Derek Noble Featured on Accidentally Wes Anderson Podcast
Principal, VP of Marketing + BD Derek Noble, AIA, LEED AP, is featured on Accidentally Wes Anderson: Night in the Asylum, which explores the history and transformation of the former Buffalo State Asylum for the Insane, now known as the Richardson Olmsted Campus.
Hosted by Aaron Millar, the episode takes listeners inside one of America’s most remarkable preservation projects, examining how architecture influences human experience and how historic buildings can find new life through thoughtful restoration.
Exploring an Architectural Landmark
The episode centers on the monumental 19th-century complex originally designed by Shepley Bulfinch founder H.H. Richardson in 1872. Part of the campus has been transformed into the Richardson Hotel, while other portions remain largely untouched, offering a rare glimpse into the building’s layered history.
Through on-site interviews and exploration, the podcast examines how the architecture continues to evoke powerful emotional responses more than a century after its construction.
Principal, VP of Marketing + BD Derek Noble, AIA, LEED AP
Preservation and Adaptive Reuse
As part of the conversation, Derek shares insights into the restoration and adaptive reuse of the historic campus, highlighting the opportunities and challenges involved in reimagining a landmark building for contemporary use.
When I look at this building, I look at that connection to nature. That is so important for healing. Natural light, the biophilic elements…especially in healthcare, are shown to shorten the stays of patients. So they were on to something, and you can find studies that prove that today.
The story underscores how preservation projects can balance respect for historic character with the needs of present-day users, allowing significant buildings to remain active contributors to their communities.
Get the full podcast from Accidentally Wes Anderson, available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Emily Hooper
Senior Brand + Communications Manager
Emily leads brand and communications strategies across six physical and virtual studios.