02:51 Creating Human-Scale Spaces: The Concept of Interblock Development 12:53 The Value of Centers and Courtyards in Urban Design 25:02 Addressing Utilities and Fire Safety in Innerblock Development 35:02 Innovative Solutions: Geothermal HVAC and Land Condos 38:45 Balancing Public and Private Spaces in Urban Environments 45:07 Enhancing the Urban Experience: Attention to Detail in Innerblock Development 52:46 The Importance of Missing Middle Building Types 58:06 Designing with Topography and Nature in Mind 01:05:16 Enhancing the Pedestrian Experience through Street Design CONNECT WITH TOM https://x.com/NestedUrbanism https://www.instagram.com/innerblock/ CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE https://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell SPONSORS Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

    1h 20m
5
out of 5
32 Ratings

About

Fusing the liberal arts with architecture, construction and real estate to build a more beautiful, resilient, and thriving world for PEOPLE. I believe a more thriving world is possible through restoring our built environment. But today's hyper-segregated, financialized building industry is not conducive to solving complex problems or creating dynamic places for human flourishing. I interview a wide range of guests involved with crafting the built world: developers, architects, urban designers, builders, investors, inventors & officials, exploring holistic solutions to a better human habitat.

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