How often do you think about the air your projects are asking people to breathe?

In this episode of I Hear Design, host Robert Nieminen unpacks why indoor air quality (IAQ) has become a frontline design issue—from post-pandemic health concerns and wildfire smoke to rising expectations for healthier workplaces. Unpacking insights from articles published in interiors+sources and BUILDINGS, along with recent research, Robert walks through breakthrough initiatives like ARPA-H’s BREATHE program and Mayo Clinic’s HAIQU project, as well as the new Global Commission on Healthy Indoor Air launched at the United Nations, and explains what they mean for architects, interior designers, and facilities professionals.

You’ll learn practical strategies for improving IAQ across planning, building systems, interiors, and existing building retrofits along with real-world scenarios and key questions to bring to your next client meeting. If you’re looking to connect wellness, resilience, and performance in your projects, this episode is your IAQ playbook.