Convo By Design®

Josh Cooperman
  • 4.9 (41)
  • Design
  • Updated Biweekly

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. 1d ago

    Justice by Design: Redefining the Architecture of Incarceration | 689 | Parkin Architects Principals Richard Hout and Robert Boraks

    While prison architecture is often associated with "locking people up," modern justice design is pivoting toward rehabilitation, reintegration, and community connection. This episode explores how shifting the physical environment from fortresses to "healing centers" can reduce stress for both inmates and staff, ultimately lowering recidivism rates and serving the best interests of society.

  2. Sep 29

    Here Comes WestEdge 2026 | 688 | Design and Architecture Knowledge So You Can Thrive and Survive the Chaos

    Are you ready to join me in Santa Monica, for the WestEdge Design Fair, This is year 10 for me, producing, and publishing content from the show. You know my commitment to you: we bring together the brightest, most provocative creative minds to talk about the business and practice of design in ways you simply will not hear anywhere else.

  3. Sep 22

    California: The Last Frontier of Creative Freedom in American Design | 687 | LEGACY REISSUE 2014 feat. Roman Alonso, Mayer Rus and Mallery Roberts Morgan

    Los Angeles has long been a playground for designers, artists, and makers seeking uncharted creative territory. As the city’s design community grows and attention turns outward, is L.A.’s legendary openness under threat—or evolving into something new? Mallery Roberts Morgan, Roman Alonzo of Commune and Architectural Digest’s Mayor Rus weigh in on what makes California a singular hub for creative freedom. Thank you to my incredible sponsor partners; Pacific Sales Kitchen & Home, TimberTech and Shelter Republic. Hosted by, Mallory Roberts Morgan during the 2014 edition of DIEM: Design Intersects Everything Made, this conversation explores how geography, culture, and market forces shape the freedom to innovate in Los Angeles. Panelists examine the challenges of rising rents, collector dynamics, and global influence, questioning whether L.A. can remain a unique epicenter for creative experimentation. Another throwback episode featuring a conversation from DIEM, a symposium celebrating creativity across design, art, and fashion in the West Hollywood Design District Panel theme: California as the last frontier of creative freedom Roman Alonzo: Co-founder of Commune; background in publishing and art books; brought European attention to L.A. design through innovative projects Mayer Rus: West Coast editor of Architectural Digest; former design editor at the L.A. Times Magazine; New York transplant and renowned design writer Roman describes L.A. as the “Wild West” of design, where experimentation and making your own rules are possible Mayer contrasts L.A. with New York, noting L.A.’s openness allows hybrid, multi-disciplinary practices Discussion of how media attention has shaped perceptions of L.A. as a creative hub Geography and Opportunity Physical openness, including ocean and desert vistas, provides inspiration and creative possibility Regional lifestyle shapes design sensibilities and project approaches Commune’s method: designing projects rooted in California context, even when serving clients elsewhere Market Forces, Cultural Institutions & Civic Identity Galleries and museums influence how L.A.’s art and design are perceived Debate over LACMA redesign highlights tensions between international star architects and supporting local talent Maintaining civic pride and global attention without homogenizing local culture Regional Style vs. Global Homogenization Tension between California-specific aesthetics and universal luxury trends Commune demonstrates that place-inspired design can thrive despite market pressures Emphasis on fostering local cultural identity in architecture and interiors Focus on embracing L.A.’s unique advantages, including geography, climate, and openness Panelists encourage creators to engage deeply with their local environment Final note: “Just look at your own stuff, your own life, and make something great out of it.”

  4. Sep 17

    CXD September 2026 Icon Registry | 686 | Paul Murdoch Architects: Designing sacred Ground, The Architecture of Memory at the Flight 93 National Memorial

    In this special episode timed for the anniversary of September 11th, I sit down with architect Paul Murdoch to explore the profound responsibility of designing a national place of remembrance. Murdoch's firm was selected from more than 1,100 international entries to create the Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville, Pennsylvania—a 2,200-acre site honoring the 40 passengers and crew members who fought back against highjackers on 9/11.

  5. Sep 15

    Redefining Luxury Through the Lens of Design Psychology | 685 | Nuinterior Design’s Nureed Saeed on how “The Wellness of Home” is reshaping the industry

    In this episode, host Josh sits down with Nureed Saeed, the owner and creative director of Nu Interiors. Nureed shares her unique journey from a high-stakes career in the fashion industry to becoming a leader in the "design for wellness" movement. She discusses how her background in retail and corporate fashion informs her approach to interior design, the importance of psychological safety in the home, and why the future of the industry lies in personalized, human-centric spaces.

  6. Sep 8

    Maestri Studio LIVE in Dallas: Breaking the Silos | 684 | Why Cohesive, In-House Design is the Future of Architecture

    The conversation delves into the post-pandemic realization that true creative collaboration requires proximity, prompting the studio to downsize and focus on a deeply integrated "many hats" workflow. The team also explores the changing landscape of home design—from navigating massive post-pandemic cost multipliers and evolving spaces like "mission control" kitchens, to pushing back against Texas's "bigger is better" mentality in favor of highly detailed, character-rich spaces. Finally, they cover the critical role of manufacturer partnerships in keeping pace with rapid product innovations, regional environmental codes, and a growing client demand for technological simplicity.

  7. Sep 1

    Craft, Scale, and Soul: Bernd Radaschitz CEO Lanserring | 683 | The Future of Bespoke Kitchens


    This conversation with Bernd Radaschitz is a masterclass in how heritage craft evolves without losing its soul. Born into a fourth-generation cabinetmaking family in Austria, Radaschitz bridges the rare gap between hands-on craftsmanship and executive leadership. His journey—from apprenticeship to building an international business spanning London and New York—offers a blueprint for scaling authenticity.

  8. Aug 25

    Designing for the Unexpected: Navigating Global Turmoil in the Bespoke Rug Industry | 682 | Ayub Ansari

    As geopolitical shifts and supply chain crises redefine the global economy, bespoke rug makers and interior designers are finding new ways to maintain craftsmanship and client trust. This conversation with Ayub Ansari explores how California Design Living, a four-generation family business, is adapting to unprecedented challenges. From the sudden impact of 50% import tariffs to soaring air freight costs and labor shifts in India, the episode delves into the delicate balance between maintaining centuries-old artisanal traditions and surviving a volatile modern market. Economic Volatility & Tariffs: Recent years have seen dramatic shifts in import policies, including sudden 50% tariffs that have forced companies to move from fixed pricing to more transparent, range-based quotes for clients. The High Cost of Logistics: Supply chain disruptions and fuel surcharges have ballooned shipping costs, with some air freight quotes nearly doubling overnight. Preserving Artisanal Heritage: The industry faces a long-term challenge in attracting younger generations to master intricate techniques like Persian knotting, which can take over a year to learn. Evolution of the Showroom: High-end brands are moving toward “experience centers,” much like luxury car galleries, to focus on the touch-and-feel aspect of bespoke products in an increasingly digital world. Strategic Collaboration: Designers are encouraged to utilize trade programs and consolidated shipping to mitigate rising costs through volume and long-term vendor relationships. Applicable Elements: California Design Living: Explore the bespoke, made-to-order collections discussed in the episode. The Art of Hand-Notting: A deeper look into the intricate processes and heritage of handmade rugs. Global Trade & Tariffs: Contextual information on the trade policies impacting international manufacturing. Sustainable Interior Design: Resources for designers navigating the intersection of luxury and sustainable practices.

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4.9
out of 5
41 Ratings

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
    296
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2013-2025
  • Show Website
    Convo By Design®

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