Curious what kind of conversations happen behind the scenes at one of the world’s leading curtain wall manufacturers? In this video and podcast series, GlasCurtain Managing Director Peter Dushenski will share an inside perspective on this fascinating industry through a series of in-depth conversations with industry leaders. Together, we’ll explore new ideas of what's possible with glazed facades. Join us for Curtain Wall Conversations!

In Episode 9 of Curtain Wall Conversations, Peter is joined by Ken Levenson, Executive Director at Passive House Network (PHN) and a pivotal figure in the world of sustainable architecture. Ken's career took a significant turn towards sustainability after embracing the Passive House concept in 2009, leading to his certification as a Passive House Designer. 

Ken has played a pivotal role in advancing Passive House standards through founding New York Passive House, the National Passive House Alliance, and NAPHN. His contributions to energy efficiency standards, including advisory roles for Urban Green’s 90 by 50 report and the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe, highlight his broad impact.

This episode delves into critical topics at the heart of sustainable design. We discuss the unique advantages of Passive House standards, public policy and its critical role in promoting sustainable building practices, and New York City's Local Law 97. We also take a closer look at the Winthrop Centre, the world’s largest commercial Passive House building and chat about the significance of the Passive House Planning Package (PHPP) as a tool for architects, and the crucial conversation around embodied carbon and its impact on the environment.

Ken, welcome to Curtain Wall Conversations! We hope you enjoy this wide-ranging conversation as much as we did!