Most Building Projects Are Set Up to Fail Before Design Even Begins — The Costly Disconnect Between Real Estate, Architecture & Construction – Episode 144 with Jonathan Wolk

This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes architect, builder, real estate broker, and entrepreneur Jonathan Wolk, founder and CEO of WOLK360, for a thought-provoking conversation about reimagining the way buildings are designed, purchased, and constructed. Drawing on decades of experience across architecture, construction, and real estate, Jonathan explains why the traditional separation of these disciplines often creates unnecessary friction, inefficiencies, and missed opportunities—and how a more integrated approach can lead to better outcomes for clients, communities, and the built environment.The discussion explores everything from design-build delivery and client relationships to housing renovations, sustainable construction, daylighting, waste reduction, and the growing complexity of modern building projects. Jonathan shares how involving design, construction, and real estate expertise from the earliest stages of a project can help avoid costly mistakes, preserve design intent, improve project execution, and create buildings that truly reflect the needs and aspirations of the people who use them.The conversation also dives into broader questions about sustainability, building performance, modular construction, material selection, and what makes architecture meaningful beyond simple cost calculations. Along the way, Jonathan offers insights into the emotional side of building projects, the importance of natural light, and why great buildings should do more than provide shelter—they should enhance the lives of the people who experience them every day. It's an engaging look at how a holistic, human-centered approach to design and construction can create buildings that are not only more efficient and sustainable, but also more inspiring, functional, and deeply connected to the people they serve.More About Jonathan WolkJonathan Wolk, AIA is a licensed architect, real estate broker, and unlimited licensed general contractor in North Carolina. He works closely with clients to achieve outstanding project outcomes, leading multidisciplinary teams through both design and construction. Jonathan specializes in building programming and a wide range of project types, delivering high-performance facilities that respond to their context while exceeding client expectations. He believes the best projects are created through collaboration and active stakeholder involvement. His work has earned numerous honors, including the Triangle Business Journal 40 Under 40 Leadership Award, Sir Walter Raleigh Award for Best Community Project, USGBC LEED Platinum and Silver certifications, Business Leader Top 100 Small Businesses recognition, the NCAIA Award for the Coty Control Center, and features in the Duke University Museum of Art and NC Architecture Magazine.Contact:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanw2 https://www.instagram.com/wolk360db/ https://share.google/Ryjobkje8H7XnnsQF Where To Find Us:https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/www.advancedglazings.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcastwww.linkedin.com/in/advanced-glazings-ltd-848b4625https://twitter.com/bbfhpodhttps://twitter.com/Solera_Daylighthttps://www.instagram.com/bbfhpod/https://www.instagram.com/advancedglazingsltdhttps://www.facebook.com/AdvancedGlazingsltd

This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Alaric Venne of BrainBox AI, now part of Trane Technologies, for a fascinating conversation about artificial intelligence, building performance, energy efficiency, and the future of smart buildings. Drawing on his experience helping organizations deploy AI-driven HVAC optimization at scale, Alaric explains how predictive technologies are transforming the way buildings operate—moving from reactive systems that respond to problems after they occur to intelligent systems that anticipate them before occupants ever notice.The discussion explores everything from machine learning and predictive controls to occupant comfort, equipment longevity, decarbonization, and the challenges of integrating modern AI solutions with existing building infrastructure. Alaric shares how AI can reduce energy consumption, improve indoor environmental quality, extend the life of critical building systems, and help organizations achieve ambitious sustainability goals without major capital investments.The conversation also dives into the broader implications of artificial intelligence in the built environment, addressing common concerns about trust, automation, and responsible AI while highlighting the opportunities that emerge when technology is used to support—not replace—the people who design, operate, and occupy our buildings. It's an insightful look at how smarter decision-making, predictive building operations, and human-centered innovation could play a major role in creating healthier, more sustainable, and higher-performing buildings for the future.More About Alaric VenneAlaric Venne has been tightly connected with Brainbox AI since its inception in 2017. He currently serves as a technical consultant for Trane Canada's portfolio. Alaric works closely with Trane Technologies to integrate innovative solutions that reduce operational costs and improve energy efficiency. With a strong background in the commercial sector and deep expertise in cutting-edge technologies, he is recognized for his commitment to sustainability and innovation. His work contributes to transforming the building control market.CONTACT:https://brainboxai.com/en/https://www.linkedin.com/in/alaric-venne/ Where To Find Us:https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/www.advancedglazings.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcastwww.linkedin.com/in/advanced-glazings-ltd-848b4625https://twitter.com/bbfhpodhttps://twitter.com/Solera_Daylighthttps://www.instagram.com/bbfhpod/https://www.instagram.com/advancedglazingsltdhttps://www.facebook.com/AdvancedGlazingsltd

This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes architect, entrepreneur, and provocateur Alexander Josephson for a wide-ranging conversation about the future of architecture, city-building, sustainability, and the role of design in shaping culture. Drawing on his journey from rebellious young designer to co-founder of the internationally recognized architecture firm Partisans, Alexander challenges conventional thinking about how we create buildings, neighborhoods, and cities.The discussion explores everything from Toronto’s rapid growth and the unintended consequences of modern planning policies to the importance of beauty, identity, and emotional connection in the built environment. Alexander shares his views on why architecture is inherently political, why cities should reward innovation and design excellence, and how Canada can unlock its potential by investing in local talent, manufacturing, and visionary thinking.The conversation also ventures beyond traditional architecture into emerging ideas like digital memorialization, immersive virtual environments, and what Alexander calls “post-physical architecture.” It’s a thought-provoking episode about the responsibility architects have to leave the world better than they found it—and why the buildings and cities we create should inspire something more than indifference.More About Alexander JosephsonBorn in Toronto, Canada. Alex Josephson studied architecture at the University of Waterloo and in Rome. He co-founded PARTISANS in 2012 after dropping out of the Architectural Association School of Architecture (AA). Alex is the only Canadian to have received the New York Prize Fellowship at the Van Alen Institute, he was named 2015 Best Emerging Designer by Canada’s Design Exchange. He currently lectures at the University of Toronto’s Daniels Faculty of Architecture. Alex is a registered architect in Ontario.CONTACT:https://partisans.com/ https://www.instagram.com/alexanderjosephson/?hl=en https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-josephson-946b4425/ Where To Find Us:https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/www.advancedglazings.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcastwww.linkedin.com/in/advanced-glazings-ltd-848b4625https://twitter.com/bbfhpodhttps://twitter.com/Solera_Daylighthttps://www.instagram.com/bbfhpod/https://www.instagram.com/advancedglazingsltdhttps://www.facebook.com/AdvancedGlazingsltd

This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Ryan Mikita of Ricca Design Studios for a fascinating conversation about the hidden world of foodservice design and the critical role it plays in shaping the restaurants, hotels, schools, arenas, and hospitality spaces we experience every day. Drawing on his unique journey from restaurant operations to leading large-scale foodservice design projects, Ryan shares how thoughtful planning can improve efficiency, employee well-being, sustainability, and the overall guest experience.The discussion explores everything from kitchen ergonomics and ventilation to workflow optimization, allergen-safe design, sustainability initiatives, and the growing shift toward all-electric commercial kitchens. Ryan also dives into the science and art behind restaurant operations, explaining how foodservice designers balance mathematical planning with human-centered design to create spaces that support both staff performance and memorable customer experiences.From university dining halls and hospitality venues to major public assembly projects and international developments, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the systems that power great food experiences. It’s an insightful conversation about how exceptional buildings aren’t just beautiful on the surface—they’re thoughtfully designed from the inside out to serve the people who use them every day.More About Ryan MikitaRyan is a Pittsburgh-based Partner at Ricca Design Studios, where he leads a design studio focused on commercial kitchen and restaurant design across a wide range of project types. While based in Pittsburgh, his portfolio spans the globe, encompassing diverse and emerging markets, operational models, and project archetypes.His experience includes hospitality, healthcare, higher education, stadiums and arenas, government facilities, and corporate headquarters. Although each project presents its own unique challenges—often large-scale and highly complex—Ryan’s approach remains consistent: designing foodservice environments that are efficient, reliable, and aligned with the broader goals of the project.Ryan works closely with ownership teams, architects, developers, and operators to bring concepts to life in ways that are both practical and well-executed. His perspective is firmly grounded in operations, with a strong emphasis on workflow, staffing, and day-to-day functionality, supported by extensive technical experience in the field.Much of his work involves complex projects requiring coordination across multiple disciplines. From feasibility studies and conceptual design through construction, Ryan helps teams align with financial constraints, navigate challenging existing conditions, and develop clear, realistic paths to execution. He focuses on delivering solutions that are buildable, thoughtful, and positioned for long-term success.At the core of Ryan’s work is a passion for translating ambitious ideas into spaces that perform—balancing form and function in ways that hold up both on paper and in practice.CONTACT:www.ricca.com www.linkedin.com/in/rmikita www.instagram.com/mister_mikita Where To Find Us:https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/www.advancedglazings.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcastwww.linkedin.com/in/advanced-glazings-ltd-848b4625https://twitter.com/bbfhpodhttps://twitter.com/Solera_Daylighthttps://www.instagram.com/bbfhpod/https://www.instagram.com/advancedglazingsltdhttps://www.facebook.com/AdvancedGlazingsltd

This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Brian Bucher of WD Partners for a fascinating conversation about the intersection of architecture, branding, operations, and human experience in retail design. Drawing from decades of experience creating immersive spaces for some of the world’s most recognizable brands, Brian shares how thoughtful design can shape customer behavior, improve employee well-being, and strengthen emotional connections between people and places.The discussion explores everything from daylighting and glare control to adaptive retail strategies, operational efficiency, workplace comfort, and the evolving role of physical spaces in an increasingly digital world. Brian also dives into scalable design systems, hospitality-driven retail, sustainable reuse, and why great buildings must serve both the people inside them and the communities around them.It’s an insightful look at how truly exceptional spaces don’t just support business goals — they create memorable, human-centered experiences that people genuinely want to return to.More About Brian BucherSENIOR DIRECTORBrian is skilled at leading creative programs, using his keen understanding of marketing and business strategies. He not only values a project’s outcome, but the integrity of the design process and interactions between the client and design teams. He has a high regard for the balance of innovative design and practical real-world solutions that connect with consumers in a meaningful way. As creative director, Brian spends significant time collaborating with client stakeholders, architects and engineers, and marketers to bring solutions to market. His experience encompasses strategy and innovation, concept development, fixtures and merchandising, materials specifications, process development and execution. In addition, Brian’s work for Laguna Beach Drugstore, Safeway, Citrine, and EchoPark have been honored with industry awards from NASFM, ISP/VM+SD Magazine, Chain Store Age, and CoreNet Global. Brian has worked with many retail, restaurant and consumer brands, including Hard Rock Café, Yum! Brands, Dell, Mazda, John Deere, McKesson and SEI Investments. His clients at WD include Standard Market, Safeway, Rubios, Kraft, Giant Eagle, Wawa, Krispy Kreme, Buca di Beppo, Sonic Automotive, Cooper’s Hawk, Amazon, Target, Stop & Shop and Chartwells.CONTACT:https://www.wdpartners.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bucher-leed-ap-187b356 https://www.facebook.com/brian.bucher.773 Where To Find Us:https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/www.advancedglazings.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcastwww.linkedin.com/in/advanced-glazings-ltd-848b4625https://twitter.com/bbfhpodhttps://twitter.com/Solera_Daylighthttps://www.instagram.com/bbfhpod/https://www.instagram.com/advancedglazingsltdhttps://www.facebook.com/AdvancedGlazingsltd

This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski welcomes Emily McGee of Meadows & Ohly for a fascinating conversation about the intersection of healthcare design, public health, and the future of healing environments. With a unique background spanning architecture, global health, and healthcare real estate strategy, Emily shares how thoughtful design decisions can directly influence patient outcomes, staff well-being, and long-term community health.From infection control and daylighting to healthcare workforce burnout, food systems, and health equity, the discussion explores the enormous complexity behind designing modern medical facilities that truly serve people. Emily also dives into the promise of mass timber, modular construction, digital twin technology, and how healthcare campuses can evolve into healthier, more resilient community anchors.It’s an inspiring look at how great buildings don’t just treat illness — they actively support dignity, wellness, and human connection.More About Emily McGeeEmily McGee is Senior Director of Planning at Meadows & Ohly, where she helps health systems make evidence-based decisions around healthcare facility planning, growth, and real estate strategy.With 13+ years of international experience in healthcare architecture and planning, Emily combines architecture, public health, and data-driven strategy to improve healthcare access and equity. She is currently a Bloomberg American Health Initiative Fellow at Johns Hopkins University.Previously, she worked as a medical planner at HOK, contributing to major healthcare projects including the UPMC Vision and Rehabilitation Mercy Pavilion and Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center.Emily has been recognized as a Healthcare Design Rising Star, an AIA Associate Award recipient, and a BD+C 40 Under 40 honoree. She is also an advocate for health equity, universal design, and climate-conscious healthcare design.CONTACT:https://www.instagram.com/_emily_azar_ https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilyelizabethmcgee/ https://www.facebook.com/EmilyElizabethMcGee https://www.meadowsandohly.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/meadows-&-ohly-llc/ https://www.instagram.com/meadowsandohly/ https://americanhealth.jhu.edu/people/emily-mcgee https://www.linkedin.com/company/bloomberg-american-health-initiative/https://www.instagram.com/bloombergamericanhealth/?hl=enhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/wihdc/https://www.instagram.com/womeninhealthcaredc/Where To Find Us:https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/www.advancedglazings.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcastwww.linkedin.com/in/advanced-glazings-ltd-848b4625https://twitter.com/bbfhpodhttps://twitter.com/Solera_Daylighthttps://www.instagram.com/bbfhpod/https://www.instagram.com/advancedglazingsltdhttps://www.facebook.com/AdvancedGlazingsltd

This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with interior designer Molly Polehna of Little Diversified Architectural Consulting for a wide-ranging conversation about the powerful role interior design plays in human health, sustainability, and authentic building experiences. From her unexpected path into design through themed entertainment and storytelling, Molly shares how thoughtful interiors can shape the way we feel, behave, and connect within spaces.The discussion explores everything from daylighting and acoustics to material selection, biophilic design, and the hidden science behind occupant well-being. Molly also dives into regenerative hospitality, mass timber, adaptive reuse, and how collaboration between designers, architects, and engineers leads to healthier, more resilient buildings.It’s an inspiring look at how truly great spaces don’t just look beautiful — they serve people honestly, intuitively, and authentically.More About Molly PolehnaMolly Polehna is a commercial interior designer at Little Diversified Architectural Consulting in Orlando, Florida, focused on regenerative design and the creation of immersive environments. With a diverse portfolio that spans education, hospitality, and workplace projects, Molly has contributed to the design of two mass timber buildings in Florida—exploring how sustainable materials can transform spaces and elevate the human experience. At the core of Molly's work is a belief that interiors have the power to shape how people feel, work, and connect. With a strong focus on sustainability and place-making, she designs environments that foster well-being, creativity, and community. Whether designing collaborative workspaces or restorative educational environments, Molly approaches each project with a commitment to creating spaces that not only meet functional needs but also inspire and uplift the people who use them. Molly is passionate about pushing the boundaries of interior design through innovative, regenerative practices. She is dedicated to creating spaces that balance aesthetic beauty with environmental responsibility, helping to shape a built environment that supports both human and ecological health.CONTACT:https://www.littleonline.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/little-diversified-architectural-consulting/ https://x.com/littleonlinehttps://www.instagram.com/littleonline_/ https://www.littleonline.com/insights/ Where To Find Us:https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/www.advancedglazings.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcastwww.linkedin.com/in/advanced-glazings-ltd-848b4625https://twitter.com/bbfhpodhttps://twitter.com/Solera_Daylighthttps://www.instagram.com/bbfhpod/https://www.instagram.com/advancedglazingsltdhttps://www.facebook.com/AdvancedGlazingsltd

This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Sarah Heppinstall, Vice President of Design, Construction, and Maintenance at Canadian Tire, to explore what it really takes to deliver human-centered retail at scale. From her journey across the UK and Canada to leading national building strategies, Sarah shares how customer experience, employee well-being, and operational efficiency intersect in every design decision.The conversation dives into flexible “kit of parts” store design, the role of daylight in staff spaces, and how massive retail environments can still feel intuitive and welcoming. Sarah also unpacks the realities of decarbonization, resilience planning for extreme weather, and the challenge of balancing sustainability with cost and speed.It’s a practical, insightful look at retail spaces that don’t just serve customers—they evolve with them.More About Sarah HeppinstallSarah Heppinstall is a construction and real estate leader with over 20 years of experience delivering complex retail and commercial projects across Canada. Throughout her career, she’s seen how sustainability goals succeed, or fail, based on how well they’re embedded into project delivery, governance, and day‑to‑day decision-making.In her senior leadership roles at Canadian Tire Corporation, First Capital REIT, and Colliers Project Leaders, Sarah led large-scale portfolios with a strong focus on responsible design, construction, and operations. At Canadian Tire, she played a key leadership role in advancing retail sustainability efforts, integrating environmental priorities into store development, capital planning, and execution at scale.Today, Sarah is the Founder and Principal of HEPPINSTALL PMO, where she helps retailers and landlords bring clarity, predictability, and calm to complex project portfolios, while ensuring sustainability objectives are practical, measurable, and achievable. Her work focuses on building practical project delivery methods that leaders actually use, grounded in clear execution, strong governance, and people-first leadership.CONTACT:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-heppinstall-0329b16/ Where To Find Us:https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/www.advancedglazings.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcastwww.linkedin.com/in/advanced-glazings-ltd-848b4625https://twitter.com/bbfhpodhttps://twitter.com/Solera_Daylighthttps://www.instagram.com/bbfhpod/https://www.instagram.com/advancedglazingsltdhttps://www.facebook.com/AdvancedGlazingsltd

This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with architect and researcher Anne Rinne to explore the powerful intersection of art, engineering, and human-centered design. From her unconventional path into architecture to her work at the Royal Danish Academy, Anne shares how creativity, curiosity, and experimentation shape the spaces we inhabit.The conversation dives into her pioneering “space plate” structures—lightweight, ultra-efficient systems inspired by nature’s own geometry—and how these designs could redefine sustainability, resilience, and even how we build our own homes. Anne also explores biomimicry, the role of daylight as a fundamental building material, and why empowering people to participate in creating their own spaces may be key to a better future.It’s a fascinating look at architecture that doesn’t just shelter us—it challenges, inspires, and evolves with us.More About Anne RommeAnne Romme, Architect, PhD. Associate Professor at the Institute of Architecture and Culture at the Royal Danish Academy. Founder of the bachelor program Finder Sted, Head of Program 2014-24. Member of the board of the Danish Institute in Athens, and of the Danish Acadmy. Recipient of the Cooper Union President's Citation 2023. Anne holds degrees from the Royal Danish Academy (Ph.D.), Princeton University School of Architecture (M.Arch), and Cooper Union School of Architecture (B.Arch.) She has taught, lectured and exhibited in Denmark and abroad.CONTACT:https://www.linkedin.com/in/anneromme/?locale=da_DK https://www.instagram.com/anne_romme/ Where To Find Us:https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/www.advancedglazings.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcastwww.linkedin.com/in/advanced-glazings-ltd-848b4625https://twitter.com/bbfhpodhttps://twitter.com/Solera_Daylighthttps://www.instagram.com/bbfhpod/https://www.instagram.com/advancedglazingsltdhttps://www.facebook.com/AdvancedGlazingsltd

This week on Better Buildings for Humans, host Joe Menchefski sits down with Norwegian architect Knut Hjeltnes to explore how climate, culture, and material choices shape truly human-centered design. From Norway’s deep relationship with daylight to its tradition of building with wood, Knut shares how architecture can balance warmth, protection, and a meaningful connection to nature—even in some of the harshest environments on earth.The conversation dives into the psychology of light, the impact of seasonal extremes on well-being, and why thoughtful design matters more than ever. Knut also discusses his innovative use of Solera® aerogel glazing (R-10 / U-0.10), creating ultra-thin, highly insulated walls that transform how buildings capture and diffuse light.It’s an inspiring look at how great design doesn’t just respond to place—it elevates how we live within it.More About Knut HjeltnesKnut Hjeltnes is a Norwegian architect whose work reflects a deep sensitivity to landscape, climate, and human experience. With decades of practice and nearly 30 years teaching at the Oslo School of Architecture, he has developed a design philosophy rooted in simplicity, material honesty, and environmental awareness. From an early age, Hjeltnes felt drawn to architecture, combining his interests in science and drawing into a career that emphasizes thoughtful, context-driven design. His projects often respond directly to Norway’s unique conditions—balancing light, warmth, and protection in a challenging northern climate.Today, Hjeltnes runs his own architectural practice, focusing on projects that enhance well-being while respecting nature and resource efficiency. His work ranges from intimate residential designs to innovative infrastructure, such as visually striking avalanche galleries that integrate seamlessly into the landscape. Known for his use of natural materials and advanced building technologies, he continuously explores how architecture can improve daily life. His approach prioritizes both beauty and function, aiming to create spaces that not only serve practical needs but also shape how people feel, live, and connect with their environment.CONTACT:https://www.hjeltnes.as/ https://www.instagram.com/hjeltnes.architects/ Email: [email protected] To Find Us:https://bbfhpod.advancedglazings.com/www.advancedglazings.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/better-buildings-for-humans-podcastwww.linkedin.com/in/advanced-glazings-ltd-848b4625https://twitter.com/bbfhpodhttps://twitter.com/Solera_Daylighthttps://www.instagram.com/bbfhpod/https://www.instagram.com/advancedglazingsltdhttps://www.facebook.com/AdvancedGlazingsltd