This week on Better Buildings for Humans, Joe Menchefski explores the brilliant intersection of physics, daylighting, and human well-being with Dr. Lorne Whitehead of the University of British Columbia. A physicist, inventor, and serial entrepreneur, Lorne shares how a lucky mistake in grade nine launched a lifelong journey into the science of light. From pioneering daylighting systems and launching tech startups to enhancing human health with spectral design, Lorne’s work has quietly reshaped the way we experience buildings, screens, and even greenhouses. With wit and wisdom, he unpacks the power of “enlightened compromise” in building design—and why the sun might be our most underutilized wellness tool. Tune in to discover how light, innovation, and thoughtful design converge to make our buildings not just smarter, but better for humans.
More About Dr. Lorne Whitehead
Dr. Lorne Whitehead is the University of British Columbia’s Special Advisor on Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Research and a professor in the Department of
Physics and Astronomy. He has held several administrative positions including
Associate Dean, Dean pro tem, VP Academic & Provost and Leader of Education
Innovation. He holds over 150 US patents that find application in computer
screens, televisions and lighting products and has launched seven spin-off
companies. He received a Ph.D. in Physics from UBC and has considerable
experience in technological, business and administrative innovation. From 1983
to 1993 he served as CEO of TIR Systems, a UBC spin-off company that grew to
200 employees before being acquired by a multinational corporation.
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