LECTURE 2

9 Ways to Make Housing For People

SPEAKERS: Daniel Simons, FAIA and Pedram Farashbandi, AIA

Developed and proven over four decades of multifamily housing design, the “9 Ways” are design principles that provide a thoughtful framework for making better housing. Flexible and human-centric, these community-oriented strategies work together to elevate a building, improve wellness and stability, and support social bonds. With extensive examples from the firm’s housing portfolio, Principals Daniel Simons, FAIA and Pedram Farshbandi, AIA, will illustrate these accessible and straightforward strategies, which range from the large-scale “Reweave the Urban Fabric” to the intimate “Get Personal.” These strategies address opportunities available to housing at all scales and across all regions, and result in buildings that increase the quality of living for residents and neighbors alike.

The 9 Ways framework is explored in the new book 9 Ways to Make Housing for People [ORO Editions 2022], which will be available for sale and to be signed by the speakers at the event.

SPEAKER BIOS: Daniel Simons, FAIA, LEED AP, and Pedram Farashbandi, AIA, LEED GA, are principals with David Baker Architects (DBA), a nationally recognized, locally oriented architecture and urban design firm with a focus on sustainable, mixed-use communities that support stability and connection. At the nexus of housing, climate, and community, DBA’s work seizes opportunities to enact meaningful change—forging strong partnerships to create livable density and resilient, human-centered places that uplift communities at all scales.DBA has offices in San Francisco, Oakland, and Birmingham, Alabama. 

Daniel’s award-winning projects include affordable senior and family housing, supportive housing for formerly homeless residents, modular housing, and market-rate mixed-use developments. Daniel uses his extensive knowledge of green building practices and progressive city planning to minimize the buildings’ environmental impact while improving the quality of life for residents.

Pedram specializes in guiding projects in the initial phases, rethinking conventional approaches, and adapting workflows. He leads the firm’s exploration of new technologies, including 3D and VR visualization software, multimedia presentations, and automation. Pedram focuses on mid-rise and high-rise design.