Architect Emmy from Falugruppen Arkitektkontor and timberconstruction expert Emma from Stora Enso reveal the behind-the-scenes challenges of designing the new Kristinehallen Concert Hall in Falun, Sweden.

(Special thanks to Stora Enso for their help in organising the episode)

From the decision to feature exposed timber beams to a design change that saved nearly 10 million Swedish Krona, the process is packed with innovation, cost-saving strategies, and architectural risk-taking.

The duo dive into mass timber architecture, CLT (cross-laminated timber), and sustainable building practices, all while working within the constraints of a heritage site.

Learn how timber and concrete were combined to meet strict acoustic performance standards, accessibility goals, and budget pressures in this bold example of Scandinavian sustainable design.

00:00:00 - Episode Begins

00:01:00 - Introduction to Emmy + Emma

00:02:26 - Kristinehallen Concert Hall project

00:04:23 - The design choice to use timber

00:05:45 - Collaboration with the constructor

00:06:57 - Other materials used in the design

00:07:42 - Benefits of timber

00:09:29 - Acoustics

00:10:53 - StoraEnso's work on the project

00:13:20 - Where do StoraEnso source their materials from?

00:15:03 - What were the main challenges of the project?

00:17:12 - Cost of the project

00:18:07 - Main design features

00:19:42 - Budget changes pre and post pandemic

00:25:18 - Designing a Timber construction with or without a contractor?

00:26:19 - How to get in touch with Emmy and Emma

Learn more about Falugruppen Arkitektkontor, Stora Enso, and the KristinehallenConcert Hall redesign.

Summary

Discover how the construction industry is being reshaped by circular economy principles in this episode featuring Rob Smith, co-founder of Material Index.

Rob shares his journey from oil and gas to sustainable construction, revealing the massive carbon footprint of traditional materials like concrete—and how smarter reuse can change everything.

We dive into the practical challenges and scalable opportunities of material reuse, pre-demolition audits, secondary materials marketplaces, and SaaS technology that supports environmental consultancy and material cataloging.

Learn how Material Index is driving innovation in building deconstruction, material passports, and the reuse of kitchens, building components, and more—while helping architects, developers, and contractors meet rising demand for low-carbon solutions.

If you are in architecture, property development, or sustainable construction, this conversation explores real-world case studies, pricing models, and the digital tools accelerating change in a carbon-intensive industry.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Material Index and Reuse in Construction

10:10 Transition from Oil and Gas to Construction

20:10 Founding Material Index and Initial Challenges

29:54 The Role of Pre-Demolition Audits

39:53 Developing the Platform and Services

50:03 Market Landscape and Future Directions

40:53 The Market for Reused Materials

43:46 SaaS Solutions for Material Auditing

46:10 Guidance for Architects on Material Reuse

48:05 Case Studies in Material Decommissioning

50:55 Understanding Material Value and Pricing

54:02 Challenges in Reusing Concrete

56:07 Exploring the Market for Secondary Materials

01:01:06 The Future of Kitchen Reuse

01:03:06 Innovations in Material Recovery and Reuse

Summary

Step inside London’s Brutalist masterpiece as Philippa Simpson — Director for Buildings & Renewal at the Barbican Centre — unpacks the once-in-a-generation project to refresh this 1970s cultural icon.

From tricky way-finding through its residential estate to an ambitious master-plan that weaves sustainability, accessibility and new music venues into the concrete fabric, Philippa shares how an international design competition, deep community consultation and a people-first ethos will shape the Barbican’s next chapter.

Tune in for candid insights on nurturing fresh talent, funding the arts and what it really takes to future-proof a living legend.

Chapters

00:00 The Barbican Center: An Architectural Icon

12:06 Renovation Plans and Challenges

24:06 Design Competition and Team Selection

24:18 The Importance of Team Dynamics in Appointments

25:34 Navigating Competitions and Tenders in Architecture

26:52 Fostering New Talent in the Industry

27:54 Long-Term Planning and Phased Deliverables

28:36 Addressing London's Music Venue Shortage

30:11 Creating a Musical City: Beyond Classical Music

32:14 The Role of Funding in Arts and Culture

36:25 Challenges in Renovating Iconic Spaces

41:09 Community Engagement and Consultation in Design

44:33 Future Plans for the Barbican Centre