Imagine a Place

Join host Doug Shapiro at ICFF in New York City as he kicks off the new series, "In the ROOM," part of the Imagine a Place podcast. Inspired by the innovative ROOM products, this new series offers intimate, on-the-scene experiences from design events across the country. Be sure to tune in next week, as Doug chats with design luminaries Giulio Cappellini, Luca Nichetto, Susan Lyons, Amy Devers, and many more, to discover fresh insights and personal takes on the latest in design. Don’t miss out—step "In the ROOM" with us! The debut episode of "In the Room" airs on The Imagine a Place podcast feed on Tuesday, May 28th, across all major podcast platforms. To learn more about ROOM, please visit room.com Are you in NYC and want to check out ICFF? Imagine a Place invites you to be our guest! Click here for a complimentary pass. Follow Doug on LinkedIn. Click here to get your copy of Doug's children's book—Design Your World. Follow Imagine a Place on LinkedIn.

What do you get when you survey 70 designers and challenge 10 of the leading minds in design? You get "Game Time," an entertaining and insightful exploration of design concepts and trends. Join host Doug Shapiro in the latest creation from Imagine a Place Productions – a unique game show that merges engaging discussions with exciting gameplay! In this innovative format, two teams, composed of some of the industry's leading minds, go head-to-head in a lively debate and competition. Watch as our participants use their knowledge and wit to compete, all while diving deep into the issues that shape our spaces and lives. Don't miss this blend of competition, discussion, and discovery. Tune in to see who comes out on top in the ultimate design showdown! Watch now! Featuring: Ronnie Belizaire, HKS Erika Moody, Helix Architecture + Design Mark Bryan, Future Today Institute Cheryl Durst, International Interior Design Association Bill Bouchey, Gensler Stacey Crumbaker, Mahlum Architects Inc. Mike Johnson II, Hickok Cole Joe Pettipas, ARCADIS Ana Pinto-Alexander, HKS Abby Scott, HDR Follow Doug on LinkedIn. Click here to get your copy of Doug's children's book—Design Your World. Follow Imagine a Place on LinkedIn.

In this episode, Doug Shapiro sits down with author, podcast host, and thought leader, Rex Miller, to explore the true essence of hospitality in the workplace. Together, they discuss how incorporating hospitality-style design without genuine hospitality experiences creates a disconnect in modern workspaces. Through engaging stories and examples, they reveal how companies like GoDaddy and CBRE have successfully integrated real hospitality to transform their environments and enhance employee interactions. The conversation also previews Rex’s upcoming "Future Travelers" event, aiming to reshape perspectives on work and wellness. Subscribe to The Resilience Lab (an Imagine a Place Production) Follow Doug on LinkedIn. Click here to get your copy of Doug's children's book—Design Your World. Follow Imagine a Place on LinkedIn.

In this episode, host Doug Shapiro sits down with Claire Pijoulat and Odile Hainaut, the dynamic duo behind ICFF and the founders of WantedDesign. From their chance meeting in 2010 to becoming Brand Directors, they share their journey of transforming the International Contemporary Furniture Fair into a vibrant hub for design and community. Discover how they've redefined ICFF by integrating culture with commerce, fostering meaningful connections, and turning the fair into a year-round platform for innovation. Are you in NYC and want to check out ICFF? Imagine a Place invites you to be our guest! Click here for a complimentary pass. Follow Doug on LinkedIn. Click here to get your copy of Doug's children's book—Design Your World. Follow Imagine a Place on LinkedIn.

Is your information diet holding you back? In this episode, guest Mario Vasilescu, founder of Readocracy, explores how to manage our informational intake in a knowledge-driven workforce. Mario likens "informational health" to physical health, emphasizing the need for selective information consumption in an attention-seeking economy. He discusses the societal impacts of AI, urging a critical examination of its effects on job security and privacy. The conversation also highlights the importance of "proof of human knowledge," advocating for verifying human input in the age of AI. Through his platform, Readocracy, Mario helps users validate their learning to enhance professional credibility. Sign up to Readocracy (mention that you heard about it through Imagine a Place to skip the waitlist!) Learn more about The Design POP into Excellence event, use promo code Imagine24 to pay just $1 for your seat! Follow Doug on LinkedIn. Click here to get your copy of Doug's children's book—Design Your World. Follow Imagine a Place on LinkedIn.

In honor of Earth Day, Doug sits down with journalist and founder of Climate Positive Now—Kenn Busch, to discuss the intricacies of carbon management and its environmental implications. Throughout the episode, Kenn demystifies the complex dynamics of carbon's interaction with our environment and highlights some innovative approaches to utilize carbon management for environmental gain. Looking for continuing education credits related to sustainability? Check out Ken's CEU below! Climate Positive Materials for Sustainable Interiors, A CEU course brought to you by OFS Follow Doug on LinkedIn. Click here to get your copy of Doug's children's book—Design Your World. Follow Imagine a Place on LinkedIn.

In a recent episode, Doug asked a question that sparked considerable discussion: should a college degree be mandatory for the NCIDQ exam, or if work experience and apprenticeships be adequate? Responding to insightful listener feedback, Doug invited Jon Otis, a distinguished figure in interior design advocacy and a Professor, to explore the issue further. The feedback varied; some listeners supported alternative licensure paths for their diversity and affordability, while others advocated for the necessity of a bachelor's degree due to the rigor of formal education. This sparked a broader conversation between Doug and Jon about the merits of formal education versus learning through experience. Do you have a hot take? Email Doug at dshapiro@ofs.com with your opinions on the NCIDQ degree requirements. Join The Design Pop's virtual event POP into Excellence Sign up for the POP Into Excellence Event Follow Doug on LinkedIn. Click here to get your copy of Doug's children's book—Design Your World. Follow Imagine a Place on LinkedIn.

Is the private office taking on a new and important role? Is it time for the private office to be reimagined? In this special episode, Doug shares part of a conversation we captured between designer Brian Graham and our very own, Molly Prior. Together, Brian and Molly chat about the rapid shift in management styles that might challenge the traditional use of the private office - from a more hierarchical environment to a more inclusive and flexible space that can encourage open dialogue and create a sense of equality. But, what might that look like for the future of private offices and workspaces in general? Hear more from Brian Graham on this new take on the private office. Watch here. Follow Doug on LinkedIn. Click here to get your copy of Doug's children's book—Design Your World. Follow Imagine a Place on LinkedIn.

In this solo episode, Doug looks back at the first quarter of 2024. He reminisces on insightful past episodes exploring creativity, leadership, and the impact of design on the human experience and our well-being. He also poses an interesting question regarding the NCIDQ exam for interior designers—should a college degree be required for this exam or is significant work experience/apprenticeship enough to suffice? Email Doug at dshapiro@ofs.com with your opinions on the NCIDQ degree requirements. We also look forward, as we have some exciting plans for the podcast network including an upcoming season focused on the power of design in education, new episodes from other shows, and a "surprise" for delivering insights in a unique and exciting way. Follow Doug on LinkedIn. Click here to get your copy of Doug's children's book—Design Your World. Follow Imagine a Place on LinkedIn.

In this episode, Doug is joined by Joey Shimoda of Shimoda Design Group. This reflective conversation spans from Joey's unique upbringing in Alabama and the challenges of growing up in a racially tense environment to the potential impacts of emerging technologies. Growing up in Alabama during a turbulent period in American history—Joey reveals a journey marked by challenges, including his family's history of internment during World War II and the complexities of being one of the few Asian families in his community amidst the racial tensions of the 1960s. This backdrop serves as a foundation for Shimoda's profound insights into the role of curiosity, open-mindedness, and the embrace of both the analog and digital realms in shaping his design practices. Doug and Joey talk about how the implications of technological advancements like AI and the metaverse cannot be overlooked in the field of design. There is a need to emphasize human-centered creativity and tangible experiences in this rapidly changing technological landscape. This conversation not only showcases Joey's illustrious career and musings, but also serves as a testament to the enduring relevance of human creativity in the face of technological change. Follow Doug on LinkedIn. Click here to get your copy of Doug's children's book—Design Your World. Follow Imagine a Place on LinkedIn.

In this episode we talk with Tasha Singh a design student from Drexel University. Tasha's design philosophy centers around fostering social connection and a sense of community through the built environment. Her experiences moving from the close-knit neighborhoods of India tot he more individualistic society of Philadelphia have profoundly shaped her approach. Tasha aims to blur the lines between public and private spaces, creating a "porosity" that encourages casual interactions and chance encounters. Underpinning her work is a deep belief that design should serve those who are often overlooked or forgotten. Tasha advocates for designing with empathy and considering how even the most marginalized might engage with and benefit from the spaces we create. Tasha even touches on a crucial point: the need for designers to slow down, be present, and truly experience how environments impact people's sense of belonging and wellbeing. Tasha's mission is to contribute designs that knit together communities while elevating the voices of the unseen. Follow Doug on LinkedIn. Click here to get your copy of Doug's children's book—Design Your World. Follow Imagine a Place on LinkedIn.

Welcome to a special episode recorded LIVE at the "Crafted for Living" event in collaboration with Carolina and Mannington Commercial. Join us as we sit down with Kevin Swanson, a seasoned expert in Senior Living design at Hawthorn Construction Group. Kevin shares his heartfelt passion for creating spaces that truly cater to the needs of seniors, discussing the delicate balance between aesthetics and safety. From the importance of choosing the right words to implementing small yet impactful changes, Kevin's dedication shines through. Join us for an engaging conversation about the art of designing with purpose and making a meaningful impact in senior living environments We’re also joined by Lauren Morgan, Brand Manager at Carolina, adding her insights to the conversation and a little about her journey into healthcare design. Want to learn more? Visit Carolina's insights page to get a recap of the Crafted for Living event here Follow Doug on LinkedIn. Click here to get your copy of Doug's children's book—Design Your World. Follow Imagine a Place on LinkedIn.

In this special episode for Women's History Month, we've gathered 8 incredible stories of perseverance and personal growth from some of our favorite guests. These stories are not just about the perseverance and achievements of these women but are meant to motivate and encourage everyone listening. You'll also meet Lydia Moya, an executive producer for Imagine a Place, as we take a look back at this episode and reflect on these stories and what this month is all about. Here's a list of our guests in order and links to their original podcast: 1. My Ngyuen 2. Ginger Curtis 3. Charlotte Kingsbury 4. Erin Peavey 5. Kia Weatherspoon 6. Ximena Diaz 7. Debbie Millman 8. Krystal Lucero Follow Doug on LinkedIn. Click here to get your copy of Doug's children's book—Design Your World. Follow Imagine a Place on LinkedIn.

Architect Nadia Borrás Marković takes us back to her childhood in Mexico City, reflecting on special memories of the home her father built and the creative spirit he nurtured in her. She opens up about her persistence in achieving her goals as one of the few women studying architecture. Towards the end, she explains how architecture goes beyond the practical to create connection and the importance of understanding people’s stories. Follow Doug on LinkedIn. Click here to get your copy of Doug's children's book—Design Your World. Follow Imagine a Place on LinkedIn.

Here are some key takeaways from Doug's experience at the New Year New You event in Miami. Authentic intelligence comes from experience and activating our brains, hearts, and souls. There is a difference between artificial intelligence (AI) and authentic intelligence. Artificial intelligence is knowledge gained through algorithmic study and memorization—learning in 2D—while authentic intelligence comes from experience that activates more areas of the brain and leaves emotional imprints. It engages our brains, hearts, and souls. And as AI advances, we need to balance and develop our authentic intelligence through conversations, travel, and immersive experiences. Curiosity is the most important skill in the AI era. Curiosity is singled out as the most important skill in the AI era. With unlimited information at our fingertips, our impact comes from the questions we ask, not just passively accepting the answers we receive. Staying curious allows us to steer our use of AI tools, rather than losing agency and keeps us from falling into sameness. Imperfections make us human. As AI generates hyper-perfect images and content, imperfections make us human. We need to embrace the imperfections and uniqueness that differentiates human creativity from AI. In design, we should move away from perfection and embrace more human, authentic work. Our humanity shines through those imperfections. Follow Doug on LinkedIn. Click here to get your copy of Doug's children's book—Design Your World. Follow Imagine a Place on LinkedIn.

In this episode Doug sits down with David Polzin, Executive Director of Design at Cannon Design in St Louis. David is known for creating and fostering a creative culture within a large organization—something that proves to be more and more difficult. There is an inherent tension between structure and creativity in large organizations which means it can be difficult to spark innovation. But David believes that embracing risk and failure is actually very important for fostering a creative environment. New ideas are born from continuously iterating on ideas, letting go of attachments, and synthesizing constraints. The workplace is changing and the creative process is changing with it. One of David's biggest concerns is that people are becoming disengaged from their physical environments due to immersion in technology and that architecture should enhance lived experience and nature. We are slowly losing our connection to spaces and nature. It's on leaders to adapt their leadership styles to new generations and help rescue the creative process. Overall this is an incredible interview where David shares his thoughtful philosophies on creativity, design, leadership, and the human experience. Follow Doug on LinkedIn. Click here to get your copy of Doug's children's book—Design Your World. Follow Imagine a Place on LinkedIn.

Today is Martin Luther King Jr. day and we are honored to present an interview with renowned architect Curtis Moody, Founder of Moody Nolan. In today's episode, we delve into the profound impact of truth and self-belief on Curtis's life and pioneering achievements. He shares intimate reflections on his upbringing in Columbus, Ohio, highlighted by a pivotal life moment: a school counselor's claim that his skin color barred him from pursuing a career in architecture. This episode is a journey through the challenges and triumphs that have defined Curtis's journey. Curtis shares vivid memories of learning about Dr. King’s assassination as a teenager and the impact this event had on his life. He also discusses how being a competitive athlete impacted his approach to business, including an incredible strategy that landed him the commission to design Ohio State's arena. From the guiding principles he lives by to the projects most meaningful to him, Curtis speaks candidly about the passion and persistence that led him to become one of the most prominent architects in the country. Follow Doug on LinkedIn. Click here to get your copy of Doug's children's book—Design Your World. Follow Imagine a Place on LinkedIn.

In this end-of-year solo episode from Doug Shapiro, he shares how picking a random seat at a dinner changed the course of his life. Doug's story of how he found OFS and became a part of the company is inspiring. It shows that taking initiative can lead to big opportunities and even bigger growth. Doug also gives insight into barriers. The things things that call us the most, the things we know we should do, those are the things we tend to avoid the most. Attack them head on and your possibilities open up tremendously. We also get some holiday and family appreciation from Doug. He is human after all and he couldn't do what he does without the support of those closest to him. Thank you all for a wonderful year! We have big things planned for 2024! Follow Doug on LinkedIn. Click here to get your copy of Doug's children's book—Design Your World. Follow Imagine a Place on LinkedIn.

Earlier this year at NeoCon 2023—OFS, Imagine a Place, and IIDA hosted a lively roundtable discussion focused on sustainability, moderated by sustainability leader George Bandy. The panel featured Stacey Crumbaker, an architect and designer based in Seattle, and Paul Shahriari, founder of green building data platform ecomedes. Their conversation offered wisdom and advice for the next generation of interior designers and architects aiming to make sustainability a priority in their work. How does the next generation get involved and make changes? Building and developing a personal brand that puts you in the position to advocate for sustainable design in your current position is a great way to get involved. Make the case for conscious material choices and their impacts. Legacy mindsets are part of the problem, but designers can create a new legacy mindset—one that aims to reduce consumption and waste, not just meeting minimum requirements. Consider the full lifecycle of your specifications and be mindful of the generational impact. Designers need to redefine beauty and realign the definition with sustainability. Seek out inspiration from a diversity of spaces like food deserts (geographic areas, often low-income neighborhoods, where residents have limited access to affordable, nutritious food), not just affluent communities. We need to design with marginalized users in mind and include them in the process. Learn more about IIDA Learn more about George Bandy Learn more about Stacey Crumbaker Learn more about Paul Shahriari Follow Doug on LinkedIn. Click here to get your copy of Doug's children's book—Design Your World. Follow Imagine a Place on LinkedIn.

NOTE: Todd has left JLL since recording this episode. In this episode, Doug sits down with Todd Edstrom—formerly of JLL. Todd provides insights into why technology is transforming the commercial real estate (CRE) industry—an industry that has been slow to leverage technology. The industry is "curious but skeptical" excited to try new things, but slow to shake the industry. So, what technology is beneficial to the commercial real estate industry? A major theme is the importance of data. How can data be used to inform better decision-making? While data sets such as survey's and utilization/badge data are necessary, Todd argues that productivity data is most important right now to understand exactly how spaces are being used. There's even new technology emerging that uses sensors to capture data and give researchers insight into how a spaces are actually used. Looking into the future, Todd is encouraged by technologies like virtual construction site scans to automatically track progress and tools that use AI to instantly generate 3D space plans from PDFs. It's important to note that these technologies shouldn't replace human relationships and expertise in CRE deals, but should compliment them. Follow Todd Edstrom on LinkedIn. Follow Doug on LinkedIn. Click here to get your copy of Doug's children's book—Design Your World. Follow Imagine a Place on LinkedIn. Follow Doug on LinkedIn. Click here to get your copy of Doug's children's book—Design Your World. Follow Imagine a Place on LinkedIn.