Question: It seems that a lot of work coming out of Nelson is based on a holistic approach. What is the philosophy behind this and how does it guide your process?

Bob: I think we are driven by the fact that there is never one solution to any given design. There are always multiple directions, and it is in the investigation of these directions that we find the one that is best. This requires a holistic way of thinking to incorporate everything that can affect the outcome. From systems to technology, program, etc. there is more input than ever before to consider when developing the design's direction. This guides our process to a collaborative one where the designer can benefit from added input but still keep the unified vision that can only come from a singular mind. An early mentor of mine said it well: "singularly conceived, collectively executed."

Question: When you do a first run through a corporate space, what questions do you ask yourself as you determine what changes you'd like to see?

Bob: We work hard not to expect changes, as that immediately implies a bias that there should be changes. It's more about looking at the existing context to see if there's a vocabulary already there to use and improve upon. Given the environmental and economical issues we face today, it's more appropriate that we try to use more of what's there to its maximum advantage, if it is determined to be applicable. When delivered with an innovative approach the new solution supports an image that fits the current place and time.

Question: When and where does corporate branding come into play in your thought process? Have the rules changed over time?

Bob: The conversation on branding appears earlier with clients for whom image is a focus of their business. We spend time on discussing what the term really means. Many see it as a literal adaptation of the dominant elements from the company, whether it is a color, logo or some other marker. The best solutions more often lie in more subtle integration. The danger is that a literal interpretation leads the solution to become more of a diagram or cartoon as opposed to one in which the company's beliefs are tangibly expressed through intelligent articulation.

Over time we have seen the explosion of how technology can deliver a brand outside of the company's immediate environment, and this has brought opportunities to integrate similar technologies within their workplace.

Question: How has the corporate design landscape changed since prior to the recession? And how has it affected the corporate psyche now that we're moving into recovery?

Bob: Economic downturns cause people to avoid risk. The corporate design landscape is very much a part of this. We see clients go from the pre-recession period where confidence allowed for more boldness in design solutions, to the period we presently occupy where the lack of confidence brings more reserved solutions. The challenge we in the design profession face is in trying to respect and adapt to this need on the part of the client, but not stagnate ourselves. The reality is that bold solutions to our challenges are needed more than ever. It is in the innovation of our profession that positive directions are determined, so we need to be mindful to fight the tendency to be too reserved during times like these.

Question: How has technology affected the spaces you design, and what are you doing to take it a step further?

Bob: Technology has allowed for great opportunities in spatial solutions for the workplace. There are many answers to this question, but the most simple is in the mobility it has provided. To stay connected from any place in the world brings options for how the "office" is even defined. It can literally be transported with you wherever you are. This, in turn, redefines the notion of real estate and how much is really required for the office of the future. So, the "step further" includes working more closely with our clients in the mix of programmed spaces and how they are more seamlessly integrated with their business plan through technology-driven solutions.

Question: Tell me something interesting about yourself.

Bob: My graduate studies were in what we then called "Energy Conscious Design." My advisors included Paolo Soleri (Arcosanti being our hangout) and the late John Yellott, who instilled in me an early commitment to passive energy solutions and design as one of our main paths. Those early years experimenting in the Southwest have affected all of my work since then and my hope is that LEED eventually becomes unnecessary, since it will just be something we are doing in our everyday lives.