I Hear Design: the i+s podcast

In this In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) article read, we revisit an article published on the interiors+sources website titled, "Commercial Materials Industry Moves Closer to Scalable Biomaterials Solutions," on April 22, 2025, written by Kenn Busch. As you listen to this mini-episode, you'll learn about the sustainability discussions and trends in biomaterials at the Heimtextil textiles and interiors fair and uncover insights into the challenges and future prospects for biomaterials in commercial interiors, including:

In this episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen speaks with Sammy Rupp, interior designer and fiber artist at DLR Group, about her innovative work in neuroinclusive design. Sammy discusses how her personal experiences with ADHD and her sister’s autism diagnosis which led her to champion design strategies that support diverse cognitive and sensory needs. She shares insights from her grant-supported research at DLR Group, details behind her immersive installation “Tactile” currently featured in Venice at the Architecture Bianale, and how designers can rethink traditional environments to be more responsive, inclusive, and human-centered.

In this In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) article read, we revisit an article titled, "The Johnson Studio Transforms Former Memphis Foundry into Fine Dining Destination," by Jennie Morton published on the i+s website on April 22, 2025. We spotlight an inspiring adaptive reuse project by The Johnson Studio at Cooper Carry in this mini episode, in which you'll discover how a former 1920s Memphis foundry was thoughtfully transformed into Bishop, a French brasserie that balances contemporary fine dining with historic preservation. From honoring industrial heritage to embracing sustainable design, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how old spaces c...

In this episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen sits down with architect and Anguleris CEO Ben Glunz to explore Swatchbox’s new Second Life Samples™ program—a breakthrough initiative that’s redefining sustainability in the design world.

Swatchbox has long helped designers streamline how they request and return product samples, but its new offering goes a step further: enabling the return and reuse of any unused material sample, regardless of where it came from. Leveraging a proprietary AI visual engine, the technology will assess the condition of samples and then the company will either recirculate, donate...

Discover how HGA turned a former department store in the historic Woodies building in Washington, DC, into its thriving new regional headquarters in this In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) mini-episode, based on a recent article, titled, "HGA Overhauls Former Department Store Into New D.C. Headquarters," published on the i+s website on Feb. 18, 2025. In this article-read, you'll learn how: 

Adaptive reuse can transform historic buildings into vibrant, modern workplaces while preserving architectural character.

HGA’s new headquarters reflects post-COVID hybrid work strategies, blending flexible spaces with collaborative areas.

Thoughtful design choices—such as...

In this episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen sits down with Cheryl Durst, EVP and CEO of the International Interior Design Association (IIDA), to explore the future of interior design and IIDA’s central role in shaping it. Recorded ahead of NeoCon and Design Days in Chicago, the conversation highlights IIDA’s initiatives, including Revel in Design, the Design Your World program aimed at diversifying the profession, and the Certified Design Futurist program helping firms become more strategic in an evolving marketplace.

Cheryl also discusses the impact of AI on the design profession, the importance of p...

Have you ever considered how hotels can incorporate adaptive design elements to proactively meet their guests’ needs? Listen to this In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) article read mini-episode in which we revisit an article titled, "Adaptive Furnishings and Fixtures Deliver Fully Inclusive Hotels," written by Evelyn Long and published on the i+s website on April 8, 2025. You'll learn:

In this edition of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen delivers a wide-angle view of the current architecture, design, and construction landscape in 2025. Drawing from recent reports and economic indicators—including the AIA Billings Index, Sherwin-Williams' Construction Insights survey, and research from firms like Gensler, Perkins&Will, and Corgan—this episode unpacks the forces reshaping the built environment.

We explore the lingering impact of economic uncertainty, new tariffs, and supply chain delays, as well as emerging opportunities in wellness real estate, experience-driven placemaking, and carbon transparency. Plus, you'll learn how new tools like mass timber carbon calculators and...

In this In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) article read mini-episode, we revisit an article titled, "What Does a Healthy Showroom Look Like?" published on the interiors+sources website on Feb. 18, 2025. Listen in to discover how Kimball International’s Boston showroom recently achieved WELL certification at the Platinum level, becoming the fifth of the company’s facilities to do so, as well as what the certification means for interior designers. Learn how the new space incorporates design features aligned with WELL's 10 core concepts, as well as how the furniture brand's corporate headquarters and showrooms have earned the WELL Equity Rating...

In this special NeoCon 2025 preview episode, host Robert Nieminen chats with sustainability journalist and educator Kenn Busch, founder of Material Intelligence and Climate Positive Now. Together, they explore what’s in store at this year’s Material Intelligence Destination: NeoCon Pavilion—a hands-on, narrative-driven space that reframes how designers and specifiers engage with sustainable materials.

Kenn shares how the pavilion evolved from its “materials petting zoo” roots to a vibrant hub for carbon-smart design, including the debut of eco-conscious display tables made from repurposed shipping pallets. From thermally treated wood and 3D laminates to composite panels with negative c...

In this In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) mini article-read episode, we revisit an article published on the i+s website titled, "ASID Explores the Influence of Joy, Wellness, and Sustainability on 2025 Interior Design Trends," in which ASID's Lindsey Koren discusses how interior design is adapting to reflect emerging priorities that emphasize joy, wellness, and sustainability. Based on findings from the Association's recently released 2025 Trends Outlook, discover how these evolving influences offer insights into the ways consumers and designers alike are redefining their spaces to align with deeper personal and societal values as you listen in to this episode.

Marketing building products to architects and designers is more complicated than ever. In this episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen talks with Susan Fernandez, founder of Cast Carbon and partner at UpSpring, about what it really takes to break through the noise and connect with today’s A&D professionals.

From her early days branding pavers to launching circular materials at Cast Carbon, Susan shares why storytelling is crucial—even for the most utilitarian products—and how to craft a narrative that resonates with specifiers. She explains why Gen Z staffers, not firm principals, are drivin...

In this In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) article-read mini-episode, we commemorate Earth Day 2025 by revisiting an article published on the i+s website titled, "Creating a Climate-Resilient Blueprint for Schools," which explores the risks educational institutions face due to extreme weather-related events and the important role that resilient educational facilities can play in safely serving the community, inspiring key changes in building design and on-site energy resources. Listen in as we highlight how these future-ready facilities are helping shape a climate-resilient tomorrow—for students and entire communities.

With office vacancies rising and housing shortages mounting, the commercial real estate industry is at a tipping point. In this episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen sits down with Marissa Kasdan and Mark Oberholzer of KTGY to explore how adaptive reuse—and their bold Upcycle Tower concept—could reshape our cities.

They discuss the real-world challenges of converting steel-framed office towers into viable residential buildings, the role of city incentives, and how thoughtful design can balance livability, cost, and sustainability. Learn how phased conversions, mixed-use flexibility, and embodied carbon savings are making adaptive reuse a comp...

In this In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) article read episode, we look back at an interview i+s Editor in Chief Carrie Meadows conducted with Principal Caleb Anderson of /AND Design (formerly Drake/Anderson), originally published online on Feb. 5, 2025, in which he talks about an approach for wider industry collaboration that harmonizes design concepts and values for business with purpose. Discover how Anderson plans to advance the firm’s sustainability initiatives in a way that aligns his passion for creating what supports clients while subverting their expectations of luxury design.

In the final installment of our Women’s History Month series, we're honored to host Andrea Keller on this episode of I Hear Design. Andrea is a visionary architect and partner/designer of Star Tile who's redefining how we perceive design and its impact on human well-being. In this episode, we explore how incorporating these natural geometries into our built environments can trigger a calming neurological response, reducing stress and enhancing overall wellness. Andrea shares her insights on the difference between biophilia and biomimicry, and how architects and designers can move beyond simply adding plants to creating spaces that tr...

In this Women’s History Month episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen sits down with Sara Balderi and Deidre Hoguet of Designtex for an inspiring conversation on the growing field of neuroaesthetics. They explore how neuroscience, biophilia, and the psychology of space are reshaping commercial design—from healthcare to hospitality—with a focus on emotional wellness, sensory comfort, and inclusive experiences.

Sara and Deidre share their research on color, texture, and pattern, explain how “positive distractions” reduce stress in high-pressure environments, and discuss how natural materials can promote well-being on a subconscious level. They also highlight...

In this episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen is joined by two influential women in the design industry—Alda Ly, founder and principal of ALA Studio (@_ala_studio), and Casey Baxter, vice president and general manager of HBF (@hbffurniture | @hbftextiles). As part of our Women’s History Month series, we explore their professional journeys, the impact of female-led collaborations, and the importance of amplifying diverse voices in the built environment.

From navigating male-dominated workplaces to pioneering inclusive and empathetic design solutions, Alda and Casey share insights into fostering a culture of mentorship, designing with intention, and...

To kick off Women's History Month, host Robert Nieminen sits down with Kellie K. Sirna, founder of Studio 11 Design, to explore her journey from launching a boutique design firm to leading one of Dallas' most sought-after hospitality design teams. In this episode of I Hear Design, Kellie shares insights on managing a multi-generational workforce, the evolving demands of hospitality design post-pandemic, and the firm’s innovative approach to sustainability and wellness. She also offers valuable advice for aspiring designers looking to carve out a niche in the commercial interiors space. Whether you're a design enthusiast or a seasoned professional, yo...

In this mini In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) article-read episode, we dive into an article published on the i+s website on Dec. 3, 2024, titled, "Discover the Versatility and Value of Chemical Fabrics and Film," that explores how vinyl products deliver customization, durability, and aesthetic excellence across industries from healthcare to hospitality. 

In this episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen sits down with design innovators Steven DuFresne and Dave Veeneman to reveal the fascinating journey behind the Anthros chair. Learn how years of experience in wheelchair seating and a commitment to rigorous scientific research led to a groundbreaking, ergonomic office chair that improves posture, reduces pain, and redefines comfort over time. The conversation also explores the impactful work of the Anthros Foundation, which uses profits to support adaptive sports, community events, and mobility initiatives for the disabled worldwide. Whether you’re a design professional or simply passionate about human-centered in...

In this In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) article-read episode, we review an article recently published on the i+s website titled, "Office Furnishings Find a Second Life Through Designers and Distributors Embracing Sustainable Practices." Listen in as we discuss how sustainability and circularity, combined with newer tools and marketplaces for sourcing high-quality used furniture, are driving interest in secondhand office furnishings.

In this episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen is joined by industry experts Robert Siegel (Siegel Design), Steven South (Spectorgroup), and Erin McDannald (Elevated) to explore the business case for sustainability. The discussion covers how companies are leveraging sustainable design to improve ROI, boost employee well-being, and increase building efficiency. Topics include material transparency, smart building technologies, and how sustainability impacts real estate values. Tune in for expert insights on the future of sustainable architecture and design.

In this In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) mini-episode, we revisit a recent article published on the i+s website that explores how woven metal fabric is transforming healthcare infrastructure with its durability, biophilic properties, and versatility. From enhancing safety and privacy to reducing noise pollution, discover how this dynamic material is contributing to the creation of healing environments that prioritize patient and staff well-being.

In this insightful episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen sits down with industry leaders Pablo La Roche (Arcadis), Joe Mamayek (SGA), and Jonce Walker (HLW) to explore the evolving landscape of green building standards, including LEED v5 and its far-reaching implications. From cutting-edge technologies like geothermal and passive cooling to the rise of regenerative design and embodied carbon reduction, this conversation dives deep into the challenges and opportunities shaping sustainable architecture and urbanism. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an emerging designer, tune in for actionable advice on staying ahead in the dynamic world of green building.<...

In this In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) episode based on a recent article published on the interiors+sources website, we explore how interior designers are uniquely responsible for promoting inclusiveness and meeting non-neurotypical groups’ needs through innovative office design—which can improve the overall occupant experience. Learn how to prioritize inclusivity by accommodating more unique needs while serving the requisites of neurotypical individuals, thereby elevating all occupants’ experiences. 

In this episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen sits down with Yure Suarez (Perkins&Will), Ilijana Soldan (Hord Coplan Macht), and Ryan Smith (3form) to discuss the evolution of sustainable design in the second installment of a three-part series on sustainability. Discover how holistic approaches, resilience strategies, and circular design principles are transforming the architecture and interior design industry. Learn actionable insights for integrating wellness, addressing embodied carbon, and designing for the future.

Tune in to explore:

Once considered expensive and difficult to operate, 3D printing has become far more accessible in recent years. Now, design firms can often afford to have 3D printers in-house, but there are also plenty of outsourcing options. The result is that we’re seeing a major increase not only in large-scale projects driven by this technology—such as a fully 3D-printed building—but in the everyday ways that it can assist with creativity and design workflow.

Listen to this article read in our latest In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) episode of the I Hear Design podcast and find ou...

Join I Hear Design host Robert Nieminen as he sits down with Gensler Co-CEOs Jordan Goldstein and Elizabeth Brink to unpack their 2025 Design Forecast. Discover how five key trends—experience-driven lifestyle districts, sustainable design innovations, adaptive reuse, attainable housing, and the future workplace—are reshaping the built environment. From cutting-edge advancements in materials to creative conversions of aging buildings, this episode explores how architecture and design are tackling global challenges and creating human-centered solutions. Don’t miss this deep dive into the future of design and architecture!

In this In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) episode of I Hear Design, we explore the cutting-edge innovations showcased in the 2024 IIDA Healthcare Design Awards. From biophilic design that reconnects patients with nature to trauma-informed spaces that prioritize safety and calm, the winning projects highlight five transformative trends that are reshaping healthcare design for 2025 and beyond. Join us as we dive into visionary spaces that blend empathy, sustainability, and functionality to create healing environments that truly care for patients, staff, and communities alike.

In this episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen welcomes Carrie Meadows, Editor-in-Chief of interiors+sources, for her podcast debut and an enlightening conversation with Adam Reeder, president of LightArt. Together, they delve into the fascinating relationship between LightArt and its materials partner, 3form, and explore how these industry leaders are merging biophilic design with innovations in recycled materials. Adam shares insights into LightArt’s groundbreaking approaches to sustainability, from pioneering molecular recycling processes to creating striking 3D-printed luminaires like Clear Coil. Tune in to discover how custom lighting design is shaping a more sustainable and socially responsible fu...

In this “In Case You Missed It” (ICYMI) episode, we revisit an article titled, “Moody Nolan Shares School Initiatives that Serve Student Health,” published on iands.design on September 30, and written by Deb Kolesar, senior interior designer at Moody Nolan. You’ll discover how a “community school” or “wraparound services model” in K-12 schools are deeply intertwined with students’ social, emotional, and physical well-being, and how thoughtful design can help create a nurturing and supportive environment that promotes student success both in and out of the classroom.

In this episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen takes listeners on a captivating journey through La Sagrada Familia, the world-famous cathedral in Barcelona. He recounts his recent visit to this architectural marvel, exploring the fascinating history behind Antoni Gaudí’s masterpiece and his nature-inspired designs. Discover the ongoing construction efforts, the challenges of preserving Gaudí’s vision with modern technology, and the unique experience of watching history come to life as this project nears completion. Tune in to experience the wonder of La Sagrada Familia and gain insights into how legacy projects continue to shape our understanding of arc...

In this mini In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) episode of I Hear Design, we revisit an article titled, "OneDigital Unveils New Tech-Forward HQ, Designed to Elevate Work-Life and Collaboration," published on the i+s website on August 28, 2024. Designed by Hendrick, discover how this new corporate hub blends cutting-edge technology with a people-first ethos, reflecting OneDigital's evolution as a leader in insurance, financial services, and HR solutions.

As the November political elections draw near, we sat down with designer and trend forecaster Stacy Garcia to discuss her thoughts on how consumer behaviors are shaped by the broader economic and political landscape and what that means for design professionals. From parallels between today’s climate and the 2008 recession to the emergence of bold, saturated hues as a form of rebellion against uncertainty, Stacy explains how history often repeats itself in the world of color trends. This is one episode you don't want to miss!

With hybrid and remote policies as the primary working model, many Gen Z employees are skeptical of the value of the office’s collective experience. Our challenge as workplace designers is finding the balance between these vastly different sets of expectations to ensure the office supports all staff and to prove the value of the physical office so that it is used to its full potential. Listen to this mini-episode article read in which we revisit a story published on the i+s website exploring the evolving workplace and how to create spaces that support communication and comfort.

In this episode of I Hear Design, we’ll dive into a topic that’s sparked a lot of debate over the years: the use of PVC in the built environment. In spite of its ubiquitous usage by designers and specifiers for a variety of applications, questions about its its sustainability claims continue to swirl, and many A&D firms as well as manufacturers have eliminated PVC from their specifications and raw materials. Listen in as Jonce Walker, principal and managing director of BEYOND at HLW, and Gordon Boggis, CEO of Carnegie, discuss the trend toward healthier materials in the...

Choosing finishes that meet the aesthetic needs of a space combined with inherent cleanability makes vinyl wallcovering an easy choice for today’s high-demand spaces like healthcare environments. With the latest innovation of digital wallcoverings, we’re able to take it up another level by creating less waste with custom-designed and measured wallcoverings, incorporating the healing elements of biophilia, art, and visual psychology into the spaces that need calming—healthcare facilities. In this mini-episode, listen to this article read from the July/August issue of interiors+sources. 

In this mini episode of the I Hear Design podcast, host Robert Nieminen rewinds the clock and takes listeners on a journey through the past decade of interior design. He discuses the trends that were shaping commercial interiors in 2014 and how those evolved over time in response to studies and global events to bring us to where we are today with data-driven design powered by artificial intelligence. 

No industry is immune to the current wave of artificial intelligence, including architecture and design. The general consensus is that while AI for workplace design has great potential, it needs more time to mature. But the inroads are there, and the industry is headed for a significant pivot. In this In Case You Missed It (ICYMI) episode of the I Hear Design podcast, we recap a recent article from the i+s website in which five experts weigh in on the most viable applications of AI for architecture and design.