Welcome to Space by Stansons. Listen to raw, thought-provoking conversations with key players in the interiors industry, as we challenge conventional thinking towards aesthetics and sustainability. Most importantly our objective is to inspire designers to think holistically, creating spaces where people of today and the future, truly flourish.
In this episode of Space by Stansons, host Guy Stanley sits down with Monika Passey, Design and Strategy Director at Oktra, a leading workplace design and build company dedicated to crafting exceptional spaces that empower people to thrive. Monika shares her journey from architecture to workplace design, discusses her groundbreaking projects, and explains the importance of aligning workplace strategy with business goals. She also highlights how Oktra’s new Evolve team integrates real estate and workplace strategy to deliver transformational client outcomes. Monika’s journey is packed with insights on leadership, workplace culture, and the transformative power of aligning design and strategy to create meaningful impact.
2/11/25 • 40:57
In this episode of Space by Stansons, host Guy Stanley sits down with Monika Passey, Design and Strategy Director at Oktra, a leading workplace design and build company dedicated to crafting exceptional spaces that empower people to thrive. Monika shares her journey from architecture to workplace design, discusses her groundbreaking projects, and explains the importance of aligning workplace strategy with business goals. She also highlights how Oktra’s new Evolve team integrates real estate and workplace strategy to deliver transformational client outcomes. Monika’s journey is packed with insights on leadership, workplace culture, and the transformative power of aligning design and strategy to create meaningful impact.
2/4/25 • 07:55
In this episode of Space by Stansons, host Guy Stanley sits down with Matt Osborne, Head of Furniture at AIS, a rapidly growing provider of commercial office furniture that boasts one of the most impressive stories of growth and success in the office furniture market. They discuss the evolving role of furniture design and its impact on modern workspace design. From catering to neurodiversity to creating versatile office environments, Matt shares his insights on designing spaces prioritising employee well-being and adaptability.
1/28/25 • 38:45
In this episode of Space by Stansons, host Guy Stanley sits down with Matt Osborne, Head of Furniture at AIS, a rapidly growing provider of commercial office furniture that boasts one of the most impressive stories of growth and success in the office furniture market. They discuss the evolving role of furniture design and its impact on modern workspace design. From catering to neurodiversity to creating versatile office environments, Matt shares his insights on designing spaces prioritising employee well-being and adaptability.
1/21/25 • 09:08
In this episode of Space by Stansons, host Guy Stanley sits down with Shaun Simons, Founder of Compton, a leading commercial real estate agency redefining the industry. Shaun shares how Compton simplifies complex real estate processes, focuses on consumer needs, and uses bold branding to stand out in a competitive market. From launching his career at 16 to disrupting norms with Compton TV, Shaun’s journey is packed with insights on leadership, culture, and creating meaningful impact.
1/14/25 • 37:08
In this episode of Space by Stansons, host Guy Stanley sits down with Shaun Simons, Founder of Compton, a leading commercial real estate agency redefining the industry. Shaun shares how Compton simplifies complex real estate processes, focuses on consumer needs, and uses bold branding to stand out in a competitive market. From launching his career at 16 to disrupting norms with Compton TV, Shaun’s journey is packed with insights on leadership, culture, and creating meaningful impact.
1/7/25 • 05:28
Blair is passionate about creating thoughtful workplace experiences by enhancing the qualities of spaces. Before joining Savills in 2021, he gained two years of experience as a workplace designer in London and worked as a research fellow at the International Architecture Biennale in Venice. At Savills, he has helped clients across various sectors transform their workplaces, collaborating closely with strategy teams to develop tailored concepts. His expertise includes space planning, 3D modelling, and FF&E specification, with a focus on CAT-B Fitouts, ensuring high-quality results that often exceed client expectations.
12/17/24 • 42:41
What would your dream project be ? Blair is passionate about creating thoughtful workplace experiences by enhancing the qualities of spaces. Before joining Savills in 2021, he gained two years of experience as a workplace designer in London and worked as a research fellow at the International Architecture Biennale in Venice. At Savills, he has helped clients across various sectors transform their workplaces, collaborating closely with strategy teams to develop tailored concepts. His expertise includes space planning, 3D modeling, and FF&E specification, with a focus on CAT-B Fitouts, ensuring high-quality results that often exceed client expectations.
12/10/24 • 07:06
📝What are some of the key learnings and challenges Ana Rita and MCM have encountered in designing and operating their own office space as a sustainability showcase? Ana Rita is an architect specializing in sustainability—what she refers to as regenerative design. She is well-known for her innovative approach and the transformative effects she brings to the businesses she collaborates with. Firmly believing that environmental and social sustainability should be central to all architecture and interior design, Ana Rita incorporates cutting-edge solutions into her projects while ensuring their lasting integration into sustainable strategies for companies and their employees. Prior to her current position, she gained significant experience leading sustainability initiatives at Woodalls Design and BDG architecture + design studio, overseeing numerous global projects and utilizing certification systems such as BREEAM, LEED, and WELL.
12/3/24 • 54:44
💭What is Ana Rita's vision for her "dream project"? Ana Rita is an architect specializing in sustainability—what she refers to as regenerative design. She is well-known for her innovative approach and the transformative effects she brings to the businesses she collaborates with. Firmly believing that environmental and social sustainability should be central to all architecture and interior design, Ana Rita incorporates cutting-edge solutions into her projects while ensuring their lasting integration into sustainable strategies for companies and their employees. Prior to her current position, she gained significant experience leading sustainability initiatives at Woodalls Design and BDG architecture + design studio, overseeing numerous global projects and utilizing certification systems such as BREEAM, LEED, and WELL. Recognized for her expertise, Ana Rita is a frequent speaker at industry events and actively participates in research and discussion groups within the field.
11/26/24 • 07:10
🚶🏽What are some practical steps people can take to upskill and explore AI in their work? Unlocking the Future: Exploring the Intersection of AI and Design. In a captivating panel discussion, we delved into the rapidly evolving world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its profound impact on the design industry. The session brought together two esteemed experts – Lucrezia, an AI Architect at Google, and Hamza, a Digital Artist and Architect from the renowned design firm, Gensler. Moderated by Stansons very own Wesley Bradshaw. The panel's candid and informative dialogue provided a valuable roadmap for designers, architects, and creative professionals to navigate the exciting possibilities and challenges presented by this transformative technology. Enjoy!
11/19/24 • 69:14
🤖Do you think AI will potentially replace human jobs? 🚶🏽What are some practical steps people can take to upskill and explore AI in their work? Unlocking the Future: Exploring the Intersection of AI and Design. In a captivating panel discussion, we delved into the rapidly evolving world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its profound impact on the design industry. The session brought together two esteemed experts – Lucrezia Noli, an AI Architect at Google, and Hamza Shaikh, a Digital Artist and Architect from the renowned design firm, Gensler. Moderated by Stansons very own Wesley Bradshaw. The panel's candid and informative dialogue provided a valuable roadmap for designers, architects, and creative professionals to navigate the exciting possibilities and challenges presented by this transformative technology. Enjoy!
11/12/24 • 16:16
🔮 What future project would you be excited about? Julian de Metz from DMFKIn the world of design, the focus often shifts towards the aesthetics, materials, and technical specifications of a space. However, the true essence of great design lies in its ability to cater to the human experience. In this insightful podcast episode from "Space by Stansons," we dive deep into the design philosophy of Julian, the founding director of the acclaimed architecture firm DMFK. Julian, a third-generation architect, trained at Moshe Safdie Associates in Boston and ORMS Architects in London before collaborating with his father on London projects. In 1998, he founded de Metz Architects, later forming dMFK with Paul Forbes and Ben Knight to ensure strong director involvement in all projects. He specializes in challenging contexts and renovation, focusing on community consultation and the planning process. Currently, he oversees various large projects, including student housing and heritage restoration. Julian is also an RIBA external examiner and a part-time lecturer at Westminster University.
11/5/24 • 59:15
✏️How he got started and set up dMFK ? In the world of design, the focus often shifts towards the aesthetics, materials, and technical specifications of a space. However, the true essence of great design lies in its ability to cater to the human experience. In this insightful podcast episode from "Space by Stansons," we dive deep into the design philosophy of Julian, the founding director of the acclaimed architecture firm dMFK. Julian, a third-generation architect, trained at Moshe Safdie Associates in Boston and ORMS Architects in London before collaborating with his father on London projects. In 1998, he founded de Metz Architects, later forming dMFK with Paul Forbes and Ben Knight to ensure strong director involvement in all projects. He specializes in challenging contexts and renovation, focusing on community consultation and the planning process. Currently, he oversees various large projects, including student housing and heritage restoration. Julian is also an RIBA external examiner and a part-time lecturer at Westminster University.
10/29/24 • 05:29
🏢What would be your dream project or office design? 🧠What early memory shaped your career as a designer? Greta Kriovaite, Design Principal at Woodalls. In the latest episode of the "Space by Stansons" podcast, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Greta, the design principal at Woodalls, to delve into her experiences, insights, and dreams for the future of the design industry. This captivating conversation touched on a range of topics, from Greta's early career memories to her current projects and her vision for the ultimate workspace. Listen to the full episode here!
10/22/24 • 59:44
In the latest episode of the "Space by Stansons" podcast, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Greta, the Design Principal at Woodalls, to delve into her experiences, insights, and dreams for the future of the design industry. This captivating conversation touched on a range of topics, from Greta's early career memories to her current projects and her vision for the ultimate workspace.
10/15/24 • 06:00
🪄What does Motive do in terms of "brand integration" and bringing a company's DNA to life? Listen to the full episode, Rob Venice, founder of Motive. He is passionate about transforming brand identities into compelling physical spaces. In this episode of "Space by Stansons," he reflects on key milestones from his career, including a pivotal moment at Denton that set him on his path when he pitched for LinkedIn's office design with a group of junior designers. Rob also highlights his current project with Ezra, a coaching company, where he’s tasked with bringing their brand to life across offices in London, Toronto, and New York. Looking to the future, he shares his wildest dream of collaborating with Disney, a company he admires for its creative thinking and playful spirit. Throughout the conversation, Rob emphasizes the importance of brand integration and encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to embrace their journeys.
10/8/24 • 43:17
What does Motive do in terms of "brand integration" and bringing a company's DNA to life.? The visionary founder of Motive and former Creative Director at Thirdway, meet Rob Venice. He is passionate about transforming brand identities into compelling physical spaces. In this episode of "Space by Stansons," he reflects on key milestones from his career, including a pivotal moment at Denton that set him on his path when he pitched for LinkedIn's office design with a group of junior designers. Rob also highlights his current project with Ezra, a coaching company, where he’s tasked with bringing their brand to life across offices in London, Toronto, and New York. Looking to the future, he shares his wildest dream of collaborating with Disney, a company he admires for its creative thinking and playful spirit. Throughout the conversation, Rob talks about the importance of brand integration and encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to embrace their journeys. Full episdoe coming next week!
10/1/24 • 05:10
On the panel we have - Wesley Bradshaw, Product at Stansons. Becky Spenceley, Design Director at Gensler. Marian Anelli, Senior Associate Designer at M Moser. Tracy Drury, Product Creative at Stansons. In the most recent panel discussion we explored how colour affects behaviour, emotions, and productivity in the workplace. Sharing personal stories about how early colour experiences influenced their careers and discussing the scientific impacts of colour, such as how blue can enhance focus and warm tones can encourage creativity. The panel also highlighted shifting trends towards natural colours and the importance of accommodating neurodiverse needs. They encouraged designers to embrace bold, creative colour choices and shared examples of successful implementations. The discussion underscored colour's powerful role in shaping workplace environments and its potential to inspire and energize. To listen to the full episode follow Space by Stansons podcast on Spotify and Apple.
9/24/24 • 60:31
🔮 What is your colour for the future? 🟦How do you use colour for the right behaviours in space? On the panel we have - Wesley Bradshaw, Product at Stansons. Becky Spenceley, Design Director at Gensler. Marian Anelli, Senior Associate Designer at M Moser. Tracy Drury, Product Creative at Stansons. Exploring how colour affects behaviour, emotions, and productivity in the workplace. Sharing personal stories about how early colour experiences influenced their careers and discussing the scientific impacts of colour, such as how blue can enhance focus and warm tones can encourage creativity. The panel also highlighted shifting trends towards natural colours and the importance of accommodating neurodiverse needs. They encouraged designers to embrace bold, creative colour choices and shared examples of successful implementations. The discussion underscored colour's powerful role in shaping workplace environments and its potential to inspire and energize.
9/17/24 • 14:20
🪑What is the approach you took to reuse, resell, and responsibly dispose of the excess furniture? Dean Connell, with over two decades in interior design, became increasingly critical of the 'take, make, waste' system prevalent in commercial real estate. As the FF&E Creative Director at WeWork in 2019, Dean saw the wastefulness of this linear approach firsthand. For the past five years, he’s been focused on understanding and addressing these issues. Global social media has made design trends instantly accessible, putting immense pressure on businesses. The current system promotes low-quality, single-use furniture that’s difficult to repair or recycle, leading to significant waste. Dean has set his sights on using his design expertise to reduce waste. He is exploring the circular economy and decided to establish design and brand values that drive change. I-AM.D.C grew from his bespoke interior design work, aiming to stand out in a competitive market by integrating circular principles and drawing inspiration from nature. By embedding circularity in his designs and proclaiming them as "I AM DESIGNED CIRCULAR," Dean ensures high standards and helps clients meet their sustainability goals. His designs are meant to be cherished, adapted, and repurposed, addressing the root causes of furniture waste.
8/13/24 • 73:30
🪑What is the approach you took to reuse, resell, and responsibly dispose of the excess furniture? Dean Connell, with over two decades in interior design, became increasingly critical of the 'take, make, waste' system prevalent in commercial real estate. As the FF&E Creative Director at WeWork in 2019, Dean saw the wastefulness of this linear approach first hand. For the past five years, he’s been focused on understanding and addressing these issues. Global social media has made design trends instantly accessible, putting immense pressure on businesses. The current system promotes low-quality, single-use furniture that’s difficult to repair or recycle, leading to significant waste. Dean has set his sights on using his design expertise to reduce waste. He is exploring the circular economy and decided to establish design and brand values that drive change. I-AM.D.C grew from his bespoke interior design work, aiming to stand out in a competitive market by integrating circular principles and drawing inspiration from nature. By embedding circularity in his designs and proclaiming them as "I AM DESIGNED CIRCULAR," Dean ensures high standards and helps clients meet their sustainability goals. His designs are meant to be cherished, adapted, and repurposed, addressing the root causes of furniture waste.
8/6/24 • 05:35
🌿What would you say are the most common positive impacts you see on employee health, wellness and productivity when incorporating plants into a workspace? Katie Le Chevalier is a passionate advocate for biophilia, the innate human connection to nature and its transformative power in enhancing spaces. As the Business Development Manager at Planteria, she focuses on uncovering new business opportunities, breaking into new sectors, and helping clients improve their green credentials and bottom line with Planteria's premium planting and floristry solutions. Katie is dedicated to clear, effective communication and educating more widely on biophilia as part of a holistic approach to workplace wellbeing, delivering Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Sessions on Biophilic Design to the Design and Architecture sector. Through her work, Katie aims to increase awareness and appreciation of biophilia, demonstrating its significant impact on mood, well-being, and productivity. 🌿🌱 Learn all about the benefits and maintenance of real plants that don't require nurturing. Check out this fascinating conversation with a biophilic consultant. 🌿 #PreservedPlanting #RealPlants #BiophilicDesign🪴
7/30/24 • 36:14
🪴what key things do you emphasize to set the project up for success when it comes to plant choices? Katie Le Chevalier is a passionate advocate for Biophilia, the innate human connection to nature, and its transformative power in enhancing spaces. As the Business development Manager at Planteria, she focuses on uncovering new business opportunities, breaking into new sectors, and helping clients improve their green credentials and bottom line with Planteria's premium planting and floristry solutions. Katie is dedicated to clear, effective communication, driving Planteria's marketing strategy, and raising the company's profile. She manages the company's website, social media, and events, and delivers Continuing Professional Development (CPD) sessions on Biophilic Design to the Design & Architecture sector. Through her work, Katie aims to increase awareness and appreciation of Biophilia, demonstrating its significant impact on mood, well-being, and productivity Discover the world of preserved planting! 🌿 🌱 Learn all about the benefits and maintenance of real plants that don't require nurturing. Check out this fascinating conversation with a biophilic consultant. 🌿 💡 #PreservedPlanting #RealPlants #BiophilicDesign
7/23/24 • 05:29
🏢 What do you focus on to ensure your designs meet client needs and preferences? Paul is an accomplished commercial interior designer with over 15 years of experience. He began his career in architecture but transitioned to interior design because he wanted to push his creativity further and work on projects at a faster pace. His designs focus on incorporating elements like lighting, acoustics, collaboration spaces, and quiet zones based on psychological research and clients' preferences. Known for his ability to interpret complex briefs, Paul enjoys the challenge of satisfying clients with technology-forward yet not overly opulent designs that represent their brands. His passion is clear - Paul lives to push creative boundaries in commercial space.
7/16/24 • 82:43
🚶🏻How do you approach sustainability in your designs? 🏢 What do you focus on to ensure your designs meet client needs and preferences? Paul is an accomplished commercial interior designer with over 15 years of experience. He began his career in architecture but transitioned to interior design because he wanted to push his creativity further and work on projects at a faster pace. His designs focus on incorporating elements like lighting, acoustics, collaboration spaces, and quiet zones based on psychological research and clients' preferences. Known for his ability to interpret complex briefs, Paul enjoys the challenge of satisfying clients with technology-forward yet not overly opulent designs that represent their brands. His passion is clear - Paul lives to push creative boundaries in commercial space.
7/9/24 • 10:04
Discussing all things design and construction challenges with a focus on accessibility and adaptability. Kayleigh is the Head of Design at Ambit Moat, a company known for its innovative approach to workplace design. In her role, Kayleigh focuses on creating environments that enhance well-being, productivity, and sustainability. Kayleigh is an active participant in industry events and discussions. Her insights emphasize the importance of sustainable design and the integration of advanced technologies to create efficient, health-oriented workplaces.Ambit Moat's projects under Kayleigh's leadership often highlight the use of sustainable materials and ethical production practices, aiming to minimize environmental impact while promoting a healthy work environment.
7/1/24 • 89:59
🤞🏻How do we adapt the design to actually make the concept still look like what the client signed up for ♻️What do you think Sustainability it will look like in five years? We chatted to Kayleigh, discussing all things design and construction challenges with a focus on accessibility and adaptability. Kayleigh is the Head of Design at Ambit Moat, a company known for its innovative approach to workplace design. In her role, Kayleigh focuses on creating environments that enhance well-being, productivity, and sustainability. Her work integrates principles such as ergonomics, biophilic design, and the strategic use of color to influence mood and mental state positively. Kayleigh is an active participant in industry events and discussions. Her insights emphasize the importance of sustainable design and the integration of advanced technologies to create efficient, health-oriented workplaces. Ambit Moat's projects under Kayleigh's leadership often highlight the use of sustainable materials and ethical production practices, aiming to minimize environmental impact while promoting a healthy work environment.
6/25/24 • 03:43
🏢 What are some of the common mistakes that people make when they're looking for a space? We chatted to Jeni Dursken, Senior Associate at M Moser Associates.Jeni provides innovative design solutions for forward-thinking companies; transforming bespoke strategies into inspiring experiences & environments through cohesive visioning and thoughtful decision-making. Working in partnership with her clients, she fuses the exceptional opportunities of each project with that of a company’s culture and values, leading a design team from high-level master planning down to differentiating details. An award-winning multidisciplinary designer, her experience stretches from product launches and marketing showrooms to designing boutique hotels and workplaces for tech start-ups and law firms.
6/17/24 • 99:38
🪙what's a golden rule you live by? 🏢what do you look for when in a building? We chatted to Jeni Durksen, Senior Associate at M Moser Associates. Jeni provides innovative design solutions for forward-thinking companies; transforming bespoke strategies into inspiring experiences & environments through cohesive visioning and thoughtful decision-making. Working in partnership with her clients, she fuses the exceptional opportunities of each project with that of a company’s culture and values, leading a design team from high-level master planning down to differentiating details. An award-winning multidisciplinary designer, her experience stretches from product launches and marketing showrooms to designing boutique hotels and workplaces for tech start-ups and law firms.
6/11/24 • 24:21