The Green Route with MAREDI Design

In this episode, we had the opportunity to sit down with Leila Behjat, Director of Material Ecology at Parsons Healthy Materials Lab. She is also the cofounder of Healthy Materials Lab EU where she is leading many projects across Europe and beyond. Her work is the result of curiosity of the composition of materials and the inseparable connection between their carbon emissions and health impacts. We talk about how together with her team, HML EU is collaborating on projects scaling from exhibitions to city-wide and municipality-focused that aim to change and improve practices towards creating healthier spaces for people...

In this episode, we sit down with Maya Crowne and Price Latimer, co-founders of Alkemis Paint, the world’s first wellness paint. What they are creating is a produce made with a natural, mineral-based formula instead of the toxic acrylic found in most traditional paints. We talk about the chemicals hiding in conventional paint, why acrylic is one of the biggest contributors to microplastics in our oceans, and how mineral paint offers a healthier, beautiful alternative for our homes.Mentioned in this episode:Alkemis PaintCradle to CradleHealthy Materials Lab (HML)Have thoughts or comments to sh...

In this episode, we sit down with architect and professor Dijana Handanović to explore her restoration of Kiosk K67, a modernist icon originally designed by Saša Mahtig in 1960s Yugoslavia. Together we discuss how architecture can preserve collective memory and reactivate cultural heritage for civic life today.Mentioned in this episode:Dijana Handanović on IGKiosk 67 on IG“Kiosk K67: Restoring Communities” by Dijana HandanovićHave thoughts or comments to share? Feel free to reach out to MAREDI Design at hello@maredi-design.com

Ashlee Piper, sustainability expert, explains why choosing to consume less is both empowering and practical. She shares how she turned research into clear, attainable actions, her “no new things” process, and what a less-consumptive future could look like.Mentioned in this episode:Ashlee PiperAshlee Piper on IGThe Ethical Edit (Substack)No New Things by Ashlee PiperGive a Sht (Do Good, Live Better, Save the Planet)* by Ashlee PiperHave thoughts or comments to share? Feel free to reach out to MAREDI Design at hello@maredi-design.com

In this insightful and forward-looking conversation with Taleen Josefsson, Principal of TAJ Architecture Studio and Founder of Holistic Design Consultancy, we explore what it truly means to design and build healthy homes.Taleen shares how her holistic approach to architecture, shaped by her multicultural background and international experience, blends aesthetics, performance, and wellness to create spaces that nurture both people and the planet.Mentioned in this episode:TAJ Architecture StudioThe Holistic Architect on IGThe Holistic Architect on TikTokThe Holistic Architect on YoutubeArchitects Climate Action NetworkNew York School of Interior DesignCenter for Alternative Technologies...

In this thoughtful and inspiring conversation with Lindsey Tramuta, journalist and author based in Paris, we explore the evolving landscape of conscious tourism and what it means to experience travel more mindfully.Lindsey shares her insights on how social and cultural shifts are transforming Paris and beyond, the role of social media in shaping perceptions of place, and why slowing down can lead to deeper, more authentic connections with the places we experience.Mentioned in this episode:Lindsey Traumuta's PortfolioLindsey Tramuta on IGThe New Paris PodcastThe New Paris Dispatch Newsletter*The World is Drowning in Tourists...

In this engaging and insightful discussion with Kyle Preuss, head of marketing at Block Bins Chicago, we discuss the uniqueness of the Block Bins composting model, the critical importance of composting for urban sustainability, and efforts to democratize access in Chicago. Kyle is a dedicated advocate for community-driven waste diversion and a pioneer in crowdfunded curbside composting, known for this innovative shared-bin system that fosters neighborhood buy-in to reduce landfill waste and reinvest scraps locally.Mentioned in this episode:Block BinsBlock Bins on IGGreen Era CampusFeed and Conserve ILHave thoughts or comments to share...

In this episode with Carla Bruni, an architectural preservation and resiliency specialist, educator, and author of Chicago Homes: A Portrait of the City’s Everyday Architecture, we explore the role of preservation in shaping a sustainable future. We discuss why Chicago’s architectural identity matters, how history can inform modern design practices, and why education and advocacy are essential to building more resilient communities. Carla shares her perspective on connecting the past and future of architecture to inspire design that lasts.Mentioned in this episode:Carla Bruni on IGChicago Bungalow AssociationChicago Homes: A Portrait of the City...

In this thought-provoking episode with Nathan Kipnis, principal of Kipnis Architecture + Planning and founder of NextHaus Alliance, we dive into the promise of resilient and energy-conscious design. We discuss how the Passive House model is shaping the future of the built environment, the importance of thinking ahead to meet emerging climate challenges, and how Nathan’s award-winning projects are setting new standards for endurance and adaptability in architecture. Nathan also shares his journey as a founding member of the AIA’s 2030 Commitment Working Group, and how advocacy continues to shape national dialogue around climate action and design excellence.Me...

In this inspiring conversation with Carlo Battisti, President of Living Future Europe, we explore what it truly means to move beyond sustainability toward a regenerative and positive future in the built environment. Carlo shares insights on the Living Building Challenge, the world’s most rigorous framework for sustainable design, and discusses how its principles offer a blueprint for transforming our industry. We dive into why these frameworks are so foundational, how they are reshaping the way we think about buildings and communities, and what motivated Carlo to bring this powerful movement from the US to Europe.Mentioned in...

In this episode of The Green Route, we sit down with Fernando Ramirez and Justin Beitzal, the founders of Common Object Studio — an industrial design firm pioneering regenerative design. From their furnishing line Okaterra to their collaborations with design-driven companies, they embed sustainability, community, and radical intentionality into every step of the process. We talk about what inspired their purpose-driven approach, the challenges of regenerative design, and how they’re creating products that give back more than they take.Mentioned in this episode:Common Object StudioCommon Object Studio on IGOkaterraOkaterra on IGMetropolis's Sustainability Lab at NeoConAzure Emer...

In this engaging and insightful discussion with Rachael Meyer, Principal Landscape Architect and Director of Sustainability at Weber Thompson, we discuss her work as a clean water advocate and the impact of in the world of landscape architecture. Rachael is a dedicated advocate for clean water and a pioneer in green stormwater infrastructure, known for her innovative projects that blend environmental stewardship with urban design to create healthier, more resilient communities.Mentioned in this episode:Weber ThompsonWeber Thompson on IGThe Watershed BuildingNorthlake CommonsBioswalesHave thoughts or comments to share? Feel free to reach out to...

A deeply insightful and encouraging conversation with Katherine Tellock, Co-founder and Executive Director of Chicago Environmentalists, a dynamic nonprofit building an inclusive community dedicated to sustainability, environmental justice, and empowering Chicagoans at every stage of their eco-journey to make meaningful change in their city and beyond.Mentioned in this episode:CHICAGO ENVIRONMENTALISTSCHICAGO ENVIRONMENTALISTS ON FACEBOOKCHICAGO ENVIRONMENTALISTS ON IGHazel Johnson Cumulative Impact Ordinance“Setting Your Eco Goals for the Year” by Katherine TellockHave thoughts or comments to share? Feel free to reach out to MAREDI Design at hello@maredi-design.com

A meaningful conversation with Mallory Solomon, co-founder and CEO of Salam Hello, a Morocco-based rug company focused on sustainable, ethical production.Mentioned in this episode:SALAM HELLOSALAM HELLO ON IGHave thoughts or comments to share? Feel free to reach out to MAREDI Design at hello@maredi-design.com

A thoughtful and profound conversation with Alison Mears, architect, Associate Professor of Architecture, and Director and Co-founder of Healthy Materials Lab, a design research lab at Parsons School of Design, who's goals aim for healthier spaces and healthier lives.Mentioned in this episode:Healthy Materials LabHealthy Materials Lab on IGMaterial Health: Design Frontiers by Parsons Healthy Materials Lab6 Classes: Chemicals of ConcernHempitectureKeim PaintHave thoughts or comments to share? Feel free to reach out to MAREDI Design at hello@maredi-design.com

An inspiring conversation with Elisabetta Quarta Colosso, founder of El Fil Verd, a Barcelona-based architecture practice that embodies values like creativity, responsibility, and respect to deliver projects that leave a lasting positive impact on both individuals and the planet. Mentioned in this episode: El Fil Verd El Fil Verd on IG Some Work of El Fil Verd YouTube Channel - FairCompanies - House in the Woods YouTube Channel - FairCompanies - Passive House in Barcelona Trombe Wall - Arch Daily The Eyes of the Skin - Juhani Pallasmaa Have thoughts or comments to share? Feel...

An insightful conversation with Aleksandra Plewa, founder and CEO of the Chicago non-profit, EcoShip. With a mission to support small-businesses in the community, they aim to collect gently-used shipping supplies and packaging for redistribution, saving costs for business owners while also diverting waste from the landfill. Mentioned in this episode: EcoShip EcoShip on IG Holiday Collection Campaign - Applications Open October 29th Have thoughts or comments to share? Feel free to reach out to MAREDI Design at hello@maredi-design.com

Reporting on the latest and most significant developments and stories in the design industry via Business of Home, both Haley Chouinard, Managing Editor, and Caroline Biggs, Market Editor, have seen it all. But one thing that they both agree on is that sustainability is much more than a buzz word in interior design - it is becoming the set standard for industry trends moving forward. With these two market insiders, they talk to us about the products and brands that are on their radar that are actively working on creating more sustainable home design solutions. Of particular note, according...

As an eco-conscious global citizen, Caroline Morrison's ultra environmentally-forward Californian upbringing informed her foray into entrepreneurship in the French capital by way of Landline, a general supplies store. Determined to leverage her own long-held beliefs about sustainability and positive change, she created a space that allows people to enjoy a bit of retail therapy through an experience focused on conscious consumption. A place where people can invest in well-made household products, toys, clothing, and many other objects, she built a community where the concept is about buying better and less. Caroline explains the importance in creating a shop that...

As an expert in the built-environment, Gabriel Wilcox leverages his role as an architect through focusing on projects where he can integrate sustainable frameworks. Motivated to find solutions for some of the most pressing issues we are faced with in society, his work continues to center around improving the conditions of our buildings and spaces. One element that he believes has the power to deeply improve our built environment is by integrating more nature in design. Gabriel explains how this can be an extremely powerful and influential tool in reconnecting ourselves back to the natural world, which can provide...