Designing tomorrows Cold Storage buildings with Michael Cody

Cool Times Podcast

In this insightful and entertaining episode, Vince and Jenna sit down with Michael Cody, Director of Industrial Cold and Food at Ware Malcomb, to dig deep into the world of cold storage design. From industry collaboration and field-grown teams to next-gen detail innovation (like the soon-to-be-patented expansion joint lid detail), Michael shares what makes great architectural work in cold storage tick. Plus, we dive into 3D printing, whiskey preferences, and the secret power of a “Hot Tub Board Meeting.”

Cool Takeaways:

❄️ The Power of Collaboration – Michael shares how working closely with contractors like Freeze Construction has led to innovative, never-before-seen cold storage details.

❄️ Design Meets Field – Ware Malcomb’s homegrown teams and field-first approach ensure that what gets drawn actually works when it’s built.

❄️ Innovation in Action – The team discusses a brand new expansion joint ceiling detail that just might be the next big industry standard—if it works!

❄️ Mistakes to Avoid – Michael explains why cutting corners on critical details like double column lines and thermal breaks always leads to costly fixes.

❄️ The Cody-Vincent Detail – Hear the origin story of the soon-to-be legendary “Cody-Vincent Detail”—born from challenge, built on teamwork.

❄️ Culture & Leadership – With 28 offices worldwide, Ware Malcomb keeps leadership strong through national summits, a focus on fun, and a “Liver Killers Club.”

❄️ Passion for Cold – From Monster Energy’s flavor facility to massive spec builds, Michael explains why cold storage keeps architects like him hooked.

❄️ Future Tech – 3D-printed details, hosted drawing platforms, AI programming from his daughter—Michael gives us a peek into how tech is transforming design.

❄️ Bonus Fun – Beer or tequila? Friends in Low Places or Don’t Stop Believin’? Plus: why every architect should spend time on a job site.

Don’t miss this architecture-meets-cold-storage deep dive with one of the most passionate leaders in the biz. Chill out with the full episode at
🌐 www.cooltimespodcast.com

Sponsored by:

🎧 Sponsored by Iceberg Mechanical
https://www.icebergmechanical.com/

🎧 Sponsored by Fastener Systems Inc (FSI)
https://www.fsiindustrial.com/