"I’ve never met a woman architect before..." podcast with Michele Grace Hottel, Architect

Hi, It's Michele! Send me a text with who you want as a guest!

This episode with Maha Bazzari of studio MAHA is sponsored by:

Christian Nielsen Palacios of "The Grouchy Architect" Opus 2 MBE, LLC

Christian Nielsen-Palacios is a licensed architect with over 40 years of experience, primarily focused on quality assurance (QA), quality control (QC), and technical specification writing for architectural projects.

LInk to website:

https://thegrouchyarchitect.com/

and

Neal Pann and Apple for Architecture.

Maha Bazzari of studio MAHA

https://studiomaha.com/#Artwork

Maha Bazzari is an architectural photographer, multidisciplinary artist, designer, and educator whose work is rooted in a longstanding relationship with architecture and the built environment. She studied architectural design in the Bay Area and began her career working at MacCracken Architects and HOK in San Francisco before moving to San Diego and joining Carrier Johnson + Culture.

That foundation continues to shape the way she sees and photographs architecture. Rather than approaching a space only as an image, Maha brings a design-trained perspective to how architecture is composed and experienced. Her eye is attuned to angle, light, materiality, proportion, and spatial flow, allowing her to capture the built environment with both technical understanding and artistic sensitivity.

In 2008, she founded studio MAHA, where she built a practice spanning architectural photography, portraiture, visual art, and commissioned creative work. Over time, her studio has grown into an interdisciplinary platform that reflects both her design background and her evolving fine art practice in photography, painting, and sculpture. She also continues to collaborate on architectural design projects with Stephen Strugala Design in Southern California.

Recent highlights include work featured in Space Maker at the La Jolla Historical Society, a permanent photographic collection for Sharp Healthcare’s healing environments, and work featured on the cover of San Diego Magazine and in a six-page photo essay exploring her relationship with San Diego architecture.

Link to MGHarchitect: MIchele Grace Hottel, Architect website for scheduling a consultation for an architecture and design project and guest and podcast sponsorship opportunities:

https://www.mgharchitect.com/

Hi, It's Michele! Send me a text with who you want as a guest!

This episode is sponsored by AIA Santa Barbara

Last December, I was invited to attend the AIA Santa Barbara Design Awards and interviewed architect Barton Myers, FAIA, in what would be one of his last interviews. Please give it a listen and look at his work, which will be in the accompanying blog:

https://inmawomanarchitect.blogspot.com/2026/10/interview-w-barton-myers-faia-of-barton.html

BARTON MYERS, FAIA of BARTON MYERS ASSOCIATES, INC

http://www.bartonmyers.com/Home.html

Born in Norfolk, Virginia, Barton Myers received his Master of Architecture degree from the University of Pennsylvania and subsequently worked with Louis I. Kahn. He established his practice in Toronto in 1968. In 1984, he opened an office in Los Angeles that is now the firm’s base.
In 1986, Mr. Myers was the recipient of the first Toronto Arts Award for Architecture in recognition of his contribution to that city, and in 1994, he received the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada Gold Medal. In 2001 Mr. Myers was awarded the Rudy Bruner award for urban design and in 2002, he was awarded the American Institute of Architects / Los Angeles Chapter Gold Medal.
Barton Myers has taught architecture and planning at both the University of Toronto and Waterloo University. He has also served as the Thomas Jefferson Professor at the University of Virginia, the Graham Professor at the University of Pennsylvania, and has been a Visiting Professor at the Harvard Graduate School of Design.
Mr. Myers has held a continuing appointment as Professor of Architecture at UCLA’s School of Arts and Architecture since 1980 and lectures extensively throughout North America and abroad.

Link to MGHarchitect: MIchele Grace Hottel, Architect website for scheduling a consultation for an architecture and design project and guest and podcast sponsorship opportunities:

https://www.mgharchitect.com/

Hi, It's Michele! Send me a text with who you want as a guest!

This episode was recorded at the KBIS Podcast Studio sponsored by AJ Madison and Neal Pann and Apple for Architecture.

Laurinda H. Spear, FAIA, PLA, LEED AP, IIDA

Principal of Arquitectonica

As a founding principal of Arquitectonica and ArquitectonicaGEO, Ms. Spear has been active from the beginning, and has participated in the design of many projects undertaken by both firms. She studied fine arts at Brown University, received her Master of Architecture degree from Columbia University and later a Master of Landscape Architecture from Florida International University. She has taught at Harvard and the University of Miami. Ms. Spear is interested in educating others in design excellence, she has lectured around the world, and her work has been exhibited in many prestigious museums.

Laurinda has designed many of the firm’s signature projects, and her designs have won over a hundred design awards. Many of Ms. Spear’s projects have been featured in books, as well as prominent magazines and professional journals. She was also instrumental in the expansion of Arquitectonica into design fields beyond architecture and planning. She first established the interior design practice, Arquitectonica Interiors, which earned the firm its place in the Interior Design Hall of Fame. She also created the design products group, Laurinda Spear Products, which has over 150 products on the market under dozens of global brands. In 2005, Laurinda established the landscape architecture practice ArquitectonicaGEO, focusing on environmental land planning, sustainability, innovation, and landscape design.

Laurinda is a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, a Registered Landscape Architect, a member of the American Society of Landscape Architects, and a LEED Accredited Professional. She is a recipient of the AIA Silver Medal, the Rome Prize in Architecture and the ULI Lifetime Achievement Award.

Cecilia E. Ramos of Lutron

Cecilia leads Architecture & Design at Lutron where she drives strategy, creative direction, and design engagement globally. She holds degrees in architecture from MIT and Princeton and has traveled the world as a lighting designer for luxury brands including Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, and Dior Parfums. A frequent international speaker and co-author of the book Architectural Lighting: Designing with Light and Space (Princeton Architectural Press, 2011) she finds creative energy though hiking the world’s stunning landscapes, painting, and designing jewelry for her own brand.

Link to MGHarchitect: MIchele Grace Hottel, Architect website for scheduling a consultation for an architecture and design project and guest and podcast sponsorship opportunities:

https://www.mgharchitect.com/

Hi, It's Michele! Send me a text with who you want as a guest!

This episode is sponsored by:

"The Grouchy Architect" Opus 2 MBE, LLC

Christian Nielsen-Palacios is a licensed architect with over 40 years of experience, primarily focused on quality assurance (QA), quality control (QC), and technical specification writing for architectural projects.

LInk to website:

https://thegrouchyarchitect.com/

This episode is part of the "Design Your Architecture Firm", a mini-series within the podcast I've never met a woman architect before... with Michele Grace Hottel, Architect that will help you design and build the architecture and design firm that you have always wanted and bring in the projects that you will love working on.

Link to Blog for Text and Images:

https://inmawomanarchitect.blogspot.com/2026/01/interview-with-jeff-echols-of.html

Jeff Echols of EchoEngagement

Fractional Chief Innovation Officer, Guiding AEC Leaders and their Teams on developing a Culture of Growth and Innovation | Technology and Business Transformation for Lasting Growth | Human-First Approach to AI | Fostering a Culture of Growth

(317) 434-4221
Let's connect on LinkedIn

Bio: As the AEC industry increases its adoption of AI, Jeff Echols reminds leaders that technology fails without the right culture.

Jeff acts as a strategic partner to firms, helping them move beyond the buzzwords to build a true 'Culture of Growth.' He helps leaders realize that being future-ready isn't about software—it’s about the simultaneous elevation of your people, your organization, and your customers.

If you want to navigate disruption without losing the human connection that drives your success, Jeff is the voice you need to hear.

Link to MGHarchitect: MIchele Grace Hottel, Architect website for scheduling a consultation for an architecture and design project and guest and podcast sponsorship opportunities:

https://www.mgharchitect.com/

Hi, It's Michele! Send me a text with who you want as a guest!

This Episode is sponsored by Minick Materials and Opus 2, MBE LLC:

Minick Materials:

Rock-solid and built to last
Minick Materials has been helping contractors, builders, architects and home owners bring their vision to life for more than 60 years.

405.789.2068 Oklahoma City Location

Link to website:

Wholesale Landscape Materials for Commercial & Residential | Minick Materials

"The Grouchy Architect" Opus 2 MBE, LLC

Christian Nielsen-Palacios is a licensed architect with over 40 years of experience, primarily focused on quality assurance (QA), quality control (QC), and technical specification writing for architectural projects.

LInk to website:

https://thegrouchyarchitect.com/

Link to the Blog for more Images and Resources:

LINK TO BLOG: https://inmawomanarchitect.blogspot.com/2025/12/interview-with-barbara-peterson.html

Barbara Peterson, Landscape Architect

Barbara is from Texas and has been in Oklahoma for just over 4 ½-years. She’s a
registered Landscape Architect in both Texas and Oklahoma and spends her weekends traveling the state where she has now been to and photographed over 420 towns which is over 400 more than she ever stopped at in Texas where she lived since ‘73.
She doesn’t photograph residences or drive through neighborhoods but has seen every architectural style from historic 1800’s brick work to modern glass clad structures. She has been pleasantly surprised at the diversity of Oklahoma architecture because she had previously only drove through Oklahoma on the highway so she never expected the stunning diversity of the state or its architecture.
She was involved for a short time with OK ASLA. And before moving to Tulsa, was
involved and supported a 4-year high school architecture program in north Dallas. Her son and a friend’s daughter both graduated from that program, and both went on to study architecture. Her son is working on his ARE and the friend’s daughter is finishing her university studies.

Link to MGHarchitect: MIchele Grace Hottel, Architect website for scheduling a consultation for an architecture and design project and guest and podcast sponsorship opportunities:

https://www.mgharchitect.com/

Hi, It's Michele! Send me a text with who you want as a guest!

This Year's Holiday Gift List and Book List are sponsored by: Stone Architect

https://suno.com/s/VcvQiyV94XdoEMjA

oday's episode is sponsored by Stone Architect, the natural-stone sourcing company behind the movement Granite Your Planet™ — inspiring cities, architects, and builders to choose materials that truly stand the test of time.

Stone Architect’s mission is simple: build for centuries, not landfills.

While concrete and manufactured products break down every 7 to 20 years — creating massive CO₂ emissions — natural granite is one of the most sustainable building materials on Earth. It’s carbon-light, chemically untouched, and built by nature to last hundreds of years.

From major city streetscapes to public parks, waterfronts, and private developments across North America, Stone Architect helps design teams realize projects that are stronger, cleaner, and dramatically more sustainable for our planet.

If you believe in smarter materials, lower emissions, and public spaces created with intention — join the movement at stonearchitect.org

**Stone Architect — Granite Your Planet™.

Build for the next generation.””

Link to the blog for text and Images and Gift and Book List:

https://inmawomanarchitect.blogspot.com/2025/11/holidaygiftlist-interview-w-alexandra.html

Alexandra Lange

Alexandra Lange is a journalist, design critic, and author. Her essays, reviews and profiles have appeared in numerous design publications including Architect, Harvard Design Magazine, and Metropolis, as well as in The Atlantic, New York Magazine, The New Yorker, and the New York Times. She is a contributing writer for Bloomberg CityLab, and has been a featured writer at Design Observer, an opinion columnist at Dezeen, and the architecture critic for Curbed. In 2025 she was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Criticism for a series on how urban design and architecture affect children and families.

Her last name rhymes with “rang.”

Her latest book, Meet Me by the Fountain: An Inside History of the Mall, was published by Bloomsbury USA in 2022. It received positive reviews in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, The Atlantic, The Economist, and The Nation, as well as coverage on NPR Marketplace, 99 Percent Invisible, Decoder Ring, and The Brian Lehrer Show.

Link to MGHarchitect: MIchele Grace Hottel, Architect website for scheduling a consultation for an architecture and design project and guest and podcast sponsorship opportunities:

https://www.mgharchitect.com/

Hi, It's Michele! Send me a text with who you want as a guest!

This episode is sponsored by "The Grouchy Architect" Opus 2 MBE, LLC

LInk to website:

https://thegrouchyarchitect.com/

This episode is part of the "Design Your Architecture Firm", a mini-series within the podcast I've never met a woman architect before... with Michele Grace Hottel, Architect that will help you design and build the architecture and design firm that you have always wanted and bring in the projects that you will love working on.

Link to the Blog for more Images and Resources:

LINK TO BLOG: https://inmawomanarchitect.blogspot.com/2025/11/interview-with-enoch-sears-of-business.html

ENOCH SEARS: BUSINESS OF ARCHITECTURE

• Firm name: Business of Architecture
• Website: https://businessofarchitecture.com/
• Short bio: “Enoch Sears is an architect and founder of Business of Architecture, helping architects build thriving practices through coaching, courses, and community. He’s been working with architects for over a decade and hosts the Business of Architecture Podcast.”
• Contact: enoch@businessofarchitecture.com

Business of Architecture founder Enoch Sears is well-known for his stand that architectural practice owners don't need to sacrifice their health, relationships, or financial well-being to do work they enjoy. After working in the architectural industry for a decade, he launched the Business of Architecture podcast in 2012 to share the best practices for running a small architectural firm. Over the following decade, he spent more than $4.7 million refining the SMART Practice Operating System, an organized method for running a creatively fulfilling and financially rewarding architectural practice. More than 253 firm owners from around the world run their practices using the SMART Practice Operating System.

Link to MGHarchitect: MIchele Grace Hottel, Architect website for scheduling a consultation for an architecture and design project and guest and podcast sponsorship opportunities:

https://www.mgharchitect.com/

Hi, It's Michele! Send me a text with who you want as a guest!

This episode is sponsored by: ALW Inc. Architectural Lighting Works an LMPG Inc.

At ALW, we illuminate spaces with purpose and precision. As a leader in architectural lighting, we design and manufacture innovative linear, cylindrical, ring, and custom luminaires that elevate every environment _ from workplace to hospitality, education to healthcare.

Our expertise lies in blending performance, aesthetics, and flexibility - delivering lighting that inspires designers and empowers vision. ALW- Illuminating your next project.

Phone: (510) 489-2530 Fax: (650) 249-0412

General Inquiries: TalkToUs@alw-inc.com

Marketing & Press Inquiries: pr@alw-inc.com

Link to blog for text and images:

https://inmawomanarchitect.blogspot.com/2025/11/interview-w-architecturecritic-author.html

Lee Bey is architecture critic for the Chicago Sun-Times and ABC7 News Chicago.

His column covers the Chicago area’s built environment and the architectural, political, racial and historical forces that shape it.

He was a member of the Sun-Times editorial board for six years where he wrote editorials on city governance, neighborhood development, politics and urban planning.

Bey is the author of the much-praised book, Southern Exposure: The Overlooked Architecture of Chicago’s South Side (Northwestern University Press, 2019), which showcases his architectural photography and social commentary.

He was also the host of the public television special, Building Blocks: The Architecture of Chicago’s South Side, which aired on WTTW in 2023. Bey earned a 2023 Midwest Emmy nomination for his work on the program.

He is also an in-demand speaker and media commentator on the subjects of architecture, urban planning, Chicago history and late 20th century Black history and culture.

Bey is an adjunct professor at the Illinois Institute of Technology College of Architecture

A recipient of the 2021 Julius Shulman Institute Excellence in Photography Award, and the 2019 Distinguished Service Award by the Chicago Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA)

Bey is currently working on a book that documents the architecture of Chicago’s West Side.

Link to MGHarchitect: MIchele Grace Hottel, Architect website for scheduling a consultation for an architecture and design project and guest and podcast sponsorship opportunities:

https://www.mgharchitect.com/

Hi, It's Michele! Send me a text with who you want as a guest!

This Episode is sponsored by Opus 2, MBE LLC

http://www.nielsen-palacios.com/architect

http://www.nielsen-palacios.com/testimonials

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

Phone: 607-319-3150

info@thegrouchyarchitect.com

Link to blog for text and images:

https://inmawomanarchitect.blogspot.com/2025/10/interview-w-architect-stephen-chung-of.html

Professional Background

Christian Nielsen-Palacios is a licensed architect with over 40 years of experience, primarily focused on quality assurance (QA), quality control (QC), and technical specification writing for architectural projects. He earned his architecture degree from Universidad Simón Bolívar in Venezuela and later completed a Master’s in the History of Architecture at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY .

After relocating to the U.S. in 1984, Christian worked in various architectural firms, contributing to numerous public school projects. In 1991, he became a registered architect in New York State .

Currently semi-retired, he operates Opus 2 MBE, LLC, offering consulting services that include:

• Peer reviews of construction documents
• Technical specification writing
• Mentorship for architects, especially those in small firms
• Translation and proofreading services in English and Spanish

Christian is active online under the moniker “The Grouchy Architect” (Google him!) where he shares insights on architectural practice, quality control, and professional

Stephen K. Chung, AIA is a registered architect in Florida and Massachusetts and principal of Stephen Chung, Architect. His Boston-based studio is focused on residential and hospitality projects. http://www.stephenchung.com/ Stephen received his architecture degree from Harvard.

His recent projects include a new 89 room boutique hotel in called The Sarasota Modern, three new houses in Sarasota and a townhouse development and residential building both in Boston. In 2020-2024 Stephen won a “Best of Houzz” Award for his residential design work. In March 2009, Casas Internacional published a monograph on his residential work. The book features eleven of his residential projects.

In addition to practice, Stephen has taught architectural design at several institutions, including Cornell, Rhode Island School of Design, the University of Texas at Austin and Yale University. Currently he is an Adjunct Professor of Interior Architecture at Suffolk University.

Stephen is committed to bridging the gap between the architecture profession and the general public. To this end, Stephen was the creator, executive producer and host of the acclaimed public television series called “Cool Spaces: The Best New Architecture”. Season 1 of this landmark series debuted on PBS in 2014.

Stephen also hosted a podcast show called “Design Your Dream Home” with architect Doug Patt. The podcast provided advice to those wanting to design their dream home. http://www.thedougandsteveshow.com/

Link to MGHarchitect: MIchele Grace Hottel, Architect website for scheduling a consultation for an architecture and design project and guest and podcast sponsorship opportunities:

https://www.mgharchitect.com/

Hi, It's Michele! Send me a text with who you want as a guest!

This episode is brought to you by:

The Synthetic Grass Store is Family-owned & operated since 2008, we are a nationwide warehouse distributor of wholesale turf. We partner with architects, realtors, contractors, and design professionals to deliver premium turf solutions for any project. .a local family-owned turf wholesale company. We specialize in selling premium quality artificial grass, and we often work with architects to deliver turf for both residential and commercial projects. With a focus on helping folks in AZ conserve water by switching to artificial grass. While we list our pricing on the website, we're happy to work with you to find a great product that also fits within your budget.

Call The Synthetic Grass Store today for a free quote at 602-491-2989

AZ Turf Masters is our sister company, specializing in landscape design services such as hardscape, xeriscape, turf installation and putting green installation services. Since 2006, with our team of experts, we’ve been transforming landscapes and building beautiful landscapes across Arizona. Our services include premium artificial grass installations, luxury putting greens, hardscape services, and a full range of innovative design-build solutions for residential and commercial projects. Plus, we can help answer any project questions you have, from ideation to warranty info and more. ROC 234276.

Call Arizona Turf Masters today for a free estimate at 480-751-4343.

AND FAR 12 STEEL DOORS AND PRODUCTS

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Ing. Edmundo Parra Robles

Teléfono: +52 (662) 210 5364 | Celular: +52 (662) 120 6484FAR 12 - Proyectos y Soluciones Metálicas

Pima #43, Col. San Luis
Hermosillo, Sonora, México.

LINK TO BLOG FOR IMAGES AND TEXT https://inmawomanarchitect.blogspot.com/2025/10/natalia-hayes-of-dust-architects-this.html

Natalia Zieman Hayes is a Principal at DUST, an architecture studio in Tucson, Arizona, where she has been working for the past five years. Natalia’s experience spans over 16 years and includes a wide range of project types, scales, and regions. She has overseen projects from initial design concepts through construction and coordinated large teams for complex projects, many of which have been internationally recognized. She is passionate about designing spaces that are conceptual and sensitive, while honoring their connection to the environment and cultural roots. Natalia grew up in Dallas, Texas, and graduated from the University of Texas at Austin. Before joining DUST, Natalia spent over a decade working at Studio Rick Joy, where she played a key role in designing and managing the studio’s work and team.

Link to MGHarchitect: MIchele Grace Hottel, Architect website for scheduling a consultation for an architecture and design project and guest and podcast sponsorship opportunities:

https://www.mgharchitect.com/

Hi, It's Michele! Send me a text with who you want as a guest!

This episode is sponsored by: ALW Inc. "Illuminate the soul"

“Yes.” It’s one of our favorite words here at ALW. And we strive to say it often. When you ask for a customized luminaire, need an order shipped by a specific date or have other special requests; our goal is to reply, “Yes, we can do that.”

Of course, not every wish can be granted, but we promise to do our very best to find solutions that will meet your needs and those of your clients. And we’ll do so with a smile, timely communication and a steadfast commitment to delivering a world-class customer experience.

Phone: (510) 489-2530 Fax: (650) 249-0412

General Inquiries: TalkToUs@alw-inc.com

Marketing & Press Inquiries: pr@alw-inc.com

LINK TO BLOG FOR IMAGES AND TEXT https://inmawomanarchitect.blogspot.com/2025/09/interview-w-eric-wittman-architect-of.html

Eric Wittman, Architect of Knickerbocker Group https://www.knickerbockergroup.com/contact/ and Archinktober https://www.instagram.com/ricow/ has nearly 20 years of experience, and has worked on an array of projects from single-family homes and small retail projects to entire schools and hospitals in Kansas, California and Maine. A thoughtful listener, he appreciates collaborating with clients to understand their wants and seeks to provide creative solutions. An avid sketcher, Eric appreciates that his role allows him to partner with clients throughout the entire design process—from initial sketches to finalized construction documents. Eric is a dedicated member of the design community, he previously served as editor of a state-wide architecture magazine, was the AIA President in Wichita, Kansas, and was on the Architalx Board in Portland, Maine for many years. Eric and his young family are happy to call Maine home and enjoy adventuring throughout the state together.

Link to MGHarchitect: MIchele Grace Hottel, Architect website for scheduling a consultation for an architecture and design project and guest and podcast sponsorship opportunities:

https://www.mgharchitect.com/

Hi, It's Michele! Send me a text with who you want as a guest!

This episode is brought to you by:

The Synthetic Grass Store is Family-owned & operated since 2008, we are a nationwide warehouse distributor of wholesale turf. We partner with architects, realtors, contractors, and design professionals to deliver premium turf solutions for any project. .a local family-owned turf wholesale company. We specialize in selling premium quality artificial grass, and we often work with architects to deliver turf for both residential and commercial projects. With a focus on helping folks in AZ conserve water by switching to artificial grass. While we list our pricing on the website, we're happy to work with you to find a great product that also fits within your budget.

Call The Synthetic Grass Store today for a free quote at 602-491-2989

AZ Turf Masters is our sister company, specializing in landscape design services such as hardscape, xeriscape, turf installation and putting green installation services. Since 2006, with our team of experts, we’ve been transforming landscapes and building beautiful landscapes across Arizona. Our services include premium artificial grass installations, luxury putting greens, hardscape services, and a full range of innovative design-build solutions for residential and commercial projects. Plus, we can help answer any project questions you have, from ideation to warranty info and more. ROC 234276.

Call Arizona Turf Masters today for a free estimate at 480-751-4343.

Link to the Blog for more Images and Resources: https://inmawomanarchitect.blogspot.com/2025/09/brittainy-williamson-shawna-glazier.html

beSpoke Real Estate https://bespokephx.com/
Founded by Broker/Owner Shawna Glazier in 2015, beSpoke real
estate stands out from other Arizona real estate brokerages by offering
clients a unique real estate experience. The core values of beSpoke are
a passion for architecture, a love of interior design, expert knowledge
of all aspects of Arizona real estate and an unparalleled level of
excellent client service. It is our goal at beSpoke to work hand in hand
with each client to ensure their satisfaction. Every individual & family
receives the time, attention, research and focus they deserve while
making such a big decision. Every transaction is different. At beSpoke
real estate, there is no cookie-cutter approach. The details and
intricacies of each situation are handled with the utmost care and
expertise. From beginning to end, each and every one of our clients
receives “a tailored real estate experience”.

Shawna Glazier, Designated Broker/Owner Shawna@beSpokePhx.com
Shawna Glazier is a licensed real estate broker in Arizona. Her
practice began 20 years ago. She has created a reputation as a
tenacious negotiator who can assure her clients that they will receive
the highest level of service available in the industry.

Brittainy Williamson, Associate Broker Brittainy@beSpokephx.com
Brittainy Williamson is a dedicated professional with a passion for
helping others. Brittainy believes that the best way to achieve your
dreams is to help others achieve theirs. This is why she became a
REALTOR®.

Link to MGHarchitect: MIchele Grace Hottel, Architect website for scheduling a consultation for an architecture and design project and guest and podcast sponsorship opportunities:

https://www.mgharchitect.com/

Hi, It's Michele! Send me a text with who you want as a guest!

This episode is brought to you by:

massetticonsulting.com

Massetti Consulting, LLC is a California Limited Liability Company and Certified Small Business Enterprise, with a focus on Program, Project and Construction Management. We are true advocates for our clients and offer personalized dedication to your projects. We are a small firm with big firm experience.

Massetti Consulting is well versed in conceptual project development, funding/financing strategies, design professional procurement and oversight, constructability reviews and backcheck and value engineering support.

This episode with Interview with Ralph Mechur, AIA of Mechur Architect is part of a series on the Wildfire Rebuild in the Los Angeles and Altadena and Environs

Link to the Blog for more Images and Resources: https://inmawomanarchitect.blogspot.com/2025/08/interview-with-ralph-mechur-aia-of.html

Ralph Mechur, AIA of Ralph Mechur Architects

Ralph Mechur Architects

2800 Airport Ave., #1A

Santa Monica, CA 90405

(cell) 310-721-1254
(tel) 310-398-2940
www.rmechurarchitects.com ralph@rmechurarchitects.com

Community
Ralph is guided by the belief that a community can, and should, be built with the basic agreement that everyone deserves access to a safe home, a quality education, and a strong community.
Ralph's work on City boards and commissions, non- profit organizations and the Santa Mónica-Malibu Unified School District Board of Education has been recognized by community and regional leaders, including the California State Assembly and Senate, the Los Angeles City Council, the Church in Ocean Park in Santa Monica, and from the AIA as a Citizen Architect.
Ralph's practice, established in 1992, has maintained a focus on housing and social
agency projects, including providing pro-bono services for several projects that align with his focus on providing space for everyone to have shelter and opportunities for success.
Housing
Few things are more important than ensuring people have the dignity of a safe home to live in. Ralph's focus on solutions to the housing crisis as a community leader and practitioner have led to policies and examples that can lead to the creation of a more inclusive, equitable, and affordable community.
In 2006, Ralph designed the OPCC/Annenberg Access Center, which provides essential services to over 200 homeless individuals daily, including food, health care, counseling, job placement, laundry, and showers.
Since 2017, Ralph has served on the Board of Directors of the Community Corporation of Santa Monica, where he helps oversee the development of new affordable housing projects and the maintenance of over 2,000 units across Santa Monica and neighboring areas. His connection to Community Corporation dates back to the 1980s when he designed its first ground-up project—a 43- unit development across five sites in an older neighborhood for low-income individuals and families.

Education
In 2001, Ralph co-founded the Community for Excellent Public Schools (CEPS), an
advocacy group that successfully secured a $6 million annual agreement with the City of Santa Monica, in exchange for community use of facilities. These funds help maintain and expand existing programs and smaller class sizes that had been lost due to reductions in State funding to its public schools. Currently the City provides over $10 million annually.
Ralph was a Board member of the Santa Monica- Malibu Education Foundation

Link to MGHarchitect: MIchele Grace Hottel, Architect website for scheduling a consultation for an architecture and design project and guest and podcast sponsorship opportunities:

https://www.mgharchitect.com/

Hi, It's Michele! Send me a text with who you want as a guest!

This episode is brought to you by:

The Synthetic Grass Store

We are a locally owned and family-operated artificial grass wholesale business, headquartered in North Phoenix, AZ. Since 2008, we've grown our business across the Southwestern USA, with multiple locations in Arizona, California, and now Texas. We offer a wide range of premium quality turf products for both residential and commercial applications, including: lawns, putting greens, dog runs & pet spaces, parks, playgrounds, sports courts, athletic fields, and more. We're known for our exceptional customer service, and providing detailed technical specifications for landscape architects, contractors, landscape designers, interior designers, and other industry professionals. Our team of knowledgeable, friendly turf experts works as a collaborative partner, delivering project-based information, support, and expertise to help bring your design vision to life using premium quality + high-performing turf solutions. Contact us to learn more. (602) 491-2989 or contactus@syntheticgrassstore.com.

and

Arizona Turf Masters

Since 2006, our team has served as Arizona's premier landscape design and installation experts. We are headquartered in Phoenix, AZ, with showroom locations in Mesa, Avondale, and Tucson. Our services include a wide range of residential and commercial landscaping specialties, including: artificial grass installation, hardscape, xeriscape, pavers, pergolas, luxury putting greens, sports courts, playgrounds, condominium rooftops, and much more. We start by taking the time to understand the project vision, working closely with each customer to transform landscapes into beautiful, functional spaces. Contact us to learn more. (480) 751-4343 or contactus@azturfmasters.com.

Link to Blog for text and Images:

https://inmawomanarchitect.blogspot.com/2025/08/interview-with-cavin-costello-of-ranch.html

Cavin Costello is the co-founder of The Ranch Mine, an architecture firm based in Phoenix, Arizona, best known for modern homes that connect people to nature and each other. Since 2010, Cavin, a past recipient of the AIA’s “Future of Architecture” award, has led the design of over 250 projects across four continents, earning international recognition and national awards for his work that reimagines what it means to live well in dynamic natural environments.

From The Ranch Mine website:

https://www.theranchmine.com/

"In 2009, Cavin Costello received his Master of Architecture degree and made the drive to Phoenix, Arizona sight unseen, inspired by the complexities and opportunities to be had in the American Southwest. He had not yet been a full day in Phoenix when he met Claire, a Phoenix native looking to make the most of her recent move back home. The two quickly bonded over their ideals of the built environment, how to improve upon it and its ability to influence. Not settling for a hard hit economy to dictate their next move, the duo decided to act. So, they bought a fixer upper and experienced first hand the trials and tribulations of a major renovation. This renovation landed on the front page of the newspaper, propelling The Ranch Mine into the local spotlight and capturing the attention of trailblazing homeowners and forward-thinking developers, sparking the journey to where we are today."

Link to MGHarchitect: MIchele Grace Hottel, Architect website for scheduling a consultation for an architecture and design project and guest and podcast sponsorship opportunities:

https://www.mgharchitect.com/

Hi, It's Michele! Send me a text with who you want as a guest!

This episode is brought to you by:

Lutron and Ketra

On behalf of Lutron, thanks for listening. If you’d like to learn more about our product portfolio, visit Luxury.Lutron.com. If you are a specifier, you can also download our free Luxury Experience app for design partners on iPad here.

Lutron Ketra contact:

Alex Tomiczek

Sales Supervisor | South Central

Residential Systems Consultant – A&D

Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.

atomiczek@lutron.com

(484) 560-7096

AND

Apple for Architects

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Have you ever wondered what the story was behind Energy Star? Well listen to this great podcast with Peter Pfeiffer, FAIA Architect of Barley Pfeiffer Architecture and I as we discuss the history of sustainability in the Austin area which became a leading metric for energy savings today.

Link to blog for more text and images:

https://inmawomanarchitect.blogspot.com/2025/08/interview-with-peter-pfeiffer-faia-of.html

BarleyPfeiffer.com 1800 West 6th Street, Austin, Texas 78703 512.476.8580

https://www.barleypfeiffer.com/

Peter Pfeiffer, FAIA is a renowned architect, building scientist, author, and
sustainability pioneer with over four decades of experience. As the founding principal of Barley|Pfeiffer Architecture, he has led the firm to national recognition for its innovative, climate-responsive designs. A passionate advocate for green building, Peter has beennstrumental in shaping industry standards through his le adership roles in government, professional organizations, and academia. His commitment to making sustainable design accessible to a wider audience has earned him widespread acclaim. With a comprehensive understanding of the built environment, Peter has been published in the Washington Post, New York Times, Fine Homebuilding and featured on the Discovery Channel and National Public Radio. Peter has been honored as the "National Green Advocate of the Year” by the National Association of Homes Builders and named the “Green Superhero of the Year” recently at the International Building Show.

Link to MGHarchitect: MIchele Grace Hottel, Architect website for scheduling a consultation for an architecture and design project and guest and podcast sponsorship opportunities:

https://www.mgharchitect.com/

Hi, It's Michele! Send me a text with who you want as a guest!

This episode is brought to you by

Fleetwood Windows & Doors—the premier Southern California–based manufacturer of luxury aluminum windows and doors. Known for exceptional quality, energy efficiency, coastal performance, fire resiliency, and sustainable design, Fleetwood is proud to support communities in need through their Fire Rebuild Program, now available to those affected by the Pacific Palisades fire.

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This episode with Stuart Narofsky, FAIA and Jennifer Rusch of Narofsky Architecture is part of a series on the Wildfire Rebuild in the Los Angeles and Altadena and Environs

Link to the Blog for more Images and Resources:

https://inmawomanarchitect.blogspot.com/2025/07/stuart-narofsky-and-jennifer-rusch.html

https://www.narofsky.com/

Stuart Narofsky, FAIA, is the principal of Narofsky Architecture, a multi-
discipline design firm. An AIA member since 1983, he was the recipient
of AIA Long Island’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013 and a special
recognition award in 2023. His projects are highly recognized through
AIA Long Island Archi awards and other prestigious national and
international design awards. The firm has been regularly featured in
national and international publications, movies, tv series and exhibitions.
.Dedicated to pro bono service, he was honored by the
Holocaust Memorial & Tolerance Center of Nassau County for his work in
designing a children’s memorial garden and for the production of an
accompanying short film. Stuart has served on the
Advisory board of CRAN (Custom Residential Architects Network) for 14
years and as the CRAN Chair in 2018. In 2016 Stuart was
inducted as a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects.

Jennifer Rusch, managing partner Narofsky Architecture

Ms. Rusch joined the firm in 2003. As managing partner, Jennifer’s focus is to create a creative studio environment while capitalizing on emerging talent. She leads the interior design team of the studio collaborating with Stuart and his architectural team in a seamless transition through the various stages of design.

Jennifer has worked in various fields in design such as medical, residential, hospitality, retail, and commercial. As well as working in Interior Design, she has experience in Architecture and construction including custom single–family residences, retail stores, and corporate office interiors. Having worked on projects both grand and quaint, Jennifer’s priority is to provide her client with the environment they envision. It is a process in which the client must always remain comfortable, whether the needs be extreme attention to design detain or fast track installation.

Link to MGHarchitect: MIchele Grace Hottel, Architect website for scheduling a consultation for an architecture and design project and guest and podcast sponsorship opportunities:

https://www.mgharchitect.com/

Hi, It's Michele! Send me a text with who you want as a guest!

TODAY’S EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY AWAKE DOORS AND WINDOWS

" Less Us, More View"

Elevate your designs with Awake Window & Door Co.—where precision engineering meets inspired architecture. Awake’s minimal-profile, customizable window and door systems frame views, sculpt light, and deliver stunning aesthetics, all crafted from architectural-grade materials.

But Awake’s more than products. It's built on a social mission to create second-chance employment and foster a culture of gratitude, ownership, and learning. When you specify Awake, you partner with a team that values people as much as performance.

Join architects who trust Awake to realize their vision with clean lines, sustainable excellence, and purpose-driven craftsmanship. Learn more at http://awakewdc.com/ and discover “Less Us, More View”.

Link to blog for more text and images:

https://inmawomanarchitect.blogspot.com/2025/07/interview-w-jonathan-segal-faia-of.html

Jonathan Segal, FAIA & Development Company

Jonathan Segal FAIA & Development Company has been awarded six national AIA Honor Awards for their housing work.

They have been responsible for the design and development of over 300 medium to high-density urban residential, mixed use, and live/work units totaling over 300,000 square feet of construction.

Segal is considered one of San Diego, California's most successful and pioneering residential architectural/development companies and has a reputation for providing superior housing at a lower cost than comparable properties. Their focus is exclusively on urban projects, ranging from 80 to 160 dwelling units per acre.

Segal has been the recipient of numerous accolades including 40 local, state and national AIA awards for residential and Urban Design.

Over the past twenty years, Segal has created and modeled the unique practice of "Architect as Developer", a prototype in which the architect has the ability to become the owner, therefore eliminating the client and the general contractor from the design and building process. Segal teaches this concept of "Architect as Developer" in an online video course for architects. You can learn more about theArchitect as Developer course at the link..

Jonathan Segal FAIA is also available to serve as an expert witness for development disputes, construction defect litigation, and condemnation law. Learn more about hisexpert witness services at the link.

https://www.jonathansegalarchitect.com/
3000 Upas St. #101
San Diego, CA 92104
(619) 955-5397

10 Best Women in Architecture Podcasts You Must Follow in 2025

Link to MGHarchitect: MIchele Grace Hottel, Architect website for scheduling a consultation for an architecture and design project and guest and podcast sponsorship opportunities:

https://www.mgharchitect.com/

Hi, It's Michele! Send me a text with who you want as a guest!

This Episode is sponsored by BIBI: Banou in the Building Industry:

1. Anosha Zanjani: Mindful Insights Consulting; anosha.zanjani@columbia.edu; https://www.whitehallmfg.com/blog/anosha-zanjanis-design-revolution;

2. Bahi Oreizy: 360 Design Studio; bahi@360designstudio.net; https://www.360designstudio.net/;

3. Marzi Emami: Kohan Group; marzi@kohaninc.com; https://kohaninc.com/;

4. Elmira Alamdari: M+A Studio; elmira@mplusa-studio.com; https://www.mplusa-studio.com/;

5. PariSima Hassani: WestGroup Design; parisimah@westgroupdesigns.com; https://westgroupdesigns.com/;

6. Rudabeh (Rudy) Pakravan: Sidell Pakravan Studio; rudabeh@sidellpakravan.com; https://www.sidellpakravan.com/;

7. Sepideh (Sepi) Amin: SA Studio; sepie.amin@gmail.com; https://sastudio.design/

See the link to the blog for more of their information and Text and Images of Mani's 3 Claasic Buildings and my thoughts...

https://inmawomanarchitect.blogspot.com/2025/06/Ive never met a woman architect beofre blog... with Michele Grace Hottel Architect Mani Farhadi.html

Mani Ardalan Farhadi
Associate AIA, LEED AP
Senior Facilities Planner
https://linktr.ee/manifarhadi

A global thinker and creative thought leader, Mani Ardalan Farhadi’s experience spans three decades of design and planning for places of learning. Mani is a Senior Planner at Stanford University, in the School of Medicine. Her passion is focused on creating inclusive environments, in combination with her extensive planning skills. Her expertise is in designing from the inside-out through cultural and human-centered principles. Using collaborative skills, she is instrumental in developing interdisciplinary initiatives and emerging strategies.

Described as ‘the client in the room”, Mani’s keen ability to listen builds consensus within user group settings. Leveraging her perspective, Mani has led workshops, facilitated Town Halls, and presented at various conferences (Higher Education Forum, SCUP, AIA, CoDesign Collaborative, WIA, EQXD, ACSA,SAH, SPUR, SF Design Week, CCFC, CCLC, A4LE). Furthermore, she has recorded presentations and podcasts, plus authored several publications and blogs ranging from “Design Your Life” to “An Education to Remember.”

Her leadership extends into a wide range of&

Link to MGHarchitect: MIchele Grace Hottel, Architect website for scheduling a consultation for an architecture and design project and guest and podcast sponsorship opportunities:

https://www.mgharchitect.com/

Hi, It's Michele! Send me a text with who you want as a guest!

This special #FathersDay Episode is sponsored by Opus 2, MBE LLC

http://www.nielsen-palacios.com/architect

http://www.nielsen-palacios.com/testimonials

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

https://www.facebook.com/thegrouchyarchitect

Phone: 607-319-3150

info@thegrouchyarchitect.com

Link to blog for text and images:

https://inmawomanarchitect.blogspot.com/2025/06/christian-nielsenpalacios-grouchy.html

Professional Background

Christian Nielsen-Palacios is a licensed architect with over 40 years of experience, primarily focused on quality assurance (QA), quality control (QC), and technical specification writing for architectural projects. He earned his architecture degree from Universidad Simón Bolívar in Venezuela and later completed a Master’s in the History of Architecture at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY .

After relocating to the U.S. in 1984, Christian worked in various architectural firms, contributing to numerous public school projects. In 1991, he became a registered architect in New York State .

Currently semi-retired, he operates Opus 2 MBE, LLC, offering consulting services that include:

• Peer reviews of construction documents
• Technical specification writing
• Mentorship for architects, especially those in small firms
• Translation and proofreading services in English and Spanish

Christian is active online under the moniker “The Grouchy Architect” (Google him!) where he shares insights on architectural practice, quality control, and professional development.

He also maintains a presence on LinkedIn, where he engages with the architectural community, and on Facebook, sharing both professional and personal content.

Christian was featured on the Immigrant Architects Coalition Podcast, discussing his journey from Venezuela to the U.S., his experiences in the architectural field, and his transition into consulting. The episode, titled “How I Became The Grouchy Architect”, provides valuable insights into his career and philosophy.

His Master's thesis at Cornell University focused on the evolution of architectural education, particularly Cornell University's shift from Beaux-Arts to Modernism between 1928 and 1950. This research underscores his deep interest in the historical context of architectural practices.

Link to MGHarchitect: MIchele Grace Hottel, Architect website for scheduling a consultation for an architecture and design project and guest and podcast sponsorship opportunities:

https://www.mgharchitect.com/

Hi, It's Michele! Send me a text with who you want as a guest!

This episode is sponsored by "The Grouchy Architect" Opus 2 MBE, LLC

LInk to website:

https://thegrouchyarchitect.com/

This episode is part of a series on the Wildfire Rebuild in the Los Angeles and Altadena and Environs

Link to the Blog for more Images and Resources:

LINK TO BLOG: https://inmawomanarchitect.blogspot.com/2025/06/interview-with-nichole-cannon-aia-of.html

Nicole Cannon, AIA, is the founder of NCA Studio Inc., bringing over twenty years of expertise in design, construction, and management to her practice. Her architectural experience spans hospitality, commercial, education, retail, broadcast, and residential sectors. Nicole is passionate about enhancing quality of life through creative problem-solving and innovative design, from initial concept to final construction. She is dedicated to creating remarkable spaces with practical, sustainable, and imaginative solutions.

Before founding NCA Studio in 2013, Nicole led award-winning, multi-million dollar projects at renowned firms such as Clive Wilkinson Architects, Marmol Radziner + Associates, Pugh + Scarpa, and Osborn Architects. She honed her expertise in single-family homes, offices, restaurants, broadcast facilities, and schools, contributing to numerous high-profile projects including KCRW Radio Station at Santa Monica College, Paperfish Restaurant in Beverly Hills for the Patina Group, Maguire Partners Headquarters in Santa Monica, and Fenton Primary (K-2) Center in Pacoima, CA, as well as several high-end residential projects. Nicole holds a Bachelor of Architecture degree from the University of Texas at Austin.

Deeply embedded in the greater Los Angeles community, Nicole has explored how spaces can bring people together and improve quality of life. Her practice and professional associations reflect her passions for sustainable design and leadership. She is a licensed California architect and an active member of AIA, International Interior Design Association, NCARB, and the Association for Women in Architecture + Design. She is also a former chair of the AIA Committee on the Environment.

Nicole has spoken on Sustainable Design at Highrise Networks and the Dwell on Design Conference, received numerous architectural awards, and been nominated for the Los Angeles Business Journal’s Women’s Leadership Award as well as list in their Women of Influence 2025. Through her work, she continues to explore and advocate for sustainable, community-focused design that fosters connection and enhances everyday life

Link to MGHarchitect: MIchele Grace Hottel, Architect website for scheduling a consultation for an architecture and design project and guest and podcast sponsorship opportunities:

https://www.mgharchitect.com/