Journey into the minds of the people who shape thinking with design 

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Design improves the world we live in. Explore the minds of top designers.

About the Podcast

Each week join your host, award-winning designer Adrian Ramsay for a step into the expansive world of design, architecture and more.

Adrian sits down with some of the big names and those who are lesser known from across the international design world to find out what makes them tick, what they strive for and what unites us, in the universal quest to create something simple, functional and beautiful.

In 2013 Richard Petrie worked with a local architect in New Zealand and helped her win better projects at higher fees. In 2014 AMI launched the world’s first comprehensive client attraction system for architects and designers available online. Since then over 600 architects and designers from around the world have been through the training.

The ‘LCC’ method within the training has had a huge impact on the design industry. Designers are taught and given the tools to get paid for pre-design research. ‘No more free work’ demands Richard Petrie, his students are happy to oblige.

Adrian Ramsay Design House

Adrian Ramsay Design House connects with clients to innovate solutions for them and create homes that make their hearts sing.

Using his unique ‘Design Magic’ process, Adrian listens to client’s dreams, understands their budget, and creates unique, functional and stylish homes, with a personalised finished product that leaves no two houses the same.  

While most of our work is based in Australia, Adrian Ramsay Design House has also completed works in New Zealand, England and France. ARDH are full service designers of new homes and home renovations, specializing in bespoke, environmentally sensitive design.

Listen to the Designers Who Shape Our World

The latest episodes...

March 14, 2024

Join Lonnie Armstrong, an experienced builder from Austin, Texas, as he shares insights into his journey from childhood curiosity to a career in construction science. Transitioning from initial aspirations in design and mechanics, Lonnie’s path led him to discover his passion for hands-on work in construction, illustrating the importance of adaptability and seizing opportunities. In the

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March 6, 2024

Steve is not your typical landscape designer. He’s been getting dirt on his hands ever since he was 16, cutting grass to earn some bucks. Working hard got him through school, where he got advanced landscaping degrees from Mississippi State University and SUNY Cobleskill College of Environmental Design and Horticulture. He founded Steve Griggs Design when

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February 29, 2024

Transitioning from Principal to Founder, Heather McKinney reflects on her journey at McKinney York Architecture. Embracing the role of founder celebrates freedom and fulfillment, focusing on passion-driven architecture.  Heather highlights the transformative impact of architectural work on communities and the responsibility architects hold in shaping landscapes. Architects like Donald Mays and Hank Schubart leave lasting

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February 20, 2024

Explore Marlon Blackwell’s architectural journey, from childhood explorations near the Everglades to a career of merging art and design. His interdisciplinary approach, shaped by nature and storytelling, enriches innovative designs resonating on multiple levels. Marlon’s wife Meryati Johari Blackwell and cameo appearance of Michael Malone all discuss the insights into urban versus natural settings and

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February 12, 2024

Mark Wellen, FAIA is co-founder and principal of Rhotenberry Wellen Architects in Midland, Texas. Drawing inspiration from the vast, inimitable landscape and the traditions of Texas’ modernist regionalist architects of previous generations, he has become a champion of the highest standards of the built environment, through both design and leadership. His work is both intuitive

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February 6, 2024

Join us as we continue on our Design conversation with DC Hillier. D.C. Hillier, renowned mid-century modern design expert, author, and Instagram influencer with 230,000 followers. DC began studying this period of design and upon graduating from art school with a degree in film studies he was also now educated in the world of Mid

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January 30, 2024

D.C. Hillier, renowned mid-century modern design expert, author, and Instagram influencer with 230,000 followers, discusses the enduring appeal of mid-century design, challenges in trends and women’s roles, and signature styles in architecture.  DC began studying this period of design and upon graduating from art school with a degree in film studies he was also now

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January 23, 2024

Charles MacBride, AIA, NCARB, CPHC® is an educator and an architect. He teaches at the University of Texas at Arlington and maintains a small practice. He has been focused most recently on passive building, both in the classroom and in his own work. Currently he is collaborating with the UTA design build team ona micro-community

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Special Section:
AIA Austin Homes Tour 2023

The 37th annual Homes Tour will take place on October 28-29, 2023

  • Click here to get tickets to the 37th Annual AIA Austin Homes Tour 
  • To find out more about the tour and each featured Architect click here

#aiaaustinhomestour #aiaaustin #aiaaustinhomestour2023

TALKdesign interviews architects featured on the tour...

October 13, 2023

Discover architectural diversity, community engagement, and sustainable innovation at the AIA Austin Homes Tour with Ingrid Spencer. 1. The Austin Homes Tour offers a unique opportunity for the public to explore custom-designed homes and engage with architects, contractors, and designers. It’s a chance to see beautifully executed designs and learn about the thought processes behind them. 2.

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October 12, 2023

Client Dedication, Collaborative Design, and Thoughtful Layout: The owners of Shoalwood, tirelessly searched their ideal Austin neighborhood for their forever home. Their dedication paid off when they found the perfect spot. The Shoalwood Residence beautifully showcases the power of collaboration, with architect Sarah McIntyre and the clients working hand in hand. The client’s active involvement and

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October 10, 2023

In today’s episode, Gary, Philip and Troy from Furman + Keil Architects explore a journey of the stunning transformation of a home known as Foothill Terrace.This captivating remodel goes beyond just the interior, as it beautifully integrates the outdoor spaces to create a cohesive and inviting environment. Join us as we delve into the design

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October 9, 2023

Welcome to Descendant House, a home designed to accommodate multiple generations and foster harmonious coexistence within a single structure.  The Descendant House encompasses three distinct family units, for grandparents, parents, and children. The design ensures that while each unit enjoys their individual space, they remain interconnected through shared cooking and gathering areas that serve as the

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October 8, 2023

 Nicole Blair’s “The Perch” showcases innovative design solutions, addressing the clients’ need for extra space without sacrificing their beloved backyard. Elevated above the bungalow, it harmoniously blends with a corrugated oxidized steel cladding, matching the existing fence. Within limited square footage, Blair crafted functional and intimate spaces. A cleverly designed hallway nook opens up the

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September 28, 2023

In today’s episode featuring the Hood House by Murray Legge Architecture with Architect Murray Legge and Lincoln Davidson, we’re exploring a fascinating topic that touches on the European approach to historic preservation and its contrast with the American perspective. This podcast will take us on a captivating journey through a project that embraces the past and

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September 26, 2023

Join us on the newest episode on TALKdesign featuring an AIA Austin Home of 2023, Ledgeway Modern. Architect Kyle McCollum joins me to chat about this amazing home design. Plus photographer Casey Woods highlights certain details she loved throughout the home when capturing design elements… Connect with Kyle: Event Page + Ticket Link:

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September 19, 2023

Greg Esparza and Frank Farkash, architects with Moontower and the creators of Cross Cabin (featured within the AIA tour). Join us as we dive into Cross Cabin… discussing how it embodies sustainability through plant-based materials, sourced responsibly from farms and forests. It promotes well-being with biophilic design, reducing stress and enhancing cognitive responses. This scalable project

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Special Section:
AIA Austin Homes Tour 2022

This year's Homes Tour will take place on October 22-23, 2022

  • Click here to get tickets to the 36th Annual AIA Austin Homes Tour 
  • To find out more about the tour and each featured Architect click here

#aiaaustinhomestour #aiaaustin #aiaaustinhomestour2022

TALKdesign interviews architects featured on the tour...

October 9, 2022

This week is the last of the AIAAustin Homes Tour podcast episodes, and no better way to end it than speaking to Clara & Kevin about the energy-driven home Vastu, Western Texas. Dick Clark + Associates is a full-service architecture and interior design firm based in Austin, whose work covers a wide range of project types

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October 4, 2022

Tim Cuppett is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, School of Architecture. After an internship in San Francisco, he has had the luxury of residing and practicing in Austin for over three decades.Cuppett is a registered Architect and Interior Designer. After a decade of working for a large commercial firm, Cuppett began

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September 30, 2022

From Houston originally, Erica Heroy comes from the family of a machine designer/ inventor, a classical musician, and some wild entrepreneurial spirit. This practice was born out of that spirit with a drive for putting things together in a lovely and practical way. Formative years spent at firms like Tsao & McKown in NYC and Glassman Shoemake Maldonado in Houston

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September 26, 2022

Ashley helps lead Lake|Flato’s Austin office with a focus on designing urban environments that celebrate and enhance the remarkable connections between people and places. Her work has ranged from sustainable campus planning to boutique hospitality design, across diverse communities and ecosystems. Each of her projects creatively responds to its particular context while staying rooted in

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September 22, 2022

Jed Duhon joined Studio Steinbomer in 2009 and brings significant experience as a Project Manager for multiple public, municipal, and residential projects.  Being well versed in the fundamentals and nuances inherent in the design process, Jed retains a well-rounded experience level in design and project management for a vast range of multiple project types including

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September 21, 2022

Trey Farmer, AIA received his M.Arch from The University of Texas at Austin and has 15 years of experience in sustainable design and construction. He came to Austin from New Hampshire via New Zealand and Northern California where he worked and studied English, architecture, permaculture and natural building. He is a LEED AP (BD+C) and

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September 12, 2022

With degrees in both industrial engineering and architecture, Philip loves the left brain / right brain thinking inherent in architectural design: exploring the natural tensions between function and beauty, balancing pragmatic concerns like gravity and waterproofing with artful composition of materials, light, and texture. Philip is happiest when his hands and mind are busy in a

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September 6, 2022

Stephanie Lemmo received her Bachelor of Architecture degree from Rice University. Originally born in Puebla, Mexico, Stephanie has strong roots with her Hispanic heritage and multicultural background. With over ten years of experience, she previously worked for prestigious firms in Boston and New York City including Kyu Sung Woo Architects, Ann Beha Architects, Pei Cobb

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Special Section:
AIA Austin Homes Tour 2020

34th Annual AIA Austin Homes Tour - October 16 - 19, 2020

#aiaaustinhomestour #aiaaustin #aiaaustinhomestour2020

TALKdesign interviews architects featured on the tour...

October 14, 2020

This episode we’re joined by Robert Gay and Lucy Begg, architects featured on the AIA Austin Homes Tour 2020. Robert Gay Robert grew up making things in the woods of Alabama and helping his Dad on jobsites around the state.  Since beginning his architectural studies at Auburn University twenty five years ago, his diverse design and building

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October 12, 2020

This episode we’re joined by Camille Jobe and Ada Corral, architects featured on the AIA Austin Homes Tour 2020. JOBE CORRAL ARCHITECTS specializes in the design of well detailed and highly crafted structures using authentic materials. We work with the knowledge that a great project springs from a deep understanding of the site, a respectful and

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October 12, 2020

 At Baldridge Architects, our practice is predicated on the basic belief that well-designed space can aspire to loftier goals than the mere provision of shelter and amenities; and it can do more than facilitate commercial or institutional goals. For us, these are our baselines—our starting points. As a firm, we are striving for more than prominence in a

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October 12, 2020

This episode we’re joined by Tim Cuppett and David Kilpatrick, architects featured on the AIA Austin Homes Tour 2020. Tim Cuppett Architects is a full service Architecture and Interior Design practice, with a residential portfolio spanning two decades. Our work is rooted in traditional forms of hearth and home interpreted in a quiet modernism. Homes are

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Why TALKdesign?

TALKdesign was created from my fascination of "What makes great design?"

When you consider the world, you realise that everything is designed either by a Human or Nature. Designers have a massive impact on how humans live.    

Every moment I spend with design thinkers I come away richer for the experience. I wanted to share my passion, to dig deeper and talk with designers, architects, inventors, artists and business people about what inspires them, their design process, and how they find design inspiration.

Having lived a life of design, training others in innovation thinking and creating for others I see huge value in sharing creatives' stories and process. I hope you enjoy the insights and passion my guests hold for life and design, and that their stories inspire you to become a better designer.

Adrian introduces TALKdesign (1 min. 08 sec.):

Adrian Ramsay

About Adrian

Adrian has lived a life of design, as a child he was always creating “something” – drawing, making models, building. Brought up in New Zealand where there has always been a hands-on approach to life, his father being a fine artist and a mother who was a drama teacher set him on a course which was about connecting with people and creating for them.

This journey took him to film and video production, then creating his own company and contracting to different industries with his design and people skills. Clothing design occupied a large part of his creative journey, starting as a specialist in women’s fashion swimwear working across NZ, Australia, USA and the UK. In another chapter of his design adventure he headed up design for New Zealand's biggest clothing company, where he created on field and on water sportswear globally for the world’s leading sports people. Highlights included mountaineer Sir Edmund Hillary, rugby legend Jonah Lomu, and sailor Russell Coutts to name a few. 

Beyond clothing design, Adrian returned to his childhood love of designing houses. This resulted in the creation of Adrian Ramsay Design House where he uses his skill and intuition to read land and spaces, and works with clients to create homes that make their hearts sing.

With a thirst for knowledge and design thinking, Adrian detoured from his house design business for several years in the mid 2000’s to supply his skills across the globe as a systematic innovation trainer. Clients included AIRBUS, Footlocker, World Vision, and Boston Consulting to name a few. However with a young family and too much time away, he chose to return to Australia and his home design practice. 

Throughout Adrian’s broad career within the world of design, he has developed a deep understanding as well as a rich appreciation of the skills and people that make this industry tick. 

Talk Design is an exploration of both design and the human behaviour that allows it to flourish. 

Richard Petrie

Chief Marketect

You're taught "do great design and the clients will find you." It helps if you know how to communicate your value effectively. I help architects attract great clients who value design.

Eric Bobrow

Chief Strategist

Technology allows great design to reach your client, and for your thoughts and ideas to change the world. When you understand the big picture you can shape strategy and direct your tactics and methods to fulfill your mission.

Architects and Building Design Professionals:

Learn How to Apply Pareto’s 80-20 Principle to Win More Projects in a FREE Architect Marketing Online Master Class with Richard Petrie.

Gameplan Call with Sue Asinas for people who are interested in learning more about SIX and our architect marketing programs. 

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