Design: e2

Design: e2 was an innovative, architecture-centric documentary program that aired on PBS, beginning in 2006 and continuing until 2009. The innovative program was about sustainable practices that were gaining momentum across various global industries. It represented the second part of a three-part mini-series that began with e² energy (2006-2007) and ended with e² transport (2008-2009). Internationally acclaimed and Emmy nominated, Design: e2 explored the possibilities of a sustainable future by examining the pioneering actions of some of the world's most innovative architects and their clients.

The series sought to educate viewers on the socio-economic and environmental relevance of their choices, particularly focusing on principles such as energy efficiency, sustainable design, and social and economic equity. The creators aimed to inspire a paradigm shift from the dominant consumption-focused practices to a more sustainable and socially-inclusive design mindset.

Each episode of Design: e2 went beyond mere architectural aesthetics and delved into the realm of sustainable architecture and planning. The central focus was on the potential of innovative design to solve environmental and social issues. It took an investigative approach and often presented real-life examples — from residential homes made from recyclable materials to large infrastructural projects that integrated renewable energy sources.

Throughout the series run from 2006 to 2009, the show visited a plethora of cities around the globe including Beijing, Paris, Copenhagen, Mexico City, and Chicago. Several figures, acclaimed their fields of environmental design and sustainable planning, were featured, including architect and Pulitzer Prize-winner Blair Kamin, renowned architectural critics Allison Arieff and Philip Nobel, and Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Tom Clynes.

The design series featured a unique narrative form. It was narrated by Brad Pitt from 2006-08, and then by Morgan Freeman for the 2009 season. Adding to the credibility and the cutting-edge perspective of the show was an advisory board, which included leaders and innovators from the fields of environmental and energy audit, urban planning, architecture, design, and academia.

One of the series' highlights was its exquisite cinematography. The visual aesthetics contributed significantly to the show's success. It succeeded in genuinely showcasing the beauty and the potential of sustainable design and green architecture. The messages conveyed were further amplified by its exceptional score that evoked just the right mood and intensity.

This intellectually stimulating series adopted a philosophy that the world can change one building at a time. It aimed to demonstrate how the principles of green or sustainable design could be integrated into architecture to create buildings that are beautiful, functional, and environment-friendly simultaneously. The show sought to investigate a sustainable future, where green might be considered the new normal, not the other way around.

Design: e2 not only taught audiences about the principles and benefits of sustainable design but also raised awareness about the importance and the necessity of social responsibility. It advocated for a future in which architects, designers, and consumers act consciously and intentionally, keeping the welfare of the environment and society in mind.

Produced by kontentreal, a New York City-based film company specializing in documentary projects that explore global issues, the show was critically acclaimed for its nuanced approach to a timely and urgent subject matter. The public and critics alike lauded it for its depth of research, authenticity, and impartiality.

Despite its completion over a decade ago, the lessons and inspirations from Design: e2 remain relevant in today's context — in a world grappling with the impacts of climate change and socio-environmental inequities. It is a must-watch for all who ponder the future of our planet and seek solutions to some of its most pressing problems, inspiring practical ideas towards a more sustainable way of life.