32–Jes Deaver: Imagining Our Architectural Future Through Science Fiction

In this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum sits down with Jes Deaver, an architect and storyteller who uses interdisciplinary thinking, film, and science fiction to help communities envision better futures. Jes talks candidly about her journey from working with specialty cameras on film sets to exploring architecture through personal and collaborative projects, including the meaningful partnership with her architect father.

Jes shares fascinating stories of how she uses storytelling to make architecture relatable and exciting to the public, discussing her belief that everyone is an expert in architecture through their lived experiences. The episode also dives deep into the concept of positive constraints—how limitations like building codes or project parameters can inspire creativity, leading to extraordinary outcomes like the unique "eclipse" feature she designed in a home.

We also explore Jes’ work on public projects, her recent talk "Brave New City" at SXSW, and how embracing entropy and continual change have shaped her personal growth and professional innovation.

Topics Explored:

• Jes’ path from filmmaking to architecture and the intersection of these fields.
• The power of storytelling to demystify architecture.
• Positive constraints in architecture and creativity, inspired by J.J. Abrams' "Mystery Box."
• The role of architects in imagining and shaping long-term futures.
• Jes' approach to making architecture accessible through immersive storytelling and multimedia.
• Why embracing entropy—introducing deliberate chaos—can foster creativity and personal growth.

Links:

• Connect with Jes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesdeaver/
• Email Jes: [e-mail]
• Jes' Website: https://www.jesdeaver.com/
• Jes' SXSW Talk, Brave New City: https://schedule.sxsw.com/2025/events/PP147385
• Jes on Architette Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/041-jes-deaver-deep-dive-on-residential-project-offbeat/id1664012857?i=1000666628133
• Jes on TALKdesign Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@talkdesignpodcast
• Jes on Imaginary Worlds Podcast: https://www.imaginaryworldspodcast.org/episodes/blueprints-for-utopias
• Brave Architecture: https://bravearchitecture.com/
• J.J. Abrams' TED Talk on positive constraints: https://www.ted.com/talks/j_j_abrams_the_mystery_box?language=en
• Spaceman in Bohemia by Jaroslav Kalfar: https://amzn.to/43hGLYl
• "Spaceman" film based on Spaceman in Bohemia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spaceman_(2024_film)

For more episodes, visit: https://unfoldingthought.com
Join the conversation by emailing Eric at: [e-mail]