Better Buildings For Humans

In this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Mahwish Syed—design visionary, neuroaesthetics expert, and author of Purgatory to Paradise. Together, they explore the intersection of beauty, biology, and building design to create spaces that heal, inspire, and restore balance.

Mahwish shares her transformative journey from cancer survivor to design innovator, revealing how neuroaesthetics and biophilia can shift environments from “purgatory” to “paradise.” She explains how lighting, materials, and even layout impact circadian rhythms, mental health, and overall well-being.

From hospitals to schools, Mahwish offers practical strategies for designing spaces that promote health and connection—balancing sustainability with human-centered design. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about architecture, wellness, and the future of healing spaces.

More About Mahwish Sayed

Mahwish Syed is a visionary at the intersection of health, healing, and the transformative power of design. At the forefront of New York City design for over two decades, she has orchestrated beauty through unveiling spaces that utilize neuroaesthetics and biophilia to nourish the soul and promote a healthy environment.  

She is an esteemed fashion and interior designer, bestselling author, speaker, and cancer survivor. In her acclaimed book, "Purgatory to Paradise," she unveils the profound influence of beauty as a healing force. Committed to empowering others, she advocates for personal paradises, affirming that genuine beauty is immediate and attainable for all.

CONTACT:

ClaimYourParadise.com msd-ny.com

https://www.instagram.com/mahwish_syed_designs/?hl=enPurgatory to Paradise Book

https://www.claimyourparadise.com/podcast

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To kick off Season 2 of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes Phillip Kuehne, a Sustainable Design Leader at HDR, for an illuminating conversation on adaptive reuse. Phillip shares his journey from architecture to sustainable design, highlighting his transformative experiences at Carnegie Mellon and his passion for performance-driven building solutions.

Together, they explore adaptive reuse as a vital strategy for addressing climate challenges, emphasizing its ability to reimagine existing structures with integrity, flexibility, memory, and sustainability. From iconic examples like Moynihan Train Hall and The High Line to lesser-known community projects, Phillip illustrates how adaptive reuse can revitalize neighborhoods while preserving cultural history.

Listeners will gain insights into the evolving methodologies behind adaptive reuse, its impact on building longevity, and its role in creating spaces that inspire connection and well-being. A must-listen for anyone passionate about innovative, sustainable design!

More About Phillip Kuehne:

Phillip’s passion for regenerative design and adaptive reuse stems from his belief in the power of interconnected systems and the value of existing structures. He takes an integrated systems approach to solving design challenges, always putting occupants at the heart of his work. This dedication consistently results in high-performing, environmentally responsive projects that set new industry standards and advance HDR’s sustainability and resiliency initiatives across the Northeast.

Based in the NYC architecture studio, Phillip leverages his extensive experience in architecture, building performance and data analysis to create innovative solutions at various scales. He has led some of the first climate-resilient all-electric life science buildings in NYC, each featuring best-in-class amenities. His portfolio includes mixed-use towers, education, civic, science and healthcare projects, as well as adaptive-reuse life science buildings and a net-zero mass timber recreation center.

Phillip’s work on a wide range of domestic and international LEED projects has equipped him with the skills to tackle complex design challenges and deliver exceptional results. Notable projects include a net-zero prototype hospital for the National Health Service and the University of Tampa science building. 

As a thought leader, Phillip gives back to the industry through writing and speaking engagements that guide clients toward solutions that support human and ecological health.

CONTACT:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/phillip-kuehne/

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In this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Yohany Albornoz, a trailblazing neuroarchitect and founder of Discover Neuroarchitecture and Marketer Architect Agency. Together, they delve into the burgeoning field of neuroarchitecture—an interdisciplinary approach that integrates neuroscience and design to create spaces that align with human biology and behavior.

Yohany shares compelling insights and case studies, from the healing power of nature views in hospitals to the cognitive boost provided by biophilic classrooms. Listeners will hear about the subtle yet profound impact of architecture on emotions, productivity, and even problem-solving—illustrated by stories like Jonas Salk’s groundbreaking polio vaccine discovery.

Discover how neuroarchitecture prioritizes well-being, fosters a sense of belonging, and redefines what it means to inhabit a space. Don’t miss this episode packed with inspiration for designing spaces that truly serve humanity.

About Yohany Albornoz:

Yohany Albornoz is a Venezuelan Architect specialized in the intersection of neuroscience and architecture. She holds a Master’s degree in Neuroscience for Architecture from Universitat Iuav di Venezia (2021), postgraduate studies in Visual Design and Branding from Artidi, Barcelona (2018), and another Master in Architectural Acoustics from Universidad Ramon Llull (2011). Her early architectural foundations were laid at FAU UCV, Caracas, Venezuela, where she graduated in 2008.

As an independent researcher, she contributes as consultant at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley under the Alzheimer’s Disease Resource Center for Minority Aging Research, Neurosciences and Human Genetics, led by Dr. Gladys Maestre.

Alongside her research, she is guest teacher in neuroarchitecture courses and is a co-founder of Discover Neuroarchitecture, Human Sensory Studio & Consulting, co-founder of Building Art X, Consulting Services for Public Art Projects, and co-founder of The Marketer Architect Agency, dedicated to commercial interior design.

Beyond her professional commitments, she is dedicated to her family as a wife and mother of two, and actively promotes breastfeeding as an advocate for maternal health.

CONTACT:

https://www.instagram.com/themarketerarchitect/?hl=en 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/yohanyalbornoz/ 

https://stan.store/Yohany/p/get-my-list-of-recommended-readings-

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In this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes back Alejandra Menchaca of AIRLIT Studio for an insightful deep dive into TEDI—Thermal Energy Demand Intensity. As a repeat guest, Alejandra shares her expertise in sustainable and human-centric design, making complex concepts accessible.

Together, they unpack the significance of TEDI, distinguishing it from metrics like Energy Use Intensity (EUI) and exploring how it informs passive building design. Alejandra explains why TEDI is a crucial metric in Massachusetts’ stretch energy code, its role in Passive House certification, and its implications for building resilience and grid capacity as electrification accelerates.

Listeners will also learn about the challenges of balancing energy efficiency with human-centric design, as Alejandra dispels misconceptions and highlights the metric's potential to harmonize sustainability with occupant well-being. Don’t miss this comprehensive guide to designing better, smarter buildings.

Where to Find Ale Menchaca:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alejandramenchaca

https://www.design.upenn.edu/people/alejandra-menchaca

About Ale Menchaca:

Alejandra is a Principal at Airlit Studio, an environmental design consulting practice with a design-minded approach rooted in technical excellence.

Alejandra combines expertise in mechanical engineering and building science to give clients a clear understanding of the impact design strategies and innovative solutions have on long-term building performance. Alejandra leverages research and simulations to provide project teams with sustainable design knowledge and energy expertise. With a Ph.D. in natural ventilation, she is experienced in designing passive buildings. In addition to her interest in passive solutions, Alejandra also has extensive experience with energy-intensive buildings such as laboratories and healthcare facilities having worked as an in-house building scientist at Payette for four years. Her experience also includes a focus on the power of early design analytics, gained during her tenure as a consultant at Thornton Tomasetti, where she built their Boston-based sustainability group. Lastly, Alejandra’s expertise also includes thermal comfort, energy modeling, daylighting, and computational fluid dynamics.

Ale is passionate about early design building science: assisting design teams with analytics and reports that impact design outcomes. She is a co-founder of Project StaSIO, a community of building performance simulators (consultants, architects, in-house building scientists) that strives to teach others how to ask the right building analytics questions and convey the results in ways that are beautiful and impactful.

Highly committed to growing the next generation of sustainability-focused designers and engineers, Ale loves teaching. She has lectured at MIT and the Harvard GSD, where she’s had the good fortune to mentor several brilliant students who have become inspiring disruptors in the building simulation industry.

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In this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski is joined by Craig Schiller, Executive Director of the Collaborative for High Performance Schools (CHiPs). Together, they delve into the importance of creating high-performance schools that prioritize student and teacher well-being, productivity, and safety while addressing climate resilience.

Craig shares his journey from environmental studies to leading CHiPs and explains the organization's mission to establish school-specific building standards. They explore what defines a high-performance school, emphasizing factors like daylighting, mental health, and safety. Craig also discusses the challenges of balancing energy efficiency with creating environments that support learning and wellness.

The conversation highlights CHiPs' three key programs—Design, Verified, and Minor Renovations—and their goal to evolve beyond building certifications to support school districts more comprehensively. Craig calls for collaboration among stakeholders, from architects to manufacturers, and outlines the "Raise the Floor Initiative," aimed at uniting resources for sustainable school design.

Tune in to learn how thoughtful design and collaboration can transform schools into inspiring spaces for future generations.

About Craig Schiller

Craig Schiller began his career as a researcher and sustainability advocate who focused on how schools could be used as sustainability teaching tools while improving the health and performance of their students. He came to CHPS after a decade designing, administering, and growing decarbonization programs in the higher education, climate policy, building, and aviation sectors for the climate-focused think-tank RMI in the District of Columbia.​ Craig has B.S. Degrees in Geology & Geophysics and Environmental Studies from the University of Wisconsin and a M.S. in Sustainable Design from Carnegie Mellon University.

CONTACT:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-a-schiller

https://chps.net/craig-schiller

Where To Find Us:

https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/

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In this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski is joined by Scott Zimmerman, founder of Silas Inc., to explore how lighting impacts health in ways we often overlook. With over 30 years in lighting and optics, Scott dives into how modern LED lighting, with its narrow spectrum, may be compromising our well-being. He shares the importance of near-infrared light—a part of natural sunlight often missing indoors—and explains how this missing spectrum could influence sleep, immunity, and overall health.

Together, Joe and Scott discuss the potential of lighting that better mimics sunlight, offering a healthier indoor environment. From challenges in the lighting industry to innovative solutions, Scott reveals why restoring elements of natural light in our spaces could transform wellness for people of all ages.

Tune in to learn more about the critical role of light in building design and the future of healthier indoor lighting.

About Scott Zimmerman

Scott has more than 35 years of experience in the fields of lighting and displays. His innovations and inventions have been used successfully in a wide range of military and commercial products that include night vision displays, liquid crystal display backlighting designs, and lighting fixtures.

Over the past few years, Scott has been focused on quantifying the health effects of natural sunlight. His efforts led to the development of the NIRA product line with its patent pending design that reintroduces near-infrared into our homes and offices. This research, co-authored with Professor Russel Reiter, was recently published in Melatonin Research, a peer reviewed medical journal, and featured in LED professional In response to the pandemic, Scott extended this work toward developing novel lighting and HVAC systems that suppress disease spread. He authored a peer reviewed paper on this topic that was published in the Journal of Infectious Disease and Epidemiology. 

CONTACT:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-zimmerman-29b7b59/

https://niralighting.com/

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In this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski is joined by Dr. Douglas Milburn, co-founder and chairman of Advanced Glazings Ltd and inventor of Solera® and SoleraWall®. Doug shares his journey from his background in physics and solar energy research to founding a company focused on translucent glazing solutions that bridge insulation with natural light.

Joe and Doug discuss the power of facades not only as protective barriers but as essential connectors to the outside world. They dive into how translucent glazing can create vibrant, daylight-filled spaces without the glare or energy loss associated with traditional glass. Doug explains his philosophy of "conspicuous green," advocating for green technologies that enhance, rather than restrict, the human experience within buildings.

From public arenas to office spaces, Doug explores how ideal translucent glazing can transform environments, fostering comfort, productivity, and well-being. They also discuss the impact of natural light on mental health, retail environments, and the unique challenges and benefits of creating well-lit educational spaces.

Tune in to learn more about Doug’s vision for sustainable, human-centered building design and the role of light in creating better spaces for people to live, work, and play.

About Doug Milburn

As a long-time entrepreneur and innovator, Dr. Doug Milburn thrives on solving problems. For more than 35 years, he has brought his vision and passion to manufacturing, engineering, software development and process engineering. Throughout his leadership, Dr. Milburn has aimed to create great workplaces by shaping a company’s success through corporate values and ethical guidelines.

Born and raised in Nova Scotia, Canada, , Dr. Milburn earned his undergraduate and Master’s degree in physics at Mount Allison University, before finishing his studies with a PhD in mechanical engineering at the University of Waterloo.

In 1995, Dr. Milburn and his wife Michelle co-founded Advanced Glazings, which developed and manufactures SOLERA light diffusing glass, which enables architects to create beautifully daylighted buildings that are incredibly energy efficient.

In 2001, Dr. Milburn co-founded Protocase with Steve Lilley. Protocase helps engineers, innovators and scientists accelerate their project timelines by manufacturing custom metal enclosures and parts in 2-3 days, with no minimum order requirements.

Lilley and Dr. Milburn took the entrepreneurial leap once more in 2014, with the start of 45Drives. As a new enterprise company, 45Drives helps companies manage and scale their data-storage needs with ultra-large storage servers and clusters that are powerful, flexible and affordable.

CONTACT:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-milburn-45864b2a/?originalSubdomain=ca

https://www.protocase.com/

https://www.45drives.com/

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In this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski sits down with Frances Anderton, former host of KCRW’s Design and Architecture and author of Common Ground: Multifamily Housing in Los Angeles. Frances shares her journey from growing up in England’s architecturally rich city of Bath to her impactful work in Los Angeles, where she champions housing that balances personal and communal spaces.

Frances and Joe dive into the history and future of multifamily housing in LA, discussing the role of density, design, and the “social condenser” of courtyard living in creating vibrant communities. They also explore challenges like zoning and community resistance to higher density, revealing how thoughtful design can benefit the environment and social cohesion.

Tune in to discover Frances’s vision for human-centered, environmentally sensitive housing that prioritizes connection and well-being.

About Frances Anderton

Frances Anderton is the author of Common Ground: Multifamily Housing in Los Angeles, published by Angel City Press, and winner of a Gold award for best Regional Nonfiction from Foreword Reviews. She has co-produced short films for the nonprofit housing developers Community Corporation of Santa Monica and Venice Community Housing. She is currently researching “Awesome and Affordable” housing as a Fellow of Friends of Residential Treasures: Los Angeles (FORT: LA). She writes a regular newsletter on design and architecture for KCRW public radio station, for which she previously hosted the show DnA: Design and Architecture, and produced the current affairs shows Which Way, LA? and To The Point. She also supports the creation of programming at Helms Bakery District. Honors include the Esther McCoy Award, from the Architectural Guild of USC School of Architecture, for her work educating the public about architecture and urbanism.. She serves on the boards of AIA/LA, Community Corp, and Palm Springs Modernism Week.

CONTACT:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/frances-anderton-19b8187/

https://francesanderton.com/

https://www.instagram.com/dna_designandarchitecture/

https://www.instagram.com/common_ground_mfh_in_la/

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In this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes Dean Lewis, Director of Mass Timber for the U.S. market at Skanska. Dean shares his journey from a construction-focused upbringing to leading mass timber innovations at Skanska, including his work on groundbreaking projects and involvement with Sidewalk Labs. The conversation highlights the rapid growth of mass timber, its sustainability benefits, and the industry’s challenges, such as supply chain issues and code adoption.

Dean discusses Skanska’s approach to navigating these challenges and expanding mass timber projects across the U.S., focusing on responsibly sourced timber and the potential for reusing building materials. Joe and Dean explore why mass timber is gaining popularity among developers and architects for its biophilic and environmental qualities.

Tune in for insights into the evolving world of mass timber construction and Skanska’s dedication to sustainable practices that benefit communities.

About Dean Lewis

Dean Lewis is the Director of Mass Timber and Prefabrication at Skanska USA, a position he was hired for in March 2023. Lewis is based in Seattle and is responsible for overseeing mass timber and prefabrication projects across the United States. Before joining Skanska, Lewis was with Alphabet-funded Sidewalk Labs for two years, working on new construction technologies in the mass timber space. He has also worked for Swinerton Mass Timber (Timberlab) (2019-2021), DCI Engineers (2010-2019) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (2009-2010).

During his career, Lewis has overseen multiple mass timber construction projects including office buildings, campus dorms, multi-family developments, and hotels. He has an extensive experience with design and fabrication, project management and delivery, logistics, and procurement, among other aspects of the construction process. He has also been part of published research projects within the mass timber space.

Lewis graduated from Washington State University (WSU) where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and a Master of Science in Structural Engineering. At WSU, he studied under Dr. J. Daniel Dolan, P.E., a premier figure in the mass timber industry, who inspired him to pursue a career in the field. Lewis is following a similar career path to his father, who worked in construction, and his grandfather, an architect.

CONTACT:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dean-lewis-96362445/

https://www.usa.skanska.com/who-we-are/contact-us/contacts/media/dean-lewis/ 

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In this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes Minjia Yang, Vice President of Investing for Health at the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI). With an impressive background spanning law, economics, and sustainable finance, Minjia discusses her role in advancing social sustainability and sustainable finance initiatives at IWBI. She shares insights on how WELL standards integrate human health, well-being, and equity into building design and operations across the globe. The conversation covers a range of topics, from sustainable finance innovations and ESG initiatives to balancing energy efficiency with occupant wellness. Minjia also highlights IWBI's work in aligning WELL standards with global sustainability reporting regulations, emphasizing the need for a people-first approach to building design. Tune in for a deep dive into the evolving world of healthy buildings and social sustainability.

More About Minjia Yang:

Minjia Yang is the Vice President of Investing for Health at the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) where she leads the thought leadership platform to elevate the meaning of health, wellbeing and equity to organizations, communities and the investment landscape at scale. Minjia brings her interdisciplinary background in law, economics, finance and insights of global markets to partnership building, sustainable finance and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) initiatives.

Prior to joining IWBI, Minjia worked with Delos, a wellness technology company, to establish over 10 subsidiaries and joint ventures in Asia as well as the first venture capital fund focusing on wellness technology for the built environment. Minjia has extensive professional experience across public, private and nonprofit sectors in Asia, Africa and North America. She worked with Inter-American Development Bank, Grameen Bank in Bangladesh, social enterprises in Lesotho, nonprofit organizations in Haiti, Malaysia Prime Minister’s office and consulting firms in Asia.

Minjia holds her Bachelor of Laws degree from Sun Yat-sen University in China. She was elected as a Chinese youth representative to the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP) and also as a W. T. Chan Fellow to participate in the Social Entrepreneurship Program at University of California in Los Angeles. Minjia received the Master of Public Administration degree with a concentration on economics and finance from Cornell University.

CONTACT:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/minjiayang

https://resources.wellcertified.com/people/staff/minjia-yang/

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