#39 Thomas Rau (RAU Architects, Turntoo & Madaster)

Episode 39 of the Bao Podcast is a special episode - first, because it’s the first podcast recorded at an external location. And second, because of our guest: a man who needs no introduction... but I’ll give him one anyway - Thomas Rau!

As founder of RAU Architects, Turntoo and Madaster, Thomas is a visionary thinker who challenges the way we design, build, and use materials. His concept of material passports and circular construction is reshaping the industry, proving that buildings should be seen not just as structures but as resource banks for the future. 

His innovative approach has not gone unnoticed - he has received numerous awards, including the ARC13 Oeuvre Award, the Circular Economy Leadership Award, and the World Green Building Council Chairman’s Award. 

Get ready for an inspiring conversation about innovation, responsibility, and the architecture of tomorrow!

RAU Architects (https://anewdawn.rau.eu/) 

Turntoo (https://turntoo.com/) 

Madaster (https://madaster.com/) 

Time stamps:

0:00 Intro

01:30 How Thomas started his career

07:30 Stories about accidents and diseases and how it changed his vision and motivation

17:30 Sustainability vs circularity

21:30 Changing mindset is the only way to make an impact

28:45 Conflict cost - change

39:00 Advising to the king of Bhutan

48:30 Material passports

57:30 Outro