Michael Ford - Brandnu Design
Exploring how hip hop culture informs inclusive design, community engagement, and innovative architectural thinking
Sponsored by Architectural Record | Presented by Michael Ford
This course explores how cultural influences—particularly hip hop—can shape architectural design, community engagement, and the future of the profession. Through real-world examples, including the Hip Hop Architecture Camp and the Universal Hip Hop Museum, participants will examine how storytelling, music, and lived experience can inform more inclusive and impactful design solutions. The course also addresses how culturally responsive design contributes to healthier, safer, and more equitable built environments.
Photo courtesy of Jay B Image Lab
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Aaron Prinz is the host of the Design:ED Podcast and holds a Masters of Architecture degree from the University of Texas at Austin. He was born and raised in the rural Northern California town of Red Bluff, just two hours south of the Oregon border. After one year of college, Prinz relocated to San Francisco to pursue a career in stand-up comedy. At age 26, he began studying architecture at Portland State University while interning at Studio Petretti Architecture led by Amanda Petretti. His professional contributions while at Studio Petretti were focused on a portion of the new Multnomah County Courthouse which is a prominent addition to the Portland skyline. He currently resides in Austin, Texas with his wife Roxanne where he continues to work as a designer. |
Architectural Record is the #1 source for design news, architect continuing education, and info on sustainability, houses, projects, and architectural products.
Originally published in Architectural Record
Originally published in April 2026
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
- Explain how cultural influences, such as hip hop, can inform architectural design and contribute to occupant well-being.
- Identify strategies for creating inclusive, community-centered environments that support safety and social equity.
- Describe the architect’s role in addressing health, safety, and welfare through culturally responsive design.
- Apply interdisciplinary approaches that integrate cultural context into the design of equitable and accessible built environments.
