Architecture is Political

Telicious Robinson shares her journey from Ohio to DC, her experiences in the architecture industry, and her vision for the future of DC NOMA (National Organization for Minority Architects). She talks about her passion for healthcare architecture, the challenges of navigating professional spaces as a Black woman, and the importance of giving back to the community. We also discuss the need for honesty, the importance of mental healt...

In the Season 5 premiere, Anna McCorvey RA, LEED AP BD+C talks about inspiring professional journey and her mission-driven work. Anna shares the story behind founding the River East Design Center (REDC) in Southeast D.C., emphasizing its focus on addressing community needs before initiating design projects. She discusses the center's focus on educational outreach and conceptual design services, aiming to empower local residents...

Happy New Year and welcome to the final episode of season four (4)! We're wrapping up the season with a conversation featuring the incredible Peter D. Cook, FAIA, NOMA. In this episode, we talk about his remarkable lineage, his role in shaping DC's architectural landscape, and his work at The Contemplative Site at Monticello. We also discuss the importance of community engagement, the challenges architecture students face, and his ...

In this episode, we’re joined by Kevin Sneed FAIA FIIDA NCARB NOMA LEED AP BD+C CDT, whose career spans decades in the field of interior architecture. As a fellow of both the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the International Interior Design Association (IIDA), Kevin shares his journey from Dallas to D.C. and what it means to be the first African American male honored in the IIDA College of Fellows (a significant mileston...

Can you believe its been 10 years? In this special episode, we’re taking a heartfelt trip down memory lane to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Equity by Design (EQxD). We discuss the origins of EQxD, from the “Missing 32%” initiative to the “Architect Barbie” campaign, and reflect on how a small AIA San Francisco committee grew into a national movement fueled by surveys and power poses. Annelise Pitts AIA, Ántonia Bowman AIA, Rosa...

Portia Strahan AIA, NCARB, NOMA, LEED, AP is the founding principal of POM Studio Architects and is a licensed Architect in DC, Maryland, and Virginia. POM, which stands for ‘Peace of Mind’ was founded to create visibility of responsible minority architects and designers, committed to socially and ecologically restorative design. In this podcast episode, Portia shares her background, experiences, and challenges, including her trans...

Corey Shaw, Jr is a DC native with lifelong roots in Ward 7 and is the Director of the DC Legacy Project . As a graduate of both Anacostia Senior High School and the University of the District of Columbia (UDC). In this episode, we explore the intersection of land ownership, reparations and architecture in Washington, DC. Corey shares how he was influenced by his family's legacy and the civil rights movement. He highlights poig...

Building an architectural firm is no small feat, but Joseph's story is a beacon of inspiration. It's a narrative of embracing culture, fostering collaboration, and relentlessly pursuing one's vision. In this episode, Joseph M Cole, MBA, NOMA, LEED AP, CEO and founding Principal of Culture Architecture and Design, PLLC, discusses the importance of demystifying the design process for clients as well as issues faced by bla...

In this episode, we delve into Dr. Craig L. Wilkins', RA journey as a writer, focusing on his book, "The Aesthetics of Equity," which sheds light on the challenges faced by Black professionals. Dr. Wilkins candidly shares the hurdles he faced in getting his book published, revealing the perseverance required amidst rejections. Joined by journalist Kelly Beamon, the conversation explores the dynamics of journalism in a...

Susan Pilato, a Virginia interior designer and CEO of furniture manufacturer Mantra Inspired Furniture, is using her power as a commercial manufacturer and her 30-year interior design career as tools to dismantle racist systems where she encounters them and to amplify this work. We explore the importance of authenticity in professional interactions and the need for genuine connections in certain spaces.Lastly, we emphasized the imp...

In this podcast episode, Tiffany Millner, an architect and author of 200 Something, recounts her professional journey, detailing her struggles in traditional architecture firms and her eventual shift towards a more rewarding career. She discusses the pressures of becoming a licensed architect, the challenges of being a black female in the industry, and her creative pursuits in photography and graphic design. Tiffany's story is ...

In this podcast episode, we delve into the transformative initiatives of The Neighborhood Architects® as it connects local communities with architects, designers, and engineers of color, striving to bridge the gap between residents and design professionals. Join us as we explore the journey of Teri Watson, Assoc AIA, NOMA, an Architectural Designer and Project Manager, whose work in traditional practice has garnered accolades and r...

Garfield Peart, MBA, AIA, NOMA is a testament to the power of education, discipline, and passion in shaping one's career and making a positive impact on the community. He is a retired Air Force veteran, father, Christian and practicing architect from Jamaica. Garfield's story is a testament to the transformative power of education, discipline, and passion. Beyond his successful architecture career, he is dedicated to mentor...

In this episode, I had the pleasure of talking to Wandile Mthiyane, founder and CEO of Ubuntu Design Group, GrindTea.Com and Anti-Racist Hot Dog. Wandile’s infectious laugh and entrepreneurial spirit are as inspiring as his work in architecture and social impact design.

The Role of Educators: Wandile recently delivered a thought-provoking talk in Dublin, shedding light on the profound impact educators have on shaping lives. From c...

In this episode, we delve into the architectural world with Wynord Thomas Jr., an Associate at CO Architects. With a diverse background spanning higher education, K-12, retail, civic, and mixed-use projects, Wynord is known for his direct approach to addressing present and future challenges, particularly emphasizing sustainability, technology, and science. As a steadfast designer and emerging team leader, he has earned the trust an...

Rainey Shane is a co-founder of SEAM™(Social Equity Assessment Method), a 501c3 nonprofit organization that created the SEAM Standard™ and administers a social equity certification for commercial real estate projects. SEAM™ is a third-party standard for real estate projects that certifies an organization's actions toward social sustainability as measured against internationally accepted criteria. It is a vehicle for organizatio...

Cory Henry, Principal and Founder of Atelier Cory Henry closes out the INTERSECTIONS series with the question of whether design should reflect culture, history and community concerns. Throughout this episode, Cory provides insights into his ongoing projects, notably highlighting the Freedom Center in Oklahoma City, a building restoration used by civil rights activist Clara Luper as well as the food insecurity Harvard GSD course cal...

In this episode, guest Nigel Maynard and Kelly Beamon examines the intersection of design, architecture, and journalism.

Nigel F. Maynard is an award-winning editor and journalist who covers architecture, design, construction and homebuilding industry. He spent 14 years at Hanley Wood’s Builder Magazine and Residential Architect and was the founding editor of the now-defunct Residential Building Products digital magazine. Most rec...

Designers can draw inspiration from various elements, including artworks, photographs, or even the human emotions and stories that reside behind each project. This allows for a more profound and meaningful experience, as the design connects with its audience on a deeper level. Similarly, examining how other aspects of design, like performances and stage design, can offer valuable insights for memorial designers. In the AIP podcast,...