Buildings 2.0

Integrated Projects

Buildings 2.0 dives deep into the technology, trends and talent reshaping the structures where we live and work. Hosted by Jose Cruz Jr, this podcast brings you interviews with the industry’s brightest minds, from visionary architects and property owners to chief innovation officers. Brought to you by Integrated-Projects.com.

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#84
August 31 · 28 min
VDC is dead. The replacement job doesn't have a name yet.
In this episode, Alexis McGuffin, National Director of Digital Delivery at Suffolk Construction, explores how the construction industry must evolve beyond traditional VDC and BIM roles to unlock the full value of digital delivery. She shares her vision for the future "digital engineer," discusses why technology alone isn't enough, and explains how organizations can better integrate data, people, and processes to drive project success. Alexis also dives into talent development, labor challenges, contract innovation, and the leadership skills construction professionals need to thrive in a rapidly changing industry. Key Topics The evolution of Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) The rise of the digital engineer in construction Strategic integration of technology and organizational change Chapters 00:00 The Evolution of VDC in Construction 05:22 Challenges in the Current Construction Landscape 10:28 The Future of Project Management in Construction 14:43 Differentiating Construction Companies Today 19:26 Addressing the Labor Shortage in Construction 22:30 A Vision for the Future of Construction Contracts 24:08 Advice for the Next Generation of Construction Professionals
#83
August 18 · 31 min
90% Accurate AI Is Not Good Enough for Building Safety
Gabe Maser, Executive Vice President, Innovation & Growth at the International Code Council, shares insights on building codes, their impact on housing costs, and how technology and policy are shaping safer, more affordable buildings. Discover how codes evolve with science, technology, and industry needs, and what to expect in the upcoming 2027 code updates. key topics Building codes and housing costs Science and data driving code updates Proactive consensus building in code development Innovations in disaster resilience and safety The role of technology and AI in code enforcement Middle housing and affordability strategies Future code considerations for climate and safety The process of feedback and code evolution Digital transformation in building safety Resources for practitioners and policymakers Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Gabe Maser and the ICC 01:10 Debunking Myths: Do Building Codes Make Housing Expensive? 02:22 Cost of Codes vs. Construction Costs 04:24 Complexity of Developing and Implementing Codes 06:02 Innovations in Data Centers and Middle Housing 12:07 Updating Codes for Flood and Disaster Risks 13:17 Addressing Wildfire Risks and Post-Disaster Lessons 15:35 Balancing Cost and Safety in Code Changes 16:25 Supporting Middle Housing and Affordability 17:38 Classifying Data Centers and Emerging Technologies 19:06 Upcoming 2027 Code Changes and Innovations 23:01 The Role of 3D Scanning and AI in Building Safety 24:01 AI and Technology in Code Development and Enforcement 28:03 Digital Transformation and Future of Permitting 29:57 Supporting Local Jurisdictions and Resources for Code Adoption 30:19 Connecting with Gabe and ICC for Updates
#82
August 11 · 23 min
The Existing Conditions Came From Google Earth
In this episode, Chris Faulhaber, Director of Digital Transformation at EarthBrain, shares insights on how digital transformation and AI are revolutionizing the heavy civil construction industry. We explore the current state of digitization, the economics of dirt moving, and the future of autonomous technology on job sites. Key Topics The impact of AI and digital transformation in construction How data collection and analysis improve project efficiency The economics of dirt moving and project cost management The role of autonomous machinery and future job site automation Strategies for effective digital adoption and collaboration in construction Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Chris Faulhaber and Digital Transformation in Construction 00:33 The Opportunities and Risks of AI Adoption 02:01 The State of Digital Transformation in Heavy Civil Construction 03:21 How Equipment Data Is Changing Earthmoving 05:31 What It Really Means to Digitize Dirt 07:01 The Economics of Moving Dirt 10:19 Building Trust Through Drone Data and Digital Collaboration 12:02 Why Contractors Are Not as Unique as They Think 13:45 Autonomous Machinery and the Future of Construction Sites 17:27 The Most Exciting Heavy Civil Projects 18:34 Career Advice for the Next Generation of Engineers 20:16 Closing the Generational and Technology Gap 22:00 Where to Follow Chris Faulhaber
#80
July 28 · 23 min
Win the AI Race by Slowing Down.
In this episode, Maribeth Martorana, Founder and CEO of Sapient Advisors, shares insights on how AI is transforming the built environment, emphasizing disciplined adoption, data foundations, and future-proofing strategies for businesses in real estate and finance. key topics AI adoption in real estate and finance Data foundations and governance Future-proofing business systems Building proprietary data advantage AI models: cloud vs. on-premise Change management in AI transformation takeaways Disciplined operators win in AI, not just fast adopters. Start with your business strategy before AI implementation. Leverage internal and external data for competitive advantage. Build cross-functional teams for AI success. Prioritize use cases and start small with pilots. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Maribeth Martorana and AI in the Built Environment 01:39 Market challenges for middle-market companies in AI adoption 03:00 Aligning AI initiatives with business strategy 06:20 Differentiating through proprietary data and unique insights 08:30 Localized and distributed AI models 10:47 Future-proofing data architecture for AI 14:43 Structured vs. unstructured data in AI 17:32 Preparing documents and data for AI readiness 20:13 Translating business needs into technological solutions 23:48 What excites Maribeth about AI’s future 25:10 Empowering organizations and individuals with AI
#81
July 24 · 36 min
From One Failed House to a $170M Startup
In this episode, Marc Minor, Co-Founder & CEO of Higharc, discusses how AI and data-driven technology are transforming home building, making it more efficient, customizable, and scalable. We explore the challenges of traditional construction, the potential of generative design, and the future of standardized yet personalized homes. key topics The impact of AI on home building Challenges in traditional construction processes The role of data and generative design in housing Balancing customization and scalability in homes Higharc's platform and its industry implications Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Marc Minor and Higharc 01:17 Personal Story: Building a Home in Durham and Lessons Learned 03:02 Current State of Home Construction in America 06:50 Existing Spectrum of Home Building Processes 08:23 The Need for Speed and Consistency in Home Construction 11:17 Balancing Standardization and Customization 13:23 The Role of Standardization and Scale 16:07 Supporting Commercial and Retrofit Projects 19:13 Higharc's Customer Base: Builders and Distributors 21:22 AI's Role in Estimating and Design Automation 28:34 Most Impactful AI Use Cases in Higharc 33:44 Encoding Building Codes and Automation Risks 34:56 Skills Needed for Future Construction Tech Innovators 41:34 Building Sustainable Competitive Moats in AI Era
#79
July 21 · 29 min
AI Is Just Another Tool. Use It Like One.
In this episode, Luke Prescott, Head of Product at Bluebeam, discusses the practical applications of AI in construction documentation, the evolving role of PDFs, and how Bluebeam is innovating with tools like Bluebeam Max to enhance industry workflows. key topics AI's practical applications in construction Bluebeam's role in digital transformation The evolution and importance of PDFs in construction Introduction of Bluebeam Max and AI agents Balancing automation and human expertise in construction Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Luke Prescott and Bluebeam 00:59 The current landscape of AI in construction 01:57 Bluebeam's role in digital transition and AI integration 02:56 Transformative vs incremental AI approaches 04:00 The enduring role of PDFs in construction workflows 07:01 AI as a portable database for construction data 09:00 Workflow preferences: 2D PDFs vs BIM 10:53 AI's role in decision-making and communication 12:59 AI detecting design anomalies and automating tasks 15:53 Bluebeam Max and the shift to AI agents 17:54 Balancing automation, trust, and accuracy 21:02 Future of AI in construction and industry insights 26:02 Business models and licensing in the AI era 28:09 The importance of industry expertise and relationships 31:11 Advice for the next generation of construction tech professionals
#78
July 17 · 34 min
Don't Buy AI Until You Fix Your Data
In this episode, Jeff Chen, Director of Digital Transformation at Symetri, discusses the real value of AI in building management, the importance of data quality, and how digital twins can be scaled effectively. We explore practical insights for owners, operators, and technologists aiming to leverage AI and BIM for smarter infrastructure management. key topics The real ROI of AI in construction and building management Data quality and asset management in BIM Scaling digital twins beyond flagship projects AI-driven decision making for facilities management Standardization and data interoperability in infrastructure Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jeff Chen and his expertise in data management 01:28 Why clients rush to AI without understanding their actual needs 04:32 Broader scope of BIM for owner-operators and lifecycle management 09:55 The importance of asset definition and data scope 12:19 Connecting data silos and standardization challenges 15:00 The pillars of creating effective digital twins 16:54 Cost and manual effort in creating digital twins 24:15 Successful examples and ongoing challenges in digital twin adoption 26:30 Can digital twins exist without detailed BIM models? 28:32 Connecting different user needs with AI solutions 33:08 The future of AI services versus software subscriptions
#77
July 14 · 28 min
Why One AI Platform Can't Run a Real Estate Company
Andrew Zang, Founder and CEO of Bespoke AIR, explores how responsible AI is reshaping commercial real estate by helping landlords and leasing teams work smarter, move faster, and unlock new revenue opportunities. Drawing on his experience in billions of dollars of real estate transactions, Andrew explains why generic AI tools aren't enough and why tailored, industry-specific solutions are essential for meaningful adoption. He also shares practical strategies for securing organizational buy-in, preserving institutional knowledge, and integrating AI into leasing and transaction workflows without losing the human relationships that drive the industry. key topics The importance of tailored AI solutions for real estate Organizational buy-in and AI governance Operationalizing AI in leasing and transactions Chapters 00:00 Introduction to AI in Real Estate 01:02 Understanding Landlord Needs and AI Solutions 06:17 The Importance of Organizational Buy-In 08:45 Operationalizing AI in Real Estate 14:08 Building Effective AI Teams 18:36 Bespoke AIR: A Tailored AI Solution 22:26 Speeding Up the Leasing Process 25:39 Catalyzing Change in Real Estate with AI
#76
July 10 · 32 min
Why Owners Lose More on Operations than Rent
In this episode, Will Curtis, Founder and Principal Broker of Crossed Sabers Commercial Real Estate, shares his perspective on the rapidly evolving commercial real estate landscape and the forces reshaping office, industrial, and investment markets. Drawing on his military background and decades of CRE experience, Will explores how operational excellence, technology adoption, and AI-driven systems are helping firms improve efficiency while maintaining a competitive edge. He also discusses innovative leasing strategies, the future of office space, and why human relationships and trust remain irreplaceable in an increasingly digital world. Key Topics Impact of AI on CRE operations Trends in office and industrial markets Innovative lease structures and flexibility The importance of human relationships in CRE Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Will Curtis and His Journey 02:13 Current Trends in the San Antonio Real Estate Market 04:42 Industry-Specific Trends in Office Space Utilization 07:21 Attributes of Attractive Commercial Office Spaces 10:52 Challenges Facing Landlords and Financing Issues 16:34 Will Curtis's Business Model and Systems Approach 18:35 Balancing Relationships and Technology in Real Estate 20:14 The Role of AI in Enhancing Productivity 24:23 The Enduring Importance of Human Interaction 27:12 The Underrated Role of Property Managers 30:16 Advice for Young Professionals Entering Real Estate
#74
July 3 · 37 min
Why Real Estate Stays Fragmented on Purpose
In this episode, Matthew Schneider, Founder and CEO of Building Inc., explores how trusted data, blockchain, and AI are transforming the real estate industry. Learn why data verification is becoming the foundation of faster transactions, better investment decisions, and more transparent property operations. Matthew also shares his vision for tokenization, digital infrastructure, and the future of real estate innovation. Key Topics • Data organization and verification in real estate • Building trust through digital infrastructure • The hidden costs of poor property data • AI, governance, and the importance of trusted information • Blockchain applications in real estate • Understanding tokenization and asset liquidity • Digital twins, BIM, and the future of property management • How transparency can increase property value and investor confidence Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Building Inc. 05:15 The Importance of Data Verification 09:16 Understanding the Cost of Doing Business 13:41 Budgeting for Building Inc. 17:19 The Role of Trust in Real Estate Data 21:11 Verification Processes in Real Estate 25:27 Tokenization and Its Impact on Real Estate 29:55 Building the Future of Real Estate
#73
May 15 · 29 min
Why Field Materials' CEO Left Big Tech to Fix Construction's Most Expensive, Least Talked Problem
Eldar Sadikov shares how construction procurement is being transformed through AI-powered automation and agentic workflows. Coming from a construction family background and combining experience from AI research at Google and Microsoft, he explains how Field Materials is replacing manual spreadsheets, paper forms, and repetitive data entry with intelligent procurement systems. The conversation explores how AI agents can automate purchasing, invoice processing, delivery tracking, and material management across large-scale construction projects, especially as infrastructure and data center demand accelerates. Eldar also discusses the future of construction operations, where AI-native workflows, smarter purchasing decisions, and real-time procurement intelligence will dramatically improve efficiency, scalability, and project execution across the industry. Key Topics AI in construction procurement Automation of manual workflows Agentic AI systems for contractors Infrastructure and data center construction growth Procurement intelligence and material tracking Construction technology innovation AI-native software platforms Scaling operations through automation Digital transformation in construction Future of construction procurement workflows Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Eldar Sadikov and Field Materials 02:19 The Need for AI in Construction Procurement 05:18 Automating Procurement Operations 07:44 Building the Field Materials Platform 10:37 Growth and Market Impact 13:01 User Experience and Business Model 15:32 Drivers of Growth in Construction 18:23 Selling to Construction vs. Retail 20:52 Future of Procurement in Construction 23:28 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 26:01 Emerging Trends in Energy and Infrastructure
#72
May 8 · 36 min
Why Killing Revit Won't Fix Construction, According to Swapp's CEO
In this episode of Buildings 2.0, Eitan Sarfati shares insights on the evolution of BIM, the rise of AI in architecture, and why the future of construction technology is bigger than simply building a “Revit killer.” The conversation explores how connected data, intelligent workflows, and automation are transforming the entire building lifecycle — from design and coordination to construction and facility management. Eitan also discusses how AI is accelerating software innovation in the AEC industry and changing the role of architects, designers, and startup founders. The episode offers a forward-looking perspective on how architects can leverage creativity, systems thinking, and emerging technology to shape the future of the built environment. Key Topics The evolution of BIM and modern construction software How AI is transforming architecture and construction workflows The future of building data, automation, and intelligent design tools Why connected workflows matter more than “Revit killer” narratives The changing role of architects and AEC startup founders in the AI era Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Eitan Sarfati and Swapp 04:24 The Evolution of BIM and Its Importance 08:08 Understanding BIM for Owners and Operators 11:43 Navigating the BIM Landscape 15:38 The Future of Design Tools and AI 19:57 Building Lasting Companies in a Rapidly Changing Industry 24:18 Advice for Young Architects and Startup Founders
#71
April 3 · 29 min
Why Arkio's Co-Founder Stopped "Building Buildings" to Fix Architecture's Broken Tools
In this episode of Buildings 2.0, Jose Cruz speaks with Johan Hanegraaf, co-founder of Arkio, about why current AEC tools feel broken and how AR/VR is evolving design workflows. They explore mixed reality, real-time collaboration, and the value of experiencing and interacting with spaces at true scale along with lessons from building a simple, user-driven product. Takeaways AEC tools are outdated and fragmented Mixed reality is more practical than pure VR True-scale design beats 2D screens Collaboration is moving to multiplayer workflows Simplicity drives product adoption AI is improving workflows, not replacing design No single 3D format will dominate Architects are shifting toward tech roles
#70
February 13 · 35 min
Why architects must balance speed and patience—with Henning Larsen’s Gregory Haley
In this episode of Buildings 2.0, host Jose Cruz speaks with Gregory Haley, Associate Principal of Henning Larsen, about the intersection of architecture and urban design. They explore the balance between immediate needs and long-term sustainability, the importance of context in design, and the evolving role of public spaces. Haley shares insights on the duality of urban and architectural design, the influence of modernism, and the perspectives of young architects today. The conversation also touches on the tools and technologies shaping the future of architecture and the significance of effective communication in the field. Takeaways Designers must negotiate the tensions between instant and enduring. Sustainability is a central theme in contemporary architecture. Urban design requires collaboration across various disciplines. Context in design is dynamic and should evolve with the community. Public spaces play a crucial role in fostering community engagement. Modernism's influence continues to shape architectural discourse. Young architects prioritize social impact and sustainability. Effective communication is key in presenting architectural ideas. The tools of architecture are evolving but remain interconnected. Joy in architecture is essential for creating meaningful spaces.
#69
January 16 · 29 min
What Did the Space Architect Behind ICON's 3D-Printed Homes Discover While Designing for Mars
In this episode of Buildings 2.0, host Jose Cruz speaks with Melodie Yashar, a space architect and founder of AENARA, about her journey from traditional architecture to pioneering work in space architecture and 3D printing. They discuss the challenges and innovations in housing design, the impact of robotics and AI on construction, and the future of architecture in space. Melody shares insights on the importance of resource management in design, the regulatory hurdles facing 3D printing in construction, and her vision for the future of housing and space habitats. Takeaways Melodie Yashar transitioned from traditional architecture to space architecture. She became disillusioned with the slow pace of architectural coordination. Designing for space requires mindfulness of resource constraints. 3D printing offers unique opportunities for customized housing solutions. Regulatory hurdles are significant for 3D printed construction. Success in housing involves lowering costs and increasing quality. AI can enhance design and construction processes. Education in space architecture is still evolving. Advocating for new tools and processes is crucial in architecture. Following one's passion is essential for a fulfilling career.
#68
Dec 2, 2025 · 36 min
Why Monograph's CEO says monthly billing can save your design practice
In this episode, Robert Yuen, CEO and co-founder of Monograph, discusses the vision behind Monograph as an operating system for architecture. He delves into the challenges of building software for the architecture industry, particularly the cold start problem and the importance of time tracking for efficiency. Robert emphasizes the need for a shift in invoicing practices from billable hours to value-based billing, and shares insights for new founders in the AEC space. He also explores the impact of AI on architectural workflows and the future capabilities of Monograph. Takeaways Monograph aims to be the operating system for architecture. Time tracking is essential for architects to measure efficiency. The cold start problem requires building initial capabilities carefully. Invoicing should be based on value, not just hours worked. Small firms make up 95% of the architecture industry. AI is integrated into many features of Monograph. Behavioral change in invoicing practices is a significant challenge. Selling to AEC firms requires understanding their procurement dynamics. The future of Monograph includes expanding capabilities beyond time tracking. The journey to a fully integrated operating system for architecture will take time.
#67
Nov 28, 2025 · 38 min
How 100 homes in Maui could change disaster relief forever
In this episode, Jose Cruz speaks with Jordan Rogove and Wayne Norbeck about their innovative approach to disaster housing through modular construction. They discuss the challenges of scaling affordable housing, the regulatory hurdles they face, and the importance of design in creating dignified living spaces. The conversation also highlights their recent project in Hawaii, where they successfully delivered homes in response to the devastating wildfires. The episode concludes with insights on the future of modular housing and the need for streamlined processes in disaster response. Takeaways The stigma around modular housing needs to be addressed. Design can significantly impact the quality of affordable housing. Regulatory challenges are a major barrier to scaling modular housing. Advocacy for changes in building codes is essential for progress. Natural light and thoughtful design enhance living conditions. The recent project in Hawaii showcased the potential of modular housing. Streamlining disaster response can save time and resources. Innovative financing options are crucial for affordable housing. Collaboration with various partners is key to successful projects. The future of housing requires a shift in how we approach construction.
#65
Nov 25, 2025 · 52 min
Why cooling the planet is the next big design problem
In this episode, Jose Cruz interviews Michael Ermann, an architecture professor and founder of Amber Book, discussing his journey in architecture, the importance of visual learning, the evolution of teaching methods, and the role of AI in education. They explore sustainability in architecture, the impact of materials, and the challenges of existing buildings, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions to address climate change and improve building efficiency. Takeaways Everyone is a visual learner, not just architects. The in-person teaching model remains essential despite online advancements. AI has become a valuable tool in education and learning. Sustainability in architecture requires a focus on materials and energy efficiency. Architects should not shy away from pushing back against engineers. The overhead plane in architecture is crucial for design quality. Current architectural trends often overlook the importance of building systems. The future of teaching will involve more technology and online resources. Existing buildings present significant challenges for sustainability efforts. Big ideas and innovative thinking are necessary to address climate change.
#63
Nov 21, 2025 · 47 min
Why model health is a CFO problem, not a BIM problem
In this episode, Matt Wash, CEO of BimBeats, shares his extensive experience in the architecture and engineering industry, discussing the evolution of BIM, the importance of data, and the challenges of interoperability. He highlights the impact of BimBeats on model health and efficiency, the transition from traditional roles to data-driven approaches, and the future of BIM in the age of AI. Matt emphasizes the need for value-based pricing and the importance of standardization in improving operational efficiency. Takeaways Matt's journey began with a passion for building and design. The inefficiency in traditional engineering roles led to a desire for change. Data is crucial for improving project outcomes and efficiency. BimBeats quantifies model health and operational efficiency. The architecture industry is transitioning towards data-driven decision making. AI is set to revolutionize the design and construction process. Value-based pricing is essential for modern business models. Standardization can significantly improve project delivery times. Understanding the digital footprint of a business is key to efficiency. Future professionals should focus on developing complementary digital skills.
#62
Nov 18, 2025 · 30 min
Why likability is a competitive advantage for designers and builders
In this episode of Buildings 2.0, host Jose Cruz interviews Susan Young, CEO of Get In Front Communications, who shares her journey from a quiet child to a leading communication expert for AEC professionals. The conversation explores the importance of storytelling, overcoming internal barriers, and the human factor in effective communication. Susan emphasizes the need for self-awareness, authenticity, and continuous learning in professional development, while also discussing the impact of technology on communication. The episode concludes with advice for future generations to embrace their journey and keep learning. Takeaways Everything is storytelling. The importance of internal communication and self-talk. Overcoming imposter syndrome is crucial for confidence. Human connection is key in presentations. People do business with those they like and relate to. Authenticity is essential in communication. Continuous learning is necessary for professional growth. Technology should enhance, not replace, personal voice. Self-awareness leads to better communication skills. It's okay to be imperfect and learn from mistakes.

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