Better Buildings For Humans

How can the design of our schools transform the way students learn and teachers thrive? In this episode of Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski sits down with Katie Becker from JLG Architects to explore the powerful impact of biophilic design in K-12 education. 

Katie shares eye-opening insights on how connecting people to nature through design isn’t just a trend—it’s a game-changer for wellness and learning. But is it really as costly and complex as some believe? And what does the future hold for our educational spaces? 

Tune in to discover how the schools of tomorrow are being built today, one natural element at a time.

More about Katie:

https://jlgarchitects.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebecker1/ 

Katie Becker, AIA, NCARB, LEED Green Assoc. – JLG Architects

Katie Becker is an architect and K12 Planner at JLG Architects in Minneapolis, MN. She has spent the last decade leading the design, research, and implementation of best practices in education design for JLG’s K12 studio. Becker works with districts to create progressive improvement in learning environments, enhanced student opportunities, and sustainable design for future facility resiliency. Katie currently serves on the regional board for the A4LE Midwest Great Lakes region.

CONTACT:Katie Becker, AIA, NCARB, LEED Green Assoc.JLG Architects710 S 2nd Street, 8th FloorMinneapolis, MN 55401605.271.2990[email protected]

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This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with journalist John Bleasby for an in-depth conversation about the building and construction industry. John shares his insights on innovation and climate-related issues, and they tackle the complex topic of transitioning from natural gas to complete electrification in Ontario, Canada.

They also explore the concept of recladding to reduce operational carbon in buildings, the crucial role of windows in energy efficiency and occupant wellbeing, and the potential of modular construction. Plus, John discusses the importance of balancing aesthetics with comfort, the maze of green certifications, and the dangers of greenwashing.

Don't miss this episode packed with expert insights and actionable takeaways! 

More About John:

linkedin.com/in/john-bleasby-5081b762

https://muckrack.com/john-bleasby

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https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/

www.advancedglazings.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcast

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Get ready for an exciting journey into the future of building materials! In this episode, we’re joined by Elise Strobach from AeroShield Aerogel to uncover the secrets of aerogel, the lightest and highest insulating material in the world.

Discover how this ultra-light, super-insulating, and translucent marvel is revolutionizing the built environment. Elise explains how AeroShield is developing innovative aerogel sheets that attach to glass, drastically improving energy efficiency and reducing heat loss. Advanced Glazings Ltd. is no stranger to aerogel – we’ve been using and loving it for years, so it's thrilling to speak with another fan of this remarkable material.

But that’s not all – aerogel's applications extend beyond buildings, reaching into industries like oil and gas, aerospace, and electric vehicles.

Tune in to learn how aerogel is shaping a more energy-efficient future and pushing the boundaries of what's possible in glazing and beyond.

More About Elise Strobach:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/elise-strobach/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/aeroshield-materials/posts/?feedView=all

https://www.aeroshield.tech/

Where To Find Us:

https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/

www.advancedglazings.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcast

www.linkedin.com/in/advanced-glazings-ltd-848b4625

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In this episode we jump into the world of thermal comfort and indoor environmental quality with Robert Bean, an ASHRAE Fellow. Robert shares his extensive background in engineering, human physiology, and psychology, providing a rich understanding of how thermal comfort impacts human well-being.

Join us as we explore the concept of Umwelt and its crucial role in understanding the physiological and psychological effects of indoor environments. Robert emphasizes the need for a better grasp of stress factors in indoor spaces and how neurosciences can offer valuable insights into creating healthier environments.

The conversation covers various topics, including the importance of integrated design in architecture, the individual nature of thermal comfort, and the significant role of window-to-wall ratios in building design. We also discuss the impact of heat pumps and the necessity for a holistic understanding of their long-term effects.

Tune in to learn about the intersection of building science, architecture, and human health, and discover practical insights for creating spaces that promote comfort and well-being.

More about Robert Bean: Mr. Bean is an ASHRAE Fellow and ASHRAE Distinguished Lecturer, recipient of the Lou Flagg Award, Distinguished Service Award and instructor for the ASHRAE Learning Institute. His most recent paper Decarbonization: A Product of Integrated Design won best poster paper for the ASHRAE Annual meeting in Tampa,Fl.

Where To Find Robert:

https://www.ashrae.org/professional-development/learning-portal/instructor-led-training/ashrae-instructors/robert-bean

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

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Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Ayesha Batool, an esteemed architect and sustainability advisor. In this episode, Dr. Batool delves into the vital importance of window views and their impact on our health and well-being. With her rich experience in projects across Pakistan and the UK, she shares insights from constructing a school and a hospital.

Dr. Batool also introduces us to the concept of Jali screens—traditional architectural elements offering shading, privacy, and ventilation in hot climates—and how they can be adapted for modern buildings. Discover her fascinating research on window views during the COVID-19 lockdown and the significant role of urban views in enhancing psychological well-being.

Tune in to learn about the need for resilient, climate-adaptive architecture and the benefits of incorporating green spaces in urban environments.

More about Dr. Ayesha Batool:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayesha-batool-window-views/

Twitter: @ABatool

Instagram: @d_r_a_b_

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This week, Joe Menchefski chats with Benjamin Markham, President of Acentech, about the crucial role of acoustics in building design. With over two decades of experience, Ben shares how noise impacts occupant comfort and explores strategies to control noise sources effectively.

Joe and Ben dive into the balance between acoustic optimization and other design considerations like human-centered design and energy management systems. Learn how to design spaces with different atmospheres in mind and understand the importance of acoustics in creating a great building.

Whether you're an architect, engineer, or building owner, this episode offers valuable insights into making buildings not just functional but truly comfortable for their occupants.

More about Ben:

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

http://instagram.com/acentechpics/

http://www.linkedin.com/company/acentech

https://www.facebook.com/ACENTECHINC/

http://vimeo.com/acentech

https://www.acentech.com/team-member/benjamin-markham/

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www.advancedglazings.com

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Join us as Debra Shepard, founder of RiverStone Sustainability, shares her journey in sustainability consulting. Discover the importance of integrating sustainability into organizations and influencing decision-makers to adopt greener practices.

Debra explores how buildings can become living labs, promoting environmental responsibility. Learn about zero waste operations and practical steps to minimize waste. She emphasizes resiliency in building design, planning for climate change impacts, and balancing natural light with thermal performance.

Debra also discusses staying current with building science trends through networking and collaboration, and shares insights on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) approaches. Reflecting on a decade of RiverStone Sustainability, she celebrates progress in addressing climate change and envisions a sustainable future.

Tune in to be inspired by Debra’s expertise and passion for sustainability!

Where to Find Debra Shepard:

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

https://www.linkedin.com/company/riverstone-sustainability/https://www.riverstonesustainability.com/

Where To Find Us:

https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/

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In this enlightening episode, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Dr. Glen Jeffery from University College London to explore the fascinating interplay between vision, light environments, and human health. Dr. Jeffery, an expert in experimental psychology, shares his groundbreaking research on how the shift from natural sunlight to LED lighting affects our biology, particularly our mitochondria—the powerhouses of our cells.

Discover the surprising ways different light wavelengths influence energy production, the potential health risks posed by LED lights, and why red light is crucial for maintaining optimal health. Dr. Jeffery also provides practical tips for improving indoor lighting and offers valuable recommendations for architects and engineers on incorporating natural light into building design. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in creating healthier, more productive spaces through better lighting.

Tune in to learn how the right light can transform your environment and boost your well-being.

More about Glen Jeffery:

https://www.cbc.ca/radio/quirks/dec-4-xenobot-self-replication-red-light-for-declining-vision-water-from-the-solar-wind-and-more-1.6269551/exposure-to-deep-red-light-could-help-offset-age-related-vision-declines-1.6271595

https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-jeffery-441a2b1b/?originalSubdomain=uk

Email:  [email protected]

Niralighting.com

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In this episode of Better Buildings For Humans, host Joe Menchefski interviews Tony Bouquot, general manager of the Metal Building Manufacturers Association (MBMA). They explore what defines metal buildings, their optimized engineering, and cost savings. Tony discusses the industry's shift towards high-end applications like offices and retail spaces, emphasizing occupant comfort.

Tony highlights MBMA's initiatives to educate architects, including design competitions, workshops, and architectural folios. They also touch on the importance of daylighting in metal buildings and share exciting industry developments, such as advanced design software and a focus on sustainability.

Tune in to learn how metal buildings are evolving to meet modern architectural demands.

More About Tony:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-bouquot-mbma/mbma.com

https://www.mbmaeducation.org/

https://www.mbmaeducation.org/mbma/linkedin.com/company/metal-building-manufacturers association

twitter.com/learnaboutmbma

www.youtube.com/@MBMAMEDIA

Where To Find Us:

https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/www.advancedglazings.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcast

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Join host Joe Menchefski as he chats with Lone Feifer and Jens Christoffersen from VELUX, the world’s largest skylight manufacturer. Discover how skylights transform spaces by enhancing natural light, ventilation, and air quality. Learn about VELUX’s Living Places project, aiming for a three-time reduction in carbon footprint and healthier indoor climates, guided by principles of health, simplicity, sharing, adaptability, and scalability.

Explore the ambitious LKR Innovation House, transforming old warehouses into a beacon of sustainability and innovation. Lone and Jens highlight the importance of quality building design for environmental sustainability and occupant well-being, supported by scientific knowledge.

Tune in to see how VELUX leads the way in sustainable building and the transformative power of natural light!

More about VELUX:

http://buildforlife.velux.com

http://livingplaces.velux.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/velux/https://www.instagram.com/velux/?hl=en

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

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jens-christoffersen-34b7733/

Where To Find Us:

https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/

www.advancedglazings.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcast

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