Federico Negro, Founder of Canoa, Joins Evelyn Lee on Practice Disrupted Podcast Episode 067, 'Architecture And: The Future of Workplace'

https://practiceofarchitecture.com/2022/02/24/067-architecture-and-the-future-of-workplace/

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In a world increasingly conscious of environmental impact, a visionary like Federico Negro stands out as a leader in the drive towards sustainable interior design. As the CEO of CANOA, he is on a mission to build the first-ever end-to-end platform for creating low-carbon, adaptable office interiors. In this podcast, he explores how CANOA is reshaping the industry by enabling clients and designers to effortlessly design, purchase, and furnish office spaces while revolutionizing the supply chain and procurement process.

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The Vision Behind CANOA

Federico Negro's vision for CANOA is simple yet revolutionary. Imagine being able to design and furnish an entire office without the need for complex CAD software or the involvement of multiple intermediaries. CANOA is set to make this a reality, offering a seamless experience for clients and designers.

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But it's not just about simplifying the design process; it's also about minimizing the environmental impact. CANOA is committed to being a game-changer in the quest for eco-friendly office interiors. They're well on their way to becoming a certified B Corp, demonstrating their dedication to sustainability.

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Redefining the Supply Chain

CANOA doesn't just stop at simplifying the design process; they're also reimagining the entire supply chain. They aim to streamline and optimize the procurement process for everything needed to furnish an office space. From furniture to decor and beyond, CANOA is transforming the way businesses acquire the essentials of a functional workplace.

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Federico Negro succinctly describes this approach as dealing with everything that, "falls out of a building when you turn it upside down." This ambitious endeavor is not just about convenience; it's about creating a more efficient, eco-friendly, and sustainable ecosystem.

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Building a Business with Purpose

CANOA's journey towards sustainability is not the first entrepreneurial endeavor for Federico Negro. He previously founded Case, which was successfully acquired by WeWork. Drawing from his experiences, Federico is bringing a wealth of knowledge to CANOA. We had the opportunity to sit down with him and discuss a range of topics, including the challenge of building a company culture, launching a workplace-focused company just before a global pandemic, and the complexities of establishing a business from the ground up.

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The Road Ahead

As the world increasingly focuses on sustainability, CANOA is well-poised to be at the forefront of change in the interior design industry. Federico Negro's dedication to redefining how we design and furnish our workplaces, while reducing the carbon footprint, is commendable. CANOA's commitment to becoming a certified B Corp further underscores their values and vision.

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In the coming years, we can expect CANOA to continue to push the boundaries of sustainable design, revolutionize the procurement process, and inspire a new era of eco-conscious interior solutions. This is more than just a business; it's a movement towards a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future in the world of interior design.

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Podcast Episode available on: Spotify, Amazon Audible, iTunes, Google Podcasts