In this episode, AH&L Editorial Director Lauren Iverson sits down with architects Connor McKell Bingham and Jacques Pierre Levet, co-founders of Pierre McKell Architects, to explore the experiences, influences, and relationships that shaped their approach to residential design. From their very different upbringings—Connor's immersive education at the Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture and Jacques' roots in Southeast Louisiana—we discuss the enduring appeal of classical homes, the importance of designing for longevity, and the mentors who helped shape their professional outlook.

Connor and Jacques also share the story behind launching their own firm despite never having worked together on the same projects beforehand. Their conversation reveals how contrasting design perspectives can become a strength, why entrepreneurship often requires a leap of faith, and how great architects learn to solve problems beyond the drawing board. The result is an insightful discussion about partnership, practice, and creating homes with lasting soul and purpose.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• 00:30 Welcome & Introduction
• 01:00 From Louisiana to Colorado, Connor and Jacques share their early interest in architecture and talk the soul of classical homes
• 05:45 Connor and Jacques never worked on the same projects before starting a business together. How did they trust it was meant to be?
• 08:00 A maximalist meets a classic minimalist... how do they operate together on a project?
• 13:15 Growing up in Southeast Louisiana, Jacques shares what a generational effect taught him about aging in place
• 15:15 As the last undergraduate at the Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture, Connor talks his immersive college experience
• 18:15 Design education and the influence professionals can have on students
• 23:00 Connor and Jacques' Historical Concepts mentors, Jim Strickland and Andrew Cogar, are problem solvers who taught them to think outside the box
• 27:30 How do you know you're ready to start your own firm? Connor and Jacques share their parting advice (Hint: It really is a leap of faith)

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In this episode, interior designer, author, and creative visionary William Peace joins AH&L Editorial Director Lauren Iverson to share the experiences that shaped his remarkable career and distinctive design perspective. From painting as a child and working construction jobs to arriving in Atlanta with little more than ambition and a full trunk, William reflects on the unexpected opportunities, pivotal life moments, and lessons that helped define his path. Along the way, he discusses the importance of listening, communication, and embracing diverse experiences as keys to long-term success in design.

The conversation also explores William's deep connection to the American West, the inspiration behind his book Peace in the West, and how the region continues to influence his celebrated work, including his collection with Holland & Sherry. He shares stories about residing in a former gas station, balancing life between Atlanta and the West, and offers thoughtful advice for the next generation of designers. Whether you're a design professional, creative entrepreneur, or simply someone who appreciates beautiful spaces and meaningful storytelling, this episode is filled with inspiration and insight.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• 00:30 Welcome & Introduction
• 01:45 How did William Peace become interested in design? The designer shares the happenings that kept him inspired, from childhood painting to construction work
• 04:30 How varied experiences can set you apart from the crowd and give you a dynamic career (keywords: listen and communicate)
• 06:10 William lands in Atlanta with a full trunk and big dreams
• 07:00 Early career moments—starting at a commercial design firm (that designed the Georgia Pacific building!)—and how being open to opportunities can change your life
• 09:15 Life always has pivots—here's the moments that changed William's life
• 12:30 Your therapist is right: Spending more time in nature CAN improve your well-being. William shares his life in the American West
• 15:30 William's debut book Peace in the West shares the majestic characteristics of the American West and the homes
• 21:00 William's collection with Holland & Sherry—with fabrics, wallcoverings, leathers, rugs, trims and more—is informed by the land and ultraluxurious
• 24:00 Villa Petrol: Once a gas station, now William's personal home
• 26:00 How William balances his success in Atlanta and love for the American West
• 28:15 William's parting advice for young designers

Tune in every time! Subscribe today on all platforms so new releases automatically download to your phone.

Get the scoop on the Southeast's best-dressed spaces at atlantahomesmag.com.

Like what you see? Follow us on social at @atlantahomesmag for more inspired spaces.

Never miss an issue! Subscribe to the print edition or digital edition.