Imagine a Place

In this episode of In the ROOM, host Wesley Edmonds sits down with Christina Jamison , Director of Workplace at OFS , to unpack key takeaways from WorkX in Boston. From the industry’s “flight to experience” and the resurgence of private offices to the impact of AI and the human side of workplace data, they explore how design and strategy must evolve to meet the needs of today’s workforce—a practic...

What happens when you bring together leaders shaping the workplace from some of the world’s most innovative companies? In this special WorkX episode, In the ROOM host Wesley Edmonds sits down with Alexandra Selezneva (Coca-Cola), Jimmy Groh (Otsuka Pharmaceuticals), Lauren Hasson (JLL), and Brittany Freeman (Athenahealth) for four fast-paced conversations packed with insights on the future of work...

What does a farm full of Highland cows have to do with interior design? For Shanna Francis, Director of Corporate Interior Design at HuntonBrady Architects, it’s everything. In this episode, recorded live at OFS Design Days showroom, we dive into her inspiring journey, from raising a young son while grinding through design school, to leading high-profile projects, to building a life of peace and p...

How can we start making spaces more inclusive for all kinds of minds? In this episode, Host Roby Isaac sits down with Dr. Kati Peditto, senior design researcher at DLR Group, to explore neurodiverse and inclusive design. Dr. Peditto shares how co-design, research, and empathy help shape spaces that meet the needs of neurodivergent individuals. From classrooms to healthcare to workplaces, she expla...

Recorded live at Design Days , Maria VanDeman chats with a dynamic leader in design, Ronnie Belizaire, Studio Practice Leader and Principal at HKS, about her incredible journey from business student to design industry powerhouse. From navigating her Haitian-American heritage to embracing her true self in the design world, Ronnie shares inspiring stories of mentorship, authenticity, and the power o...

How do pathways between the brain, body, and built environment shape our experience? In this first episode of Crafted for Healing , neuroscientist Dr. Kelly Olson joins series guest host Roby Isaac for a look into the science behind healing spaces. Dr. Olson shares how our brains respond to built environments and how thoughtful design can help regulate stress, support well-being, and serve the nee...

How can we craft the future of healing spaces through neuro-inclusive design? In this episode of Imagine a Place, Stan Gray of Carolina and Roby Isaac of Mannington Commercial join Maria to discuss Crafted for Healing , neurodiversity, inclusive design, and creating community. Together, they talk about how the Crafted for Healing experience connected healthcare design leaders to learn about neurod...

Step into the heart of Chicago’s Design Week —where 50,000 designers gather, showrooms pulse with creativity, and deep dish dreams meet Michelin-star ambitions. In this electric episode, Maria VanDeman and Wesley Edmonds reflect on everything from Fulton Market’s immersive design experiences to unexpected encounters with industry icons like Cheryl Durst (yes, even with laryngitis!) and Roby Isaac...

What does it really take to go from intern to entrepreneur? In this episode, Dani Miller , owner of Lauderdale Design in Knoxville, TN, shares her journey of stepping into business ownership, leading with intention, and building a design firm that reflects her values, vision, and bold spirit. Recorded just days before welcoming her second child, Dani opens up about the realities of entrepreneurshi...

In part 3 of "In the ROOM," host Wesley Edmonds sits down with two visionary design leaders: Jane Nakagawa , Vice President of Research and Development at American Honda Motor Company, and Gabriele Chiave , former VP of Global Creative Direction at Estée Lauder and co-founder of the design collective Controvento. Together, they dive into a wide-ranging conversation on the future of design—from Jan...

Join host Wesley Edmonds for part two of In the ROOM at ICFF, where design meets humor, emotion, and experience in unexpected ways. First up is NYC-based comedian Dan Mahboubian Rosen , who brings a fresh—and funny—perspective to the world of design. Through his unique lens, Dan explores how comedy can shift our understanding of space and spark new ways of thinking. Then, Wesley sits down with Dav...

Step into the ROOM at ICFF in New York City, where host Wesley Edmonds sits down with two inspiring women who are making waves in the design world with purpose and heart. First up is Jaime Derringer , Co-Founder and Head of Brand at TRAME and the Founder and creative force behind Design Milk . Jaime reflects on her unexpected path from art and blogging to becoming a pioneer in digital design media...

What began as a friendship in a college dorm unfolds into a story of growth within the design profession — marked by pivots, promotions, and purpose. In this episode, Sara Meier , Interior Designer and Project Manager at CannonDesign , shares her journey from design school to a flexible, future-focused firm. She reflects on the power of saying yes to new challenges, seeking mentorship, and champio...

In this episode, we dive deep into the raw, real, and rewarding journey of interior designer Cynthia Sarria , as she shares what it’s like to lead, learn, and build a thriving design culture from the ground up. From her unexpected move from Jersey to Miami to helping launch HOK’ s office during a pandemic, Cynthia opens up about what it truly takes to grow a resilient team—and why floaties, heart,...

Maria VanDeman and Wesley Edmonds unpack the powerful themes from IIDA’s 27th Industry Roundtable —"The Happiness Code." From designing for awe to embracing vulnerability and joy in the workplace, this episode explores how comfort, connection, and magic are influencing the future of design. Hear their reflections on insights from thought leaders like Dr. Upali Nanda and Mark Bryan—and find out wha...

Imagine a Place is stepping into a new chapter, and we're thrilled to introduce our new host, Maria VanDeman . In this heartfelt and unscripted debut, Maria opens up about the excitement — and a bit of the nervousness — that comes with taking the reins of a podcast that's inspired so many. She reflects on the 170+ incredible guests who’ve shaped Imagine a Place and shares her vision for what’s ahe...

On this episode Doug is by himself talking about his 19th NeoCon and what caught his attention. He also talks about the future of this time of year as OFS is moving to Fulton Market for Design Days. Doug also takes time to share memories of Phyllis Menke, Matriarch of OFS who recently passed away at the age of 98. Connect with Maria on LinkedIn . Follow Imagine a Place on LinkedIn . Click here to...

In honor of Juneteenth, we welcome Jack Travis , an esteemed interior designer, architect, author, and educator whose profound insights have significantly shaped the design and education landscape. Jack is an incredible storyteller and today, he shares his journey from childhood into the business of architecture. You’ll hear about his experiences of overcoming racial barriers and learn his unique...

In this episode, host Doug Shapiro shares some insights on corporate culture that came from a recent encounter.  He also checks in with The Design POP podcast host, Alexandra Tseffos .  Alexandra shares some learnings from her recent virtual event POP into Excellence .  Subscribe to The DesignPop podcast   Connect with Maria on LinkedIn . Follow Imagine a Place on LinkedIn . Click here to get your...

Join host Doug Shapiro for part 2 of 'In the ROOM' LIVE from ICFF. Today, Doug explores the essence of ICFF, capturing the spirit of design through the voices of global influencers, such as Lee Broom , Shreya Somani , Alain Gilles , and entrepreneur Sadig Alekperov . In this episode, Lee Broom shares his inspiring journey from theater lighting design to international acclaim, exploring the emotion...

Join host Doug Shapiro "In the ROOM" LIVE from ICFF 2024 .  In this two-part series, Doug explores the unique energy and innovation at ICFF - featuring insightful conversations with industry leaders such Amy Devers , Luca Nichetto , and Giulio Cappellini , listeners will hear inspiring stories, fresh perspectives, and valuable advice. Highlights include Amy Devers, discussing the importance of stu...

Join host Doug Shapiro at ICFF in New York City as he kicks off the new series, "In the ROOM," part of the Imagine a Place podcast. Inspired by the innovative ROOM products, this new series offers intimate, on-the-scene experiences from design events across the country. Be sure to tune in next week, as Doug chats with design luminaries Giulio Cappellini, Luca Nichetto, Susan Lyons, Amy Devers, and...

What do you get when you survey 70 designers and challenge 10 of the leading minds in design? You get " Game Time ," an entertaining and insightful exploration of design concepts and trends. Join host Doug Shapiro in the latest creation from Imagine a Place Productions – a unique game show that merges engaging discussions with exciting gameplay! In this innovative format, two teams, composed of so...

In this episode, Doug Shapiro sits down with author, podcast host, and thought leader, Rex Miller , to explore the true essence of hospitality in the workplace. Together, they discuss how incorporating hospitality-style design without genuine hospitality experiences creates a disconnect in modern workspaces. Through engaging stories and examples, they reveal how companies like GoDaddy and CBRE hav...

In this episode, host Doug Shapiro sits down with Claire Pijoulat and Odile Hainaut , the dynamic duo behind ICFF and the founders of WantedDesign . From their chance meeting in 2010 to becoming Brand Directors, they share their journey of transforming the International Contemporary Furniture Fair into a vibrant hub for design and community. Discover how they've redefined ICFF by integrating cultu...