Ep 303: Creative People with Jolanta Zamecka and guest Stuart Narofsky on hmTv

Creative People – Episode 303: Building with Heart and Vision
Host: Jolanta Zamecka
Guest: Architect Stuart Narofsky
Produced by: hmTv at the Holocaust Memorial & Tolerance Center

In this inspiring episode of Creative People, host Jolanta Zamecka sits down with acclaimed architect Stuart Narofsky to explore how architecture can shape not only spaces, but lives. From the creation of the Children’s Memorial Amphitheater at the Holocaust Memorial & Tolerance Center—born from the vision of the late Bob Praver—to innovative, sustainable design projects across the globe, Narofsky shares stories that bridge art, memory, and humanity.

Together, they reflect on the power of design to foster healing, community, and connection—from rebuilding homes in Malibu after the wildfires to crafting a remote lodge in Alaska. With warmth and wisdom, Narofsky reminds us that great architecture is not only about form and function—it’s about heart, history, and human relationships.

A conversation about creativity, empathy, and legacy — and how thoughtful design can help build a better world.

Transcript

Ep. 303 – Creative People with Jolanta Zamecka and Guest Stuart Narofsky
Produced by hmTv at the Holocaust Memorial & Tolerance Center

[00:00:30,000 → 00:00:35,600]
JOLANTA ZAMECKA:
Hello and thank you for joining me today. I’m your host, Jolanta. On today’s episode of Creative People on hmTv, my special guest is a dear friend — architect and fantastic human being — Stu Narofsky. Stu, thank you so much for being here.

STUART NAROFSKY:
Hi, Jolanta. It’s been a while, but I’m really happy to be here.

The Birth of the Amphitheater

JOLANTA:
So, in 2011, you joined us here at HMTC and were instrumental in creating the new amphitheater. Can you tell us a little bit about that?

STU:
It was very interesting. And of course, today we’re celebrating the 100th birthday of our dear friend, Bob Praver, who was deeply involved here. One day Bob called me up and said, “I have a project for both of us.” He brought me down on a cold, rainy day to see the garden and the old fountain. He had a vision.

We walked around, and as he described his ideas, I became inspired. I didn’t know much about the Center at that point, but after learning about its mission, I realized this could be something truly meaningful — a space where design could foster education and relationships.

JOLANTA:
The garden is dedicated to the one and a half million Jewish children who were murdered in the Holocaust and to all children who perished during World War II. The seed money came from the Million Pennies Project, where students across Long Island collected pennies to build a living memorial.

STU:
Yes, and that sense of children contributing to the creation of this memorial gave it a powerful legacy. To this day, students still use the amphitheater for learning, performances, and ceremonies — exactly as Bob envisioned.

Building with Vision

JOLANTA:
But it wasn’t an easy sell in the beginning, was it?

STU:
No, it wasn’t. There were county approvals, board meetings, and plenty of hurdles. But inspired by Bob’s vision, we transformed an old fountain into a functional outdoor space. I researched the original gardens — designed by Pratt — and wanted to preserve that historical integrity while giving it a new purpose.

The idea was not just about creating an amphitheater but a place for art, music, poetry, and conversation. A place where remembrance meets inspiration.

Teaching and Traveling the World

JOLANTA:
You’ve also taught and lectured all over the world. Tell us about that.

STU:
Teaching began when I was at the New York Institute of Technology, not far from here. I’ve always had a passion for sharing knowledge. My first international lecture was in Bolivia about 30 years ago, speaking to students from poor communities who were hungry to learn.

That led to invitations in Argentina, Poland, Hungary — and each experience reminded me how architecture is a universal language. When young people listen deeply and engage, it reignites my own passion.

JOLANTA:
I believe you lectured in Krakow, one of my favorite cities.

STU:
Yes, at the Krakow University of Technology. It was an incredible experience — meeting students, learning about their challenges, and seeing how historic and modern architecture coexist in that city. I came home full of ideas and sketches — inspired by the energy and respect for heritage I saw there.

Projects from Alaska to Malibu

JOLANTA:
What are you working on now?

STU:
Right now, several projects — but two stand out. One is in remote Alaska — a hunting and fishing lodge that’s only accessible by plane. The logistics alone are fascinating. The other is a home rebuild in Malibu, California, for a client who lost everything in the fires.

Designing a new home on that devastated site is emotionally powerful. You’re not just building walls; you’re rebuilding hope.

Evolution of Style

JOLANTA:
You’ve built many homes on Long Island. How has your style evolved over time?

STU:
I started in the late ’70s designing modernist homes. But in the ’80s, I got caught up in postmodernism — fashionably nostalgic architecture. Eventually, I realized I missed authenticity. I returned to designing contemporary homes that feel alive — homes that evolve with the families who live in them.

Today, celebrating Bob’s 100th birthday is full circle — he built one of my projects decades ago, and those clients still live there. The home has aged beautifully, like a living being. The best part of my career has been the relationships — clients who become lifelong friends.

Innovation and Sustainability

JOLANTA:
Have materials changed as much as styles?

STU:
Absolutely. Technology and sustainability are changing everything. We’re now exploring cross-laminated timber (CLT) — a renewable, prefabricated material system that allows structures to be built like an erector set. It saves time, cost, and is environmentally responsible.

We’re also looking at low-maintenance materials that can withstand time and weather without constant upkeep — building smarter and cleaner.

Reflections and Philosophy

JOLANTA:
That’s fascinating. Your combination of artistry, practicality, and humanity is remarkable. You don’t just design buildings — you create living environments with soul.

STU:
Thank you, Jolanta. For me, architecture isn’t just about form and function — it’s about connection. Every space should nurture human experience. Whether it’s an amphitheater for remembrance or a home for a family, design has the power to heal, to inspire, and to bring people together.

Closing

JOLANTA:
Thank you, Stu. This was wonderful.

And thank you to our listeners for tuning in to Creative People on hmTv. I’m your host, Jolanta Zamecka. Be sure to subscribe, share, and stay connected for more engaging conversations with artists, thinkers, and changemakers.

Until next time — take care and be well.