E17S10Architecture as a Catalyst for Positive Social Transformation: The Power of Sustainable Design

Introduction

We are thrilled to announce the release of our latest episode on the Social Change Career Podcast, titled "Architecture as a Catalyst for Positive Social Transformation: The Power of Sustainable Design" In Episode 17 of Season 10, we had the pleasure of speaking with Andrea Orego, an architect and co-founder of Atelier app, a home design, visualizer, and marketplace for eco-friendly brands.

Andrea shares her journey from a love for design and creation to her realization of the environmental impact of frequent home remodeling. She dives into the challenges faced by smaller brands and artisans, and the opportunity to create economic development by helping these brands establish online stores. During the conversation, Andrea emphasizes the importance of sustainability in the architecture field, and how architects can make a positive impact on individuals and communities. She highlights the growing trend towards sustainable design, with the American Institute of Architects urging firms to strive for net zero or as green as possible by 2030.

We also delve into Andrea's experiences with educational programs, including her affiliation with Latitude, Visible Hands, and Ghana's Ventures. She highlights the value of community, content, and support in these programs, and how they have helped her in her entrepreneurial journey.

Whether you are interested in architecture, sustainability, or entrepreneurship, there is something for everyone in this conversation. Lets explore the intersection between design, sustainability, and social impact.

 

📚 Timestamped overview  

[00:03:27] Architecture career driven by love of creation, challenges, and environmental consciousness.

[00:12:20] Consumer-driven green certifications, small brands, and community support.

[00:16:01] Transitioning from architecture to entrepreneurship by learning online business skills.

[00:28:11] Started with candle shop, converted user set, conducted 300 interviews, created rudimentary tool, discovered bigger problem, focused on ethical sourcing, targeted artisan brands, found market in Latin America.

[00:33:44] Local model, intense curation, short transport, Instagram storytelling.

[00:36:30] Atelier promotes sustainable brands, helps both small and large-scale projects.

[00:40:37] Gap in market for affordable boutique brands.

[00:44:06] Furniture toxins, low VOC paint, disposal concerns.

[00:48:02] Programs provide value and community support. Content varies.

[00:51:42] Limited syllabus; Lee certification trendy in school. Architecture firms promoting sustainability; push for net zero by 2030.

 

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