In this episode, I sit down with Stephen Smith, founder of the Center for Building, to uncover the labyrinthine world of building codes—how they’re made, who really influences them, and why they end up stifling the very innovation and affordability we need. From the peculiarities of elevator requirements to the often overlooked role of local politics and special interests, we unpack how these complex rules shape our homes, buildings, and cities more than we might realize.TAKEAWAYSWhy Building Codes Matter: Even if you’re not a builder or developer, codes dictate your home’s layout, the price of housing, and whether your favorite small condo project can even get off the ground.The ICC (International Code Council) Isn’t Really “International”: You’ll learn how this non-governmental body, which writes most U.S. building codes, can be both extremely influential and surprisingly insular.Over-Regulation’s Real-World Costs: We break down how elevator mandates, fire codes, and accessibility requirements—though well-intended—sometimes create perverse incentives that drive up costs or discourage better solutions.Local Politics & Hidden Interests: Discover how “government members” and private manufacturers shape these codes, and why your mayor or city council may have little say in regulations that affect everyone.A Path Forward: Stephen shares practical ways policymakers and citizens can get involved in reforming the system, focusing on a more human-centered approach that balances safety, cost, and beautyCHAPTERS00:00 The Challenge of Building Codes in the U.S.03:06 The Role of Building Codes in Urban Development05:46 Understanding the American Way of Building09:09 The Impact of Building Codes on Housing Costs12:09 Elevator Regulations and Their Consequences14:52 Harmonization of Codes and Standards18:11 Over-Dimensioning in American Construction21:05 Labor Issues in the Construction Industry23:57 The Need for Code Review and Justification26:49 The Tyranny of Bureaucracy in Building Codes38:49 The Grenfell Fire and Its Aftermath45:05 Design Innovations in Building Codes48:25 Understanding the ICC and Code Writing58:09 The Revolving Door: Industry and Regulation01:07:26 The Role of Government in Building Codes01:15:20 Getting Involved: Supporting Change in Building CodesCONNECT WITH STEPHENCenter for Building https://www.centerforbuilding.org/BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/stephenjacobsmith.com Email: stephen@centerforbuilding.orgMENTIONED RESOURCESElevator research: https://admin.centerforbuilding.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Elevators.pdf CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELLNewsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/https://twitter.com/AustinTunnellCONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTUREhttps://www.buildingculture.com/https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/https://twitter.com/build_culturehttps://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/SPONSORSThank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

Moses Kagan, co-founder of Adaptive Realty and ReSeed, offers a wealth of knowledge as a real estate developer and investor. He dives into the advantages of 'indefinite hold' strategies, emphasizing long-term ownership over traditional flipping. Kagan critiques typical investment metrics, advocating for sustainable practices that foster community wellness. The conversation highlights innovative capital raising through social media, the significance of trust in investor relationships, and the importance of focusing on post-tax returns for true wealth generation.

Coby Lefkowitz, an urban planner and author of 'Building Optimism', shares his vision for transforming cities into vibrant spaces. He discusses the importance of integrating affordability and beauty in urban design, highlighting projects that emphasize human-centric design. Coby critiques the conventional view of architecture, advocating for a broader understanding that prioritizes community engagement. He also explores the evolving nature of cities, emphasizing that great urban spaces emerge from thoughtful planning rather than mere aesthetics.

Most Americans think painting brick is as simple as grabbing a bucket of latex or oil-based paint, but this common approach can wreak havoc on your home–and is uglier to boot. In this episode, I sit down with Matt Plechan, the founder of Mineral Stains.  We dive deep into the art and science of finishing brick with mineral stains like limewash, potassium silicate and sol silicate.  These centuries-old techniques are not only more durable and beautiful but also allow your brick to breathe, preventing costly damage.  I talk to many people who go to Europe, see a beautiful color, and try to color match it at home on stucco or masonry. It doesn’t turn out the same.  Why? It’s not the same paint! But it can be.  If you are thinking about painting masonry, listen to this episode! And while there are other US based suppliers, Matt at Mineral Stains is an excellent source who manufactures in the US and will help you find the right product for your project! TAKEAWAYS Latex acrylic paints are unsuitable for masonry, while mineral stains bond with masonry for enhanced durability and a natural aesthetic. Potassium silicate offers better longevity than lime wash, while sole silicate works effectively on previously painted or coated surfaces. Mineral stains are eco-friendly, made from natural pigments, and provide vibrant, non-toxic finishes with a timeless, breathable quality. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Masonry Painting Challenges 02:49 Understanding Mineral Stains vs. Traditional Paints 06:30 Exploring Types of Mineral Stains 10:56 Comparing Lime Wash and Potassium Silicate 18:30 Application Techniques for Mineral Stains 32:28 Best Practices for Exterior Application 35:37 The Importance of Primer in Painting 40:49 Cleaning and Preparing Surfaces for Painting 45:33 Best Practices for New Construction Painting 52:35 Application Techniques: Spraying vs. Rolling 57:49 Interior Painting: Natural Finishes and Techniques CONTACT MATTHEW PLECHAN AND MINERAL STAINS Website: https://mineralstains.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattplechan/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mineralstains1  Matt’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-plechan-94a18172  MENTIONED RESOURCES https://masonrymagazine.com/Default?pageID=2362 https://voyagejacksonville.com/?post_type=interview&p=91151 https://www.fosterandpartners.com/projects/global-home-of-the-pga-tour https://youtu.be/OIWKKjPj5PI https://youtu.be/cojGgH-79u4 CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE https://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ SPONSORS Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast! Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

Join Will McCollum and Matthew Marshall, co-founders of the Citymakers Collective, as they discuss their innovative summer program aimed at training aspiring architects and urban planners. They address the shortcomings of traditional education and emphasize the importance of hands-on, experiential learning. The conversation highlights the need for collaboration across disciplines to create people-centric, sustainable cities. The duo shines a light on their mission to empower future builders while discussing the impact of thoughtful design on community well-being.

Hi everyone! I’m excited to share our final episode of the year, marking one full year of the Building Culture Podcast! This episode is a solo reflection—something new for me—where I dive into the evolution of our brand, key business learnings, our tech stack, updated thinking, and personal growth. I explore how Building Culture has grown from focusing on structural masonry to a broader mission of creating durable, human-centered architecture and thriving communities. Adapting to challenges like rising costs and supply chain disruptions, I reflect on how staying versatile has helped us remain true to our mission of fostering human flourishing through the built environment. This episode also includes lessons learned from raising capital, building a team, and refining processes with tools like Superhuman and AppFolio. I share how inspiring books, podcasts, and thinkers—like Make Something Wonderful and Andrew Huberman’s work—have shaped my perspective. On a personal note, I open up about recovering from a life-changing injury, the importance of pursuing meaningful goals, and how embracing life’s challenges has brought deeper fulfillment. I’ve found that happiness is fleeting, but meaning endures. I hope this episode inspires you to reflect on your own journey and take away something valuable for your life or business. Thank you for an incredible year, and here’s to building a thriving future together! CHAPTERS  00:00 Navigating Real Estate Syndication and Fundraising 33:41 Indefinite Hold Strategy in Real Estate Investment 39:45 Understanding Dopamine and Motivation 45:35 The Importance of Free Speech in Society 54:00 The Importance of Free Speech 01:00:05 The Case for Masonry in Modern Construction 01:07:01 Personal Development and New Ventures 01:14:28 Creating Your Own Heaven or Hell TAKEAWAYS Building Culture has shifted from a focus on structural masonry to creating human-centered architecture and thriving communities. Regular feedback, delegation, and alignment have strengthened team culture and efficiency. Viewing architecture as a human habitat highlights its role in fostering well-being and community. Adapting to rising costs and personal setbacks underscores the value of flexibility in pursuing long-term goals. Pursuing meaningful, challenging goals leads to deeper fulfillment and personal growth. Austin shares aspirations for Building Culture’s role in creating resilient, human-centered communities.   CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE https://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ SPONSORS Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast! Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

In this episode, I chat with Sarah Campbell, an architectural consultant at Sierra Pacific, to explore the key details that matter when selecting one of the most significant investments in any building: windows. Whether you're an architect, developer, builder, or planning a home renovation or new construction, this episode is packed with valuable insights just for you. CHAPTERS 00:00The Importance of Quality Windows 02:14Introduction to Window Technology 07:43The Evolution of Windows Through History 11:53Understanding Glass Technology 18:04Modern Window Design and Energy Efficiency 24:06The Longevity and Maintenance of Windows 31:37The Importance of Educated Consumers 38:34Craftsmanship and Quality in Window Manufacturing 45:29The Future of Window Manufacturing: Technology and Innovation 50:08Exploring Advanced Glass Technologies 54:23Understanding the Cost of Specialty Windows 56:36Custom Solutions and the Role of Contractors CONTACT SARAH & SIERRA PACIFIC WINDOWS Website: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/  Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/sierrapacificwindows/?hl=en  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SierraPacificWindows/  Sarah’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/campbell-sarah/ Sierra Pacific Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sierra-pacific-windows/ CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE https://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ SPONSORS Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast! Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

Chuck Marohn, founder of Strong Towns, and Nolan Gray, senior director at California YIMBY, engage in a lively debate about America's housing crisis. They explore the impact of financialization, outdated zoning laws, and inflation on housing affordability. The discussion highlights shared goals between their movements, particularly practical solutions to community challenges. They also examine how local governments can support more housing development and the need to rethink housing as a basic necessity, not merely an investment asset.

In this episode, I sat down with architect and advocate Jennifer Griffin to delve into real-life examples of missing-middle, pre-approved plan programs and their potential to transform local development. While fixing zoning laws is essential, it’s not enough to significantly increase missing middle and infill housing—a reality I understand firsthand as a small developer and builder. Pre-approved plan programs aim to fast-track infill projects by providing community-vetted, permit-ready plans with associated budget estimates, giving small developers a clearer idea of construction costs. While these estimates may vary over time and with specific project details, having a ballpark figure helps developers make informed decisions quickly. This approach is a significant win for communities struggling with housing shortages. We discussed case studies from South Bend and Kalamazoo, where these initiatives have been tested, and highlighted the real challenges and successes associated with implementing them. A key takeaway from our conversation was the importance of community involvement. Successful programs require more than just plan approval; cities must also invest in infrastructure to support these developments, making it easier for local developers to participate. Financing the first project is often the hardest step, but pre-approved plans can mitigate some of the risk for builders. We also explored how city collaboration with lending institutions can further enhance these programs' success. Combining pre-approved plans with incremental zoning changes can lead to long-term benefits for both the community and developers. For cities looking to adopt these programs and for architects, developers, and advocates seeking to get their local governments on board, Jennifer provided valuable resources and insights to help kickstart the process. TAKEAWAYS Pre-approved building programs speed up infill development, tackling housing challenges head-on. Local developers benefit by reducing risks and securing easier project financing. Community involvement and city investment in infrastructure are essential for success. Incremental zoning changes can make a big impact on housing diversity and neighborhood character. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Pre-Approved Plans 02:54 Understanding Pre-Approved Building Programs 05:58 Benefits of Pre-Approved Plans for Communities 08:49 Empowering Local Developers and Builders 11:58 Case Studies: South Bend and Kalamazoo 15:03 Challenges in Infill Development 18:04 Resources and Next Steps for Cities 20:55 Conclusion and Future Outlook CONTACT JENNIFER & MENTIONED RESOURCES: Jen’s Email:  jennifer@jgriffindesignllc.com Liberty House Plans: https://libertyhouseplans.com/ South Bend Pre Approved Plans: https://southbendin.gov/bsb/preapprovedplans/ Kalamazoo Pre Approved Plans: https://issuu.com/kalamazoocity/docs/preapproved_plans_comp CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE https://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ SPONSORS Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast! Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

In this episode, I sit down with OG Steve Mouzon, a well-known architect, designer and instigator of the New Urbanist movement, to explore the art of building places that truly matter. Steve shares compelling stories from his journey in urbanism, including projects like Mahogany Bay Village and Providence in Huntsville, Alabama, where he brought local materials and craftsmanship to life in unique, resilient ways. Steve makes a bold case for why "impossible" projects bring out the best in urban design, inspiring us to rethink what’s achievable. We discuss how generalist thinking, leadership, and a willingness to challenge outdated regulations are essential to creating sustainable, beautiful spaces. This conversation goes beyond theory, offering real insights on creativity, humility, and the power of community involvement in transforming our cities.TAKEAWAYS:Preserve Land Character Through Simplicity and Local Craftsmanship: Beautiful, sustainable spaces are achieved by honoring the land’s character and using regional materials and crafts.Embrace a Generalist Approach for Holistic Solutions: Urbanists should adopt a broad, adaptable mindset, enabling them to see connections and address complex urban challenges creatively.Challenge the Status Quo to Drive Innovation: Innovative urban solutions emerge when architects and planners push beyond conventional practices and embrace fresh perspectives.Community Involvement and Intergenerational Exchange Lead to Thriving Spaces: Engaging with the community and drawing on insights across generations helps foster urban environments that truly serve their residents.Simplicity Over Complexity in Sustainable Design: Simple, resilient designs often outperform complex systems, enhancing sustainability and adaptability in a way that prioritizes human flourishing.CHAPTERS:00:00 Preserving Land Character and Urbanism02:48 Steve's Journey in Architecture08:00 Innovative Projects and Community Building24:06 Barriers to Building Better Places41:15 Leadership and Overcoming Challenges45:12 Exploring Local Patterns and Historical Insights51:01 Building Codes and Egress Regulations57:31 The Complexity of Urban Planning and Building Standards01:03:27 The Importance of Generalist Thinking in Urbanism01:10:54 The Fragility of Modern Construction Methods01:19:21 Simplicity vs. Complexity in Sustainable Building Practices01:30:05 The Vision of Adaptability and Simplicity01:31:30 Competing Visions in Sustainability01:33:54 Foundations of Sustainable Places01:37:48 Intergenerational Exchange in Urbanism01:40:29 Innovative Developments in Urban Design01:47:31 Common Threads of Successful Projects01:52:11 The Importance of Generosity and Humility01:57:26 Lessons from Pain and InnovationSTEVE’S RECOMMENDED PLACES TO VISIT​Providence​Mahogany Bay​Carlon Landing​Wheeler​South Main, CO​Seaside, FL​Rosemary, FL​I'on​Habersham​NW ArkansasCONTACT STEVE:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevemouzon/X: https://x.com/stevemouzon?lang=enInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.originalgreen?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Book: The Original GreenWebsites: newurbanguild.com (New Urban Guild)originalgreen.org (Original Green)katrinacottages.com (Katrina Cottages)CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELLNewsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/https://twitter.com/AustinTunnellCONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTUREhttps://www.buildingculture.com/https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/https://twitter.com/build_culturehttps://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/SPONSORSThank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/