Tangible Remnants (Nakita Reed // Gābl Media)
Explore every episode of Tangible Remnants
| Pub. Date | Title | Duration | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11 Mar 2024 | Finding Funding | 00:22:02 | |||||
This solo episode focuses on the various financial tools available to finance the renovation of a historic building. Specifically:
I'll cover a high-level view of various financing products and have included some great resources below if you're interested in learning more. You can also head over to our Instagram page (@tangibleremnants) for some graphics and charts on the various financing options. If you're working on your own tangible remnant or know anyone else working on a historic building that is looking for additional ways to finance it, please send them this episode. *Note: I am not a CPA nor do I play one on this podcast so please make sure you do your due diligence, talk to your attorney/CPA to find out what is viable for your individual project and jurisdiction. Links: Government sites to funding programs:
Guides & Resources:
About the podcast: | |||||||
| 26 Apr 2023 | Refresh | Episode 13: Heritage for the Next Generation with Monica Rhodes | 00:57:00 | |||||
This week's episode is a refresh of Episode 13 with Monica Rhodes from 2021. We talk about her journey to the profession and all of the amazing work she's done in the profession. Links:
Bio: Over the course of her career, Monica Rhodes, has helped raise and manage over $150 million, directed preservation activities in 46 states and completed projects in over 100 national parks. She developed the first national program centered on diversifying the preservation industry and led efforts to reinstitute substantial programs in the nation to preserve national parks that tell stories related to African American, LatinX and Women’s history. Her undergraduate degree is in History (University of Tulsa) and Masters degrees are in African – American Studies (Temple University) and Historic Preservation (University of Pennsylvania). She joined Harvard University as a Loeb Fellow and just wrapped up six months in Italy at the American Academy in Rome.
Thank you to this Episode's Sponsor: BQE makes it easy to manage your projects and people, for maximum productivity and ultimate profitability. Start implementing powerful systems for the profitability you need and the freedom you want. Join Douglas Tieger, FAIA for the next Designing Your Business Masterclass, brought to you by BQE CORE. Every live masterclass session is free and includes AIA continuing education credit. Register now at bqe.com/masterclass. **Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** **This episode is sponsored by www.Smartsheet4architects.com, a better way to manage architecture projects.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 17 Jun 2024 | Institutional Stewardship with Regan Shields Ives & Rebecca Berry | 00:42:38 | |||||
In this weeks episode I talk with Regan Shields Ives and Rebecca Berry of Finegold Alexander Architects about some of the interesting institutional projects they’re working on. It was fun to chat with them to learn more about what got them to the profession and to hear their experiences of working with existing buildings. We talk about helping clients get the biggest Bang for their buck on renovations. We touch on the impact of comfort on how people experience existing buildings and how often that comfort is achieved by things that aren’t flashy - like better insulation and improved accessibility. Links:
Bios: Regan Shields Ives AIA, ALEP, LEED AP, MCPPO, NCARB – Principal, SecretaryRegan is a Principal and studio leader for Finegold Alexander’s educational and cultural projects. She is passionate about design for education and creating spaces that are welcoming, safe, and inspiring. She is also an advocate and thought leader in restoring and preserving our historic buildings, including adapting them for new, contemporary uses. Regan is a long-time member of the Boston Preservation Alliance where she serves as President of the Board of Directors. She is actively involved with the New England Chapter of the Association for Learning Environments. Regan serves as a mentor through the Boston Society of Architecture’s Women in Design Mid-Career mentoring program and is a member of the BSA Women’s Principal Group. She graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a Master of Architecture and earned a Bachelor of Arts from Lehigh University.
Rebecca Berry AIA, LEED AP – Principal, President, Director of SustainabilityRebecca leads Finegold Alexander’s higher education, institutional and religious practice areas. She is also Finegold Alexander’s Director of Sustainability, promoting sustainable design practices, conversations and reviews firm wide. Rebecca’s long history of volunteerism and civic engagement attests to her passion for serving people and their greater communities, whether they be mission-driven organizations, schools, or other entities. She earned a BS in Art & Design, a BS in Political Science and Master of Architecture, all from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where she received the Alpha Rho Chi medal, a national award in recognition for service. In each of her endeavors, Rebecca focuses on client service and on providing the best possible design solutions that adhere to the budget and schedule concerns of each client. When not in Finegold Alexander’s offices, meeting with clients or on a job site, you might find Rebecca on the ski slopes with her family, either here or out West. **Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will... | |||||||
| 10 Oct 2022 | Our Genetic Legacy w/ Shellie Baxter | 00:50:07 | |||||
This episode features a conversation with visionary Shellie Baxter, a genetic genealogist and Founder of Our Genetic Legacy (OGL). OGL is a non-profit that is undertaking a number of projects across a number of professions. We cover a range of topics. From exploring your DNA to discovering your personal history, to architecture design contests, and training the next generation of drone pilots in LIDAR technology - Shellie talks through how all these items work together. Links:
Background: Shellie Baxter is a Social Impact Scientist who is taking space in the Metaverse to preserve BIPOC history using genetics and drones. She started Our Genetic Legacy in 2018 in response to her frustration with the lack of recognition and the disenfranchisement of BIPOC Americans in American history. Correcting the systemic erasure of BIPOCs and memorializing their lives for future generations is her passion and focus. Seeing the impact of her genealogical work in the lives of her family inspires her to teach and share her research methodology that she calls Legacy Tracing™. Ms. Baxter's own family legacy story, knowing the struggles her ancestors overcame for her to even exist, ignites her passion to help others find their legacy story. **Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 07 Apr 2023 | Refresh | Episode 6: Taking Up Space w/ Rasheda Tripp & Morgan C.B. Miles | 00:41:57 | |||||
This week's episode is a refreshed replay of Episode 6 with Architect, Rasheda Tripp & Developer, Morgan C.B. Miles. They were the only other two black women in my graduating architecture class at UVA and have been dear friends of mine for almost 20 years. This episode was originally recorded in 2020 and we talked about our careers, what brought us to architecture and how we navigate white, male spaces as black women. Enjoy the replay! Quote: "The function, the very serious function of racism is distraction. It keeps you from doing your work. It keeps you explaining, over and over again, your reason for being." - Toni Morrison Links: Bios: Rasheda Tripp received her BS in Architecture in 2006 from the University of Virginia. She earned her M. Architecture degree in 2012 from Washington University in St Louis. Rasheda is currently a Project Architect for GuernseyTingle in Williamsburg Va. She’s been with the firm since 2013 and has continued to work remotely from Charlottesville since 2017. Her project types range from retail, multi-family residential and government facilities at all levels. Rasheda is passionate about designing affordable and equitable housing. She frequently stops to admire the ceilings and doors of spaces. She’s mother to 2 boys and a wife to a husband who no longer judges her for stopping to look at random building details. Morgan C.B. Miles, LEED AP is an award-winning, senior-level real estate professional with a background in architecture from the University of Virginia and an MBA in real estate and finance from The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania. With experience in acquisitions, development, and commercial lending, Morgan has executed and/or was responsible for over $1 billion of development projects and financing deals along the U.S. east coast. She has a proven track record working on multi-billion-dollar, complex mixed-use waterfront developments including District Wharf (The Wharf) and Water Street Tampa -- achieving project budget and schedule goals while upholding quality standards. Morgan has development and project management expertise working on hotels, condominiums, multi-family residential apartments, office, industrial, retail, and senior living. Morgan is a designated lecturer, presenter, guest of honor, and panelist for numerous speaking engagements and passionate about opportunities to represent the BIPOC community at these academic and industry events. She is also a trusted advisor, mentor, and coach to many rising leaders and students in architecture, real estate, business, and finance. Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 08 Aug 2022 | Preservation as Perpetuation w/ Ira Matt | 00:46:24 | |||||
This week's episode features an interview with Ira Matt. Ira is the Director of the Office of Native American Affairs at the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. We cover a lot of cultural nuances in the conversation. Ultimately it comes back to compassion. If you're interested in working with any of the tribal nations or curious how to navigate working with people of different backgrounds then this is definitely an episode for you. Links:
Bio: Ira Matt Ira Matt has more than 22 years of historic preservation and cultural resources management experience at both the tribal and federal levels. He began working at the ACHP in 2015 as a program analyst in the Office of Federal Agency Programs. In 2018, he moved to ONAA as a senior program analyst, where he led ONAA’s traditional knowledge initiative and co-authored the ACHP’s Early Coordination with Indian Tribes handbook. He also served on several committees of the White House Council on Native American Affairs. Before joining the ACHP, he worked for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes for 16 years in varying capacities, including as Tribal Historic Preservation Officer, resource advisor, tribal archaeologist, and as a wildland firefighter. During this time, he regularly worked with the Cultural Committees and Elder Advisory Boards, Tribal Council, and Salish Kootenai College to generate positive outcomes in cultural resource management by implementing historic preservation as a tool to effectuate cultural perpetuation. Ira Matt’s prior federal experience includes serving as the Federal Preservation Officer/National Archaeologist for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service and as a tribal affairs specialist for the Department of Energy. Ira is Salish and an enrolled member of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes of western Montana. He received his BA and MA in anthropology from the University of Montana and a Master of Jurisprudence in Indian Law from the University of Tulsa College of Law. **Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** **This podcast is sponsored by www.Smartsheet4architects.com, a better way to manage architecture projects.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 26 Aug 2024 | Not a Murder House w/ Katie Hughes-Pucci | 00:39:47 | |||||
This episode features a conversation with my longtime friend, Katie Hughes-Pucci. We went to summer camp together decades ago (shout out to Independent Lake Camp in Orson, PA) and there's a group of us that still stay in touch. She's not an architect or preservationist but she gets that old houses have stories to tell and that being a steward of an old house means honoring and respecting the house's history and taking care of it for future generations. Check out our Instagram to see photos of her 1903 home that is discussed in the episode. Links:
Bio: Katie Hughes-Pucci is a Rhode Island-based writer and sometimes-adjunct professor. She lives with her husband and daughter in the historic Edgewood neighborhood in what she lovingly calls a “stunning Victorian death trap” (Child safety wasn’t at the forefront at the turn of the century). Likes: Elder millennial pop culture, old homes, buying craft supplies and then abandoning the project, and fighting the patriarchy. Dislikes: Wet socks, open floor plans, parties that don’t serve cheese, and putting books on the shelf backwards as an aesthetic. **Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 14 May 2022 | Architecture, Race & Empathy w/ Dr. Kendall Nicholson | 00:51:26 | |||||
**EPISODE MAY CONTAIN EXPLICIT LANGUAGE** This episode is another fun one and I really enjoyed getting to know fellow UVA alum, Dr. Kendall Nicholson, better in this episode. We cover Race and Architecture, storytelling and empathy. We also touch on how to tap into your network to travel to another country, lessons he’s learned so far being a father and how adopting kids through the foster care system has helped him flex his empathy muscles. This is an expansive conversation where we really get into how all everything is connected and how his experiences in one aspect of his life inform all others. Building Highlight: Philadelphia Museum of Art. The final plan, adopted in March 1917, was a collaborative effort by the firm of Zantzinger, Borie, and Medary; Paul Cret; Horace Trumbauer; and various members of Trumbauer’s firm including Howell Lewis Shay and senior designer Julian Abele, the first African American graduate of the University of Pennsylvania's architecture program and one of the first African American architects to come to prominence in the United States. Links:
Bio: Dr. Kendall Nicholson is a licensed educator, trained architectural designer, and an avid researcher. He works as the Director of Research and Information at the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture (ACSA) and is currently furthering his research at Harvard’s Graduate School of Design with work focused on the confluence of race, architecture, and education. He has presented research internationally and his research interests surround equity, education, and curriculum within the discipline of architecture. Nationally, his passion for equity and racial justice manifests in his role as the research consultant for the 2016 and 2018 Equity in Architecture Survey sponsored by AIA San Francisco and Equity by Design (EQxD). He also volunteers as a member of the AIA’s Equity and the Future of Architecture board committee and on the newly formed NOMA Research Comm. *** Thank you to this Episode's Sponsor: BQE makes it easy to manage your projects and... | |||||||
| 13 Jul 2023 | Guerilla Preservation w/ Dr. Kwesi Daniels | 00:48:35 | |||||
This week's episode features a fun conversation with Dr. Kwesi Daniels. We talk about his journey into the profession, various tools of the trade, and having a 'Guerilla bag'. Building Highlight: Tuskegee University Sage Hall Links:
Bio: Dr. Kwesi Daniels is the Head of the Architecture Department at Tuskegee University. His professional experience ranges across various disciplines, including historic preservation, architecture, sustainability management, and urban geography. He previously served as the Green Homes Coordinator for the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency. Within this capacity, he was responsible for "greening" affordable housing throughout the state by implementing renewable energy, energy efficiency, and green finance products, which developers could use to improve the sustainable performance of the properties within their portfolio. One of the best financial products he uncovered while working with the NJ-HMFA was the integration of green financing with historic preservation and affordable housing tax credits. The coupling of sustainable building features with the restoration of historic structures creates an excellent opportunity to address three needs- aging infrastructure in urban areas, the demand for affordable housing, and the pending changes from climate change. His groundbreaking working at the NJ-HMFA provided the foundation upon which he does his current work. In 2018 he began developing a historic preservation program at Tuskegee University, within the Robert R. Taylor School of Architecture and Construction Science. The goal is to train architecture and construction science management students to handle the nuances of historic properties. This preservation work has expanded the resources of Tuskegee into African-American communities in Selma, Montgomery, Birmingham, and Tuskegee, Ala. He and his students are currently working to preserve the Armstrong School in Macon County, Al, a Tuskegee rural school model building and precursor to the Rosenwald School program. Some of his civic work includes serving as an advisory board member for the UPenn Center for the Preservation of Civil Rights Heritage Sites, board member of the Rosenwald Park Campaign Advisory Council, and the 3rd Congressional District Representative of the Alabama Black Heritage Council. Dr. Daniels earned a BArch and MArch in architecture from Tuskegee University and the University of Illinois at Chicago and an MS in sustainability management from Columbia University. In 2020 he earned a Ph.D. in urban geography from Temple University. His doctoral research... | |||||||
| 01 Feb 2025 | Advocacy in Action w/Melissa Jest | 00:37:42 | |||||
This episode features a conversation with Melissa Jest from the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund at the National Trust for Historic Preservation. We discuss her extensive experience in preservation and advocacy for underrepresented communities. Links:
Melissa Jest is Senior Manager of Preservation Projects for the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund (AACHAF). Miss Jest brings more than 20 years of preservation project and education experience, having worked in Savannah, GA, Philadelphia, PA and on staff at the Georgia Historic Preservation office headquartered in Atlanta GA. In her work, Miss Jest has assisted individuals and communities in identifying and preserving historic tangible and intangible resources significant to our shared heritage. Also, she has served on civic and private foundation boards over her career of advocating for underrepresented communities, and for historic preservation as both a tool and a movements Miss Jest is a native of Savannah, GA and holds a bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism from the University of Florida and a Master’s degree in Urban Studies from Savannah State University.
**Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 27 May 2024 | Material Matters w/ Jacqui Hogans | 00:43:32 | |||||
This week's episode features an insightful conversation with Jacqui Hogans. I learned a number of interesting things throughout this episode. Things I'd never thought of - like how salty is fog. And how does that salt impact building materials. This conversation was a good time and helped me understand more about the policy and façade inspections in place to help keep us safe as we're walking around cities. Check out our Instagram (@tangibleremnants) for some snapshots of Jacqui's photos from her Masonry Monday posts. Links:
Bio: Jacqui Hogans, AIA, RIBA, CSI , with nearly 20 years of experience in historic restoration and building envelope space, Jacqui Hogans knows facades. She cut her teeth working in New York City, on projects ranging from the Guggenheim Museum and the American Museum of Natural History to inspection and repair of numerous office buildings and high-rise residential buildings. A decade ago, Jacqui headed West to San Francisco, where she now serves as a Project Manager at McGinnis Chen Associates (MCA), consulting on remedial and historic repair programs in addition to consulting on new construction projects. Jacqui managed the mosaic restoration of Oakland’s storied Paramount Theatre, which won several awards, including the Governor’s Historic Preservation Award and the California Preservation Design Award. Jacqui manages and designs historic preservation projects and remedial façade repair projects, leading a team of architects, engineers, and technical staff she has affectionately dubbed the “Façade Squad.” She also directs the inspection of historic buildings as part of San Francisco’s new Façade Inspection and Maintenance Ordinance, if that wasn’t enough, she heads up MCA’s East Coast presence from her new home base in the New York City area. She has a special interest in historic brick and stone, and shares her love of masonry each Monday on LinkedIn. Jacqui is a Registered Architect in both California and New York State, and holds a Master of Science in Historic Preservation from Columbia University. She earned her BA in Architectural Studies from Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. When she’s not hanging off buildings, Jacqui enjoys running (she's run 3 marathons!), indoor cycling, reading about historic architecture, traveling... | |||||||
| 12 Feb 2024 | Victoria Theater with Joseph Kandoth | 00:39:49 | |||||
This episode is all about the Victoria Theater in NY and features a conversation with Joseph Kandoth of Aufgang Architects. The Victoria Theater was one of four contiguous vaudeville houses on West 125th Street, along with the Apollo Theater, the Harlem Opera House, and the Alhambra Theater. Together, the four theaters were known as Harlem’s “Opera Row.” Along with its neighboring theaters, the Victoria contributed to the reputation of 125th Street and Harlem as a world-class entertainment district. Listen in to hear all about the redevelopment. Links:
Bio: Joseph graduated with a degree Bachelor of Architecture from the New York Institute of Technology. An active member of the American Institute of Architects. A Licensed Architect in the state of New York. Joseph has decades of experience working on a variety of projects in the tristate area and beyond. His diverse work includes luxury homes and apartments, churches and synagogues, high-end shopping centers, fast food restaurant chains, auto dealerships, schools and healthcare facilities. His international work also includes architectural consultancy for many luxury homes in Kerala, India. He incorporates his worldly experience into his everyday design work and brings to the table a wealth of knowledge about designs from all over the world. His vast experience, both personal and professional, comes with a considerable cultural understanding, which is an important factor in any design. In addition to his dedication to architecture, Joseph holds a deep passion for world travel and has visited over 40 countries. Joseph resides in the home he completely remodeled and rehabilitated with his family in Nyack, NY.
**Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 21 Dec 2022 | She Builds Podcast w/ Norgerie, Jessica & Elizabeth | 00:40:11 | |||||
This week's episode features a conversation with Jessica, Elizabeth (Lizi), and Norgerie of She Builds Podcast. Their podcast features the seldom-told stories of women who build; women whose worth is not taught in schools, but who have shaped the industries of architecture, construction, and development over the last century. They started the podcast after architecture school basically to help fill in the gaps in their education. You'll have to listen to the episode to get the full story but let's just say I'm glad they accepted the challenge. There are so many amazing tangents and connections that we discuss in this episode. From Lina Bo Bardi to Florence Nightingdale to the Founders behind the Knoll furniture line. You're in for a treat! Building Highlight: Museu de Arte de São Paulo Assis Chateaubriand designed by Lina Bo Bardi in Brazil. Links:
Bios: She Builds Podcast is a podcast featuring the seldom-told stories of women who build; women whose worth is not taught in schools, but who have shaped the industries of architecture, construction, and development over the last century. The podcast was started by three friends who, after graduating from architecture school together, wanted to fill in the gaps in their education and share those with others. Elizabeth Raar, RA, NCARB, Project Architect, Polsky Perlstein Architects - Larkspur, California - is a licensed Project Architect, originally from West Michigan, who graduated from Syracuse University. Currently, she works for Polsky Perlstein Architects in Marin County, California on single-family residential projects. She enjoys making a project functional yet beautiful for the client. Elizabeth is also committed to promoting women in the AEC profession through co-hosting “She Builds Podcast”. On the podcast, they feature stories of women in history who have shaped the built environment and industry. Elizabeth loves sharing stories of women who haven’t been showcased in the past, in the hopes that women will play a more equal part in future architectural history. Jessica Rogers Assoc. AIA, Content Creator & Host, She Builds Podcast, Miami, FL - is a content creator based in her hometown of Miami, Florida. Jessica attended Design and Architecture Senior High, a magnet art school in Miami's design district. She earned her Bachelor of Architecture degree from Syracuse University, where she also served as treasurer and historian for her NOMAS chapter. Jessica has spent over four years working at the National Headquarters of the American Institute of Architects. At the AIA, she managed and... | |||||||
| 22 Jul 2024 | Adaptive Reuse w/ Michael Bohn | 00:36:43 | |||||
In this week's episode I got to chat with California based architect, Michael Bohn. Michael is an architect and advocate for preserving historic buildings. During the episode he shares his journey into the profession and his passion for adaptive reuse and affordable housing. He discusses his activism and preservation efforts, including chaining himself to a building slated for demolition. Michael's firm, Studio 111, focuses on creating community and revitalizing overlooked areas through adaptive reuse projects. We also chat about the importance of sustainability and leveraging the existing character of buildings in adaptive reuse projects. Links:
Bio: As Partner of Studio One Eleven, Michael Bohn, AIA, takes an integrated approach to architecture, landscape, and urban design. One of his focuses is on the studio’s housing practice with an emphasis on modular, transit-oriented developments, affordable housing, and adaptive re-use projects. His experience includes supportive, student, and market-rate projects that serve seniors, families, artists, and the homeless. A sustainability stalwart, Bohn led the development of the firm’s Downtown Long Beach headquarters to LEED platinum and WELL gold certifications and is currently pursuing Net Zero Energy. In addition, he established an awarding-winning landscape studio and co-established an urban design practice that uplifts underserved communities. Bohn received his Architecture Degree from Cal Poly State University, San Luis Obispo, studied at the Ecole de Beaux Arts in Fontainebleau France, and worked at the State Archaeological Camp in Hampi, India sponsored by the British Institute. He is a licensed architect with over 35 years of experience and is a Board Member for the Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Urban Land Institute Affordable/Workforce Housing Council, and the American Institute of Architects California. **Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 08 May 2022 | Creating Your Well w/ Tiara Hughes | 00:54:01 | |||||
**EPISODE CONTAINS EXPLICIT LANGUAGE** This week’s conversation was a fun one for me b/c I got to have an in depth conversation with Tiara Hughes. We cover the impact of attending a PWI (predominantly white institution). We also talk about how representation matters and how we both were impacted by having, or not having, black professors during our architecture studies. We discuss the different types of architectural degree programs and how different degrees impact when you can start taking your licensure exams. We touch on working through grief and how to create a support network so you can keep going. Building Highlight: Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley House. Check out the Tangible Remnants on Instagram page to see photos of the building. Links:
Bio: Tiara Hughes , A St. Louis native, now based in Chicago, Tiara Hughes is a Senior Urban Designer at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), an adjunct professor at the Illinois Institute of Technology, a Commissioner with the City of Chicago Landmarks Commission, and a real estate professional. She is a devoted activist, educator and advocate for underrepresented communities and voices, and currently serves on the Board for the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) and the Charnley-Persky House Board of Directors for the Society of Architectural Historians. Tiara's personal experiences in the industry along with her passion for advocacy led her to establish a national research initiative called FIRST 500 in 2018. As the founder and executive director of FIRST 500, Tiara travels the country to raise awareness of the importance of Black Women Architects throughout history and their contribution to the built environment. Tiara is a believer in giving back to her community, serving as a co-leader of SOM’s ACE Mentorship program in Chicago. As a designer, Tiara is driven by creating work that emphasizes greater socioeconomic equity and cultural awareness. She believes "Ultimately our efforts to positively impact communities of color will expand outward and evolve our academic institutions, our firms, our industry and by extension, our communities." In 2021, Tiara received the prestigious AIA Associates Award, given by the Institute to associate... | |||||||
| 16 Sep 2024 | Leading with Love w/ Steven Lewis | 00:51:16 | |||||
This week's episode features an insightful episode with Steven Lewis, FAIA, NOMAC. Steven touches on the challenges faced by Black architects in the profession and the importance of unity and love in addressing these issues. He also talks about his recent bid for the presidency of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and his current initiative, Communities by Design Corps, which aims to engage architects in community projects. We discuss the importance of architecture in connecting with communities and the impact it can have on people's lives. We also talk about the need for authentic community engagement and the value of service in the profession as well as the need for young designers to understand the social and policy aspects of architecture, as well as the role of empathy in design. Links:
Bio: Steven Lewis, FAIA, NOMAC Steven Lewis is an architect and a tireless advocate for social justice and diversity within the field of architecture. He is currently a principal with the firm ZGF Architects, where he leads the Los Angeles office’s urban design practice. Prior to joining ZGF, Steven served as Urban Design Director for Central Detroit, where he played a key role in shaping the vision of present and future development. Steven is the AIA 2016 Whitney M. Young, Jr. Award recipient, and was elevated to the AIA College of Fellows in December of 2015. Steven was a Loeb Fellow at the Harvard GSD in 2006-07. He was a founding partner of RAW International in 1984, and for twenty years, was an essential part of the firm’s growth and success. In 2010, he concluded a two-year term as President of NOMA, traveling around the country advocating for architects-of-color, while cultivating the next generation of diverse architects and designers. More than anything, Steven is a facilitator of partnerships and alliances between groups and individuals who seek to use architecture and design to effect positive change to our world.
**Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** **This episode is sponsored by www.Smartsheet4architects.com, a better way to manage architecture projects.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 29 Jan 2024 | Cedar Hill in Washington, DC | 00:18:05 | |||||
A tangible remnant is a historic building that left a mark on the built environment and tells the story of people who came before us. This episode explores the tangible remnant that is Cedar Hill in Washington, DC. Listen to learn about the building, architect, historical figure that commissioned the building, and how the building is being used today. Links:
**Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 08 Aug 2023 | California Black History w/ John William Templeton | 00:37:46 | |||||
This week's episode features a fun conversation with John William Templeton from the Expo floor at the 2023 American Institute of Architects (AIA) Convention. John shares his gift of using research to tell fuller stories of historical events. He also shares ways in which his work is helping the next generation learn how to use the Secretary of the Interior's Standards to do better research and find the truth. Tangible Highlight: Queen Califia mural in the California State Capitol Links:
Founder, Journal of Black Innovation National Black Business Month For 50 years, John William Templeton has been a trusted authority on African-American history as the first journalist to write about Black History Month in 1976 and author of 60 reference books. That includes his trilogy on the 13th, 14th and 15th Amendments. The first African-American editor of a business newspaper, he is founder of the Journal of Black Innovation National Black Business Month and creator of Our10Plan: the African-American economic strategy. Central Brooklyn Economic Development Corp., which he chairs, broke ground in late July on a 300 unit affordable housing mixed use development in Brownsville, the densest Black neighborhood in the nation. **Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 18 Mar 2024 | Making Sense of Solar with Jordan Taylor | 00:42:34 | |||||
This week's episode features a fun conversation with the very energetic Jordan Taylor. This episode left me fired up about solar and excited about the future. Jordan definitely is a reminder of how important it is to follow your interests because they can lead you to your life's work. By the end of this episode you may pick up some new lingo #bananasandwiches and have a better understanding of what Jordan means when he says that "while money doesn't grow on trees, it does fall from the sky" Building Highlights: Sharswood in Gretna, VA. These are former plantation homes owned by Jordan's family. Links:
Bio: Jordan Taylor isn't just building buildings. He's building a better future, brick by sustainable brick. As a seasoned veteran in both the renewable energy and real estate development worlds, Jordan brings over a decade of experience to the table, blending technical expertise with visionary thinking. Jordan's journey began in the dynamic world of renewable energy systems. He's navigated the intricacies of technical sales, engineered innovative solutions, and managed multi-million dollar projects with a focus on efficiency and impact. His leadership at SynergyGrid Developments, where he steered a $130 million portfolio, speaks volumes about his financial acumen and strategic vision. Jordan doesn't just understand renewable energy, he understands how it integrates into the built environment. He's adept at navigating the complex landscape of real estate development, fostering partnerships with key stakeholders, and finding creative solutions to integrate clean energy into the fabric of our communities. His experience at Montgomery Co. Green Bank, where he led business development and secured vital funding for green projects, showcases his ability to bridge the gap between ambition and reality. Jordan's passion extends beyond the technical. He's a problem-solver, a collaborator, and a tireless advocate for a more sustainable future. His background in mechanical and robotics engineering, coupled with his proficiency in various software and programming languages, adds a unique dimension to his skillset, allowing him to think outside the box and find innovative solutions to complex challenges. Jordan is more than just a leader in renewable energy and real estate development. He's a visionary, a builder, and a champion for a greener tomorrow. His dedication, expertise, and collaborative spirit make him a driving force in the fight for a sustainable future. Every... | |||||||
| 01 Apr 2025 | There's Always A Way with Belinda Stewart | 00:33:24 | |||||
This week's episode features a delightful conversation with Belinda Stewart and will resonate with you if you have ever wondered if it's possible to do the type of work you want to do in your hometown. Or what it would take to be able to use buildings to tell the often difficult histories of a place. In this episode we chat about the importance of adaptive reuse, historic tax credits, and the impact of vernacular architecture. Belinda also highlights her work in memorializing Emmett Till's story and the significance of community involvement in these projects. The conversation emphasizes the need for understanding the history behind buildings and the stories they tell, as well as the importance of funding and grants in making projects a reality. Links:
Bio: Belinda J. Stewart, FAIA, APTRP, is the founding Principal of Belinda Stewart Architects, a woman-owned and led firm in the small town of Eupora, Mississippi. Belinda has always been a Citizen Architect, persistently searching for ways to assist communities and lead her own. She is the seventh-term Mayor of the Village of Walthall. She believes a small town can inspire, family roots can build an ethic that weaves through a profession, and that architecture shows the beauty of history and hope for our future. Over the last 35 years, her firm has provided architectural services for over 650 historic structures, which have received over 120 design and preservation awards. Two years ago she founded The South Way Foundation, a non-profit organization focusing on project incubation, story-telling and preservation construction in the rural South. | |||||||
| 08 Apr 2024 | Echoes of history: Nzilani Stained Glass with Ariana Makau | 00:52:59 | |||||
This week's episode features a insightful conversation with the trailblazing Ariana Makau. She shares her journey into the field of stained glass conservation and the challenges she faces as a Black woman in a predominantly white industry. She discusses the importance of honoring heritage and the founding of her own company, Nzilani Glass Conservation. Ariana also highlights the unique position of stained glass conservation in the preservation field and the need for proper health and safety practices. She talks about so many things I never considered - like the importance of blood lead level testing, the responsibility of employers in preserving the health of their workers, and the safe preservation of stained glass windows. As she points out the main components of stained glass are lead and glass - so it was fascinating to learn more about safety protocol. Instagram Highlights: Ariana's stained glass work Links:
Bio: Ariana Makau is the founder, principal conservator of Nzilani Glass Conservation, and current Interim Collections C.A.R.E. Director of Destination Crenshaw. She holds a MA in Stained Glass Conservation from the V&A/RCA, in London, England; and has been involved in preservation for 30 years. She has worked at numerous museums in the States and abroad including the V&A, the Met, SFMoMA and Getty Museum. Ariana has served on the Board of the Stained Glass Association of America (SGAA), is a Fellow of the American Institute for Conservation (AIC), and a current board member of the Western Chapter of the Association of Preservation Technology (APT). Makau’s work is most fulfilling when at the intersection of equity, preservation and art.
**Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** **This episode is sponsored by www.Smartsheet4architects.com, a better way to manage architecture projects.** Mentioned in this episode: Gabl Continuing Education Podcasts | |||||||
| 09 Feb 2023 | Sliding into 2023 | 00:14:02 | |||||
This is a shorter episode than usual and features 2023 upcoming events and happenings Links:
**Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 20 May 2024 | Embodied Wisdom with Cory Rouillard | 00:43:43 | |||||
This episode features fun conversation with Cory Rouillard of Henson Architecture. Much of her work has been in Demystifying how to work with historic buildings. More recently she’s been studying physical climate adaptations and how various cultures have been able to design for climate and stay comfortable around the world. We jump right in because its always a joy to nerd out on the intersection of Sustainability, Preservation and Advocacy with her. This conversation was a good reminder that we need to share our expertise in the built environment with politicians to help them create and support better policies. Links:
Bio: Cory Rouillard, AIA, APT RP, LEED AP is a Preservation Architect at Henson Architecture and an active advocate for climate leadership through preservation. Her award-winning work has included the restoration of significant historic buildings, new construction in historic contexts, and work in unusual circumstances, including full building relocation and reassembly from previously disassembled components. In the office and in her professional outreach, she promotes technical guidance for the appropriate care of existing buildings to both protect our cultural heritage and meet our carbon mitigation targets. Cory is a Co-Chair of the Association for Preservation Technology’s Technical Committee on Sustainable Preservation. Since 2011 she has spearheaded the development of the Committee’s Online Sustainable Conservation Assistance Resource (OSCAR). Other initiatives during her tenure include the development of the Zero Net Carbon Collaboration for Existing and Historic Buildings (ZNCC) and the expansion of the Sustainable Preservation Bibliography. She is a frequent speaker on topics including tools for sustainable preservation and the embodied wisdom of vernacular design, and the urgent need for the continued use of our built heritage. **Some of the links above may be Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 03 Dec 2022 | The Clifton House w/ Sidney Clifton | 00:33:22 | |||||
This week's episode features a conversation with Emmy-nominated producer, Sidney Clifton. She is the daughter of Maryland laureate, Lucille Clifton, and launched the Clifton House Project: a writer’s and artist’s workshop and retreat space centered at her childhood home in Baltimore, Maryland. We chat about some of her mother's work and the vision for the house. Photo copyright Mike Morgan, Baltimore Magazine. Building Highlight: The Clifton House in Baltimore, MD. Links:
Bio: Sidney Clifton is a Emmy-nominated producer and has over twenty years of experience as an executive producer, director, casting director and production executive overseeing animated, mixed-media and live-action content. She has produced hundreds of hours of episodic and longform content. She currently serves as Senior Vice President of Animation and Mixed Media at The Jim Henson Company, where she oversees a slate of twenty projects in production and development. As Senior Consultant with Black Women Animate, she provides business development and creative growth strategies to support the company’s expansion in the animation industry. In her role as mentor and recruiter, she has been a featured presenter and guest at high schools, colleges and universities across North America. She was honored to give commencement addresses at Idylwild Arts Academy and Ringling College of Art and Design. Ms. Clifton’s passion for developing and supporting the underserved community of writers, artists, storytellers and creators was the catalyst for her launching The Clifton House (www.thecliftonhouse.co); a writer’s and artist’s workshop and retreat space centered at her childhood home in Baltimore Maryland—the home she shared with her five siblings and parents, educator/activist Fred J. Clifton and National Book Award winning poet and author Lucille Clifton. **Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 22 Jan 2024 | Noir Design Parti w/ Saundra Little & Karen Burton | 00:34:12 | |||||
This episode features a conversation with Saundra Little and Karen Burton of Noir Design Parti. This was a fun conversation and reminded me that we all have agency and often times have to follow our own curiosity to get the answers we're looking for. Unfortunately, we had some issues with Karen's audio but I wanted to share the content that we captured. Saundra Little, FAIA is a Principal and Director of Diversity and Inclusion at Quinn Evans. Karen Burton is the co-founder of SpaceLab Detroit. In addition to their full time jobs, they also launched a research project called Noir Design Parti to raise awareness about African American architects impact in shaping the landscape of Detroit and surrounding areas. Their research then evolved in a fantastic podcast called Hidden in Plain Site. Links:
Connect with Saundra and Karen on LinkedIn:
**Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 13 Apr 2022 | Block by block w/ Tonya Harris | 00:50:29 | |||||
This week's episode features a fun conversation with Tonya Harris. Tonya is a developer and contractor doing work in Baltimore and DC. She share's her journey into real estate development and reminds us that it's never too late to start a new path. Building Spotlight: "The Arch Social Club is the oldest known continuously operating African American social club in the United States and the oldest predominately African American social club in Baltimore. The Arch Social Club move into the former Schantze’s Theatre in 1972. The Schantze's Theatre was built in 1912 as a vaudeville and silent film theatre. [The building had many lives before the Arch Social Club moved in 1972,] including two stints as a theatre for African Americans, and at one point served as a theatre for Jewish immigrants, showing Yiddish films and hosting live entertainment." - CHAP Report Links:
Bio: Tonya Harris, founder of Parris Construction and Development, is a 20+ year veteran in real estate development. She is now focused on urban revitalization projects in underserved communities. With a model designed to create minimal displacement by focusing on vacant and underutilized properties – and fostering home and business ownership among the legacy community – PCD has planted its flag along a gateway corridor to West Baltimore, in the vibrant Hollins Market neighborhood, right outside downtown. Starting in Baltimore, where redlining began, PCD’s goal is to be a world class leader in the design, creation and delivery of restored urban communities. Thank you to Episode Sponsor BQE! BQE makes it easy to manage your projects and people, for maximum productivity and ultimate profitability. Start implementing powerful systems for the profitability you need and the freedom you want. Join Douglas Tieger, FAIA for the next Designing Your Business Masterclass, brought to you by BQE CORE. Every live masterclass session is free and includes AIA continuing education credit. Register now at bqe.com/masterclass. * This podcast is also supported by the Smartsheet For Architects course. This course was created by Nakita Reed and helps small firm architects stop managing their firm with disconnected excel sheets and start managing it with Smartsheet. * Some of the links above may connect to Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, Nakita Reed will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you. Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 22 Jun 2023 | Reglazing Modernism w/ Angel Ayon | 00:45:03 | |||||
This week's episode features a conversation between me and Angel Ayon of Ayon Studio. We cover his journey into the profession, the development of the Reglazing Modernism book, and the creation of Ayon Studio. This was a fun conversation that is packed with great advice and lessons learned. Building Highlight: The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York, NY Links:
Bio: As both an Architect and Preservationist, Angel Ayón, AIA, NCARB, NOMA, LEED AP has more than twenty five years of experience working with historic buildings. Trained in his native Havana, Cuba, Washington, D.C., and New York City, his expertise ranges from building-envelope evaluation and repair to full-scale rehabilitation and adaptive reuse of commercial and residential properties, as well as cultural and educational institutions. Angel believes it is the responsibility of the current generation to save and secure our built heritage as a cultural asset. He currently serves as Vice-President of Save Harlem Now!, member of the Advisory Board of the Historic Districts Council, the Historic Preservation Committee of The Municipal Art Society of New York (MAS), Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Preservation League of the NY State, and member of the Board of Directors of the James Marston Fitch Charitable Foundation. He is also an active member of Columbia University’s Preservation Alumni, as well as the AIA, NCARB, nycoba/NOMA, USGBC, APTi, APT NE, US/ICOMOS, Docomomo_US and Docomomo New York Tri-State. Angel holds a professional degree in Architecture and a Master of Science in Conservation and Rehabilitation of the Built Heritage from Havana’s Higher Polytechnic Institute, as well as a Post-Graduate Certificate in Conservation of Historic Buildings and Archaeological Sites from Columbia University in New York. **Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 23 Aug 2023 | Design the Future w/ Lindsay Baker & Kira Gould | 00:50:34 | |||||
This week's episode features a fun conversation with Lindsay Baker and Kira Gould. These two women are amazing advocates for sustainability in AEC industry and have an inspiring podcast called Design the Future. They had me on their podcast last year and it was fun to be able to turn the tables on interview them. During the conversation we chat about what got them into their perspective fields, the trends they're seeing, and recommendations they have for students. There were a few moments where we got into the weeds and so be sure to check out instagram for some additional images for what we're referencing. Building Highlight: The Morris & Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation Environmental Center at the Alice Ferguson foundation in Accokeek, MD Links:
Bios: Lindsay Baker As CEO of the International Living Future Institute, Lindsay Baker is the organization’s chief strategist, charged with delivering on its mission to lead the transformation toward a civilization that is socially just, culturally rich, and ecologically restorative. Lindsay is a climate entrepreneur, experienced in launching and growing innovative businesses. Her introduction to the green building movement began at the Southface Institute in Atlanta, where she interned before entering Oberlin College to earn a BA in Environmental Studies. She was one of the first 40 staff members at the U.S. Green Building Council, working to develop consensus about what the LEED rating system would become. She then earned an MS from the University of California at Berkeley in Architecture, with a focus on Building Science, and spent five years as a building science researcher at the UC Berkeley Center for the Built Environment. Lindsay applied her experience around the study of heat, light, and human interactions in buildings to a role with Google’s Green Team, and later co-founded a smart buildings start-up called Comfy, which grew over five years to 75 employees and a global portfolio of clients. She was the first Global Head of Sustainability and Impact at WeWork, where she built the corporate sustainability team and programs from scratch. Lindsay is a Senior Fellow at the Rocky Mountain Institute, and a lecturer at UC Berkeley. She serves on several non-profit boards, and is an advisor and board member for numerous climate tech startups. Kira... | |||||||
| 14 Apr 2023 | Around the World w/ Indu Chakravarthy | 00:42:25 | |||||
This week's episode features a conversation with the super insightful Indu Chakravarthy. We go around the world in this episode as she discusses her upbringing, education, and work experiences. It's a fun conversation that might make you want to start traveling again! Building Spotlight: Academic Block of the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore by Balkrishna Vithaldas (B.V. ) Doshi - winner of the 2018 Pritzker Architecture Prize Links:
Bio: Indu Chakravarthy Characterized by an earnest desire to understand and attempt just about everything, Indu is a “creative generalist” in the best sense of the phrase: with hands-on experience with a wide range of arts and processes, she is passionate about seeking joy and beauty in the world. This pursuit has helped cultivate her perspective that there are many ways of being and a multitude of right answers. Her experiences push her to be more judicious and responsible in her use of resources, and to communicate with more empathy. Sustainability is of paramount importance in her work - fueled by decaf, bad puns and bollywood, she uses her various multi-hyphenate oxymoronic "ways of being" (global-local-multicultural-recycli-crafting, peer-sharing-community-loving-technology-testing, architect-urbanist-preservationist) to chase the pipe dream of a human scaled, equitable, joyful, playful, wonderful multi modal transit-oriented, urban, zero-net-carbon built environment. **Some of the links above may be Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 04 Mar 2024 | Space to Thrive with Ganesh Nayak | 00:36:58 | |||||
This episode features a conversation between Nakita and Ganesh Nayak on the intersection of sustainability and accessibility in the built environment. Ganesh shares his journey from being an architect to starting his own consultancy focused on sustainability and accessibility. They discuss the challenges of retrofitting historic buildings and the need to go beyond compliance with accessibility codes. Ganesh emphasizes the importance of designing for invisible disabilities and creating inclusive spaces. They also touch on the inequities in schools and the power of well-designed spaces to promote equity. The conversation concludes with a discussion on designing for the margins and creating spaces where everyone can thrive. Links:
Bio: Ganesh Nayak, AIA, NOMA founded Metier Inc. in Atlanta, GA consulting on sustainable design and accessibility. Growing up in India, he did his undergraduate studies in architecture before acquiring a graduate degree from Kansas State University. He worked in architecture in St. Paul, MN, and Wichita, KS before moving to Atlanta, GA. He has published, taught, and presented extensively on architecture, sustainability, and accessibility. Ganesh and his wife Sitara are fully involved in the daily care of their young-adult son with developmental disabilities, and he brings this personal experience and voice to bear on issues of equity, design, and advocacy for disability. He served as chair of Georgia’s State Advisory... | |||||||
| 20 Oct 2023 | Unmasking Learning Differences w/ Morgan C.B. Miles | 00:37:40 | |||||
** Please note that Morgan's headshot was created with AI.** In celebration of the 10th anniversary of Invisible Disabilities Awareness Week this episode features a special conversation with my friend Morgan C.B. Miles. In this episode we talk about neurodiversity and Morgan shares her vantagepoint on this topic. Morgan and I have been friends for decades so I was honored that she wanted to use this podcast as a platform to talk about a part of her identity that she often doesn't share with people who aren't close to her. Also, in honor of Invisible Disabilities Awareness week this is the first episode that will include a transcript so that the show can be more accessible to a wider community. Building Highlight: The Canopy by Hilton and Hyatt House at the Wharf in Washington, DC. It's one building but two great hotels and Morgan was involved in bringing this project to fruition. Head over to the podcasts Instagram page to see images and if you're in the DC area go check it out. Links: ARTICLES:
INDUSTRY EVENTS AND PARTNERS (AGENCIES, ORGANIZATIONS, SUPPORT GROUPS): | |||||||
| 06 May 2024 | A beacon of hope with Melvalean McLemore | 00:44:41 | |||||
This episode features a fun conversation with Melvalean McLemore. As you'll hear, we are at a similar point in our careers and I was so excited to be talking with her since she's one of the Black women architects I didn't know well before this episode. We shout out a number of black women architects and designers that have influenced our careers as well as talk about her journey into the profession, some of the biases and design challenges that we've seen in the profession as well as the frustration we feel when people try to approach black architects to just serve the role of checking a box. Links:
Bio: Melvalean McLemore, AIA, NOMA, LEED AP is a Senior Associate, project manager and Texas studio design leader at Moody Nolan, the country's largest African-American owned and operated architecture firm. She was one of the first 500 licensed Black women architects in the U.S and is the 16th licensed black woman architect in the state of Texas. She is a champion for diversity in the profession, including co-founding AIA Houston's Women in Architecture committee and NOMA National's HBCU Professional Development Program (PDP). Melvalean is the recipient of multiple awards, including both the Texas Society of Architects Caudill Young Architect Award and AIA Houston's Ben Brewer Young Architect Award, and most recently the 2024 Young Architects Award from AIA National. Her achievements mark a progressive milestone within the architectural community. She was honored by the City of Houston for her historic achievement as the first Black female president of the AIA Houston chapter, which prompted the Mayor to officially proclaim November 28th: “Melvalean McLemore Day. **Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 25 Mar 2024 | Big Green with Lauren McHale | 00:32:21 | |||||
This episode features a conversation between Nakita and Lauren McHale, President and CEO of the L'Enfant Trust. They talk about the organization's work in historic preservation and affordable housing in Washington, DC and delve into preservation easements, the redevelopment of the Big Green property in Anacostia, and the importance of community engagement and collaboration in affordable housing projects. Building Highlight: The Big Green property in Anacostia is being rehabilitated as workforce housing, with a focus on engaging the existing community and preserving the neighborhood's history. Head over to our Instagram page to see historic and current photos. Links:
Bio: Lauren McHale Lauren was appointed President of The L'Enfant Trust in 2017, after serving as Executive Director and Director of Preservation. In 2012, she initiated the Trust’s Historic Properties Redevelopment Program. Lauren has a B.A. in Art History and Historic Preservation & Community Planning from the College of Charleston and a M.S. in Historic Preservation from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She is the past Chair of the Preservation Action Foundation and Past President of the Latrobe Chapter of the Society of Architectural Historians. Lauren currently serves as an ACE DC Mentor Program board member and a citizen member of the Planning, Zoning and Economic Development Committee of Washington, DC's Advisory Neighborhood Commission 6C. **Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 28 Aug 2022 | The Black Butterfly w/ Dr. Lawrence T. Brown (audio updated) | 00:42:33 | |||||
This week's episode explores the connection between housing and health with Dr. Lawrence T. Brown. We cover his journey into Public Health research and dig into more of the topics covered in his book, Black Butterfly: The Harmful Politics of Race and Space in America including toxic lead exposure, fast violence vs. slow violence, and segronomics. Building Highlight: Turner Station neighborhood in Baltimore County. Links:
Bio: Dr. Lawrence T. Brown is an equity scientist, urban Afrofuturist, and the director of the Black Butterfly Academy, which is a virtual racial equity education and consulting firm. From 2013-2019, he served as an assistant and associate professor at Morgan State University in the School of Community Health and Policy. In June 2018, he was honored by OSI Baltimore with the Bold Thinker award for sparking critical discourse regarding Baltimore’s racial segregation. **Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** **This episode is sponsored by www.Smartsheet4architects.com, a better way to manage architecture projects.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 05 Aug 2024 | Finding Fellowship w/ Jason Green | 00:36:42 | |||||
This week's episode features a conversation with Jason Green. He shares his journey from working at the White House to creating the documentary, Finding Fellowship. His documentary explores the history of the Pleasant View Historic Site, a three-acre piece of land that his great-great-grandfather helped purchase in 1868. The site includes a schoolhouse, a church, and a social hall that were central to the black community of Quince Orchard. Jason emphasizes the importance of preserving and restoring these buildings as a way to connect with history, build community, and pass on a legacy to future generations. There were some fun takeaways from this one including:
Links:
Bio: Jason Green is a MD-based business executive, board advisor, and early-stage investor in future of work and economic opportunity and mobility companies. In 2013, he co-founded SkillSmart, an award-winning enterprise that empowers communities by providing a skills-based ecosystem to match employers, job seekers and education providers, and has ensured that local communities and diverse resources equitably participated in more than $100B in economic development. He also serves as the Executive-in- Residence for Zeal Capital Partners, a DC-based inclusive investingTM venture firm focused on eliminating the health, skills and wealth gap. Before founding SkillSmart, Jason worked in local and federal government, most recently serving as Associate Counsel to President Barack Obama, advising the president and senior staff on legal, economic and domestic policy matters. Green’s work at the White House was largely in response to the Great Recession and included strategies to retrain the American workforce, enhance placed based economic stimuli, and track the economic impact of economic development initiatives. Further, exposure to local and national unemployment, policy responses and their economic effects inspired the SkillSmart platform. Jason is the son of a preacher and public school teacher, and learned the importance of community at an early age. He serves on a number of corporate and non-profit boards and commissions, including chairing the Montgomery County Remembrance and Reconciliation Commission. Recently Jason also directed and co-produced Finding Fellowship an award-winning | |||||||
| 14 Jul 2020 | It's all connected | 00:17:17 | |||||
The introductory episode that explores the interconnectedness of architecture, preservation, sustainability, race, and gender. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/user?u=66435616)Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 31 Jul 2020 | Flesh-Colored Bandaids & Colored Restrooms | 00:13:37 | |||||
This episode explores the intentionality of design decisions. From selecting the color of flesh-colored bandaides, to designing colored bathrooms or locating confederate statues, design is not neutral.
Quote of the week:
Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 19 Aug 2020 | Education Connections & The Color of Law | 00:24:22 | |||||
This episode explores how the Color of Law expanded my knowledge of Levittown and things we didn't learn in architecture school, FHA discrimination and family connections.
Quote of the week: Some of the links above are Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/user?u=66435616)Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 02 Sep 2020 | Race & Preservation w/ Brent Leggs | 00:27:00 | |||||
This episode is a condensed version of the Race and Preservation conversation I had with Brent Leggs from the National Trust for Historic Preservation on the Quinn Evans Queries & Theories webcast.
Quote of the week: "History is no longer a spotlight. We are turning up the stage lights to show the entire cast." - David McCullough, Historian Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 17 Sep 2020 | Exploring & Reminiscing w/ Melissa R. Daniel | 00:35:17 | |||||
**EPISODE CONTAINS EXPLICIT LANGUAGE** Quote of the week: "The only way to find your voice is to use it." - Austin Kleon
Some of the links above may be Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you. Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 30 Sep 2020 | Taking up Space w/ Morgan C.B. Miles & Rasheda Tripp | 00:41:31 | |||||
This episode features a conversation with Architect, Rasheda Tripp, and Developer, Morgan C.B. Miles. They were the only other two black women in my graduating architecture class at UVA and have been dear friends of mine for almost 20 years. We talk about our careers, what brought us to architecture and how we navigate white, male spaces as black women. Bios: | |||||||
| 20 Oct 2020 | Layers of Colonialism w/ Germaine Joseph | 00:38:58 | |||||
**EPISODE CONTAINS EXPLICIT LANGUAGE** This episode features a conversation with Germaine Joseph with the Saint Lucia National Trust. We talk about heritage and preservation, colonialism, colorism, climate change, tourism, and the importance of telling multiple narratives.
Bio: Germaine Joseph holds A BSC degree in Architecture with 6 years’ work experience in conservation and preservation of Cultural Heritage. Specializing in Built Heritage and managing a register of 250 historic buildings for listing while developing draft legislation for the preservation and conservation of these historic buildings. Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 09 Nov 2020 | A Sense of Place w/ Professor Amber Wiley | 00:44:35 | |||||
This episode features a conversation with Professor Amber Wiley. She is an old friend who is an Assistant Professor in the Art History Department at Rutgers University and a scholar who has traveled the world studying culture. Quote: "The Civil Rights movement didn't begin in Montgomery and it didn't end in the 1960s. It continues on to this very minute." - Julian Bond
Bio: Her teaching approach mirrors her dedication to critical thinking about the human condition in the built environment, and the creation, evolution, and maintenance of cities, neighborhoods, and communities. She strives to actively engage in discourses that are significant across academic fields. Her theoretical and analytic background was founded in art and architectural history methodology, as well as the interdisciplinary methods of American Studies. She combines analysis of aesthetics and socio-cultural influences on community building with questions about the meaning of culture, authority, and agency. She is active in preservation policy as well as various professional organizations. She has served on the National Park System Advisory Board Landmarks Committee, and on the boards of the Vernacular Architecture Forum, Latrobe Chapter of the Society of Architectural Historians, and the Yale Black Alumni Association. **Some of the links above may be Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** | |||||||
| 14 Jan 2021 | Site control & Catalysts w/ Patricia Ofori | 00:36:26 | |||||
This episode features a conversation between me and Real Estate entrepreneur, Patricia Ofori. We talk about her journey of getting started in real estate, repurposing buildings, and the importance of knowing the process of getting a deal off the ground. Quote: "You can't be what you can't see." - Marian Wright Edelman Bio: Patricia Ofori Patricia Ofori is a real estate entrepreneur who uses physical spaces to foster community, creativity, and collaboration. Her boutique firm Ofori & Co. specializes in multi-unit development and single-family home renovations. As an agent, Patricia has sold over 200 houses—primarily in the Washington, D.C. metro area’s competitive market. She’s personally bought, rehabbed and sold over a dozen properties. Her design philosophy is to honor a neighborhood’s aesthetic and heritage while curating contemporary and functional spaces. The Baltimore, Md.-based investor uses her wealth of real estate knowledge to host events that encourage camaraderie, sustainability, and homeownership. Patricia Ofori is a real estate entrepreneur who uses physical spaces to foster community, creativity, and collaboration. Her boutique firm Ofori & Co. specializes in multi-unit development and single-family home renovations. As an agent, Patricia has sold over 200 houses—primarily in the Washington, D.C. metro area’s competitive market. She’s personally bought, rehabbed and sold over a dozen properties. Her design philosophy is to honor a neighborhood’s aesthetic and heritage while curating contemporary and functional spaces. The Baltimore, Md.-based investor uses her wealth of real estate knowledge to host events that encourage camaraderie, sustainability, and homeownership. Links:
**This episode is sponsored by www.Smartsheet4architects.com, a better way to manage architecture projects. | Featured Music is selections from Sarah Gilberg's album Other People's Secrets" Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 28 Jan 2021 | Dismantling Preservation w/ Sarah Marsom | 00:32:09 | |||||
This episode features a conversation with Sarah Marsom. We cover ways to make the preservation field more accessible, the impetus behind her Dismantle Preservation Conference and the importance of getting paid. Links:
Not mentioned in the show but additional awesome organizations and Young Preservation groups for you:
Bio: Sarah Marsom With 10+ years of experience working in the cultural resources field, Sarah Marsom has a keen understanding of storytelling and connecting people to the past. Sarah works to improve the preservation movement’s accessibility by empowering the next generation of community advocates and increasing representation of lesser-known histories. In 2018, Sarah was recognized by the National Trust for Historic Preservation as the recipient of the American Express Aspire Award during the 2018 National Preservation Awards and as an honoree of the inaugural 40 Under 40: People Saving Place's list. Sarah's work has been featured in Curbed, Traditional Building Magazine, and the National Parks Service’s LGBTQ America Theme Study, amongst other publications and podcasts. Find her on Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn or email her at me@sarahmarsom.com. Mentioned in this... | |||||||
| 30 Dec 2020 | Some of my favorite things from 2020 | 00:14:37 | |||||
**Some of the links above may be Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** This episode features some of my favorite things from 2020. Quote: "One ever feels his twoness - an American, a Negro; two souls, two thoughts, two unreconciled strivings; two warring ideals in one dark body, whose dogged strength alone keeps it from being torn asunder." - W.E.B. Du Bois Links:
**This episode is sponsored by www.Smartsheet4architects.com, a better way to manage architecture projects.** Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/user?u=66435616) Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 24 Feb 2021 | The love of building w/ Constance Lai | 00:42:23 | |||||
In this episode, I talk with Constance "Connie" Lai about being an architect and a woman working in the preservation trades and construction field. We talk about professional differences she observed while completing her Richard Morris Hunt Fellowship in France and the importance of valuing the impact of tradespeople on the built environment. It's a great conversation that explores the impact of builders on the built environment and different ways to problem solve people & construction problems. Links:
Bio: Constance Lai, FAIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C, USACE-CQM She received her Bachelor of Architecture from Rice University and her Master of Science in Architectural Studies (History, Theory, and Criticism) from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. She is an alumna of the AIADC Chapter’s Christopher Kelley Leadership Program. In 2017, she was awarded the Richard Morris Hunt Prize Scholarship, which afforded her the opportunity to spend five weeks in France visiting preservation architecture firms and visiting construction sites. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/user?u=66435616)Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 16 Mar 2021 | Heritage for the next generation w/ Monica Rhodes | 00:56:49 | |||||
In this episode, I talk with the amazing Monica Rhodes. Our conversation meandered from the US Colored Troops to Fred Shuttlesworth to Contraband Camps & Negro baseball league stadiums. Monica previously worked at the National Trust for Historic Preservation so if you've worked with the Trust you'll likely recognize a few of the names. As you'll hear, we had a great time chatting and joking about how she got rid of all the HOPE Crew T-shirts she inherited when she started the program. Bio: Monica Rhodes has been leading national efforts to connect local and regional communities with cultural heritage and historic sites for over a decade. She holds degrees from the University of Tulsa, Temple University, and the University of Pennsylvania, where she earned a Master's degree in historic preservation. Currently serving as the director of resource management at the National Park Foundation (NPF), the official nonprofit partner to the National Park Service, Rhodes oversees grantmaking for historic properties and develops strategies for preserving cultural heritage specifically representing communities of color. Concurrently, Rhodes also consults with the University of Pennsylvania's Weitzman School of Design at the Center for the Preservation of Civil Rights Sites, helping to establish partnerships to advance the Center’s work. Prior to her role at NPF, Rhodes was the founding director of the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s HOPE (Hands-On Preservation Experience) Crew, which was created to expand the preservation movement to younger, more diverse audiences. Under Rhodes' leadership, the program completed over 165 heritage construction projects, trained 750 young people and veterans, engaged 3700 volunteers in large-scale community events, more than 1 billion media impressions, and supported $18M of preservation work. Before joining the Trust, Rhodes worked as a consultant to preservation organizations around the country. Rhodes sits on the Commission for Historical and Architectural Preservation (CHAP), the Market Center Community Development Corporation board, and the Baltimore Regional Housing Partnerships in Baltimore City. She also is a member of the International Council of Monuments and Sites, Sustainable Development Goals Working Group. Previously, she served as an advisor for the DC LGBTQ Historic Context Study and a project reviewer for the Facilities and Buildings grant program for the Washington, D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities. Rhodes' work has been featured in national outlets such as PBS NewsHour, Huffington Post, Washington Post, and U.S. News & World Report. She also appeared in a feature spread on Black women in the preservation movement in Essence Magazine’s Spring 2018 issue. Her work continues to be at the vanguard of the ever-evolving world of heritage, place, community, and action. **This episode is sponsored by www.Smartsheet4architects.com, a bette | |||||||
| 05 Jul 2021 | Determined by Design w/ Kia Weatherspoon | 00:43:50 | |||||
**EPISODE CONTAINS EXPLICIT LANGUAGE** This episode features a candid conversation with Kia Weatherspoon. We cover her journey to becoming an interior designer and the importance of equitable design for all. Quote: "I refuse to accept despair as the final response to the ambiguities of history." - Martin Luther King, Jr. Links:
Bio: Kia Weatherspoon The design voice of impact and change. Kia Weatherspoon, NCIDQ, ASID, has spent the last 15 years defying every design stereotype. The most damaging: interior design is a luxury reserved for a few. Her voice, advocacy for Design Equity™ , and design practice have shifted the narrative, making interior design a standard for all. As an advocate and educator in business leadership, equity, and diversity, Kia has been recognized for her work and achievements by Interior Design Magazine, GlobeSt.com, CREW DC, BD+C Magazine, IIDA and ASID. Kia was recently conferred with an Honorary Doctorate from New York School of Interior Design. **Some of the links above may be Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** **This episode is sponsored by www.Smartsheet4architects.com, a better way to manage architecture projects.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 07 Oct 2021 | Digital Documentation w/ Purvi Irwin | 00:47:34 | |||||
This episode features a fun conversation between me and the super talented Purvi Gandhi Irwin. We talk about her preservation journey, travel, and different life experiences. We also discuss the importance of documenting historic structures prior to them being demolished. Links:
Bio: As the Practice Manager for Architecture at CADD Microsystems, Purvi supports professionals across all disciplines with BIM technologies, which includes teaching Revit, developing workflows and standards, troubleshooting issues, and finding creative solutions to both design and modeling problems. She has 17+ years of experience, most spent as a preservation project architect, where she specialized in using innovative technologies to facilitate the documentation and rehabilitation of institutional buildings, and 12+ years of Revit experience working with historic buildings, from conceptual design, through construction administration and project close-out. Purvi is a registered architect with degrees in both Architecture and Historic Preservation. She served on the Alexandria, VA Parker Gray Board of Architectural review from 2012 until its consolidation in 2019, as both a board member and as Board Chair. She currently serves on the Alexandria Board of Architectural Review. In the past, Purvi was also active with both the local and national chapters of the Association for Preservation Technology. She has recently become more involved in equity and diversity conversations as they relate to both the larger AEC industry and more specifically around historic preservation principles. She loves to learn and teach, with a strong belief that diversity in all ways creates stronger and more resilient communities. She has presented at many conferences over the years, including BILTna conferences, Autodesk University, DesignDC, AIA National Conference, ArchEX conference, the APTI Annual Conference, and local AIA chapter events. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/user?u=66435616) Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 01 Jan 2022 | Preservation, Progress & Possibility w/ Melissa Auf der Maur | 01:33:38 | |||||
This week's episode is an amazing conversation with the incredible Melissa Auf der Maur. We met on the NY Preservation Webinar back in the spring of 2021 and we recorded this episode in the summer. This is our first in-depth conversation so you'll hear more about both of our backgrounds. It's a longer episode but she was so gracious with her time I didn't want to cut out too much of the conversation. We cover so much ground in this conversation including polite racism, gender roles, feminism, climate change, preservation, sustainability, music, culture, inequities designed into the American system, cultural differences between the US & Canada, as well as where we think we are on the pendulum swing of progress and our hopes for the future. Building Highlight: Basilica Hudson in Hudson Valley which was originally built in 1880 as a forge and foundry for steel railway wheels (later housing a glue factory until the 1980s) Links:
Bio: Melissa Auf der Maur is Co-Founder and Director of Basilica Hudson. From 1994-1999, Auf der Maur was a member and bass player of the alternative rock band Hole, and she is featured on the Grammy-nominated album, Celebrity Skin. She joined the Smashing Pumpkins in 2000 for their Farewell World Tour. She has also released two solo albums, Auf der Maur (2004) and Out of Our Minds (2010). The latter project comprises an album, a comic book, and a short film. Auf der Maur’s photographs have been exhibited internationally, including at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, and have appeared in such publications as Spin, Elle, Nylon, and American Photo. She was born in Montreal, Canada and raised with a fine arts education, focusing on Music and Photography. **This episode is sponsored by www.Smartsheet4architects.com, a better way to manage architecture projects.** Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/user?u=66435616) Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 29 Sep 2021 | The Conference Episode | 00:18:36 | |||||
This short episode features a quick book review of The Black Butterfly by Dr. Lawrence T. Brown and a curated list of conferences I'm excited to participate in this fall (2021). Links:
Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 18 Oct 2021 | Creating your Community with April Drake | 00:36:12 | |||||
This episode features a fun conversation between me and the amazing April Drake. We talk about her architecture journey, the importance of networking, and creating a supportive community for your personal and professional growth. Links:
Building spotlight: Whitaker Memorial Hospital in Newport News, VA Bio: April Drake is a Senior Project Architect with HDR in Arlington, VA focusing on complex government facilities. A native of Hampton Roads, Virginia, April received her B. Arch from Hampton University in 2004. With 15 years of education, government and commercial project experience, April leads multidisciplinary teams through all stages of design. She is a skilled facilitator and is well-known for her dedication to both collaboration and communication. April is especially passionate about her mentorship role in promoting the growth of women and minorities in architecture and allied fields. As one of the first 400 African American licensed women in the country, April is aware of the leadership and encouragement that is necessary to guide women from graduation to licensure. To that end, she is an active member in the AIA and a committee volunteer for NCARB (National Council of Architecture Registration Board). After serving two years on the Board of Directors, she is now the 2021 Treasurer for the AIA Northern Virginia (NOVA) Chapter. Since 2014, she has volunteered with NCARB on a number of task forces developing the new ARE 5.0 Exam. She is also Past Chair of the AIA NOVA Women in Architecture Committee, which champions the advancement of women in the profession throughout Northern Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Maryland. April also dedicates her efforts to creating events geared toward introducing young girls to Architecture. In 2015, she started a STEM event for local Girl Scout troops. Through a series of both collaborative and individual hands-on activities, each girl is able to explore aspects of architecture while also earning a STEM patch for their vest. In November 2018, April was the Local Keynote speaker in Washington, DC for the AIA Leadership Institute. Speaking about the “Missing Middle”, she highlighted the challenges faced by mid-career professionals. Finally, in 2019 she was honored as one of the AIA VA Emerging Professional Award recipients. | |||||||
| 03 Nov 2021 | Breaking Down Siloes w/ Lori Ferriss | 00:37:27 | |||||
This week's episode features a conversation with Lori Ferriss of Goody Clancy. We discuss the need for existing and historic buildings to be part of the climate action conversation as well as numerous organizations that are working toward that goal. Lori and I are two of the four chairs for the ZNCC and we talk about a number of overlaps between all the organizations. This is a fun and informative one which will provide more information on the intersection of preservation and sustainability. Links:
Building Highlight: Maggie Walker House in Richmond, VA Bio: Lori Ferriss, AIA, PE, LEED AP BD+C is a leader in sustainable stewardship for the built environment. As Goody Clancy’s Director of Sustainability and Climate Action, she leads research and project initiatives and advocates within the broader profession for policies and practices that advance climate action goals. Lori plays a leadership role on projects at educational institutions that are renewing heritage campuses while advancing climate action goals. She serves as project manager and forensic specialist on numerous Goody Clancy projects, and her sustainability leadership includes incorporating life cycle assessment as an integrated step of the design process. Within the broader design community, Lori’s leadership is shaping our understanding of building reuse as a key measure towards meeting climate change mitigation goals. At the national level, she serves as a founding member and co-chair of the Zero | |||||||
| 18 Dec 2021 | Community, Development & Brunch w/ Katherine Williams | 00:47:46 | |||||
This week's episode features a conversation between me and Katherine Williams. We discuss her journey into architecture and construction, Riding the Vortex, and the importance of creating a support system to navigate life and the profession. Building Highlight - Cedar Hill, Frederick Douglass' home in Washington, DC "Historic buildings rarely survive generations by accident. Someone made a choice, or in the case of the Douglass Home, a whole lot of women made a whole lot of choices over decades." - NPS website on Cedar Hill Links:
Bio: Katherine Williams, AIA, NOMA, LEED AP is a licensed architect in Northern Virginia and currently a Senior Project Manager for construction at a DC university. Her career path includes work in traditional architecture firms, community development, and managing commercial construction for a general contractor. She restarted the Black Women in Architecture brunch in DC, an annual event, co-founded the Desiree Cooper ARE Scholarship, and is a founding panelist for Riding the Vortex. Katherine has written about architecture and development and served as editor for multiple publications. She was the NOMA magazine editor from 2009-2014. In 2020, Katherine published Melvin Mitchell’s book African American Architects: Embracing Culture and Building Urban Communities. Katherine served as chair of the AIA Housing and Community Development KC advisory group and currently serves on the AIA Continuing Education Committee. She is a board member of the Village of Love and Resistance (VOLAR) working to build a co-operative community in east Baltimore. Katherine was an Enterprise Rose Architectural Fellow in San Francisco. She received the 2016 AIA Virginia Emerging Professionals award and the 2013... | |||||||
| 12 Aug 2024 | Domingo Tafoya House | 00:18:26 | |||||
A tangible remnant is a historic building that left a mark on the built environment and tells the story of people who came before us. This episode explores the tangible remnant that is the Domingo Tafoya House in Albuquerque, NM. Listen to learn about the building, historical figure, and how the building is being used today. Links:
**Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 24 Feb 2025 | Exploring Adaptive Reuse: Answers to 5 Common Building Owner Questions | 00:25:16 | |||||
In this episode, Nakita addresses the top five questions often posed by building owners interested in adaptive reuse projects. She discusses the criteria for determining if a building is historic, the implications of preservation protections, how to estimate costs, the timeline for projects, and when construction can realistically begin. Reed emphasizes the importance of understanding the process and the various factors that influence each stage of an adaptive reuse project. Links:
**Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** Mentioned in this episode: Gabl Continuing Education Podcasts | |||||||
| 08 Jan 2024 | More in 2024 | 00:17:52 | |||||
This is a solo episode and features a recap of 2023, including Nakita's top 6 favorite things from the year. It also talks about some of the exciting things evolving with the podcast in 2024. Links:
Nakita's Favorite Things from 2023:
**Some of the links above may be affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 04 Nov 2024 | CROSSOVER: Going Green w/ Dimitrius Lynch | 00:51:03 | |||||
This episode is a crossover, featuring the bonus episode from the limited series Going Green, a Spaces podcast story. This series was created by fellow Gabl Media podcaster, Dimitrius Lynch, is well researched , and beautifully produced. I loved listening to the series and was super excited to interview him for the bonus recap episode of the series. In our conversation we discuss the importance of sustainability and the potential benefits of a sustainable future. We reflect on the impact of climate change, the journey of creating the 'Going Green' series, and the interconnectedness of history, media, and corporate responsibility in shaping public perception about climate issues. Our discussion emphasizes the need for collective action and the role of communication in addressing environmental challenges, while also exploring surprising discoveries made during his research process. Links:
Bio: Dimitrius Lynch is an architecture graduate of California Poly Paloma. He’s a licensed architect in the State of California with over 12 years of experience in design and project management. HE’s practiced in both domestic and international projects. He is a LEED and WELL accredited professional, WELL AP denoting expertise and commitment to advancing human heath and wellness in buildings and communities. He's the (co)host of the Spaces podcast, a podcast aiming to elevate the appreciation for and understanding of how our spaces are evolving. The podcast has a diverse panel of hosts and explore the design and construction of various spaces to highlight how their evolution has affected society throughout history and will continue to do so into the future.
**Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 23 Sep 2024 | Promoting Climate Resilience and Housing through the ACHP w/ Sara Bronin | 00:42:04 | |||||
This week's episode features a conversation with Sara Bronin, the chair of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP). In this episode she shares her journey through the profession and her interest in historic preservation. She discusses the intersection of architecture and law, specifically focusing on property law and land use law. Sara explains the role of the ACHP as the Federal Historic Preservation Agency and its regulatory and policy functions. She highlights the recent program comment on accessible climate resilient and connected communities, which aims to accelerate the creation of housing and promote energy-efficient and climate-friendly buildings and transportation. Sara also discusses the importance of incorporating Indigenous knowledge into the Section 106 process and the recent resolution of two historic buildings in Chicago. One of the main takeaways for me from this conversation is the importance of public involvement in the Section 106 process. As you'll hear in the episode the public comment period for the Program Comments we discuss is now open. Written feedback or questions on the proposed Program Comment may be emailed directly to program_alternatives@achp.gov through October 9, 2024. Links:
Bio: Sara C. Bronin was confirmed by unanimous consent by the United States Senate in December 2022 to serve as the 12th chair of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. A Mexican American, she is the first person of color to serve in this position. Chair Bronin is on leave from her tenured position at Cornell University, where she serves as a Professor in the College of Architecture Art &; Planning, a Professor in the Rubacha Department of Real Estate, an Associate Faculty Member of the Law School, and an member of the Graduate Faculty in the Field of Architecture. Chair Bronin received a J.D. from Yale Law School, an M.Sc. in Economic and Social History from the University of Oxford, where she was a Rhodes Scholar, and received a B.Arch. and B.A. in the Plan II Liberal Arts Honors Program from the University of Texas at Austin.
**Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which... | |||||||
| 31 Mar 2023 | Revealing Parallel Histories Hidden in Plain Sight: feat. Tangible Remnants w/ Sarah Shoenfeld & G. Derek Musgrove | 00:50:52 | |||||
This episode is an edited recording from the February 2023 Live Show at the Octagon Museum featuring a conversation with Sarah Shoenfeld and Derek Musgrove. The focus of the discussion was on the work we've been doing to elevate 20th century Civil Rights sites and Black Power sites within Washington, DC. Links:
Bios: Sarah Shoenfeld is an independent scholar and public historian in Washington DC. Her work has addressed the history and evolution of DC neighborhoods; the city’s racialized housing landscape and planning regime; the intersection of race and historic preservation; and the history of organizing for civil rights, Black power, and Black governance. She co-founded the digital public history project Mapping Segregation in Washington DC, which documents the historic extent of racially restricted housing in the District along with other mechanisms of segregation and displacement. She is also on the leadership team of the DC Legacy Project, which is working to secure the future public use of five historically landmarked public housing buildings for cultural and educational activities at Barry Farm, in Southeast DC.
George Derek Musgrove, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor of History and Africana Studies at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. He earned his Ph.D. from New York University and is a current DC resident with his wife and two sons. He is the author of:
In addition to being an author he also created a web-based map called “Black Power in Washington, D.C" which highlights Black Power activism in the nation’s capital. His work has appeared in the Washington Post, National Public Radio, the New York Times and The Root. He is currently working on a book project tentatively titled “We must take to the streets again”: The Black... | |||||||
| 15 Jul 2024 | Memorialization Work w/ Burt Pinnock | 00:40:35 | |||||
This week's conversation is with Burt Pinnock. Burt is one of the most sought after preservation architects in Virginia - especially for memorialization work - and I am super grateful to have met him in recent years. We discuss his background and experiences growing up in Tuskegee, AL before moving north to southern Virginia. He has had a fascinating career so far with the opportunity to focus architectural conversations on the importance of contextualizing race and history, as well as the need for inclusive and collaborative approaches to memorialization. Links:
Bio: Burt Pinnock, FAIA, NOMA is Principal & Chairman of the Board at Baskervill in Richmond, VA. His passion for design has created award-winning work time and time again, from historic sites and cultural institutions to forward-thinking companies and foundations. He previously served as Chair of the Commonwealth of Virginia Art & Architectural Review Board and Vice Chair of the Richmond 300 Advisory Board, and is a co-founder of Storefront for Community Design, amongst many other notable board and committee engagements. For Burt, architecture isn’t a job; it’s his personal contribution to the wellbeing and vitality of our communities. **Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 05 Jun 2023 | Impact & Legacy w/ Melanie Ray | 00:42:44 | |||||
This week's episode features a conversation with Baltimore architect, Melanie Ray, of Hord Coplan Macht. We cover her journey into the profession, the impact NOMA has had on her career and various tips for students pursuing architecture. Links:
Bio: Melanie Ray Melanie is a licensed architect and Associate in the Affordable Housing studio at Hord Coplan Macht in Baltimore, MD. Since graduating from Penn State’s architecture program in 2015, she has worked on various market-rate and affordable mixed-use housing projects, as well as community development projects in Baltimore city and beyond. She is the 424th living black woman licensed in the US to practice architecture and seeks to be an active mentor to promote the goal of doubling the number of licensed black architects by 2030. She currently serves as the President of Bmore NOMA, the Baltimore Chapter of NOMA, the Northeast University Liaison for NOMA National, and on the Board of Directors for AIA Baltimore. In addition to her work at HCM, Melanie is a regular volunteer for pro bono design projects through such organizations as Habitat for Humanity and The Neighborhood Design Center, the latter of which she received the Volunteer of the Year Award in June 2020 and also currently serves on the board of directors. Melanie is a certified Fitwel Ambassador and LEED Green Associate.
**Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 20 Jun 2022 | In the Glass with Menokin: The Glass House w/ Bo Tayloe | 00:43:48 | |||||
This week's episode features a conversation from the summer of 2020 between me and with Bo Tayloe. We were both invited down to Menokin by the Menokin Foundation and interviewed by Michael Beller as part of the Foundation's series "In the Glass with Menokin". This series sought to bring together individuals for thought provoking conversations about their lived experiences and shared connections to Menokin's past, present, and future. Menokin was home to one of the Virginia signers of the Declaration of Independence, Francis Lightfoot Lee, his wife, Rebecca Tayloe, and various enslaved people. Bo Tayloe and I met for the first time about 15 minutes before the record button was pressed so what you'll hear is us getting to know each other and sharing our perspectives on the site: me as someone who's ancestors would have been enslaved and him as someone who's ancestors would have done the enslaving. It was an interesting day and talking with Bo was a highlight of my summer that year. Building Highlight: Menokin in Warsaw VA Links:
Thank you to this Episode's Sponsor: BQE makes it easy to manage your projects and people, for maximum productivity and ultimate profitability. Start implementing powerful systems for the profitability you need and the freedom you want. Join Douglas Tieger, FAIA for the next Designing Your Business Masterclass, brought to you by BQE CORE. Every live masterclass session is free and includes AIA continuing education credit. Register now at bqe.com/masterclass. **This podcast is sponsored by www.Smartsheet4architects.com, a better way to manage architecture projects.** Mentioned in this episode: | |||||||
| 30 May 2022 | Lessons from Legends | 00:38:22 | |||||
**EPISODE MAY CONTAIN EXPLICIT LANGUAGE** This episode is a replay of the April 2022 Lessons from Legends interview at the University of Baltimore's Merrick School of Business and features a conversation with the Legendary architect Diane Cho. She shares what brought her to Baltimore in the 1970s, what it was like to be a minority woman practicing architecture, and her hopes for the future of the profession. (Please note: The audio is a little patchy at the beginning but we changed mics early on to improve the quality.) Building Highlights: Tindeco Wharf, Brewer’s Hill, Clipper Mill and the American Brewery for Humanim. Check out the Tangible Remnants Instagram page for images. Links:
Bio: Diane Cho is a founding principal of Cho Benn Holback (formerly Cho Wilks Benn), a women owned architectural firm noted for projects in the cultural, educational, and community realm where the focus has been on the creative re-use of aging, historic building stock. Cho and Barbara Wilks started their architecture firm in the late 1970’s having moved to Baltimore a few years earlier after graduating from Cornell University’s architecture school. Beginning with rowhouse renovations, they gradually expanded their portfolio to include larger buildings and added partners David Benn and George Holback to enhance the firm’s reach. An early focus on housing led to market rate warehouse renovations such as Tindeco Wharf and Canton Cove, and a number of affordable housing/historic school house renovations located in some of Baltimore’s most challenging neighborhoods. Believing in the arts as a catalyst for community revitalization, Cho began to focus her projects primarily in the cultural realm where she has worked closely with clients to assure that architectural concepts reflect each institution’s mission. Her portfolio includes many award-winning projects such as the Baltimore School for the Arts, the Jim Rouse Center at the American Visionary Art Museum, the Everyman Theatre and Center Stage. As an active leader and a patron for many cultural organizations, she has helped to position and celebrate the arts as a vital ingredient in the life of strong and vibrant cities. Diane currently serves on the Board of Trustees of MICA and has recently served on the boards of the Baltimore Museum of Art and the Everyman Theatre. After 35 years of building the firm in Baltimore, she and her partners sold their architecture firm in 2017 to Quinn Evans, a national firm headquartered in Washington DC with five other branches throughout the mid-Atlantic and Midwest. She remains a principal with Quinn Evans and continues to spearhead projects within her area of expertise. ** Thank you to this Episode's Sponsor: 18 Sep 2022 | The People's Architect w/ Marques Moore | 00:49:23 | | ||||
**EPISODE CONTAINS EXPLICIT LANGUAGE** This episode features a candid conversation with Marques Moore of Moore Architecture. We reminiscence about our time at UVA in the Architecture program, talk about career paths, and the importance of having a support system. Building Highlight: UVA Memorial to the Enslaved. This memorial "beautifully captures the tenor of those community conversations, honors the lives, labor, and resistance of the 4-5,000 enslaved people who lived and worked at UVA at some point between 1817 and 1865. The memorial includes 4,000 memory marks in their honor." Links:
Bio: Marques Moore is a Principal Architect based in Charlotte, NC. Marques earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Architecture with a minor in Urban Planning from the University of Virginia (UVA) and also holds a Bachelor’s of Architecture from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC). He is licensed to practice architecture in North Carolina and South Carolina. Marques practices architecture with his father Kelvin L. Moore at the family-owned firm Moore Architecture, which was founded in 1992. Marques manages the company’s North Carolina and South Carolina projects while Kelvin is responsible for Virginia. Under their leadership, Moore Architecture has successfully completed over 575 projects and maintains a diverse portfolio of project types including commercial, residential, educational, institutional, religious, healthcare, hospitality, and recreation. Moore Architecture identifies architectural solutions that respond to the specific needs of its clients by incorporating a philosophy of collaboration, interaction, and purposeful delivery. Their diverse project experience has taught them to resolve complex issues and provide simple solutions for difficult construction objectives. Moore Architecture’s mission is to assist in the successful development of conceptual and buildable projects with thoughtfulness, vision, and professionalism. They believe that architecture should be accessible and available to all people, regardless of project size and budget. **Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** Mentioned in this episode: Gabl Continuing Education Podcasts | |||||||
| 12 Nov 2024 | The Black Power Movement in DC: A Context Study | 00:34:34 | |||||
In 2020 the DC Preservation League received a $50,000 grant from the African American Civil Rights Program, as administered by the National Park Service (NPS), Department of the Interior, to fund the creation of a study entitled Black Power in 20th Century Washington, DC: A Context Study. This episode features excerpts from that study. Links:
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| 13 May 2024 | Blending Your Passions with Tiffany James | 00:34:46 | |||||
This episode features a conversation with a friend and former mentee, Tiffany James. She shares more of her story with me and discusses her journey from UVA to Baltimore, her work in the nonprofit sector, and her passion for writing. She shares her excitement for writing a novel that incorporates architectural elements and explores the impact of the built environment on storytelling. Links:
Bio: Tiffany James is a writer and content marketer who brings a storytelling approach to the strategic marketing collaborations she forms with nonprofits and cause-driven social entrepreneurs. Since graduating from the University of Virginia with a bachelor’s in architecture, Tiffany served three years as an AmeriCorps volunteer, tackling issues in the home improvement sector and early literacy development. With more than a decade of experience in the nonprofit sector, she currently works as an associate director of strategic communications for a nonprofit in Washington, D.C., and earned a master’s in writing from Johns Hopkins, where she was awarded the 2021 Women’s Voices are Important Fellowship.
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| 15 Jan 2024 | Villa Lewaro in Irvington, NY | 00:18:37 | |||||
A tangible remnant is a historic building that left a mark on the built environment and tells the story of people who came before us. This episode explores the tangible remnant that is Villa Lewaro in Irvington, NY. Listen to learn about the building, architect, historical figure that commissioned the building, and how the building is being used today. Links:
Bio: Synopsis from the biography on Madame C.J. Walker that was written by her great-great granddaughter, A'Leila Bundles, in the book: "On Her Own Ground": "The daughter of formerly enslaved parents, Sarah Breedlove—who would become known as Madam C. J. Walker—was orphaned at seven, married at fourteen, and widowed at twenty. She spent the better part of the next two decades laboring as a washerwoman for $1.50 a week. Then—with the discovery of a revolutionary hair care formula for black women—everything changed. By her death in 1919, Walker managed to overcome astonishing odds: building a storied beauty empire from the ground up, amassing wealth unprecedented among black women, and devoting her life to philanthropy and social activism. Along the way, she formed friendships with great early-twentieth-century political figures such as Ida B. Wells, Mary McLeod Bethune, W.E.B. Du Bois, and Booker T. Washington."
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| 23 Jul 2022 | Conference Chat w/ Pascale Sablan | 00:21:01 | |||||
This week's episode features a conversation from the AIA Conference on Architecture 2022. I joined the Architecture is Political Podcast host Melissa Daniel to chat all things NOMA (National Organization of Minority Architects) with Pascale Sablan FAIA, NOMA, LEED AP and Tiffany Brown MBA, NOMA, Assoc. AIA. In this episode, Pascale talks about how NOMA has impacted her career and the importance of connection. To listen to Tiffany’s portion of the interview, please check out the Architecture is Political podcast. Links:
Bios: Pascale Sablan, FAIA, NOMA, LEED AP is an Associate at Adjaye Associates, with over 14 years of experience, has been on the team for a variety of projects around the world. She studied Architecture at Pratt Institute, then pursued a Master of Science in Advanced Architectural Design at Columbia University. Pascale is the 315th living African-American, woman registered architect in the U.S. She is an activist architect who works to advance architecture for the betterment of society, bring visibility and voice to the issues concerning women and BIPOC designers. She founded the Beyond the Built Environment organization positioned to uniquely address the inequitable disparities in architecture. Pascale was awarded the 2021 AIA Whitney M. Young Jr. Award for her advocacy efforts and ascended to the AIA College of Fellows, the youngest African American to reach that honor. In 2020 Pascale was voted President-Elect of the National Organization of Minority Architecture, the 5th woman to hold this position of leadership. Tiffany D. Brown is the Executive Director of the National Organization of Minority Architects. Brown is a co-founder of the Urban Arts Collective, a nonprofit focused on increasing underrepresented groups in careers in science, technology, engineering, art and architecture, and mathematics. Brown is a passionate leader within NOMA and the architecture industry, recognized by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) with 2020 Associates Awards for outstanding leadership and creative thinking in her communities and the architecture profession. She was awarded the AIA Detroit and Michigan honors in 2019. Brown held national NOMA board leadership positions and is also a founding member of NOMA Detroit. Brown created 400 FORWARD, which aims to seek the next 400 women... | |||||||
| 07 Oct 2023 | Exploring the ACHP w/ Susan Glimcher | 00:44:34 | |||||
This week's episode features a fun episode with Susan Glimcher of the Advisory Council for Historic Preservation (ACHP). We cover a number of programs that the ACHP administers and a few that I've had to pleasure of being involved with. I've included links to the various items Susan mentioned in the episode but she also, very graciously offered her email address and would love to connect with you on LinkedIn. When you connect with Susan on LinkedIn be sure to mention that you heard her on the Tangible Remnants podcast! Building spotlight: One of the buildings highlighted on the ACHP's federal agency preservation outleasing success stories and it is Floyd Bennett Field. Located in the New York metropolitan area, was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1981 due to its association with mid-20th century commercial aviation architecture. The field opened in 1931 and served as a point of departure for the record-breaking flights of famous aviators such as Amelia Earhart and Howard Hughes. Links:
Bio: Susan Glimcher has worked as the director of the Office of Communications, Education, and Outreach at the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation since 2008. She works with the executive director and chairman to establish communications priorities, develop strategies, and execute ACHP outreach efforts to educate audiences about the mission, programs, and responsibilities of the ACHP. She also determines the strategy and priorities for the agency’s online presence. One of her top priorities is working with students to bring them into an awareness of historic preservation. She has launched several programs that bring students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities onto federal lands to experience how important preservation is to so many places and communities. Susan started her career in New York, Connecticut, and California in advertising, marketing, and in the film industry as a director of creative services. She has worked in Washington, D.C., supporting strategic communications for companies such as Lockheed Martin Global Telecommunications. Susan also worked for the Bureau of Consular Affairs within the U.S. Department of State. She implemented branding, marketing, and internal and external communications programs and projects. **Some of the links above maybe Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you.** **This episode is sponsored by... | |||||||