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What distinguishes a truly healthy building from one that simply meets minimum code requirements? In this conversation with Sarah Gudeman, Principal and Practice Lead at Branch Pattern, we explore the critical intersection where engineering expertise meets human-centered design in the pursuit of better built environments.

Sarah brings a refreshingly practical perspective to the often theoretical world of indoor air quality and sustainability. As she explains, "Code compliant is just not illegal. It's the lowest bar we can design to." This fundamental truth underscores the gap between what's legally acceptable and what's truly optimal for human health and wellbeing in our buildings.

The conversation looks into the challenges practitioners face when implementing healthy building strategies. From establishing clear guiding principles at project outset to navigating the complex dynamics of project teams, Sarah reveals how the "peopling" aspect of consulting work often proves more challenging than the technical engineering. Her insights on building psychological safety within teams highlight how admitting knowledge gaps creates space for collaborative problem-solving rather than siloed thinking.

Particularly fascinating is Sarah's discussion of the evolution in air quality monitoring, where point-in-time testing is increasingly supplemented by continuous monitoring systems. Yet this technological advance brings its own challenges: "You've got this dashboard with sensors flashing green and red at you. When do you know who to call and what kind of skill set should they have?" The question cuts to the heart of building operations, where even the most sophisticated technology requires human interpretation and action.

Whether you're a building professional seeking to elevate your approach, a facility manager trying to make sense of air quality data, or simply someone who cares about the spaces where we spend 90% of our lives, this conversation offers valuable perspective on creating environments that truly enhance human health and experience.

Sarah Gudeman - LinkedIn

Branch Pattern

Sarah Gudeman

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