Selected Works

Human-Centered Design Approach for High-Performance facades

Finding the opportunity

The manufacturer had a high-performing façade system, but its story centered on fabrication efficiency. An earlier continuing education course focused on technical rainscreen details, engaging only the few facade specialists in the room.

Our research revealed that the product was among the highest-performing in its category, presenting an opportunity to reposition it as a high-performance architectural solution.

Connecting the dots

At the same time, human-centered design was gaining attention in architecture, with much of the discussion focused on interiors.

We expanded that conversation to the building exterior, exploring how facade design influences comfort, community, and the human experience.

This approach engaged other architects in the room, inviting conversation, by giving them something meaningful to learn while establishing the value of high-performance facades.

Bringing the education to life

We developed the course and trained presenters to deliver it confidently, engage their audiences, anticipate questions, and transition naturally into the product discussion.

The results

The course became the manufacturer's most requested architect presentation, with firms also requesting it for internal team education.

Within months, the lead development team began reporting increased product specifications.

The education created a stronger foundation for architectural relationships and future product conversations.

Scope:

Strategy + Positioning • Research • Course Development • Presentation Design • Presenter Preparation

How aluminum can help meet sustainable initiatives

Aluminum had a larger sustainability story to tell.

This course connected material selection and aluminum performance to the sustainability priorities shaping architectural decisions, using the AIA Materials Pledge as a framework for exploring carbon, circularity, human health, social equity, and ecosystem health.

Scope:

Topic Strategy + Positioning • Sustainability Research • Course Development • Presentation Design • Presenter Preparation

Pressure equalized rainscreen concepts: designing for high-performance facades

The manufacturer already had a strong technical course and experienced presenters. The goal was not to start over, but to make the existing material clearer, easier to teach, and more consistent.

The course was refined around a stronger high-performance facade narrative, with detailed speaker guidance and presenter preparation to support both seasoned and new presenters.

Scope:

Course Enhancement • Speaker Notes • Presentation Refinement • Presenter Preparation