Best Modernist Work Podcasts (2024)

1
How architecture can improve life quality of hospitalized children 33:53

7d ago33:53

33:53

How can architecture transform the experience of healthcare for children? Can design elements like colors, materials, shapes, and daylight even help improve the young patients’ lives? Denmark is about to get its first purpose-built children’s hospital, Børneriget, which is scheduled to open in 2026 in central Copenhagen. Børneriget aims to redefine…

1
How to make good business within the planetary boundaries 31:51

1M ago31:51

31:51

How can you create more sustainable, affordable, and inclusive housing if you also happen to live in a capitalist society? And can you even exploit the capitalist system to create a better world? Home.Earth might have an answer. As a new and rather radical real estate company, Home.Earth is doing things differently: The company not only builds low-…

1
Bob Swatt of Swatt + Partners Shares His Inspiring Stories 36:49

1M ago36:49

36:49

Monique is joined by the brilliant Bob Swatt, architect and partner at Swatt + Partners. They dive into his love for mid-century modern design, the powerful work of Beverly Thorne, and the inspiration behind his iconic Tea Cup homes. Bob also reveals his connection to Rudolf Schindler, shares fun stories from his career, and talks about celebrating…

1
Owners of the Case Study House #26 Share Their Experience 28:26

2M ago28:26

28:26

Monique is joined by Cord Struckmann and Alfonso Cordon, the owners of Case Study House #26. They share their restoration journey of this Beverly D. Thorne-designed gem and dive into the revolutionary Case Study House program, which promoted innovative home designs. Discover how they stumbled upon this mid-century treasure and their plans to celebr…

1
How the 15 minutes city became a measure for urban quality 30:11

2M ago30:11

30:11

The term ‘15 Minutes City’ was coined in 2016 to describe a locally oriented urban design strategy. Shops, healthcare, education, work, and entertainment – all should be accessible within a 15 minutes' walk or bike ride from your home. The aim is to create a people-centered urban development that decentralizes to create more lively local neighborho…

1
Jonathan Braun Talks About His Father's Work 28:20

3M ago28:20

28:20

Monique chats with Jonathan Braun about his father, Ernest Braun's, incredible work and legacy. They dive into Ernest's inspiration from Eichler Homes, his journey into photography, and vibrant life through the lens. Jonathan shares fond memories, including time in the darkroom, his father's adventures with combat photography, and the seven photogr…

1
Dominic Sarica Talks With Us About His Roger Lee Home 30:11

3M ago30:11

30:11

Monique chats with architect Dominic Sarica, who shares his love for living in a Roger Lee home, its unique design, and what drew him to it. Hear about raising his family in this architectural gem, the distinctive style of Roger Lee, and how Dominic tackled design challenges to preserve its integrity. “All I could see was this horizontal line that …

1
Allan Green Discusses His Father's Work 26:58

3M ago26:58

26:58

Monique welcomes Allan Green to the show to discuss his father's legacy, his work with Frank Lloyd Wright, and his journey in creating the stunning coffee table book, "Aaron Green Organic Architecture: Beyond Frank Lloyd Wright." They talk about his father's unique approach to design, his distinctive style of collaborating with clients, and the cha…

1
How rebuilding war-torn areas can accelerate the sustainable transition 26:17

4M ago26:17

26:17

Ukraine has seen many of its cities and towns destroyed. One day they will hopefully be rebuilt - with great costs and a large climate footprint as a result. But what are the alternatives? Danish NGO, Arkitekter Uden Grænser (Architects Without Borders), is already working on a solution: With the pilot project Build-back-green a sustainable buildin…

1
What comes after concrete? 32:12

6M ago32:12

32:12

Concrete and steel. We know that both of these mainstream building materials come with a massive CO2 cost, and that we need to find alternatives. One way forward is the reintroduction of traditional materials and invention of new bio-based materials. But the implementation of the new materials requires large and challenging changes for the entire b…

1
How to measure the unmeasurable qualities of urban space 32:30

7M ago32:30

32:30

In Herlev, a suburb of Copenhagen, the site of a former asphalt factory is being transformed into a new housing area. At first glance, this is a building site like many others, dominated by cranes, concrete and safety helmets. But in fact, a pilot project out of the ordinary is taking place here. Leaded by innovation agency NXT, the project invites…

1
Chad Dewitt, Founder of Framestudio 41:26

8M ago41:26

41:26

Monique welcomes Chad Dewitt, an accomplished architectural designer and the creative force behind Framestudio, to the show. With features in Dwell, California Home and Design, and many more, Chad shares what inspires him about mid-century modern homes, delves into his personal restoration projects (including an interesting take on why Eichlers are…

1
Bruce Avico, Mid-Century Modern Historian, Talks About Buff & Hensman 46:07

8M ago46:07

46:07

Monique welcomes to the show esteemed architect Bruce Avico, a living encyclopedia of mid-century modern history. In this episode, Bruce unveils his journey, from joining the world of Buff and Hensman to pivotal moments that shaped his career. Join the conversation as they explore the backgrounds of Conrad Buff, Don Hensman, and the influential Cal…

1
How to transform buildings with no waste 32:10

8M ago32:10

32:10

Søren Pihlmann, founder of pihlmann architects, is among the hottest up-and-coming names in Danish architecture right now. Known for his ambitious approach to transformations, Søren Pihlmann insists on reusing as much of the existing buildings as possible - from plumbing to concrete beams - and adapting them for the new purpose of the building. In …

1
How to build high-quality housing on the road to reduction 32:40

9M ago32:40

32:40

Living Places is an experimental village in Copenhagen that challenges the way we build and live today. Initiated by VELUX and built in partnership with EFFEKT Architects and Artelia, the temporary village’s low emission homes suggest a whole new way of thinking about a series of urgent matters: From environmental footprint to indoor climate, biodi…

1
Joanne Koch of Koch Architects: Organic Architecture & Perfecting the Art of Restoration 29:23

10M ago29:23

29:23

Monique welcomes Joanne Koch, the founder and principal of Koch Architects, renowned for her work in organic architecture and mid-century modern restoration. In this episode, you'll delve into Joanne's soulful approach to organic architecture, inspired by the mass housing design and vision of the post-war era. Explore the concept of 'rustic modern'…

1
Get to Know Monique - An Interview With the Podcast Host Monique Anton 49:47

10M ago49:47

49:47

Monique's producer, Jacki Mercer, switches roles and interviews Monique about her journey into the world of mid-century modern design. Monique reveals her personal connection to the style, shares the joys of living in a mid-century modern home, and highlights the features that make these homes irresistible to potential buyers. She dives into the in…

1
2023 VIP Party for the Eichler Home Tour 35:22

10M ago35:22

35:22

Monique invites you to a fun episode recorded at the Eichler Home Tour VIP party just outside the San Mateo Highlands. She interviews eight passionate Eichler home owners and enthusiasts, who share their love for these iconic mid-century modern homes. They explain what makes Eichler homes special and you'll hear from the organizers who've made this…

1
Sydney Opera House 50 years: How to make art out of compromises 30:40

10M ago30:40

30:40

What is the price to be paid for being an uncompromising architect? And is the uncompromising approach to architecture a thing of the past? In 2023 the Sydney Opera House can celebrate its 50th anniversary. The building was designed by the then unknown Danish architect, Jørn Utzon, and it has become a milestone in modern architecture. But the Sydne…

1
How architecture can drive social change 33:30

11M ago33:30

33:30

How do you address the issues related to disadvantaged public housing areas, often affected by high unemployment, crime, and other challenges? The question is common to many cities across Europe. In Denmark the government is combining social and architectural interventions in the most troubled areas: With the ‘parallel society law’, up to 60% of ex…

1
Hannah Simonson and Docomomo: Join The Movement! 29:46

11M ago29:46

29:46

Monique welcomes her friend, Hannah Simonson, to the show—an architectural historian and cultural resources planner at Page and Turnbull in San Francisco. As the current president of Docomomo US Northern California Chapter, Hannah shares her history with Docomomo and her fascination with the Diamond Heights community. This episode also offers pract…

1
Why waste cannot go to waste in the building industry 1:08:44

12M ago1:08:44

1:08:44

One way the built environment can mitigate its massive negative climate impact is by focusing architecture on reusing, repairing, refurbishing, and recycling elements. Essentially building within a circular economy framework. However, many central players in the building industry are reluctant to change their approach to materials usage. So, what i…

1
Danny Heller, Master Painter: Portraying Mid-Century Modern Architecture Through His Art 25:38

12M ago25:38

25:38

Monique welcomes her friend Danny Heller to the show, a globally exhibited artist renowned for his mid-century modern artistry. From his roots in Los Angeles' suburbs to prestigious features in publications like Architectural Digest Spain and California Home and Design, he shares the stories behind his vibrant paintings that capture the essence of …

1
How experimenting can foster sustainable living 34:31

12M ago34:31

34:31

Cities are attracting more and more people, but finding an affordable home can become a struggle – especially for students making the move. In Copenhagen the demand for student housing has led to new ways of building and living. The goal is to create space for more people by living smaller and sharing more. CPH Village is a leading actor in constru…

1
Karen Nepacena of the Beloved DestinationEichler.com 31:07

12M ago31:07

31:07

Monique invites Karen Nepacena, the visionary behind DestinationEichler.com, to the show. From viral blogs on Eichler restoration to features in Dwell, HGTV, and Atomic Ranch, Karen has left an indelible mark as a designer. Join their conversation as Karen delves into the challenges of Eichler restoration, her newly completed book "Midcentury Moder…

1
Alan Hess: Author of 21 Books on Modernism 49:27

1y ago49:27

49:27

Monique chats with the brilliant Alan Hess, an architect, historian, and author of 21 books on Modernism. In this episode, they explore Frank Lloyd Wright's impact on modern architecture, along with the intriguing world of "Googie" design and the way they were able to bring ordinary life into the realm of these mid-century modern designs. They also…

1
The secrets behind producing great architects 34:50

1y ago34:50

34:50

What are the secrets behind producing great architects? This question becomes increasingly difficult to answer simply as the world becomes ever more complex and undergoes constant change. Therefore, creating a learning environment for students that empowers the next generation to tackle societal challenges was of utmost importance when Architecture…

1
Vince Bravo: Collector, Artist and Expert on Alexander Girard 23:56

1y ago23:56

23:56

Monique sits down with Vince Bravo, an art and furniture collector, artist, and expert on Alexander Girard, with an impressive 30-years experience in vintage furnishings and mid-century decorative arts. Tune in as he shares the origins of his art collection, his restoration of mid-century furniture, and the stories of the unique pieces he's acquire…

1
Matt Bliss of Modern Christmas Trees: Keeping the Mid Century Modern Spirit Alive 23:05

1y ago23:05

23:05

Monique welcomes Matt Bliss, founder of Modern Christmas Trees, on today's episode. Matt shares the story of how his grandfather's 1966 modern Christmas tree design inspired him to start the business, along with the story of his appearance on Shark Tank and how he fell in love with mid-century modern design. From exclusive photoshoots in iconic mid…

1
Greg Kelly: President & Founder of Modbox USA & How He is Redefining Curb Appeal 26:38

1y ago26:38

26:38

Monique is joined by Greg Kelly, founder and president of Modbox USA, to talk about his journey in the world of midcentury modernism. They discuss Greg's frustration with the lack of available products and how it led to the birth of Modbox USA through his quest for the perfect mailbox, and the support he received from the MCM community to bring his…

1
Stanley Saitowitz: Architecture Through the Eyes of a Master 39:34

1y ago39:34

39:34

Monique sits down with the talented architect, Stanley Saitowitz. From his early years growing up in South Africa, Saitowitz shares his deep love for architecture that ignited during his youth. They delve into his bold and larger-than-life designs, highlighting a few extraordinary house and building creations and the intriguing blend of nature and …

1
Melinda Mandell: Interior Designer & Master of Blending Design Styles 29:59

1y ago29:59

29:59

Monique welcomes her friend and the incredibly talented interior designer, Melinda Mandell, to today's episode. Having been featured on the pages of esteemed publications like San Francisco Cottages & Gardens, Modern Luxury Silicon Valley, California Home + Design, Melinda brings a wealth of expertise and creativity that will inspire you to express…

1
George Smart: The Interview with Mr. Modernism Himself! 50:41

1y ago50:41

50:41

Monique welcomes George Smart, the founder and CEO of US Modernist, the world's largest non-profit educational archive for modernist residential design, to her podcast. Affectionately known as "Mr. Modernism”, George shares his journey of documenting 20,000 modernist houses and becoming the epicenter for all things mid-century modern. Monique marve…

1
How inclusive design can increase learning 30:30

1y ago30:30

30:30

Can ‘inclusivity’ as a design principle bring about new forms to our learning environments? In this episode of ‘Let’s talk architecture’ our guest expert, architect Eva Ravnborg from the architecture company Henning Larsen, shares insights on how inclusive design principles can create equitable learning spaces. She takes the host, Michael Booth on …

1
Heather David: Preserving the Stories in Mid-Century Architecture 50:05

1y ago50:05

50:05

Monique chats with historian and author Heather David, known for her books “Motel California" and "Mid-century by the Bay: A Celebration of the San Francisco Bay Area in the 1950s and 1960s." They discuss Heather's childhood love of mid-century modern buildings, the allure of this architectural style, and her exploration of motel and sign preservat…

1
How AI changes architecture as we know it 30:36

1y ago30:36

30:36

These days artificial intelligence (AI) is in the spotlight – from fearsome warnings about societal impacts presented by leading figures in the tech industries and on to hopeful imaginations of a better future. But can AI also help create better, more sustainable, and even more democratic architecture? At the architectural company Henning Larsen th…

1
Curt Cline: Owner & Principal Architect of Modern House Architects - Bridging the Past & Present in Architectural Masterpieces 24:06

1y ago24:06

24:06

Monique welcomes Curt Cline, owner and principal architect of Modern House Architects. Discover why Curt is Monique's top choice when it comes to architects, as they delve into his journey from the Midwest, his devotion to preserving Eichler remodels, his admiration for architectural pioneers, and his ingenious approach to ADUs. Discover how Curt d…

1
How the rising sea levels call for new ways to imagine the future cities 26:37

1y ago26:37

26:37

The UN General Secretary proclaims the climate change consequences will be of ‘biblical proportions’. But what will that feel like in the cities we know and love today – and what can we expect from the solutions? That is what the team behind the Danish contribution to the Venice Architecture Biennale has set out to explore. The exhibition “Coastal …

1
Cindy Carey & Marissa Smith: The Synchronistic Team of Starburst Construction 25:57

1y ago25:57

25:57

Monique is joined by Cindy Carey and Marissa Smith from Starburst Construction, a dynamic team who excel at keeping the minimalist look of the midcentury design clean and fresh. Join us as we delve into their journey in the business, their mindful approach to working with Eichlers, and how they beautifully integrate the landscape into the design wh…

1
Paul Adamson: San Francisco-Based Architect Inspiring Sustainable Design & Preserving Mid-Century Modern's Architectural Heritage 37:48

1+ y ago37:48

37:48

Monique is joined by Paul Adamson, a San Francisco-based architect, writer, educator, and preservation advocate. Join them as they explore his journey into architecture, his family's artistic legacy, and the lessons on sustainability found in Eichler homes. Discover the passion and advocacy that drives Paul's work, while unraveling the influences o…

1
Raymond Neutra: Preserving the Legacy of Richard Neutra & Modernist Architecture 18:56

1+ y ago18:56

18:56

Monique is joined by Raymond Neutra, son of Richard Neutra, one of the fathers of modernist architecture, who shares his extensive efforts in documenting and preserving his father's works. Join them as they explore what makes up good design, the peaceful atmosphere of mid-century modern homes, and the profound connection these visionary architects …

1
Dave Weinstein: Preserving the Legacy of Eichler Homes & Mid-Century Architects 32:00

1+ y ago32:00

32:00

Monique chats with Dave Weinstein, a renowned expert on Eichler and mid-century modern architecture. Dave shares his extensive knowledge of Eichler homes and their unique community, having interviewed hundreds of Eichler owners. He highlights the importance of preservation, his passion for uncovering information about Eichler homes and mid-century …

1
Where to find ugly architecture in the World Capital of Architecture? 30:46

1+ y ago30:46

30:46

In 2023 Copenhagen is named the World Capital of Architecture by UNESCO due to the city’s livability and architecture which is renowned and praised by internationals as well as locals. But not all architectural realities deserve an award, and in this episode, we take a hard look at some of the Copenhagen buildings we condemn rather than praise. You…

1
Rob Keil: Capturing the Art & Design of Midcentury Modernism 34:23

1+ y ago34:23

34:23

Monique sits down with Rob Keil, Art Director and author of two books, to discuss his journey into midcentury modernism. They delve into his book "Little Boxes: The Architecture of a Classic Midcentury Suburb", his interest in midcentury modernism through Henry Doelger, and how he's made it his mission to preserve and showcase the iconic midcentury…

1
Mike LaChance: The Go-To Expert Behind LaChance's Radiant Heating 21:08

1+ y ago21:08

21:08

Monique chats with Mike LaChance, owner of LaChance’s Radiant Heating, who is an expert in radiant heating systems and a special part of the Eichler community. They discuss the importance of annual checkups, simple troubleshooting tips, and the best flooring to put on top of radiant heating. With over two decades of experience, Mike and his family-…

1
Bruce Watkins: Preserving Eichler's Legacy through Wood Restoration 18:17

1+ y ago18:17

18:17

Monique sits down with Bruce Watkins, a wood restoration expert who specializes in keeping the original purity of Eichler homes. Bruce shares his expertise in restoring wood damaged by sun, moisture, and mold, and how he maintains the natural look of the wood while doing so. He also discusses how he brings painted wood back to its original state an…

1
Julian Goldklang: Reviving Mid-Century Modern Style Through Furniture at Mid-Century Mobler 26:45

1+ y ago26:45

26:45

Monique chats with Julian Goldklang, founder of Mid-Century Mobler, a treasure trove of mid-century modern furniture. Discover how his love of old cars, particularly his '58 Pontiac, led him to create a thriving business selling furniture that captures the essence of this era. “At that time we were selling furniture pieces out of a windcar garage… …

1
Lucile Glessner: Mastering Mid-Century Modernism's Unique Style & the Interior Designer of the Iconic Eichler X-100 26:34

1+ y ago26:34

26:34

Monique talks with Lucile Glessner, a masterful interior designer who specializes in mid-century modernism and did the interiors for the famous all-steel Eichler X-100. Discover Lucile's expert insights on what works (and what doesn't) in mid-century modern design, and what makes these iconic homes so special. “The architects that worked during tha…

1
John Klopf: An Architect Keeping the Integrity of Mid-Century Modern Architecture 31:36

1+ y ago31:36

31:36

Monique speaks to John Klopf who is a seasoned architect with a deep appreciation for preserving the integrity of the architecture. Discover how John seamlessly integrates the natural world into his mid-century modern designs, forging a harmonious balance between the indoor and outdoor spaces. “I love how mid century modern architecture borrows the…

1
Megan Blaine & Karina Marshall: The Visionary Duo Behind Blaine Marshall Architects 37:55

1+ y ago37:55

37:55

Monique is joined by Megan Blaine and Karina Marshall, the dynamic duo behind Blaine Marshall Architects. Listen in to hear how this creative team built their business by thinking outside of the ordinary box. “It’s about getting the Eichler ethos into these new buildings” - Megan If you're interested in buying or selling a modern home, head over to…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Modernist Work Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

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