Architect Alan Barlis first became associated with the Dennis Wedlick Architect firm back in 1997 after studying both system architecture and urban planning. After becoming a leader on the team, he opened a satellite office in Colorado. Eventually he returned to New York City and expanded the firm’s portfolio with a variety of project types, like urban residences, affordable housing, rural conservation subdivisions, and sustainable prototypes. In 2005, BarlisWedlick was born when he became co-owner of the firm. The MIT-trained Barlis not only speaks on architecture, interior design, and energy conservation, he’s on the board of the Tribeca Trust, an organization focused on preserving the architectural integrity of the Tribeca neighborhood, and in 2013, he co-authored Classic and Modern: Signature Styles. Let’s see what he’s most passionate about in this week’s Friday Five. Oaxacan flatweave rugs from Teotitlan del Valle, Mexico
1. The collaborative design process of L?Aviva Home.

Laura Aviva searches the planet for cultures that are still producing traditional?even ancient?art forms, and re-imagines them as collections for the contemporary market. Her studio works hand-in-hand with artisan workshops to produce stunning pieces, simultaneously offering critical support to those communities.
Interactive graph from Terrapin
2. Advocacy for biophilic design by Terrapin Bright Green.

I?ve known Bill Browning, one of the founders of this environmen...