Architecture Beyond

Architecture is not only shaped by buildings. It is shaped by memory, mentorship, authorship, and the voices that help define who belongs in the profession.

In this episode of Architecture Beyond, Brandon Gibbs sits down with architect, academic, and writer Christian Joosse for Part I of a two-part conversation centered on her path into architecture and the deeper foundations behind Letters to Ms. 1000. Christian is the editor, co-author, and curator behind Letters to Ms. 1000: Words of Wisdom from African American Women Architects, Vol. 1, a book created to share encouragement and mentorship through the lived experiences of Black women architects.

This first conversation begins before the book. We talk about Christian’s background in architecture, the role writing has played in her life since childhood, and how design, research, and storytelling began to intersect in her work. As an architect at Moody Nolan and an educator working across multiple disciplines, her perspective offers a powerful reminder that architecture can reach far beyond traditional practice. 

Essentials In Part I

This episode is for architects, students, emerging professionals, mentors, and anyone interested in how personal voice and professional impact come together.In 

Part I, you’ll hear:

• how Christian’s architectural journey took shape 
•  why writing became an important parallel to design 
•  what it means to build a career that includes practice, teaching, and advocacy

Why come back for Part II

Part II is where the larger message comes fully into focus.

In the next episode, we go deeper into Letters to Ms. 1000 itself: the purpose behind the title, the journey of gathering and curating voices, the significance of self-publishing, and why mentorship and representation remain essential to the future of architecture. The book is described as a collection of wisdom from African American women architects intended to mentor and encourage the next generation, and Part II explores that mission more directly. 

If Part I gives you the origin, Part II delivers the full impact.

Learn more about Letters to Ms. 1000

You can explore the book and learn more through the official Letters to Ms. 1000 site here: https://empowering1000.wixsite.com/letters-to-ms--1000

 You can also follow the project on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/letterstoms.1000/

This episode is supported by CDP Architecture.

Thank you to CDP Architecture for supporting thoughtful conversations around design, community, leadership, and the future of the profession.

https://www.cdparchitecture.com/

Related episodes to keep listening

If this conversation resonates with you, continue with these Architecture Beyond episodes on impact, leadership, and service:

Affordable Housing with Kelsey Oesmann
A conversation on housing, dignity, and the long-term impact architects can have on communities through thoughtful development and design.

NOMA Leadership with Dillon Dunn
A powerful episode on equity, leadership, service, and what it means to strengthen community through architecture.

See full video episode here:

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world.

We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere.

Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

Welcome to Saturday Studio, a series from Architecture Beyond where we study architectural pioneers and connect their thinking to how we design today.

In this episode, we explore the life and impact of Zaha Hadid — an architect known for redefining form through fluid geometry, advancing computational design, and building a global practice rooted in research and experimentation.

🎙 What This Episode Covers

•  Zaha Hadid’s early life, education, and career trajectory 
•  Her role in advancing parametric and computational design 
•  Challenges as a woman and outsider in the profession 
•  The evolution from conceptual drawings to built work 
•  The importance of collaboration across teams and clients 

We examine three defining projects:

• Vitra Fire Station (1993) — concept to built form 
• MAXXI Museum (2009) — spatial flow and circulation 
• Heydar Aliyev Center (2012) — integrated parametric design 

🧠 Design Research & Practice

A key theme is the role of research in shaping practice.

Zaha Hadid maintained strong ties to the Architectural Association School of Architecture, particularly the Design Research Lab. These ideas were further developed within Zaha Hadid Architects alongside collaborators like Patrik Schumacher and engineers such as Arup.

🛠 Featured Design Exercise

We explore a parametric tower study inspired by Galaxy Soho using Rhino 8 and Grasshopper, highlighting how computational tools support form exploration and control.

📚 Learning Resources

Books

• Zaha Hadid: Complete Works
• Zaha Hadid Architects: Evolution
• Zaha Hadid and Suprematism

Video & Research

•  Lectures and interviews with Zaha Hadid 
•  Project features from Zaha Hadid Architects
•  ThinkParametric for advanced workflows 

🧭 Key Takeaways

•  Exploration drives innovation 
•  Collaboration makes ideas real 
•  Persistence defines impact

Watch Video Episode & Tutorial Here:

https://www.iamthestudio.com/saturdaystudio_zahahadid/

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world.

We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere.

Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

One of the most common questions in the building industry is simple but incredibly important:

When should you bring an architect into a project?

Many people assume the architect is needed once the vision is clear and it’s time to produce drawings. But in reality, some of the most important decisions in a building project happen long before design documents are created.

In this episode of Architecture Beyond, host Brandon Gibbs explores how the timing of architectural involvement can influence the success of a project—from early feasibility conversations to long-term building performance.

Whether you’re a property owner, developer, community leader, or emerging design professional, this conversation looks at how early collaboration helps projects move forward with clarity, coordination, and confidence.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

In this episode we discuss:

• The earliest stages where architects add the most value
 • Why many project challenges begin before drawings are created
 • What can happen when design teams are brought into projects too late
 • How early conversations help align goals, budgets, and feasibility
 • Practical ways to find the right architect or design professional

The goal of this discussion is simple: to make the first conversation with an architect easier and more productive for everyone involved.

Why This Conversation Matters

Building projects involve many moving parts—owners, designers, engineers, contractors, and communities.

When architects are involved early in the process, they can help guide discussions around:

• Site feasibility
• Project goals and priorities
• Budget alignment
• Long-term building performance

These early conversations often shape decisions that affect the entire life of a project.

Explore Related Episodes

If you enjoyed this episode, you may also want to watch these conversations on Architecture Beyond:

Built For A Lifetime: How To Craft A Sustainable Future With Building Management | AB Ep. 22
A discussion on how long-term thinking and building management strategies influence sustainability and project success.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world.

We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere.

Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

Architecture Beyond | Saturday Studio

Welcome to the first installment of Saturday Studio, a new Architecture Beyond series where we study architectural legends and translate their thinking into principles you can apply today.

This episode features Paul R. Williams — often called “Hollywood’s Architect.” Over a five-decade career, Williams designed more than 2,000 projects, shaped the visual identity of Los Angeles, contributed to civic institutions including St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and became the first Black architect admitted to the AIA College of Fellows before ultimately receiving the AIA Gold Medal.

But this episode is not simply a biography.

It is a study in:

• Proportion and compositional discipline
• Firm leadership and collaborative practice
• Professional composure in an exclusionary industry
• The long-term development of architectural craft

🎙 What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• The historical context of Williams’ career and key milestones
• How he built and sustained a national architectural practice
• The structural and proportional logic behind his Mediterranean residential work
• What emerging architects can learn from his commitment to excellence
• Why understanding architectural lineage strengthens contemporary BIM and computational design workflows

We also break down one of his signature balcony compositions and model it using modern tools — demonstrating that timeless principles remain foundational in today’s digital environment.

📖 Companion Blog Post

For expanded historical details, key project dates, additional references, and modeling notes:

👉 Read the full companion article here:

https://www.iamthestudio.com/saturdaystudio_paul-r-williams/

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world.

We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere.

Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

What does it really mean to design with dignity—and how can architects play a meaningful role in affordable housing and community development?

Watch this episode recorded here: 

In this kickoff episode of Season 4 of Architecture Beyond, host Brandon Gibbs sits down with Kelsey Oesmann Wilson, AIA, Principal at Nelson Community Partners, for an honest and practical conversation about affordable housing, advocacy, and the evolving role of architects beyond traditional practice.

Kelsey shares her journey into affordable housing, what it actually takes to deliver high-quality, community-centered projects, and how architects—especially students and emerging professionals—can explore whether this work aligns with their skills, values, and long-term goals.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn

• What “designing with dignity” really means in affordable housing
• How affordable housing projects come together—from design to development and partnerships
• How architects can explore impact-driven work without needing all the answers upfront
• Practical advice for students and young professionals looking to get involved

This episode is especially valuable for architecture students, emerging professionals, firm leaders, and designers interested in community impact, equity, and meaningful practice.

Learn more about Nelson Community Partners here.

Related Architecture Beyond Episodes

If today’s conversation resonates, continue exploring these connected discussions:

• 🎙️ Designing Business For Architects with Rachel Gresham
  A deep dive into mentorship, leadership, and navigating growth in architecture.
• 🎙️ Strengthening Community Through Equity, Architecture & Service with Dillon Dunn
  A powerful conversation on advocacy, representation, and strengthening communities through design.

These episodes build on the same themes of purpose, responsibility, and expanding the architect’s role.

Sponsor: Iamthestudio

This episode is supported by Iamthestudio, a premier course platform for architects and designers focused on real-world workflows and practical skill development.

If this conversation inspired you to strengthen your skills, you can get 50% off Iamthestudio courses with the code:

januarydesignpro26

👉 Visit iamthestudio.com and use the code januarydesignpro26 to invest in the tools that help turn intention into impact.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world.

We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere.

Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

In this episode of Architecture Beyond, host Brandon Gibbs sits down with Dillon Dunn, President of NOMA Nashville, for a timely and thoughtful conversation on leadership, representation, and the future of the architecture profession.

Dillon shares his personal journey into architecture, how his involvement with NOMA shaped his leadership path, and the work currently happening in Nashville to support emerging professionals and strengthen community impact. From national events like NOMA KC to reflections on the AIA Tennessee Conference, this conversation highlights why advocacy, mentorship, and intentional leadership matter now more than ever.

This episode is especially valuable for students, early-career architects, and professionals seeking clarity on how to grow their careers while contributing meaningfully to the profession and their communities.

Topics Covered in This Episode

• How Dillon got started in architecture and community leadership
• Key initiatives and progress within NOMA Nashville
• What national gatherings like NOMA KC offer to emerging professionals
• Reflections on AIA Tennessee and insights shared by past NOMA National President Pascale Sablan
• The changes needed in the architecture industry to support equity and access
• Advice and perspective for aspiring and future architects

Watch here: 

https://www.iamthestudio.com/strongercommunities_through_architecture_with_dillon_dunn/

Why This Conversation Matters

Architecture is evolving—not just in how we design, but in who leads, who is represented, and how the profession serves communities. This episode goes beyond credentials and titles to explore the responsibility architects carry to shape a more inclusive and impactful future.

Learn more about the work of Dillon Dunn with NOMA Nash below: https://www.nomanash.com/

Check out our show sponsor CDP Architecture below:

https://www.cdparchitecture.com/

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world.

We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere.

Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

Episode Overview

In this inspiring episode of Architecture Beyond, host Brandon Aaron Gibbs, AIA, NOMA sits down with entrepreneur, community builder, and wellness advocate Chris Goode—whose mission-driven work is reshaping how cities think about health, design, and equitable public spaces.

Chris recently shared his story for Paseo Stairs Project at the 2025 NOMA KC Convention, joining Populous leaders Al Harris and Ashley Renfro on a powerful panel exploring design, community heritage, and public good. This episode continues that conversation, diving deeper into how architecture and wellness intersect in transformative ways.

From founding Ruby Jean’s Juicery in honor of his grandmother to reimagining civic spaces through creative partnerships—including Populous and the iconic Paseo Stairs project—Chris demonstrates what it means to design with purpose, empathy, and cultural impact.

What We Discuss in This Episode

1. The Mission Behind Ruby Jean’s

How personal loss inspired Chris to champion health equity in underserved communities.

2. The Built Environment & Health

Why architecture, public spaces, and community identity directly shape wellness and opportunity.

3. Continuing the NOMA KC Conversation

Insights carried forward from Chris’s 2025 panel with Populous leaders Al Harris and Ashley Renfro on design equity and public impact.

4. The Paseo Stairs Project

A visionary example of community-centered revitalization—combining art, architecture, and storytelling.

5. Lessons for Designers & Architects

Advice for emerging professionals on using design to strengthen communities and create meaningful, lasting change.

Meet the Guest — Chris Goode

Entrepreneur • Community Health Advocate • Founder of Ruby Jean’s Juicery

Chris Goode’s work sits at the intersection of mission, wellness, and design. His ventures honor his late grandmother, Ruby Jean, and advocate for healthier futures in communities that have been historically underserved.

His leadership extends beyond business—into public space activation, cultural restoration, and partnerships with architects and designers shaping the next era of equitable cities.

Learn more about Chris and his work:
Ruby Jean’s Juicery – https://www.rubyjeansjuicery.com/
Ruby Jean Foundation – https://www.rubyjeansfoundation.com/
The Paseo Stairs – https://www.thepaseostairs.com/
IG– @genuinejuiceguy

Episode Sponsor — CDP Architecture

This episode is proudly sponsored by CDP Architecture, a firm dedicated to creating thoughtful, and well crafted environments across civic, education, sports, and community spaces.

https://www.cdparchitecture.com/

Watch video episode on our site here: https://www.iamthestudio.com/architectureofwellness/

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world.

We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere.

Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

Ever wondered what architects really do all day, why projects take so long, or where design ideas actually come from?

 In this Architecture Beyond special, host Brandon Gibbs, AIA, NOMA opens up about the creative process, the challenges behind the drawings, and how technology is reshaping the profession.

This 20-minute episode dives into the top five questions people always ask architects — from the truth about budgets and creativity, to career advice for the next generation of designers.
 You’ll also hear Brandon’s personal reflections from the NOMA 2025 Conference in Kansas City, where architects, students, and leaders gathered to celebrate diversity, mentorship, and the power of community in shaping the built environment.

💬 Have a question you’ve always wanted to ask an architect?
We’re inviting listeners to submit their questions for our upcoming Ask an Architect 2026 edition. The first 10 submissions will receive a special year-end prize bundle from Architecture Beyond and Iamthestudio.

👉 Submit your question now at:

https://www.iamthestudio.com/askanarchitect-1/

 Follow the show for future episodes on design, technology, and the stories behind the spaces we create. 

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world.

We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere.

Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

What does it mean to lead with design, serve the community, and build a practice with lasting impact?

In this episode of Architecture Beyond, we sit down with Chad Polk, President of CDP Architecture, to explore his remarkable journey from early mentorship under AIA Fellows to founding one of Nashville’s most respected client-centered design firms.

With over 25 years of experience, Chad reflects on the value of mentorship, the evolving role of architects in a growing city, and how purpose, leadership, and collaboration have shaped his projects—from civic landmarks to sacred spaces. He also shares insights into his philosophy of "designing joy" and how CDP Architecture integrates timeless design with modern innovation, including AI and sustainability practices.

Whether you’re an aspiring architect, a seasoned designer, or someone interested in how spaces can uplift communities, this conversation offers honest wisdom and inspiration.

🔗 Sponsored by CDP Architecture
Looking for a custom-designed commercial space or a high-end modern residence? Visit cdparchitecture.com
to see how CDP’s expert team can bring your vision to life.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world.

We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere.

Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).

“Healthcare design isn’t just about meeting codes — it’s about restoring dignity, supporting care, and shaping outcomes.”
— Giselle Newman,  Award-Winning Healthcare Interior Designer 

In this inspiring episode of Architecture Beyond, we sit down with nationally recognized healthcare interior designer Giselle Newman, AAIA, RID whose award-winning work spans hospitals, clinics, and environments that put human well-being at the core of design.

Giselle shares her journey from early design ambitions to becoming a leading voice in healthcare interiors — and what it takes to design spaces where healing truly begins. She unpacks her most impactful projects, the evolution of the field, and how collaboration with architects can lead to radically better outcomes.

Whether you’re a student exploring design paths or an experienced professional looking to better understand this vital discipline, this episode offers rare insight into one of the most complex and rewarding sectors of our industry.

🧠 What You’ll Learn

• How healthcare interior design has evolved — and where it's going
• The role of evidence-based design in shaping patient-centered spaces
• Strategies for effective collaboration between architects and interior designers
• Career advice for young professionals pursuing this powerful design path
• Why recognition and awards are just one part of the bigger design legacy

Watch @ Iamthestudio:

https://www.iamthestudio.com/healthcaredesign/

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Architecture Beyond is where architects, designers, and creative thinkers share the stories shaping life and impact beyond the studio. Since launching, we’ve released dozens of inspiring episodes and grown into a global community of listeners who care about architecture’s role in the world.

We’d love to hear from you—what topics inspire you most, or who you’d like to see as a guest. If you’re interested in sharing your own story on the show, visit Iamthestudio.com and click ArchBeyond in the menu. Join the conversation and help us continue building a platform that elevates architects everywhere.

Sponsored by iamthestudio architecture software courses (site here).