Leveraging Technology to Create More Inclusive Communities with Jack Chaffin
Technology has been the focal point of conversation across every industry in the past year, not the least of which has been the field of architecture. In this episode, Jack Chaffin, architect and principal at Seattle-based Johnston Architects, talks about how the firm is leveraging new technologies to enhance their designs and bring a greater level of engagement to their projects. He highlights the award-winning Winthrop Library in Winthrop, WA, as an example of how the firm deployed proprietary software to more effectively gather feedback from the larger community to make the project successful and more equitable.
Meet Our Guest
Jack Chaffin, AIA, NCARB, Partner at Johnston Architects
Jack Chaffin is a Partner at Johnston Architects in Seattle, Washington, where he leads JA’s innovation lab and champions the firm’s involvement in the JUST program. He holds three decades of experience in the design and planning of projects of every size and scale, with an emphasis on civic and community projects integrating experiential design elements. Jack is a recognized industry leader in design technology and has spoken at multiple conferences and events on topics ranging from BIM to parametric design and the future of architecture.
About the Author
Robert Nieminen
Chief Content Director
Chief Content Director, Architectural Products, BUILDINGS, and interiors+sources
Robert Nieminen is the Chief Content Director of three leading B2B publications serving the commercial architecture and design industries: Architectural Products, BUILDINGS, and interiors+sources. With a career rooted in editorial excellence and a passion for storytelling, Robert oversees a diverse content portfolio that spans award-winning feature articles, strategic podcast programming, and digital media initiatives aimed at empowering design professionals, facility managers, and commercial building stakeholders.
He is the host of the I Hear Design podcast and curates the Smart Buildings Technology Report, bringing thought leadership to the forefront of innovation in built environments. Robert leads editorial and creative direction for multiple industry award programs—including the Elev8 Design Awards and Product Innovation Awards—and is a recognized voice in sustainability, smart technology integration, and forward-thinking design.
Known for his sharp editorial vision and data-informed strategies, Robert focuses on audience growth, engagement, and content monetization, leveraging AI tools and SEO-driven insights to future-proof B2B publishing.