In this episode of the Designers and Builders Podcast, host Alyssa Olson speaks with Michael DeGregorio, a principal at Hood Design Studio, about the art and practice of transformative landscape architecture. Michael shares Hood's distinctive design philosophy—creating site-specific, narrative-driven solutions rather than formulaic designs—and discusses how client trust enables creative risk-taking and innovation in public spaces.

The conversation explores the integration of art into landscape projects, the concept of "intrapreneurship" within design firms, and the importance of maintaining focus in an age of distraction. Michael concludes with valuable advice for emerging designers: embrace patience, prioritize quality over quantity, and have the courage to specialize. This episode offers essential insights for design professionals, students, and anyone curious about how meaningful public spaces come to life.

Key Topics Covered

• Michael DeGregorio's career path and his decision to return to Philadelphia to join Hood Design Studio
• Hood's design philosophy: Creating unique, research-driven, site-specific solutions rather than cookie-cutter designs
• The importance of client relationships: How trust enables innovation and creative risk-taking in landscape architecture
• Strategies for pushing creative boundaries: Using narrative, research, and evidence to gain client buy-in for bold ideas
• Art integration in landscape projects: How Hood incorporates artistic elements to create meaningful, memorable public spaces
• Current and upcoming projects: A diverse portfolio including work in multiple cities and community-focused initiatives
• Intrapreneurship in design: How designers can contribute to firm growth and strategic direction beyond traditional roles
• Focus and deep work: Maintaining concentration and producing quality design in an age of digital distraction
• Specialization vs. generalization: The value of developing expertise while maintaining a broad skill set
• Career advice for aspiring designers: Emphasizing patience, quality craftsmanship, and long-term thinking over quick wins

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction to Michael DeGregorio

02:02 – Michael's journey in landscape architecture

05:37 – Design process at Hood Design Studio

11:24 – Client trust and project management

13:17 – Pushing the envelope in design

19:21 – Art and landscape architecture

24:17 – Current and future projects

29:55 – Intrapreneurship in design

34:13 – Focus and deep work

44:38 – Advice for future designers

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You can connect with Michael at:

https://www.hooddesignstudio.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-degregorio/