DiscoverThe Building Culture Podcast
The Building Culture Podcast
Author: Austin Tunnell
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© Austin Tunnell
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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.
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.
27 Episodes
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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/
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/
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/
Inspiring and equipping architects, developers, and anyone working in the built environment to craft a more beautiful and resilient world for people.
Las Catalinas might be the most beautiful town built in the 21st century. And my guest today, Sara Bega, has stewarded its evolution as Town Architect for a decade. Las Catalinas is a car-free, kid-friendly, multi-generational community in Costa Rica. Their goal is to create a pedestrian-first environment that maximizes kid freedom and allows for independent exploration and discovery. The town is built on 20% of the 1200-acre site, with a mix of houses, flats, hotels, and shops.
We discuss Sara’s professional journey, and the principles and practices behind developing such a stunningly beautiful and human neighborhood that serves as an inspiration and example for what is possible today.
If you do anything today, just click on this link so you can see the town. It stands as a testament to the beauty humans can cultivate when they set their mind to it: Beach Town in Guanacaste, Costa Rica | Las Catalinas (lascatalinascr.com)
TAKEAWAYS
Creating a car-free, kid-friendly community allows for independent exploration and fosters curiosity and connection with nature.
A pedestrian-first environment benefits not only children but also adults and families, creating a sense of community and connection.
Las Catalinas is a successful example of a car-free community, with a mix of houses, flats, hotels, and shops built on a 1200-acre site.
The community achieves car-free living through walkability, valet services, and emergency vehicle access.
The town architect's role is to oversee the design and planning of the community, ensuring a balance between privacy, walkability, and optimized views. Creating a sustainable and adaptable community requires prioritizing human experience and connection.
Designing a walkable town with a mix of residential and commercial spaces fosters a sense of community.
The legal structure of a town should allow for flexibility and adaptability over time.
Trust in human intelligence and the ability to solve problems is crucial for the success of a community.
Creating a sense of place involves considering the local climate, using natural materials, and designing for the long term.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to Las Catalinas
09:46 Creating a Kid-Friendly Community
27:56 Shifting Conversations and Culture
39:48 Solving for Walkability, Privacy, and Optimized Views
42:16 Reversing and Backing into Codes and Legal Structure
45:17 Creating a Clear Legal Structure for Ownership and Responsibility
50:10 Treating a Town as a Town
55:38 Balancing Prevention and Allowing the Best to Happen
01:00:37 Guiding a Town's Growth and Adaptation
01:06:21 Allowing a Town to Grow and Change
01:10:56 Creating Timeless and Sustainable Architecture
01:19:19 Approaching Life with Courage
CONNECT WITH SARA & SHOW RESOURCES
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/begadesignstudio/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarabega/
Las Catalinas: https://www.lascatalinascr.com/
Notre Dame School of Architecture: https://architecture.nd.edu/
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/
Today I get to speak with Alan Pullman, founder of Studio One Eleven, an architecture, urban design and landscape architecture practice focused on human scaled, mixed-use infill projects. They have a truly impressive portfolio of work. I love their “practice themes” which I think will resonate with many of you: housing for all, building community + place, renewing the public realm, 21st century mobility, and equitable practice.
I was truly inspired by this conversation with Alan, particularly around the community integration and engagement they cultivate in their office. He intentionally moved the practice out of their “ivory tower” and down into the heart of the community, sharing their office space with artists and facilitating all kinds of community-wide events and workshops. It’s given me vision for how I want Building Culture to evolve.
Alan and his team work closely with developers around the country looking to do difficult and messy – but meaningful – infill projects. They relish the mess. And, between running a sizeable practice and doing some of their own development projects, I was extremely impressed with Alan’s practical approach (you know, understanding that the economics have to work to do the project!). They strike the right balance between idealism + pragmatism to actually pull off incredible projects, and keep people at the center of what they do and why they do it.
I hope you find this episode as inspiring as I did!
TAKEAWAYS
Reinvesting in cities and putting people at the center of architecture and urban design is crucial for creating meaningful and impactful spaces.
Studio One Eleven specializes in infill development, mixed-use projects, and adaptive reuse, focusing on creating places for people and collaborating with developers and public-private partnerships.
Affordable housing development is complex and requires specialized knowledge and collaboration with various funding sources, such as state, city, and federal programs.
Collaboration and agility are essential in the design process, allowing for co-creation with clients and the ability to adapt to changing needs and circumstances. Studio One Eleven focuses on incremental development and creating human-scale cities.
The firm has transformed their own office into a community space, hosting events, workshops, and an artist-in-residence program.
They are passionate about creating places for people and breaking away from the traditional, car-centric approach to city planning
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction
00:57 Studio One Eleven: Focusing on Infill Development and Community Impact
06:04 The Evolution of Studio Eleven: From Large Retail Projects to Community Impact
19:14 Challenges and Opportunities in Affordable Housing Development
32:41 Collaboration and Agility: Keys to Successful Design and Development
37:29 Incremental Development and Human-Scale Cities
38:56 The Financialization of Architecture and Cities
39:23 Curating the Right Mix of Tenants
43:10 Transforming Their Office into a Community Space
48:36 Building Connections and Social Capital
53:28 Creating Places for People
01:05:33 Optimism for the Future and Opportunities for Progress
CONTACT ALAN & STUDIO ONE ELEVEN
Website: https://studio-111.com/
https://www.instagram.com/studiooneeleven/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-pullman-06197159
https://www.linkedin.com/company/studio-one-eleven
https://www.facebook.com/studioneleven/
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
PODCAST SPONSORS
Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/
One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/
I had the opportunity to speak with Bobby Fijan today, who sometimes refers to himself as the Bill James of floorplans. His focus? Building apartments for families – and helping others do it too. He’s a developer, entrepreneur and consultant.
We discuss the lack of family-friendly apartment buildings and the impact on loneliness and community, and how we need to make cities and apartment buildings more family friendly. We touch on the importance of amenities and spaces that are suitable for children, how floorplans make having even one young child very uncomfortable (thereby incentivizing people to move out), and how to make your next apartment or multi-family project more suitable for families and dynamic living conditions. Check it out!
TAKEAWAYS
The current design of apartment buildings caters to a narrow demographic of high-income singles and couples, neglecting the needs of families.
The lack of family-friendly apartment buildings contributes to feelings of loneliness and disconnection in urban areas.
Apartment buildings should prioritize amenities and spaces that are suitable for children and families, such as toddler rooms and playgrounds.
Floor plans should be designed with families in mind, with more bedrooms and more spaces to accommodate children.
There is a need for more apartment buildings that are specifically designed to meet the needs of families. To make apartments more family-friendly, consider allocating more space to living areas and smaller bedrooms and closets.
Adding an extra room, such as a nursery or a home office, can provide privacy and a dedicated workspace for parents.
Differentiating between spaces and creating additional rooms can enhance the functionality and appeal of apartment designs.
Design choices, such as the ratio of living room width to bedroom width and the presence of walk-in closets, can impact rent prices.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction and Narrow Demographic of Apartment Buildings
05:19 Connecting Loneliness to Moving and Multifamily Buildings
13:18 Challenges in Apartment Design for Families
16:38 Importance of Amenities and Spaces for Families
24:45 Designing Floor Plans for Families
25:56 Designing Family-Friendly Apartments
29:17 The Importance of Additional Rooms
43:35 Optimizing Design Choices for Higher Rent Prices
CONNECT WITH BOBBY
https://x.com/bobbyfijan
https://www.tailorbird.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/fijan/
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
https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/
https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell
https://playbook.buildingculture.com/
Trilith is a newly built (and growing) walkable community located next to Trilith Studios in Atlanta, Georgia. It is one of the most successful TNDs and New Urbanists communities in the country.
Rob Parker, as President, leads a team of designers, architects, planners and builders in creating the 235 acre master-planned residential and mixed use development. Rob is a transformational leader with a focus on people, and has extensive experience in town building, commercial and retail development, music entertainment, non-profit leadership, marketing, branding and capital development.
This episode is a must for developers, investors, planners, architects, engineers or city officials interested in creating more walkable, mixed-use, people-first places. Hear directly from someone who has actually done it successfully, and learn about the keys to success, as well as some of the pitfalls.
Trilith is built on the principles of new urbanism, with a focus on walkability, sustainability, and a deep sense of community. The vision of Trilith is to create a town for creatives, artists, storytellers, and makers, where everyone feels loved, served, inspired, and connected. The community is designed to promote longer, better, and happier lives for its residents. Trilith is a successful example of a people-centered, walkable community that prioritizes sustainability and quality of life.
TAKEAWAYS
Trilith is a walkable community in Atlanta, Georgia, built on the principles of new urbanism.
The community is designed to promote longer, better, and happier lives for its residents.
Trillith is focused on creating a sense of community and connection among its residents.
The community is committed to sustainability and has implemented practices such as geothermal heating and cooling and the preservation of green spaces. Trilith is a people-centered, walkable community that prioritizes sustainability and quality of life.
The development focuses on creating smaller footprint, energy-efficient homes and incorporates sustainable technologies like geothermal energy and solar power.
Trilith emphasizes the importance of community and mental health, offering enrichment activities and a progressive school.
The financing of the project involved patient capital and partnerships with builders and investors.
The success of Trilith has led to increased property values and a positive impact on the surrounding area.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to Trilith and Rob Parker
03:01 Creating a Walkable Community for Creatives
07:47 Promoting Longer, Better, and Happier Lives
14:42 Fostering a Sense of Community and Connection
18:08 The Freedom of Living in a Walkable Environment
20:29 The Impact of COVID-19 on Trilith
29:05 The Importance of Sharing the Vision
37:48 Commitment to Sustainability and Green Practices
40:02 Creating a Sustainable and Walkable Community
41:30 Incorporating Sustainable Technologies in Home Design
44:20 Prioritizing Community and Mental Health
49:48 The Financing and Partnerships Behind Trillith's Success
55:23 The Positive Impact of Trilith on Property Values and the Surrounding Area
CONNECT WITH ROB & TRILITH
Rob's Linked In
Trilith's Real Estate Instagram
Trilith's Foundation Instagram
Trilith's Facebook
Home Website: Trilith
Town Website: Town at Trilith
Variety Article on Trilith
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
https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/
https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell
https://playbook.buildingculture.com/
In part 2 Justin Mares and I discuss the broken food and health systems in the US and the need to prioritize human flourishing. We get into the weaponization of our instincts by companies that produce addictive food, the importance of fixing our environment and food system, and the role of human health in the built environment. Justin shares his experience in the health industry and highlights the misalignment of incentives in the food and healthcare industries.
We touch on the lack of trust in traditional institutions and the challenges of following dietary guidelines. Justin talks about nutrient density in crops, the depletion of nutrients in soil, the impact of food processing on nutrient density, and the potential consequences for human health. We also delve into the challenges of scaling sustainable farming practices and the role of government and corporations in addressing health and environmental issues. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the need for individual and community action to create positive change.
Takeaways
The food and health systems in the US are profoundly broken and need to be fixed to promote human flourishing.
Companies are weaponizing our instincts to create addictive and profitable food products.
Fixing the environment, food system, and built environment is crucial for improving human health.
There is a lack of trust in traditional institutions and their ability to provide accurate health advice.
The misalignment of incentives in the food and healthcare industries hinders progress in promoting human health. Nutrient density in crops is influenced by the nutrients in the soil, and over time, the depletion of nutrients in the soil has led to less nutrient-dense crops.
Food processing can further reduce nutrient density, and the consumption of processed foods may lead to nutrient deficiencies and cravings for specific nutrients.
Scaling sustainable farming practices, such as regenerative agriculture, can help improve soil health and nutrient density in crops.
Government regulations and policies play a role in shaping the food system, but individual and community action is also necessary to create positive change.
Addressing health and environmental issues requires a holistic approach that considers the interconnectedness of various factors, including food production, human health, and environmental sustainability.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgment
00:57 Weaponizing Instincts: The Addictive Food Industry
06:22 Misaligned Incentives in the Food and Healthcare Industries
08:16 The Broken Healthcare Industry
19:19 The Debate on Veganism and Vegetarianism
25:12 Sponsor Acknowledgment and Nutrient Deficiencies in Food
26:41 The Impact of Soil Depletion on Nutrient Density in Crops
29:07 The Nutrient Decay Curve and the Role of Food Processing
34:29 Challenges and Potential of Scaling Sustainable Farming Practices
36:25 Government and Corporate Responsibility in Addressing Health and Environmental Issues
43:00 The Need for Individual and Community Action
CONNECT WITH JUSTIN
Justin’s Substack: The Next | Justin Mares | Substack
Twitter: Justin Mares (@jwmares) / X
Kettle and Fire: https://www.kettleandfire.com/
Surely Non-Alcoholic Wines: https://www.drinksurely.com/
Perfect Keto: https://perfectketo.com/
Truemed: https://www.truemed.com/
RECS
Book Rec: Formerly Known as Food
Book Rec: The End of Craving
Book Rec: Gangs of America
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
https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/
https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell
https://playbook.buildingculture.com/
Justin Mares is the founder of Kettle and Fire, Perfect Keto, and Surely Non-Alcoholic Wines, and is working on his fourth company: Truemed. I am super impressed with what Justin has accomplished, and am a big fan of Kettle and Fire. My wife and I drink their bone broth regularly. What I am most inspired by is that Justin isn’t in business just to be in business. He is in business to solve problems that make peoples’ lives better, specifically around their physical and mental health and wellbeing. As the sickest generation of Americans in history–and it’s not even close–he is on a mission to rescue the food system and transform the industry into something that serves people first, not profits. Health is foundational to human flourishing – even before shelter.
We discuss how Justin started Kettle and Fire by testing the idea with a landing page and no actual product to gauge demand. We discuss the importance of a healthy food system, and the failures of regulatory bodies like the FDA. Justin emphasizes the need for companies to prioritize consumer health and wellness. Our conversation explores the impact of food regulations and the state of health in the US. Justin highlights the differences between the US and the EU in terms of food regulations, with the US allowing thousands of chemicals in food that are banned in Europe. We also discuss the high rates of chronic diseases and obesity in the US, and the connection between physical and mental health.
TAKEAWAYS
The most profitable food products are often the worst for people, highlighting the brokenness of the food system.
Starting a company that prioritizes consumer health and wellness is important but challenging.
Bone broth is a nutrient-dense food that can improve gut, skin, and joint health.
The FDA and other regulatory bodies have failed to protect consumers, leading to high rates of chronic disease.
The food system needs to be reformed to prioritize healthier and more sustainable options. The US allows thousands of chemicals in food that are banned in Europe, leading to worse health outcomes for Americans.
The US has high rates of chronic diseases and obesity, with 60% of Americans living with at least one chronic disease and 80% being overweight.
There is a strong connection between physical and mental health, and addressing physical health through food interventions can improve mental health.
Food regulations and the food system play a significant role in the overall health of the population.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgment
01:09 Guest Introduction: Justin Mares
03:25 Starting Kettle and Fire: Testing the Idea
08:16 The Benefits of Bone Broth
11:35 Creating Healthier Food Products
19:11 The Failures of Regulatory Bodies
23:33 Differences in Food Regulations: US vs. EU
30:42 High Rates of Chronic Diseases and Obesity in the US
41:42 The Connection Between Physical and Mental Health
46:24 The Impact of Food Regulations on Health
CONNECT WITH JUSTIN
Justin’s Substack: The Next | Justin Mares | Substack
Twitter: Justin Mares (@jwmares) / X
Kettle and Fire: https://www.kettleandfire.com/
Surely Non-Alcoholic Wines: https://www.drinksurely.com/
Perfect Keto: https://perfectketo.com/
Truemed: https://www.truemed.com/
RECS
Book Rec: Formerly Known as Food
Book Rec: The End of Craving
Book Rec: Gangs of America
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
https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/
https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell
https://playbook.buildingculture.com/
I got the chance to chat with Andy Boenau today, who sometimes refers to himself as a Plangineer, with a background in urban planning and engineering. We chat about the flaws in traffic engineering and the need for a different approach to the built environment. Andy is passionate about questioning established norms and finding shared interests to drive positive change. He advocates for the need for critical thinking and curiosity in industries that often prioritize conformity.
TAKEAWAYS
Traffic engineering often prioritizes efficiency and speed over the needs and well-being of communities.
Questioning established norms and finding shared interests can lead to positive change in the built environment.
Critical thinking and curiosity are essential in industries that tend to prioritize conformity.
Reforming parking and zoning regulations can lead to more vibrant and diverse communities. Unhealthy infrastructure has negative consequences on physical and mental health.
Creating a connected network of bike lanes is crucial for promoting cycling as a mode of transportation.
Public opinion plays a significant role in shaping infrastructure decisions.
There is a need for a shift in urban planning and design to prioritize human well-being.
Andy Boenau is working on a documentary on healthy infrastructure and a book on public opinion.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Rethinking Traffic Engineering
09:26 The Power of Social Media
35:02 Driving Positive Change
39:30 Creating Vibrant and Diverse Communities
39:59 The Impact of Unhealthy Infrastructure
45:15 Physical Health Consequences of Car Crashes
49:19 Trauma of Walking on Certain Streets
54:54 Dancing as a Mental Health Solution
01:05:51 Creating a Connected Network of Bike Lanes
01:12:06 Upcoming Projects: Documentary and Book
CONNECT WITH ANDY
Website & Blog: https://www.urbanismspeakeasy.com/
https://x.com/Boenau
https://www.linkedin.com/in/boenau/
Documentary:
White Collar Epidemic: Infrastructure Is Crumbling Our Minds & Bodies - Film and Storytelling | Seed&Spark (seedandspark.com)
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
https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/
https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell
https://playbook.buildingculture.com/
Micah is the founder of Monumental Labs, one of the most exciting companies in the architecture and construction industry right now. It blends humanistic values with tech – much like Apple did to revolutionize the computer industry in the 80’s.
His company is building robotic stone carving factories to unleash a renaissance in art and architecture, using robots to create sculptures, architectural pieces, and more. The goal is to bring costs down, unleash creativity, empower people, and to once again build great architecture that will be standing in 500 years.
You can see why I’m so excited to talk to him! We at Building Culture will absolutely be partnering with him on upcoming projects.
The use of robots and AI in stone carving raises philosophical and ethical implications, which we discuss. It’s worth noting the company is working with artists, architects, and stone masons to create these works of art, and is actually bringing people, that is, humans, INTO the trade of stone carving, and creating entirely new forms of artwork not possible before. Enjoy!
Takeaways
• Monumental Labs is using robots and AI to revolutionize the art and architecture industry by automating the stone carving process.
• The use of robots allows for the creation of highly ornate buildings and sculptures that would be too labor-intensive to create by hand.
• The company works with artists, architects, and stone carvers, offering new possibilities for creativity and innovation.
• While the use of robots and AI raises philosophical and ethical questions, it also opens up new avenues for artistic expression and pushes the boundaries of what is possible. Technology can help preserve traditional craftsmanship and keep the knowledge and skills of handcrafting alive.
• Stone carving can provide more job opportunities for artists and allow them to develop their own art while making a living.
• There is a debate between copying great works of art and creating original pieces, but both have their place in the art world.
• Architecture gains meaning and value when it is thoughtful about its viewers and users, and when it gives back to the community.
• The future of architecture may involve a return to building with stone, using AI and robotics to manufacture custom details and reduce costs.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Monumental Labs and the Use of Robots in Stone Carving
03:48 Automating the Stone Carving Process for Highly Ornate Buildings
06:14 Scaling Up and Making Stone Carving More Efficient
11:28 The Role of Hand Carving in Art and Architecture
23:13 Balancing Craftsmanship and Automation in Stone Carving
29:03 The Role of Artists as Inventors and Innovators
33:23 The Future of AI in Art and Architecture
35:16 Preserving Traditional Craftsmanship
38:09 The Debate: Copying vs Creating
41:23 The Meaning and Value of Architecture
56:12 The Future of Architecture: Building with Stone and AI
CONNECT WITH MICAH
Twitter: https://x.com/mspringut
Twitter: https://x.com/Monumental_Labs
Website: https://www.monumentallabs.co/
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
https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/
https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell
https://playbook.buildingculture.com/
In this episode I get to chat with Matt Dean of Dean &
Co, an award-winning agency that we at Building Culture hired to collaborate on our Townsend project, an urban infill, mixed-use neighborhood breaking ground later this year (2024). While out of LA, he made a trip to Oklahoma City in the middle of our collaboration, and it was awesome to get to meet and chat in person!
After trying several routes, we simply weren’t on the same
page with the other marketing companies we tried (we tried several!). Not their fault, it just wasn’t a good fit. Then we met Matt and his team, and wow, they understood what we were trying to do. They
shared our values, and just happened to be in marketing rather than building. It was such a fun collaboration.
In this conversation we discuss the importance of building
authentic brands, connecting with customers and target audiences, finding your tribe and building long term relationships based on shared values and goals.
And of course, we conclude with a discussion on AI and the future of marketing and social media. Matt is amazing, as well as his whole team, and if you are in the business, I highly recommend you reach out on your next project. Check out his website here:
https://www.deancostudio.com/
TAKEAWAYS
Building authentic brands involves understanding
the target audience and delivering on brand promises over time.
Long-term relationships and collaborations based
on shared values and goals are key to success.
Aspiration plays a significant role in people's
lives, and brands can help enhance their experiences and fulfill their
aspirations.
Delivering on brand promises and maintaining
authenticity are crucial for building lasting connections with customers.
Aspiration is not limited to achieving great success, but can also be about
living a happy life doing what you love.
Everyday experiences, simple relationships, and
human connection are important aspects of aspiration and the built environment.
Authenticity is crucial in branding and
commercial real estate, as people are seeking genuine connections and
experiences.
AI and social media have their place, but human
connection and emotion cannot be replaced.
The future of the built environment is moving
towards caring about people, human well-being, and creating spaces that enhance
lives.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Format
08:09 Working with Good People and Building Authentic
Collaborations
15:32 Creating Authentic Brands and Delivering on Promises
32:22 Understanding the Target Audience and Their
Aspirations
38:59 The Beauty of Everyday Life and Human Connection
47:30 The Role of AI and the Future of Human Connection
CONNECT WITH MATT
Website: https://www.deancostudio.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/funkle_/
Agency IG: https://www.instagram.com/deancostudio/
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-dean-deanco/
Agency LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dean-co/
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
https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/
https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell
https://playbook.buildingculture.com/
Devon Zuegel is planning a bold, people-centered town from scratch. She has a background in software engineering and has worked at some of the big firms in Silicon Valley. She discovered a passion for urbanism and
housing while living in San Francisco when she started looking into why there wasn’t more housing, and she draws a lot of inspiration from her childhood experiences at Chautauqua, a small town in Western New York.
We discuss the need for more beautiful and community-oriented neighborhoods and the challenges of current housing policies and regulations. Devon also explains her vision for Esmeralda, a town that combines the principles of traditional neighborhood development (TND)
and the community-oriented programming of Chautauqua.
We explore the concept of experimentation and flexibility in urban planning and development, and brainstorm the importance of allowing for iteration and adaptation in building communities, the limitations of traditional planning processes and the need for more creative and
responsive approaches.
We talk about how the tech MVP model (Minimum Viable Product) can be applied to neighborhoods (Minimum Viable Place) through temporary structures, such as food trucks and airstreams, in testing ideas and activating spaces.
While we discuss problems, it’s a fundamentally optimistic conversation! We discuss the need for individuals to take more agency and responsibility in shaping their built environment.
Devon was an amazing guest, lot’s of energy, nuanced thinking and positive vibes–can’t wait for y'all to hear!
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction and Background
07:12 The Need for Building Better Places
11:52 Chautauqua: A Model for Community and Learning
15:10 The Challenges of Building Beautiful and Functional Places
24:35 Creating a New Town: The Vision for Esmeralda
31:16 Building for the Long Term: Evolving and Adapting
32:13 Challenges of Planning and Permission
37:53 The Cost of Locking In Decisions
42:48 The Negative Impact of Excessive Process
47:10 The Importance of Truth and Being Wrong
51:17 Hyper-Specialization and Loss of Agency
01:01:09 Capital and the Vision for the New Town
01:04:54 The Appeal of Esmeralda
01:05:49 Back-Weighted Returns
01:06:27 Investor Preferences
01:07:41 The Long-Term Value of TNDs
01:08:38 The Importance of Aligned Capital
01:09:30 Appreciating Wealth and Capital
01:09:59 The Impact of Wealthy Individuals
01:11:42 The Zero-Sum Mindset
01:13:16 The Infinite Potential of Wealth
01:14:13 Creating Value and Making the Pie Bigger
01:15:10 The Role of Wealth in Society
01:17:19 Building Relationships and Community
01:19:56 Funding through Pre-Sales
01:22:03 The Inspiration behind Esmeralda's Name
01:23:23 The Concept of Edge Esmeralda
01:32:05 Podcast - Outro w Music.mp4
CONNECT WITH DEVON & RESOURCES
Blog: https://devonzuegel.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/devonzuegel
Summer Event: https://www.edgeesmeralda.com/
Book: Invisible Cities
Chautauqua: https://www.chq.org/
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/
I met Philippe Block while studying historic masonry structures in Spain last summer. He presented his work and I was blown away. He is a pioneering structural engineer who, as part of his research group Block
Research Group, is inventing the future of sustainable construction by blending old knowledge and precedent with new technology, materials and innovation. He's BUILDING off of thousands of years of architectural
innovation and deepening our knowledge of how structures really work, with stunning results.
And what makes it so impressive is he isn't just doing this in a research lab somewhere--though that is where the ideas are refined--he's implementing them in the real world. Not only is that very difficult to do, overcoming all the obstacles, it also takes a tremendous amount
of courage.
When I say "the building industry is broken," as I often do, what Phillipe is doing is part of the solution--he's part of pioneering and inventing the future that doesn't exist yet. Enjoy!
Sign up for my bimonthly newsletter here to learn more!
PHILLIPE'S BIO
Philippe Block is a full professor of Architecture and Structures and head of the Institute of Technology in Architecture (ITA) at ETH Zurich, where he co-leads the Block Research Group (BRG) with Dr. Tom Van Mele.
He studied architecture and structural engineering at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) in Belgium and at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the US, where he earned his PhD in 2009.
The BRG develops sustainable and circular construction solutions through the advancement of computational structural design and innovation in digital fabrication and construction. Specific expertise includes computational form finding, discrete masonry, graphic statics, architectural and structural geometry, digital fabrication and construction, and open-source computation.
Philippe and Tom translate their research into practice, with the consultancy Foreign Engineering and the ETH spin-off VAULTED. Most significant is the development of the Rippmann Floor System (RFS), a low-carbon-footprint, fully circular prefabricated concrete floor solution
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction and Problem Statement
03:10 Three Tenets: Strength through Geometry, Material Effectiveness, and Circular Construction
09:02 Comparison of Concrete and Steel Floor Systems
17:36 The Rippman Floor System
27:29 Combining Architecture and Engineering
32:19 Thinness and Prefabrication of the Rippman Floor System
38:59 Rediscovering Structural Form and Graphic Statics
50:24 Opportunities to Learn Graphic Statics
51:28 Integration of Graphic Statics in Projects
52:21 Opportunities for Self-Education
52:48 New Master of Advanced Studies in Structural Computation
53:17 Focus on Outreach and Education
54:34 The Importance of Open Source and Collaboration
56:29 Graphic Statics as a Tool for Engineering
59:19 The Maturity of Tools for Arch Structures
01:01:16 Challenges in Accepting New Approaches
01:04:07 The Urgency of Innovation in Construction
01:06:35 The Excitement of Discovering and Learning
01:07:47 Following Philippe Block's Work
RESOURCESBlock Research GroupVaulted Unreinforced Concrete Floor SystemBRG Githup Compass ResourcesBook on Graphic Statics: Form and Forces: Designing Efficient, Expressive Structures.
Book on Guastavino Vaulting by John Ochsendorf
MIT's Morningside Academy For Design w/ John Ochsendorf:
Phillipe Block Lecture - ETH Zurich, Block Research Group
Phillipe Block Lecture - Stone Skins: New Masonry Shells
Armadillo Vault
Phillipe Block on Linked InCONNECT 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
https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/
https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell
Today I interview Ruben Hassan, a Dutch podcaster and founder of the Aesthetic City podcast. Ruben shares his journey from being an engineer to becoming a full-time podcaster and filmmaker. We discuss the state of construction and development in the Netherlands and the importance of creating beautiful and sustainable built environments. We also explore the day-to-day life in the Netherlands, including transportation, education, and the value of beauty in society.
The conversation covers various themes related to the built environment, society, and culture. Some of the key takeaways include the importance of prioritizing people and their well-being in urban planning and design, the need to address environmental and health issues alongside climate change, the tension between tradition and modernity, the role of institutions in shaping the world, and the emergence of countercultures as a response to societal challenges. We also touch on the Dutch farming protests and the value of different perspectives in shaping the built environment.
TAKEAWAYS
- Ruben Hassan transitioned from being an engineer to a full-time podcaster and filmmaker, focusing on improving the built environment.
- The Aesthetic City podcast aims to foster the creation of beauty and true sustainability in architecture and urbanism.
- Dutch cities prioritize local, timeless, traditional, and
human-centered design principles and traditions.
- The Netherlands has a more gentle density approach to urban planning, with cities consisting of mostly five-story buildings.
- The Dutch value the ordinary and find beauty in the simple, everyday things.
- Day-to-day life in the Netherlands includes a strong emphasis on cycling, integrated neighborhoods, and a sense of community.
- Beauty is not just a nice-to-have, but an essential aspect of creating livable and sustainable cities.
- The Dutch approach to architecture and urbanism is influenced by their history of religious tolerance, distributed wealth, and residential neighborhoods. Prioritize people and their well-being in urban planning
and design.
- Address environmental and health issues alongside climate change.
- Recognize the tension between tradition and modernity.
- Consider the role of institutions in shaping the world.
- Acknowledge the emergence of countercultures as a response to societal challenges.
CHAPTERS
00:00 - Introduction
03:02 - Transitioning to a New Chapter in Life
05:21 - The Issues with Construction and Development
08:24 - Dutch Cities and the Built Environment
09:47 - Urban Planning in the Netherlands vs. the United States
14:28 - The Importance of Building Places People Want to Go
16:08 - Day-to-Day Life in the Netherlands
21:36 - The Height and Density of Dutch Cities
24:09 - The Cultural Heritage of Dutch Cities
30:40 - The Value and Importance of Beauty
38:36 - Perspectives of Older and Younger Generations
44:48 - The Dutch Farmers' Protests
47:27 - The Nitrogen Issue and Farming Practices
48:31 - Government Actions and Public Opinion
50:16 - Tyranny and Populism
51:45 - Disconnect Between Elites and Regular People
53:32 - The Dark Side of Modernity
55:10 - Tradition and Innovation
55:49 - Hope for Change and Paradigm Shift
59:45 - Upcoming Plans and Trip to the US
01:03:31 - Recommended Cities in the Netherlands
01:07:03 - Dutch Perception of Americans
RESOURCES
1. Recommended Book: North Atlantic Cities by Charles Duff
2. Recommend Video: Why Beauty Matters by Roger Scruton
3. Painting: The Little Streets by Vermeer
4. Examples of some wonderful NEW humanist cities: Cayala, Guatemala and
Le Plessis-Robinson outside of Paris.
5. Recommended Dutch Cities: Utrecht, Leiden, Amersfoort, Harlem
CONNECT WITH RUBEN
- Website
- Cayala Video
- Le Plessis Video
- Summer School
CONNECT WITH AUSTIN
https://linktr.ee/austintunnell
https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/
https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/
Today, I have friend and colleague Thomas Dougherty on the podcast. Last year Tom joined the Building Culture team as our lead Urban Designer. He studied architecture and urban design at Notre Dame and focused on inner block development and has become known as the "alley-guy" for his expertise in creating spaces in these areas.
It's a great conversation focused on the centralization of capital in real estate and how that affects decision making, how we prioritize profits over people and most importantly what we can do differently to try and solve these issues. We chat about smaller scale development and the creation of smaller grained places that are essential for vibrant communities, as well as how our current infrastructure is unsustainable financially and how we will see the effects in the next few decades. We discuss infill development, local investment and rethinking the way we raise capital, and finally we dive into the potential for infill development like creating streets as spaces that can really create beautiful, wonderful places. People really can be enriching forces on our built environment and are capable of immense good and immense beauty- hope you enjoy the conversation!
TAKEAWAYS
- The centralization of capital in real estate development leads to
decisions that prioritize maximum returns over human flourishing.
- Smaller-scale development and the creation of smaller grained places are essential for building vibrant communities.
- Current infrastructure is unsustainable and requires financial
innovation to address its high costs.
- Financing new urbanist projects is challenging due to the changing
landscape of real estate finance.
- Infill development offers opportunities for incremental growth and the revitalization of existing communities.
- Local investment empowers individuals and strengthens communities.
- Capital plays a significant role in shaping development and should be aligned with the values of creating human-scaled places.
- Recognizing the potential of infill development and building streets
as public spaces can create inviting and reflective environments.
REFERENCES
https://ioncommunity.com/
CONNECT WITH THOMAS DOUGHERTY
https://www.innerblock.org/about
CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE
https://www.buildingculture.com/
https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/
https://twitter.com/build_culture
https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/
https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/
https://www.tiktok.com/@buildingculture
CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL
https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/
https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell
https://linktr.ee/austintunnell
https://playbook.buildingculture.com/p/ready-fire-aim
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:04 Becoming Known as the Alley Guy
05:01 The Concept of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
07:08 The Potential of Alleys for ADUs
09:05 The American Alley Hidden Resource
12:26 The Impact of Experiencing Human Scale
19:34 Reimagining Suburbs as Villages and Market Towns
30:04 The Limitations of Subdivisions
33:37 The Importance of Language and Advocacy
38:32 Empowering Individuals in Shaping the Built Environment
39:31 The Centralization of Capital
41:25 The Importance of Small-Scale Development
43:20 The Unsustainability of Current Infrastructure
45:52 The Need for Financial Innovation
47:23 The Difficulty of Financing New Urbanist Projects
50:15 The Potential of Infill Development
52:20 The Power of Local Investment
55:51 The Role of Capital in Development
57:19 Recognizing the Opportunities in Infill Development
59:52 Building Streets as Public Spaces
I'm thrilled to have Coby Lefkowitz on the show today. Coby is an urbanist, real estate developer, writer, and consultant based in New York, and I would add, all around optimist. I've been following him on X for several years, and while it was our first conversation it felt like we had known each other much longer. We are saving the technical conversation on building and development for a time down the road, and today we really focused on the culture around building well and the obstacles that come with it. We both share this idea, in a lot of ways, that the best is just ahead if we can align our beliefs as a culture.
TAKEAWAYS:
- Urbanism and planning play a crucial role in creating beautiful and
sustainable cities.
- It is important to dream and not settle for utilitarian outcomes in
city building.
- A cultural shift towards more thoughtful and human-centered city
building is needed.
- Dopamine plays a significant role in motivation and addiction, and
understanding its effects can help us make better choices.
- Finding beauty in the ordinary and embracing everyday simplicity can
enhance our appreciation of our surroundings.
- Background buildings, when designed with quality and simplicity, can
provide a strong foundation for vibrant communities.
- Tradition and innovation are not mutually exclusive; tradition
represents proven innovation that has stood the test of time.
- Architecture has the power to shape our experiences and create
intrigue and stimulation in our surroundings.
- Small actions, such as adding potted plants or personal touches, can
transform and benefit streets and communities.
- Overcoming fatalism and embracing choice can empower individuals to
shape their communities and create meaningful change.
- Despite the challenges we face, history shows that humanity has the ability to rise to the occasion and find solutions.
- Optimism and a proactive mindset are essential for creating a better
future.
CONNECT WITH COBY:
Twitter
https://cobylefkowitz.com
COBY'S FAVORITES:
* Habits: Daily gym & reading
* Top Podcasts:
- Basketball theme - Nick's NBA podcast
* Books:
- Welcome to Your World: Sarah Williams Goldhagen - The School of Llife: An Emotional Education
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction and Background
04:30 The Importance of Urbanism and Planning
08:08 The Need to Dream and Overcoming Barriers
17:33 The Cost of Development and the Value of Design
25:00 The Culture of Consumption and the Importance of Good
29:35 The Challenges of Financing and the Need for Coherent Vision
35:24 The Importance of Conversations and Understanding Perspectives
41:11 The Cultural Shift Needed for Sustainable Development
42:04 The Dopamine Effect and Addiction
43:26 The Value of Everyday Beauty
47:12 The Role of Background Buildings
50:12 The Balance Between Tradition and Innovation
53:07 The Impact of Architecture on Experience
56:20 The Importance of Restraint and Punctuation in Design
57:49 The Power of Small Actions in Shaping Communities
01:03:06 Overcoming Fatalism and Embracing Choice
01:05:32 The Value of Tradition and the Potential for Change
01:10:01 The Impact of Individual Actions on Shaping Places
01:14:01 The Journey of Making a Difference
01:18:36 The Progress and Hope in Urban Planning
01:22:19 Introduction and Background
01:23:04 Interest in Architecture and Urban Planning
01:24:27 Books That Have Changed the Way Coby Thinks
01:25:36 Inspiring Trips and Observations on the Built Environment
01:31:25 Philadelphia as an Example of Urban Planning
01:33:40 Optimism for the Future
01:36:25 Closing Remarks
CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE
https://www.buildingculture.com/https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/
https://twitter.com/build_culture
https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/
https://www.tiktok.com/@buildingculture
CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
Building Culture Playbook
Building Culture Instagram
Today I'm dropping the second half of my conversation with Sam Day. In case you missed Part 1, head back to Episode 8 in our Podcast series to check it out. Sam is an architect, urbanist, and infill developer based in Oklahoma City--a rare combination of someone designing buildings (architect), creating spaces with those buildings (urbanist), and actually facilitating them coming out of the ground, including buying land, figuring out financing, leasing up, etc (development).
At the beginning of this episode, we continue our conversation on the importance of centers, the challenge of creating centers in suburbia, and the possibility of improving suburbia with possibilities like e-bikes, delivery and more.
We have a lot of fun getting into the rapid-fire questions and question that our viewers asked via Instagram, topics like habits and routines, the challenges of architecture school and the importance of learning construction details, and even personal topics like the meaning of fatherhood for the both us.
If you enjoyed today's show, make sure to like, comment and share!
RESOURCES
Podcast Recommendations:
- Henry George Podcast - http://seethecat.org/
- Ezra Klein -
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ezra-klein-show/id1548604447
- Adam Tooze - https://adamtooze.com/category/on-record/podcast/
Book Recommendations:
- Regenesis:
https://www.amazon.com.au/Regenesis-World-Without-Devouring-Planet/dp/0141992999
- Micheal Pollen -
A Place of My Own (Architecture-theme) - https://a.co/d/aVs5a6U
How to Change Your Mind - https://a.co/d/9CJJkDI
Omnivores Dilemma - https://a.co/d/0bxxumn
- Rise of the Community Builders - https://a.co/d/9hKNKpw
- Developing Expertise - https://a.co/d/7h06dT7
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in /samuel-day
https://www.instagram.com /_sam_day
https://www.wheelerdistrict.com/
Takeaways:
- Innovative solutions are needed to address the challenges of housing
affordability, community building, and sustainable development.
- Learning construction details and practical knowledge is challenging
in architecture school, and gaining experience on job sites is crucial.
- Being a new father is a rewarding experience, and observing a child's
growth and development is fascinating.
- Working with clients as an architect can be challenging, as there may
be a disconnect between the architect's values and the client's
priorities.
- Investing in high-quality lighting, landscaping, and tactile elements
like hardware can greatly enhance the overall design and experience of a
space.
00:00 Creating Centers
04:52 The Challenge of Suburban Development
08:00 Distributed Shopping Centers and E-Bikes to Improve Suburbia
22:20 Habits and Routines
25:20 Podcasts Books That Have Changed Our Thinking
35:00 Getting Started as a Developer
38:00 Pivoting into Construction
43:17 The Joys of Fatherhood
47:30 Challenges of Working with Clients
50:00 Splurging on High-End Items
CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE
Website: https://www.buildingculture.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/
X: https://twitter.com/build_culture
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@buildingculture
CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL
Instagram: https://instagram.com/austintunnell
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/
X: https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell
Join the Movement to Build a Better World: The Building Culture Playbook
-
https://playbook.buildingculture.com/p/blueprint-1-life-is-boring-yet-profound
In the first half of today's episode, I had the pleasure of speaking
with a friend and colleague, Sam Day. Sam is an architect, urbanist, and infill developer based in Oklahoma City--a rare combination of someone designing buildings (architect), creating spaces with those buildings (urbanist), and actually facilitating them coming out of the ground, including buying land, figuring out financing, leasing up, etc
(development).
Sam is also very philosophical, and it's easy for us to talk for hours
and debate ideas. He is both an ideas guy and an executor, which is
another rare combo that leads to unique perspectives and conversation.
First we explore Sam's career trajectory, his first infill project of a
quad/4plex self financed with an FHA loan that he used as his primary residence (the development hack for those who don't have a ton of cash--a la R John Anderson and the Incremental Development Alliance).
We dive into the concept of missing middle housing, explore the various challenges small developers face in this sector, discuss creating vibrant community centers, the pros and cons of a land value tax, as well as what we mean by human scale and the magic of 3 and 4 story buildings (NOT 20+almost stories).
In part 2 we broach ideas like the difficulties in controlling land and
the financialization of real estate, and the potential transformation of suburbia through e-bikes and distributed shopping centers, envisioning a more connected and accessible community.
TAKEAWAYS
- Transitioning from architecture to development requires a diverse
skill set, including financial modeling and understanding zoning
regulations.
- Small developers, such as architects and tradespeople, are
well-positioned to address the missing middle housing gap.
- Implementing a land value tax can incentivize landowners to develop their properties more efficiently and discourage land speculation.
- Retrofitting suburbia requires careful planning and consideration of existing neighborhoods and infrastructure.
RESOURCES
https://www.linkedin.com/in/samuel-day
https://www.instagram.com/_sam_day/
https://www.wheelerdistrict.com/
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction and Career Path
03:04 Becoming a Developer
08:05 The Concept of Missing Middle
17:06 Land Value Tax
25:01 Retrofitting Suburbia
36:26 Concerns about Land Value Tax
43:15 The Need for Solutions
47:12 The Future of Suburbia
48:40 Retrofitting Suburbia
50:17 Transfer of Development Rights
51:44 The Rule of 10,000
53:10 The Magic of Three-Story Buildings
54:43 Creating Centers in Suburbia
CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE
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CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/
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Join the Movement to Build a Better World: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/subscribe
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