Why Architecture Must Become Regenerative Season 1 - Episode 2

Michael Pawlyn - Architect

Real change in the built environment begins when we stop relying on exemplar projects and start shifting the paradigm that shapes them.

In a world where climate reports warn of collapse while markets still claim they are not ready for real solutions, this episode explores why transformative ideas struggle to take root and what it takes to change that. Architect and author Michael Pawlyn joins Chris to trace his journey from pioneering green projects to questioning why so many never leave the drawing board. The conversation turns to Donella Meadows and the question of leverage, revealing that many designers intervene at the shallow end of complex systems instead of at the level of mindset and story.

This episode challenges the assumption that more demonstration projects are enough and reframes change as a shift from sustainable thinking that mitigates harm toward regenerative thinking that optimizes positive impact. It invites you to see yourself as an active shaper of new paradigms, not just a witness to failing ones

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Credits: Host: Chris Luebkeman Video and Audio: Newsroom Producer: Kinny Tran-Marazza Executive Director: Jonelle Simunich

Recorded in 2021