Imagine a Place

Latest Episodes:

Is it time to reimagine the private office? | Brian Graham and Molly Prior Apr 15, 2024

Show notes

Is the private office taking on a new and important role? Is it time for the private office to be reimagined? In this special episode, Doug shares part of a conversation we captured between designer Brian Graham and our very own, Molly Prior. Together, Brian and Molly chat about the rapid shift in management styles that might challenge the traditional use of the private office - from a more hierarchical environment to a more inclusive and flexible space that can encourage open dialogue and create a sense of equality. But, what might that look like for the future of private offices and workspaces in general?

Hear more from Brian Graham on this new take on the private office. Watch here.

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Imagine a Place gathers industry-leading voices that can inspire the design community through storytelling and broaden our creative horizons. The goal of Imagine a Place is to further elevate the belief that the places we make and the ways we design them matter in our lives.

Connecting the Dots with Doug Shapiro Apr 08, 2024

Show notes

In this solo episode, Doug looks back at the first quarter of 2024. He reminisces on insightful past episodes exploring creativity, leadership, and the impact of design on the human experience and our well-being. He also poses an interesting question regarding the NCIDQ exam for interior designers—should a college degree be required for this exam or is significant work experience/apprenticeship enough to suffice?

Email Doug at dshapiro@ofs.com with your opinions on the NCIDQ degree requirements.

We also look forward, as we have some exciting plans for the podcast network including an upcoming season focused on the power of design in education, new episodes from other shows, and a "surprise" for delivering insights in a unique and exciting way.

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Designing for the Intersection of Eras | Joey Shimoda, Shimoda Design Group Apr 02, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Doug is joined by Joey Shimoda of Shimoda Design Group. This reflective conversation spans from Joey's unique upbringing in Alabama and the challenges of growing up in a racially tense environment to the potential impacts of emerging technologies.

Growing up in Alabama during a turbulent period in American history—Joey reveals a journey marked by challenges, including his family's history of internment during World War II and the complexities of being one of the few Asian families in his community amidst the racial tensions of the 1960s. This backdrop serves as a foundation for Shimoda's profound insights into the role of curiosity, open-mindedness, and the embrace of both the analog and digital realms in shaping his design practices.

Doug and Joey talk about how the implications of technological advancements like AI and the metaverse cannot be overlooked in the field of design. There is a need to emphasize human-centered creativity and tangible experiences in this rapidly changing technological landscape.

This conversation not only showcases Joey's illustrious career and musings, but also serves as a testament to the enduring relevance of human creativity in the face of technological change.

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Community by Design | Tasha Singh, Student, Drexel University Mar 25, 2024

Show notes

In this episode we talk with Tasha Singh a design student from Drexel University. Tasha's design philosophy centers around fostering social connection and a sense of community through the built environment. Her experiences moving from the close-knit neighborhoods of India tot he more individualistic society of Philadelphia have profoundly shaped her approach. Tasha aims to blur the lines between public and private spaces, creating a "porosity" that encourages casual interactions and chance encounters.

Underpinning her work is a deep belief that design should serve those who are often overlooked or forgotten. Tasha advocates for designing with empathy and considering how even the most marginalized might engage with and benefit from the spaces we create.

Tasha even touches on a crucial point: the need for designers to slow down, be present, and truly experience how environments impact people's sense of belonging and wellbeing. Tasha's mission is to contribute designs that knit together communities while elevating the voices of the unseen.

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The Language of Care: Designing for Senior Living with Kevin Swanson, Hawthorn Construction Group Mar 18, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to a special episode recorded LIVE at the "Crafted for Living" event in collaboration with Carolina and Mannington Commercial. Join us as we sit down with Kevin Swanson, a seasoned expert in Senior Living design at Hawthorn Construction Group. Kevin shares his heartfelt passion for creating spaces that truly cater to the needs of seniors, discussing the delicate balance between aesthetics and safety. From the importance of choosing the right words to implementing small yet impactful changes, Kevin's dedication shines through. Join us for an engaging conversation about the art of designing with purpose and making a meaningful impact in senior living environments

We’re also joined by Lauren Morgan, Brand Manager at Carolina, adding her insights to the conversation and a little about her journey into healthcare design.

Want to learn more? Visit Carolina's insights page to get a recap of the Crafted for Living event here

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8 Remarkable Women, 8 Empowering Stories | A Women's History Month Spotlight Mar 07, 2024

Show notes

In this special episode for Women's History Month, we've gathered 8 incredible stories of perseverance and personal growth from some of our favorite guests. These stories are not just about the perseverance and achievements of these women but are meant to motivate and encourage everyone listening. You'll also meet Lydia Moya, an executive producer for Imagine a Place, as we take a look back at this episode and reflect on these stories and what this month is all about.

Here's a list of our guests in order and links to their original podcast:

1. My Ngyuen

2. Ginger Curtis

3. Charlotte Kingsbury

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From the Heart | Nadia Borrás Marković, Gensler Feb 21, 2024

Show notes

Architect Nadia Borrás Marković takes us back to her childhood in Mexico City, reflecting on special memories of the home her father built and the creative spirit he nurtured in her. She opens up about her persistence in achieving her goals as one of the few women studying architecture. Towards the end, she explains how architecture goes beyond the practical to create connection and the importance of understanding people’s stories.

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Personal Growth in the Era of AI Jan 25, 2024

Show notes

Here are some key takeaways from Doug's experience at the New Year New You event in Miami.

Authentic intelligence comes from experience and activating our brains, hearts, and souls.

There is a difference between artificial intelligence (AI) and authentic intelligence. Artificial intelligence is knowledge gained through algorithmic study and memorization—learning in 2D—while authentic intelligence comes from experience that activates more areas of the brain and leaves emotional imprints. It engages our brains, hearts, and souls. And as AI advances, we need to balance and develop our authentic intelligence through conversations, travel, and immersive experiences.

Curiosity is the most important skill in the AI era.

Curiosity is singled out as the most important skill in the AI era. With unlimited information at our fingertips, our impact comes from the questions we ask, not just passively accepting the answers we receive. Staying curious allows us to steer our use of AI tools, rather than losing agency and keeps us from falling into sameness.

Imperfections make us human.

As AI generates hyper-perfect images and content, imperfections make us human. We need to embrace the imperfections and uniqueness that differentiates human creativity from AI. In design, we should move away from perfection and embrace more human, authentic work. Our humanity shines through those imperfections.

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Click here to get your copy of Maria's children's book—Design Your World.

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From Limitations to Innovations, Fostering Creativity and Culture | David Polzin, Cannon Design Jan 22, 2024

Show notes

In this episode Doug sits down with David Polzin, Executive Director of Design at Cannon Design in St Louis. David is known for creating and fostering a creative culture within a large organization—something that proves to be more and more difficult. There is an inherent tension between structure and creativity in large organizations which means it can be difficult to spark innovation. But David believes that embracing risk and failure is actually very important for fostering a creative environment. New ideas are born from continuously iterating on ideas, letting go of attachments, and synthesizing constraints.

The workplace is changing and the creative process is changing with it. One of David's biggest concerns is that people are becoming disengaged from their physical environments due to immersion in technology and that architecture should enhance lived experience and nature. We are slowly losing our connection to spaces and nature. It's on leaders to adapt their leadership styles to new generations and help rescue the creative process.

Overall this is an incredible interview where David shares his thoughtful philosophies on creativity, design, leadership, and the human experience.

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Click here to get your copy of Maria's children's book—Design Your World.

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The Truth | Curtis Moody, Architect + Founder of Moody Nolan Jan 15, 2024

Show notes

Today is Martin Luther King Jr. day and we are honored to present an interview with renowned architect Curtis Moody, Founder of Moody Nolan. In today's episode, we delve into the profound impact of truth and self-belief on Curtis's life and pioneering achievements. He shares intimate reflections on his upbringing in Columbus, Ohio, highlighted by a pivotal life moment: a school counselor's claim that his skin color barred him from pursuing a career in architecture. This episode is a journey through the challenges and triumphs that have defined Curtis's journey.

Curtis shares vivid memories of learning about Dr. King’s assassination as a teenager and the impact this event had on his life. He also discusses how being a competitive athlete impacted his approach to business, including an incredible strategy that landed him the commission to design Ohio State's arena.

From the guiding principles he lives by to the projects most meaningful to him, Curtis speaks candidly about the passion and persistence that led him to become one of the most prominent architects in the country.

Connect with Maria on LinkedIn.

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Click here to get your copy of Maria's children's book—Design Your World.

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