Explore every episode of the podcast Space by Stansons

✨ Subscribe to Show Notes for more from Space by Stansons at https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨

This week on Space by Stansons, Guy sits down with Abigail Newton, Designer at Modus and one of Mix's 30 Under 30 for 2026, to explore the future of the office, the role of AI in design, and why every space should tell a story.

Abigail graduated during COVID and came into an industry that had changed dramatically. She predicts offices will become even more hospitality-led to draw people back in. That means comfort, choice, fewer fixed desks and a clear separation between work and home. She also discusses the push for sustainable and natural materials like cork, and the challenge of making them work with building regulations. On AI, she's clear: it should support designers with data and help shape a more honest brief, but humans should create spaces for humans.

Turning to the design itself, Abigail explains why cellular offices are fading out and how brands can be expressed without logos left, right and centre. She makes the case for bringing pattern back and talks about separating her own taste from the client's brief. She also explains why no material is off-limits if it's used with purpose, even the much-debated moss wall. Most of all, she believes the concept behind a design is what grounds it. It creates subconscious connections that make people feel a space suits a company, even if they can't say why.

In this episode:

• Why the office is becoming more hospitality-like to bring people back.
• The importance of separating work and home.
• Sustainable and natural materials, and the regulations that hold them back.
• Using AI as a support for data and briefs, not a replacement for designers.
• Why cellular offices are fading out in favour of openness and transparency.
• Expressing brand identity without logos everywhere.
• Bringing pattern and colour back into the workplace.
• Why the story behind a design is what makes it last.

This week on Cab Confessions Episode 7, we’re diving straight into a Jess Willdig namedropping session! 👀

Jess is spilling the beans on the most irritating personality types in the industry (no names, Jess - the whole world is watching 🤫!), ranting about why certain colours are wrongly classified as ‘natural’ colours, and tackling a whole horde of other topics Guy managed to squeeze into their short time together.

Inside this episode:

1. Dealing with annoying recurring personality traits in the industry 🙄
2. Pretty or practical? Breaking down pitching styles ✨
3. Current colour obsessions (and why neutral colours are overrated) 🎨
4. Organisation secrets from an organised person 📋

Explore how we design happier, healthier workplaces: https://www.stansons.co.uk

CONNECT WITH STANSONS WORKSPACE:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stansons/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stansons_/

✨ Subscribe to Show Notes for more from Space by Stansons at https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨

This week on Space by Stansons, Guy sits down with Aaron Sanderson, Project Designer at Peldon Rose and one of Mix’s 30 Under 30 Rising Stars for 2026, to talk about career ambition, giving people choice, and designing offices that stand the test of time.

Aaron shares what the Mix award means to him and why he sees it as the start of his career rather than the finish line. He explains how a supportive employer, hard work and enjoying what you do have helped him progress. His next goal is to lead a project all the way from pitch to site.

Turning to workplace design, Aaron says the industry has moved past gimmicks like office slides and into a period of reflection: it’s not what’s new, it’s how we improve where we’re at. He explains why choice and flexibility sit at the heart of wellness, from wellness rooms and acoustics to neurodiversity-led design. He also warns against “wellness wash”. Aaron makes the case for timeless design over short-lived trends, because offices are often designed for a five-to-ten-year lease. He and Guy also discuss why ceilings are so often overlooked, stainless steel’s comeback, clay paints, and why moss walls may have had their moment, though plants will never be out.

In this episode:

• What being named a Mix 30 Under 30 Rising Star means, and why it’s only the start.
• Hard work, ambition and the support that helps young designers progress.
• Why the future office is about improving what we have, not adding gimmicks.
• Choice, flexibility and neurodiversity as the foundations of workplace wellness.
• Designing for a ten-year lease rather than short-lived trends.
• Learning to ask “why” behind every design decision.
• Why ceilings deserve more attention, and value engineering should mean alternatives, not omissions.
• Stainless steel’s comeback, clay paints, moss walls and why plants are here to stay.

🥁Aaaaand We’re Back With Cab Confessions Episode 6!

Tiegan is not a morning person, she does not enjoy cooking and bouclé fabric does not fit her preferences. So where do her preferences lie when it comes to using AI, spending money and favourite materials? Hop in the black London cab with Guy and Tiegan on this weeks’ episode that takes some interesting twists and turns, and touches on some controversial opinions…

Inside this episode:

1. Favourite materials of 2026, and what’s on the way out ⌛
2. Coming to terms with AI in the industry and facing our fears 🤖
3. How culinary skills (and meal deals) fit into an 8-5 lifestyle🧑‍🍳
4. Managing your social battery: introvert vs extrovert balance👥

Explore how we design happier, healthier workplaces: https://www.stansons.co.uk

CONNECT WITH STANSONS WORKSPACE:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stansons/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stansons_/

LinkedIn

Ladies and gentlemen💥… @Tiegan Paterson ✨

✅Does like:

👃 Sweet perfume
🪡 Pattern upholstery
🫰 Meal deals

❌Doesn’t like:

🌅 Mornings
🧑‍🍳 Cooking
➰ Bouclé

From statement upholstery to AI scaries, Cab Confessions Ep. 6 is now live!

Why do so many offices look the same? Emma Morley, Director of Trifle*, talks with Guy about giving workplaces their own identity, using colour with confidence and designing spaces that show people they're cared for.

✨ Subscribe to Show Notes: https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨

This week on Space by Stansons, Guy sits down with Emma Morley, Director of Trifle*, to explore personality in the workplace, the power of colour and why no two offices should look the same.

Emma explains the layered thinking behind the Trifle* name and why walking into an office should immediately tell you who a company is. She warns against landlord-led, cookie-cutter spaces that make every business look the same. She also explains that a well-considered workplace shows people they're cared for.

Turning to colour, Emma shares practical ways to use it with confidence. You can start with paint, add bold pops through furniture and rugs, or test one colour at different strengths across four meeting rooms. She also reflects on 16 years of running Trifle*, from hiring help sooner to being braver with ideas. To finish, she looks at how wellbeing, hybrid working and AI are shaping the future office.

In this episode:

• Why businesses underestimate the opportunity of their physical space.
• The risk of cookie-cutter offices that all look the same.
• Designing for how people feel, not just how a space looks.
• Using colour with confidence, from paint and rugs to bold accent pieces.
• Lessons from 16 years of running Trifle*
• Wellbeing, hybrid working and the future of the office.

And we’re back with Cab Confessions Episode 5! 

Two mates catching up after a while with plenty of ground to cover. Rob chats with Guy on all manner of things - from personal style and how first impressions influence his appearance, to his biggest fears about the future.

Inside this episode:

1. How important it is to be able to stand out in the modern day design industry 🎭
2. Rob’s way of fueling his creativity and sparking inspiration 💡
3. Personal style and how it impacts first impressions (for better or for worse!) 👀
4. Overcoming the fear of rejection & the fear of failure 💪

Explore how we design happier, healthier workplaces: https://www.stansons.co.uk

CONNECT WITH STANSONS WORKSPACE:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stansons/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stansons_/

✨ Subscribe to Show Notes for more from Space by Stansons at https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨

This week on Space by Stansons, Guy sits down with Sonja Bannerman, Project Designer at Morgan Lovell, to explore confidence, personal brand and the importance of designing workplaces with their own identity.

Sonja reflects on being made redundant twice and how those experiences changed the way she approached her career. She shares why knowing your self-worth, speaking with confidence and being yourself became central to finding the right role and culture, rather than simply taking the first opportunity available.

The conversation also looks at personal brand and putting yourself out there as a designer. Sonja explains why she stopped worrying about whether every LinkedIn post performs, why sharing what genuinely interests you can help people understand who you are, and how inspiration can come from other designers, travel, hospitality and everyday experiences.

Turning to workplace design, Sonja discusses the growing use of colour, pattern, tiles, wallpaper and richer residential influences in commercial interiors. She explains how thoughtful placement of brand colours can create impact without overwhelming a space, why meeting rooms do not all need to look the same, and how different areas should create different feelings for the people using them.

Sonja also shares why she does not want to be known for one fixed design style. From calm, Scandinavian-inspired interiors to bright, technology-led workplaces, she is focused on challenging herself, listening closely to clients and creating spaces that feel individual rather than copy and paste.

Whether you are building your career, developing your personal brand or designing workplaces, this episode is a reminder to back yourself, stay curious and create spaces that reflect the people and culture behind them.

In this episode:

• Knowing your self-worth and rebuilding confidence after redundancy.
• Why being yourself matters when finding the right workplace and culture.
• Building a personal brand without overthinking likes or engagement.
• Using travel, hospitality and other designers as sources of inspiration.
• Bringing colour, pattern, texture and brand identity into the workplace.
• Why different areas should create different moods and experiences.
• Listening to clients while using data and workplace strategy to challenge assumptions.
• Why Sonja wants every interior to have its own identity rather than a copy-and-paste style.

Introducing Cab Confessions Episode 4! 📢

When Zac jumps into the cab with Guy on this week’s episode, they cover a lot of ground in a short time - from navigating introversion in a people-facing industry to the reality of renovating a brand new office space singlehandedly! 

Inside this episode:

What a good day looks like and personal improvement tactics ☀️

1. New office renovation project progress 🚧
2. Dealing with introversion in a very people-oriented industry 🪫
3. Onboarding first team member as a freelance creative 🤝

Explore how we design happier, healthier workplaces: https://www.stansons.co.uk

CONNECT WITH STANSONS WORKSPACE:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stansons/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stansons_/

✨ Subscribe to Show Notes for more from Space by Stansons at https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨

This week on Space by Stansons, Guy continues his tour of Thirdway’s new home with Liam Spencer, exploring how the building has been designed around the way people actually work, meet and connect.

Across the working floors, Liam explains how different teams use the office in different ways, from fixed desks and call pods to informal collaboration areas and quieter spaces away from the main floor. Even the central staircase was a deliberate cultural investment, encouraging people to cross paths, stop for a conversation and stay connected across the business.

The office also doubles as a live showroom for Thirdway’s work. Liam shares how materials, finishes and furniture choices have been used to demonstrate what can be achieved at different price points, showing that thoughtful design is often about clever application rather than simply spending more.

As the tour moves upstairs, the focus shifts towards clients and hospitality. Purpose-built presentation areas, catering spaces and the rooftop terrace allow Thirdway to host different types of meetings, events and conversations without relying on a traditional boardroom for everything. The result is a workplace designed to support both how people work and how relationships are built.

Liam also reflects on the pressure of designing Thirdway’s own home, the difficulty of knowing when to stop chasing perfection and the pride that came with finally seeing people use the space. With flexibility built in for future growth, the office is designed to evolve alongside the business rather than remain fixed in time.

Whether you’re thinking about workplace strategy, company culture or client experience, this episode is a reminder that the most effective offices are not just designed to look good — they are designed around how people actually want to use them.

In this episode:

• Designing different working zones around how teams actually use space.
• Why circulation and a central staircase can help create culture and connection.
• Using the office as a live showroom for materials, finishes and cost-conscious creativity.
• Creating client-focused spaces for presentations, hospitality and relationship building.
• How the rooftop terrace supports work, wellbeing, events and flexible use.
• Why letting go of perfection and designing for evolution can create a workplace people want to use.

✨ Subscribe to Show Notes for more from Space by Stansons at https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨

This week on Space by Stansons, Guy visits Thirdway’s new home with Liam Spencer to explore how a workplace can reflect the culture, personality and evolution of the business behind it.

Set inside a transformed 1950s warehouse on St John Street, Liam explains why Thirdway spent years searching for the right home and how the team approached the building as more than just an office. From replacing an unsympathetic facade with handmade brick to borrowing ideas from hotels, restaurants and galleries, every decision was designed to create a strong first impression without losing the character of the original building.

As Guy and Liam tour the space, they discuss how Thirdway has matured from its younger, rebellious roots without losing the values that shaped the business. Playful details, internal artwork and recurring design elements sit alongside quieter hospitality-inspired spaces, helping the building feel as much like a members’ club or hotel as a traditional workplace.

The conversation also explores the balance between creativity, cost and practicality. Liam shares why the best design is not necessarily about spending more, why time can be more valuable than budget, and how thoughtful materials, natural light and carefully planned spaces can create an office people genuinely want to use.

Whether you’re designing a workplace, shaping company culture or simply interested in how a brand can be expressed through physical space, this episode offers a behind the scenes look at turning an office into a true home for a business.

In this episode:

• Why Thirdway spent years searching for the right building for its new home.
• Using hospitality and gallery design to rethink the traditional office arrival experience.
• How Thirdway’s workplace reflects the evolution of its brand and culture.
• Balancing maturity and quality with personality, playfulness and original values.
• Why great design is about thoughtful choices, not simply bigger budgets.
• How natural light, materials and multifunctional spaces shape how people use an office

Introducing Cab Confessions Episode 3! 🚖

Join Guy as he sits down with Dthree Studio Interior Designer Laura Thompson to discuss design education, mastering "bougie on a budget," and her journey with an autism diagnosis.

Inside this episode:

1. Studying interior design and education realities 🎓
2. The biggest industry lessons learnt so far 💡
3. How to be ‘bougie on a budget’ ✨
4. Opening up about autism & workplace communication ♾️🌈

Explore how we design happier, healthier workplaces: https://www.stansons.co.uk

CONNECT WITH STANSONS WORKSPACE:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stansons/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stansons_/

✨ Subscribe to Show Notes for more from Space by Stansons at https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨

This week on Space by Stansons, Guy heads to Paris with designer Marta Gordiychuk to explore how taste, emotion and honest material choices can shape spaces that feel memorable rather than simply functional.

Marta shares why Paris is a place she returns to for inspiration and recharge, from its food and fashion to the way interiors combine beauty, simplicity and everyday experience. She reflects on the connection between environment and emotion, and why good workplace design should offer people something beyond the basic purpose of getting work done.

The conversation also explores breakout spaces, materials, budget and the importance of a strong concept. Marta explains why a breakout area should feel like a genuine getaway for staff, how colour and shape can communicate an idea at almost any budget, and why designers should be honest with materials rather than imitate high-end finishes cheaply. From natural surfaces and organic forms to the balance of old and new found across Paris, the episode looks at how thoughtful design decisions create spaces with identity.

Marta also shares how she protects the “heart” of a project: once the core concept is clear and understood by the wider team and client, other elements can flex without losing the idea that holds the design together.

Whether you’re designing workplaces, leading a team or simply interested in how physical environments influence emotion, this episode offers practical insight into creating spaces that are honest, purposeful and full of character.

In this episode:

• Why workplace design should offer more than the basic purpose of work.
• Creating breakout spaces that help people recharge and connect.
• Using colour and shape to create impact across different budgets.
• Why materials should be honest rather than imitate what they are not.
• Balancing heritage, modern design and natural forms within a clear concept.
• How protecting the core concept keeps a project coherent when details change.

Welcome back to Episode 2 of Cab Confessions, where Guy collects clients from the train station and picks their brains the whole way to work 🚖🎤

Hop into the London cab with Guy as he interviews Zoe Hudson Smith, Junior Interior Designer at Maris Interiors. In this episode, they manage to cover everything from the stark reality of a “sink or swim” industry, to the most daunting aspect of Zoe’s role that she would gladly never do again!

Whether you’re pursuing a career in interior design, recently graduated, or just curious about workplace design, Zoe shares invaluable tips to help you prepare for the real world.

Inside this episode:

1. The reality of an interior design education & its Pros and Cons 👀
2. Evolving AI technology and harnessing the use of AI in interior design 🤖
3. Benefits of travel on interior design & the incorporation of different cultures into modern design 🎭

🎧 Hit the follow button so you never miss an episode!

💬 We want to hear from you: Are you in the same boat as Zoe and have fairly recently completed your design education? We’d love to know if you agree with what she says! Answer in the Spotify Q&A section below!

Explore Stansons Workspace: https://www.stansons.co.uk

#StansonsWorkspace #CabConfessions #DesignEducation #Travel #Inspiration #BusinessPodcast

✨ Subscribe to Show Notes for more from Space by Stansons at https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨

This week on Space by Stansons, Guy sits down with Daniel Martin, Senior Designer at AIS, to explore why the best workplaces are designed with purpose rather than simply filled with features.

Daniel shares how inspiration can come from anywhere, from Pinterest and Instagram to conversations with colleagues, and why a clear brief is essential to turning ideas into spaces that genuinely work. He reflects on the importance of giving every area a reason to exist, while still allowing a workplace enough room to breathe.

The conversation also explores materials, changing design trends and the role of AI in the creative process. Daniel explains why technology can be a useful tool but still struggles to replace the human understanding, experience and decision-making behind great design. From Japanese wabi-sabi and timeless materials to dedicated video-call spaces and warmer colour palettes, the episode looks at how thoughtful choices can shape the way people feel and behave at work.

Daniel also shares a memorable example of redesigning a waiting area around the needs of the people using it, reinforcing a simple principle that runs through the episode: good design should make things better.

Whether you’re designing workplaces, leading a team or simply interested in how physical environments influence behaviour, this episode offers practical insight into creating spaces that are purposeful, considered and genuinely useful.

In this episode:

• Designing spaces around purpose rather than filling every available area.
• Why a clear brief can save time, money and unnecessary design revisions.
• How materials, colour, lighting and sensory details influence how a space feels.
• Why AI can support designers without replacing human judgement and experience.
• The shift from overly flexible spaces towards areas designed for specific tasks.
• How good workplace design can improve comfort, behaviour and everyday experience.

Welcome to Episode 1 of Cab Confessions, where Guy collects clients from the train station and proceeds to dish the dirt. 🚖🎤

In this opening episode, Guy picks up Petr Esposito (Co-Founder of Anomaly) from the train station, and wastes no time in getting deep and personal. Petr spills some of his biggest secrets, including the wildest transaction he’s ever completed on the company card, and opens up on his struggles with ADHD in the workplace.

Inside this episode:

1. Petr's largest and most impulsive business credit card purchase 💸
2. The reality of the impact of ADHD on personal life and business growth 🧠
3. Working closely with neurodivergent individuals and embracing a different approach to life 🏢

🎧 Hit the follow button so you never miss an episode!

💬 We want to hear from you: What is the craziest transaction you've completed on your company credit card? Answer in the Spotify Q&A section below!

Explore Stansons Workspace: https://www.stansons.co.uk

#StansonsWorkspace #CabConfessions #CompanyCulture #ADHD #Neurodiversity #BusinessPodcast

✨ Subscribe to Show Notes for more from Space by Stansons at https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨

This week on Space by Stansons, Guy visits Victoria Park with designer Lizzie Hand to explore how nature, creativity and thoughtful workplace design can shape the way people feel and work.

Joined by Lizzie Hand of Thirdway, the conversation explores how natural light, sound, texture and even scent can bring a stronger sense of the outdoors into the workplace. Lizzie challenges familiar nature led trends such as moss walls and explains why successful design is less about filling an office with plants and more about creating an experience that feels natural and personal.

As they walk through the park, Guy and Lizzie discuss collaboration without hierarchy, the importance of zoning quiet and energetic areas, and why practical details such as power, location and layout determine whether shared spaces are genuinely used. Lizzie also reflects on creativity, explaining why ideas often arrive when the pressure is off and how different people need different ways to decompress.

Whether you’re designing workplaces, leading a team or simply interested in how physical environments affect creativity and wellbeing, this episode offers practical ideas for building spaces around the people who use them.

In this episode:

• Creative ways to bring nature indoors beyond plants and moss walls.

• How natural light, sound, texture and scent shape the workplace experience.

• Creating collaborative spaces without hierarchy.

• Why zoning quiet, focused and energetic areas matters.

• Designing around different ways people work and decompress.

• Why the best ideas often arrive when the pressure is off.

✨ Subscribe to Show Notes for more from Space by Stansons at https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨

This week on Space by Stansons, Guy visits Together to explore how thoughtful design can completely transform the way people experience meetings, conferences and events.

Joined by founder Elliott Sparsis, the conversation uncovers why Together sees itself as a hospitality business rather than a traditional venue. Elliott explains how every detail has been designed around the people using the space, from natural light, flexible layouts and seamless wayfinding to air quality, acoustics and food that keeps delegates energised throughout the day.

As they tour the venue, Guy and Elliott discuss what it means to create a truly human-first environment, why wellbeing should be at the heart of workplace and event design, and how spaces that prioritise comfort and experience can lead to better conversations, stronger engagement and more meaningful connections.

Whether you’re designing workplaces, planning events or simply interested in the relationship between people and space, this episode offers practical insights into the details that make the biggest difference.

In this episode:

• Why Together operates more like a hospitality business than an event venue.
• Designing spaces around wellbeing, not just capacity.
• The role of natural light, air quality and acoustics in keeping people engaged.
• Why flexibility is essential for modern event spaces.
• How food, flow and thoughtful design shape the delegate experience.
• What it really means to be a human-first business.

Stay tuned 👀

✨ Subscribe to Show Notes for more from Space by Stansons at https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨

“We’re a human-first business.”

What happens when every design decision starts with people?

🎧 Elliott Sparsis joins Guy on next week’s episode of Space by Stansons.

✨ Subscribe to Show Notes for more from Space by Stansons at https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨

In this episode of Space by Stansons, Guy meets Kimberley Chant, Head of Pre-Construction at EC1 Build, to explore the often unseen world behind successful workplace projects. From estimating and cost planning to managing teams and guiding clients through complex decisions, Kimberley shares what really happens before a project reaches site.

Kimberley reflects on how she found her way into fit out after studying civil engineering, and why pre-construction sits at the centre of the process. She explains the common details clients underestimate, from installation costs and trims to lighting, mechanical systems, and the hidden extras that can quickly push a budget up.

The conversation also explores Kimberley’s personal journey as a Thai-British woman in a male-dominated industry. She speaks honestly about confidence, resilience, imposter syndrome, and learning to stand up for herself after difficult experiences in her career.

Along the way, Kimberley shares the work ethic she inherited from her mum, the importance of being in a workplace where you are valued, and why good management is about supporting people, not just assigning work. She also opens up about wanting to help her own team grow, flourish, and feel invested in.

A candid and insightful conversation about construction, culture, resilience, leadership, and why the best workplaces are built by people who understand both the detail and the humans behind it.

Stay tuned 👀

✨ Subscribe to Show Notes for more from Space by Stansons at https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨

“Every job, you’re either learning or you’re earning.”

What do you do when you’re doing neither?

🎧 Kimberley Chut joins Guy on next week’s episode of Space by Stansons.

✨ Subscribe to Show Notes for more from Space by Stansons at https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨

In this episode of Space by Stansons, Guy meets Jacinta Ashby, Senior Designer at BW Design & Build, to explore the spaces that inspire her most, from a bustling café in Greenwich to the open landscapes of Greenwich Park. Together, they discuss how different environments shape the way we think, feel, focus, and connect.  

Jacinta shares why variety has become one of the most important ingredients in workplace design, explaining the growing demand for collaborative lounges, focus spaces, wellness rooms, and environments that encourage movement throughout the day. She reflects on what offices can learn from hospitality, cafés, and nature to create more meaningful experiences for employees.  

The conversation also explores the role of wellbeing in design. From acoustics and natural light to biophilic principles and intentional quiet spaces, Jacinta explains how workplaces can support people beyond productivity and help them feel calmer, healthier, and more connected.  

Along the way, Jacinta opens up about moving from Australia to London, the importance of spending time in nature, and how designing memorable experiences, not just beautiful spaces, has become central to her philosophy as a designer. She argues that the most successful environments are those that encourage people to be themselves, create meaningful moments, and leave with lasting memories.  

A thoughtful conversation about workplace experience, wellbeing, biophilic design, and why the best spaces help people feel something.  

Stay tuned 👀 ✨ Subscribe to Show Notes for more from Space by Stansons at https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨

“The most important thing for me as a designer is that people feel something in that space.”

What if the success of a workplace wasn’t measured by how it looked, but by how it made people feel?

🎧 Jacinta Ashby on next week's episode of Space by Stansons.

✨ Subscribe to Show Notes for more from Space by Stansons at https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨

In this special edition of Space by Stansons, Guy heads out into Clerkenwell Design Week to capture the ideas, trends, and conversations shaping the design industry right now. Designers, makers, and exhibitors share what they’re hoping to discover, the products catching their attention, and the changes they’d like to see in the workplace of the future.  

A recurring theme throughout the day is the return of boldness. From colourful palettes and statement furniture to innovative materials and standout details, many designers talk about moving beyond safe, neutral schemes in search of something more expressive and inspiring.  

The episode also explores how design can create more inclusive experiences. One exhibitor discusses an installation designed around colour vision deficiency, encouraging visitors to experience how different people perceive the same environment and sparking conversations around accessibility and neurodiversity.  

Along the way, Guy uncovers perspectives on sustainability, biophilic design, creativity, and the importance of designing spaces that connect people. From paint inspired by ice cream flavours to visions of public buildings transformed by nature, the episode offers a snapshot of the ideas energising the design community today.  

A fast-paced tour of Clerkenwell Design Week, packed with fresh thinking, emerging trends, and the people pushing the industry forward.  

 ✨ Subscribe to Show Notes for more from Space by Stansons at https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨

In this special edition of Space by Stansons, Guy heads into the heart of Design Week to explore the emotional side of creativity through a live interactive installation built around six designer personality types.  

From The Overthinker and The Distracted to The Night Owl and the elusive Zen, designers share honest reflections on how they work, what blocks them creatively, and the routines they rely on to stay inspired.  

Across the conversations, recurring themes emerge around distraction, collaboration, overthinking, and the importance of stepping away to reset. Designers discuss everything from needing background noise to focus, to taking walks, leaning on teammates, and finding inspiration through materials, colour, sustainability, and human connection.    

The episode also captures the spirit of Design Week itself — a week built around discovery, creativity, reconnecting with the industry, and experiencing new ideas together. From acoustic sustainable products and bold colour trends to “funky non glue-down flooring,” this is a snapshot of what today’s creative community is really thinking about.    

A fast-paced, people-led special exploring the realities behind creative work — and the shared experiences that bring designers together.

 ✨ Subscribe to Show Notes for more from Space by Stansons at https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨

In this episode, Guy joins Vyshali on a journey through King’s Cross to explore where creativity, storytelling, and workplace design collide. Together, they discuss how urban regeneration, sketching, culture, and human behaviour all shape the way modern workplaces are designed.

Vyshali shares how drawing on her daily commute helps her slow down, observe people, and spark ideas that feed directly into her design process. As they walk through transformed spaces around King’s Cross, the conversation explores how thoughtful design can completely change the way people feel, connect, and experience a place.

The discussion covers the psychology behind workplace design, the importance of creating spaces people genuinely want to spend time in, and why retrofit and regeneration projects are becoming increasingly important in a more sustainable future.

They also explore:

• How creativity and observation influence workplace design
• Why urban regeneration is about community, not gentrification
• The role of storytelling in shaping workplace experiences
• How design impacts mood, behaviour, and wellbeing
• Why flexible, human-centred workplaces matter more than ever
• The importance of mentorship, kindness, and collaboration in design teams
• How heritage buildings can be reimagined for modern ways of working

This episode is a conversation about creativity, culture, and designing spaces that make people feel connected, inspired, and welcome.  

Stay tuned 👀 ✨ Subscribe to Show Notes for more from Space by Stansons at https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨

A conversation with Vyshali on creativity, workplace design, regeneration, and the psychology of space.

From sketching on the tube to designing human-centred workplaces, this episode explores how great spaces make people feel, connect, and belong.

Full episode coming on 19th May

 ✨ Subscribe to Show Notes for more from Space by Stansons at https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨

In this episode, Guy sits down with Kathryn O’Callaghan-Mills, founder of Studio Sevyn, to explore her journey through the design and build industry and what she has learned about leadership, listening, and backing yourself.

Kathryn reflects on her path from starting out as a receptionist to rising through the industry, joining leadership teams, and eventually launching her own studio. She shares how hard work, resilience, and a strong sense of purpose shaped her career, alongside a drive to make the journey easier for other women coming into the industry.

A key theme throughout the conversation is equality in design and build. Kathryn speaks openly about the lack of female role models at senior level, the importance of true support and mentorship, and why better leadership means creating opportunities for people to grow in ways that work for them.

The discussion also explores what makes great design. Kathryn explains why listening is one of the most important skills in the process, arguing that the best outcomes come from understanding the client properly rather than chasing the biggest idea in the room. For her, workplace design is about creating environments that genuinely improve people’s day-to-day wellbeing.

Now building Studio Sevyn, Kathryn also shares what it means to step out on her own, grow something from scratch, and create a legacy her daughter can look up to.

This is an episode about ambition, leadership, equality, and designing with people in mind.

Stay tuned 👀 ✨ Subscribe to Show Notes for more from Space by Stansons at https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨

In this episode, Guy sits down with Kathryn O’Callaghan-Mills, founder of Studio Sevyn, to explore her journey through the design and build industry and what she has learned about leadership, listening, and backing yourself.

This is an episode about ambition, leadership, equality, and designing with people in mind.

✨ Subscribe to Show Notes for more from Space by Stansons at https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨ 

In this episode, Guy sits down with Samantha to explore how workplace design is evolving beyond productivity and into something more human, flexible, and experience-led.

Samantha shares her perspective on what makes a workplace truly work for people today, drawing on her experience across different cities, cultures, and sectors. From living in Istanbul and working in retail architecture in Ohio to building her career in London, she reflects on how travel, adaptability, and cultural rituals have shaped the way she thinks about space, behaviour, and belonging.

The conversation begins at a private members club in Shoreditch, which becomes a fitting backdrop for a discussion about the blurred boundaries between work, hospitality, leisure, and community. Samantha explains why spaces like this resonate so strongly right now: they offer multiple modes of use, from focused work and informal meetings to socialising, entertaining, and switching off. It is a live example of the kind of multifunctional environment many workplaces are now trying to create.

A key theme throughout is belonging. Samantha explains that the conversation has shifted. It is no longer just about creating productive workplaces or even bringing joy into the office. Increasingly, clients are asking how to create spaces where people feel welcome, included, and motivated to be there. That means thinking carefully about everything from acoustics and lighting to first impressions, hospitality, activation, and long-term user experience.

The discussion also explores how workplace strategy is being shaped by wider market pressures, especially around hybrid working and return-to-office mandates. Samantha talks about the challenge of helping clients plan for uncertainty, particularly when UK real estate decisions are being influenced by policies set by US headquarters. She explains how strategy, design, and client engagement have to work hand in hand to create spaces that can adapt over time.

They also explore

How hospitality is influencing the future of workplace design

Why the welcome experience matters more than most companies realise

What clients are really asking for when they talk about belonging

How activation helps people embrace change in a new workplace

Why flexibility is essential for different personalities, needs, and working styles

The role of acoustics, lighting, and atmosphere in helping people focus

What cultural rituals can teach us about community at work

How workplace design is responding to hybrid working and office mandates

Why the best projects come from strong teams and shared excitement

How post-occupancy reviews help workplaces improve over time

Samantha also reflects on the importance of culture within her own business, the value of building long-term client relationships, and why the most successful workplaces are the ones that make people feel seen, supported, and excited to come in.

This is an episode about the future of workplace experience, where design is not just about desks and square footage, but about creating spaces that bring people together and make work feel more meaningful.

We solved productivity. So why don’t people want to come back to the office?

Stay tuned 👀 ✨ Subscribe to Show Notes for more from Space by Stansons at https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨

✨ Subscribe to Show Notes for more from Space by Stansons at https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨

In this episode, Guy sits down with Georgia Jackson, Estimator at Cast Interiors, to explore what really happens behind the scenes of construction projects and what it means to work “in the trenches” of the industry.

Georgia shares her journey from growing up on construction sites in Sydney working alongside her dad, to carving out her own path in the industry and unexpectedly finding her place in estimating. What started as a role she once saw as purely numbers-driven quickly became something far more dynamic, creative, and collaborative.

The conversation dives into the reality of estimating, breaking down the misconception that it is just spreadsheets and calculations. Georgia explains how the role requires constant communication, relationship-building, and the ability to mentally construct a project before it is ever built on site. From working with supply chains to aligning with design and programme teams, estimating sits at the centre of decision-making.

A key theme throughout is communication. Georgia highlights how projects succeed or fail based on transparency, whether that is within teams, with suppliers, or from clients who are not always upfront about budgets and priorities. She also challenges the idea that asking questions is a weakness, arguing instead that it is one of the most important strengths in construction.

They also explore:
The reality of mistakes in construction and why no tender is ever perfect
Why estimating is more creative than people think
How collaboration across teams shapes better project outcomes
The gap between design ambition and cost reality
What clients can do to stay on budget and avoid rework
The evolving role of sustainability, reuse, and circular thinking in fit-outs
How AI could support estimating without replacing human judgement
The differences between construction culture in Australia and the UK

Georgia also reflects on the importance of learning through experience, building confidence in a traditionally male-dominated industry, and creating a culture where people feel comfortable asking for help and sharing knowledge.

This is an episode about the human side of construction, where better communication, curiosity, and collaboration lead to better buildings.

“No one knows everything on site.”

Next week’s episode breaks down the real role of an estimator and why asking questions might be the most underrated skill in construction.

Stay tuned 👀

✨ Subscribe to Show Notes for more from Space by Stansons at https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨

In this episode, Guy sits down with Hamza Shaikh, Digital Artist at Gensler, to explore the rapidly evolving world of AI, image generation, and creativity in design alongside the release of his latest book.

Hamza shares his journey from architectural drawing and social media to becoming deeply immersed in AI experimentation, explaining how early exposure to tools like Midjourney shaped his thinking and led him to write about agency, authorship, and creative control in an AI-driven world.

The conversation dives into the current state of the industry, from the explosion of AI-generated content and “slop” online, to the growing tension around copyright, data ownership, and the ethics of creative work. Hamza also reflects on the limitations of current AI tools, highlighting that while image generation has advanced rapidly, the industry is still far from generating fully realised, data-rich built environments.

A key theme throughout is education. Hamza questions whether traditional architectural education is preparing students for the realities of practice, arguing that too much focus is placed on theoretical or utopian design, and not enough on real-world skills like documentation, client understanding, and adaptability.

They also explore:

• The rise and fatigue of social media for creatives
• Why AI should be used to amplify creativity, not replace it
• The importance of maintaining creative authorship and control
• How understanding legacy tools leads to better use of future technologies
• Why “learning how to learn” is the most important skill in a fast-changing world
• The future impact of AI and robotics on design, construction, and beyond

Hamza also opens up about his personal relationship with creativity, balancing his role in a global firm with his desire to reconnect with analogue drawing and artistic expression outside of technology.
This is an episode about understanding the tools shaping our future and ensuring creatives stay in control as those tools evolve.

Episode Resources

Hamza Shaikh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hamza-shaikh-design/?originalSubdomain=uk
Guy Stanley on LinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/guystanley

Learn more about Stansons Group Ltd. here: https://stansons.co.uk

🔗 Useful Links:
🎧 Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3JuplSC
🎧 Spotify: https://bit.ly/4924osv
💬 Comment below your favourite part!

Students spend 7 years in education.

And still aren’t ready for the real world.

Next week on Space by Stansons, Hamza Shaikh breaks down the gap between design education and practice, and how AI is making that gap even wider.

We get into:

AI in design

Creative ownership

The future of skills

Why the tools aren’t the problem

This is a big one.

Episode drops next week 👀🎧

✨ Subscribe to Show Notes for more from Space by Stansons at https://www.stansons.co.uk/space ✨

In this episode, Guy sits down with Helena, Creative Director and Founder of Studio Masat, to discuss navigating the design industry as a new mother while launching her own studio.

Helena shares her background in design & build, what it was like managing pregnancy in a client-facing role, and why transparency, planning, and trust are essential when balancing projects and maternity leave. The conversation explores outdated industry norms around flexibility, the loss of talented mothers due to rigid systems, and why outcomes matter more than hours at a desk.

They also dive into how motherhood reshaped Helena’s perspective on accessibility in the built environment — and why inclusive design should never be a retrofit or afterthought.

This is an episode about leadership, flexibility, and designing better systems — both in our workplaces and in the spaces we create.

They also explore:
How parenthood exposed everyday access barriers (and why it changed Helena’s design lens)

Why physical accessibility is being left behind in wider inclusion conversations

The difference between inclusive design and “retrofit” afterthought solutions

Announcing pregnancy on client projects: what works, what doesn’t, and when to share it

The “buddy system” approach that protects the client experience and grows junior talent

Why the “mothers are less ambitious” narrative is wrong — and what’s actually true

The outdated 9–5 model in a two-income world (and why flexibility is already happening elsewhere)

Trust + communication as the real foundation of flexible work

Examples of accessibility done well — and what most buildings still get wrong

Episode Resources

Helena Masat on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helena-masat-671522104/?originalSubdomain=uk
Guy Stanley on LinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/guystanley

Learn more about Stansons Group Ltd. here: https://stansons.co.uk

🔗 Useful Links:
🎧 Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3JuplSC
🎧 Spotify: https://bit.ly/4924osv
💬 Comment below your favourite part!

“You don’t have to choose between motherhood and your career.”

From pitching multi-million pound projects while pregnant to launching her own studio for real flexibility, Helena shares why trust — not presenteeism — is what actually drives performance.

Full episode drops next week.

Come listen 👀🎧

Episode Resources

Helena (Studio Masat) on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/helena-masat-671522104/?originalSubdomain=uk

Guy Stanley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guystanley

Learn more about Stansons Group Ltd. here: https://stansons.co.uk

🔗 Useful Links:

🎧 Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3JuplSC

🎧 Spotify: https://bit.ly/4924osv

In this episode, Guy sits down with Jenny Edwards, Creative Director at Oktra, for a high-energy conversation covering sustainability, inclusivity, AI, and the realities of design in both traditional consultancy and design & build environments.

The conversation goes deep into what sustainability really means in workplace design. Not just recycled materials or box-ticking accreditations but designing out waste from the start, questioning lifecycle impact, and building spaces that are inclusive, adaptable, and built to last.

They also explore:

• Why AI can’t replace human-led design thinking
• The importance of inclusive design from day one
• Designing for dismantle and zero-waste principles
• Why “cheap” upfront often costs more long-term
• The real impact designers can have across cities
• OneNote, Miro boards, and the creative process behind the scenes

Jenny speaks candidly about having a strong voice in the industry, why sustainability needs advocates, and how even junior designers can influence meaningful change.
This is an episode about intent and the responsibility that comes with shaping the built environment.

Jenny Edwards  on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-edwards-a96b6ab9/

Guy Stanley on LinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/guystanley

Learn more about Stansons Group Ltd. here: https://stansons.co.uk

🔗 Useful Links:
🎧 Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3JuplSC
🎧 Spotify: https://bit.ly/4924osv
💬 Comment below your favourite part!

“It’s not about recycled materials. It’s about designing out waste.”

From challenging AI hype to rethinking zero-waste design, Jenny Edwards shares why sustainability isn’t a tick-box — it’s a mindset.

Full episode drops next week.

Come listen 👀🎧

Episode Resources

Jenny Edwards on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-edwards-a96b6ab9/

Guy Stanley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guystanley

Learn more about Stansons Group Ltd. here: https://stansons.co.uk

🔗 Useful Links:

🎧 Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3JuplSC

🎧 Spotify: https://bit.ly/4924osv

This week on Space by Stansons, host Guy Stanley sits down with Dicky Lewis, co-founder of White Red Architects, for a wide-ranging conversation on neurodiversity, pitching, and what it really takes to deliver a major HQ project at the highest level.

From being diagnosed with dyslexia at 12 (and finding early inspiration in Richard Branson’s story) to winning and delivering Virgin’s headquarters in Fitzrovia, Dicky breaks down how his brain works, how White Red balances “instigator vs implementer” energy, and why the unglamorous stuff—process, people, honest post-project analysis—matters just as much as the design.

They also dig into sustainability in practice (not just slogans): reducing Cat A waste, making small spec decisions that add up, and experimenting with alternative building systems like fabric ducting adapted from swimming pools to cut waste and improve performance.

⸻

What You’ll Learn

1. How dyslexia can shape leadership style, creativity, and risk tolerance — and why it’s increasingly common in architecture
2. The “instigator vs implementer” dynamic inside White Red (and why you need both)
3. What it takes to win a major pitch: rehearsal, storytelling, detail obsession, and team chemistry
4. How the Virgin HQ opportunity evolved from a small refurb into a full HQ procurement — and what changed in the second pitch
5. The realities of delivering for a multi-stakeholder brand: sustainability, DEI, operations, and governance all feeding into the brief
6. Why reputation is everything for a growing practice — and how honest post-project review builds stronger delivery
7. The awkward-but-real moments that force you to “step up” (like clients waiting outside a locked studio…)
8. What Dicky learned from meeting Branson — and the handwritten note that became a full-circle career moment
9. Practical sustainability: incremental wins in finishes, furniture circularity, and designing out waste over time
10. A smart MEP example: why White Red trialled fabric ductwork, how it performs, and what they learned
11. Dicky’s concentration soundtrack: binaural beats, instrumental film music, and the “don’t let me DJ the office Sonos” rule

Episode Highlights

This episode is a must-listen for designers, founders, and project teams who want the honest version of practice-building: big wins, messy realities, and the systems that help you grow.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

00:00 Cold open: the origin story behind “White Red” (and the White Stripes influence)

07:00 Dyslexia: early diagnosis, stigma, and the Richard Branson inspiration

09:25 “Instigator vs implementer”: how the founders balance ideas, delivery, and focus

14:19 Virgin HQ begins: how a small refurb turned into a full HQ opportunity (and a re-pitch)

16:00 Winning the pitch: what they did differently—storytelling, detail, rehearsal, commitment

19:45 Delivery reality check: discoverables, structural issues, and complex stakeholders

22:00 Post-project honesty: learning without blame to improve the practice

29:37 Meeting Branson: the walkthrough, the “it’s really bright” moment, and the surrealness of it

31:21 The handwritten note from Necker Island: full-circle recognition and imposter syndrome

35:46 Sustainability in practice: Cat A waste, incremental wins, and the fabric ducting experiment

Episode Resources

Dicky Lewis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dicky-lewis/

Guy Stanley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guystanley

Learn more about Stansons Group Ltd. here: https://stansons.co.uk

🔗 Useful Links:

🎧 Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3JuplSC

🎧 Spotify: https://bit.ly/4924osv

💬 Comment below your favourite part!

“From dyslexia to delivering Virgin’s HQ.”

What started as a small refurb turned into a career-defining pitch — and a full-circle moment with Richard Branson.

Full episode drops next week.

Come listen 👀🎧

Episode Resources

Dicky Lewis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dicky-lewis/

Guy Stanley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guystanley

Learn more about Stansons Group Ltd. here: https://stansons.co.uk

🔗 Useful Links:

🎧 Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3JuplSC

🎧 Spotify: https://bit.ly/4924osv

This week on Space by Stansons Guy Stanley sits down with Warren Bragg, Contracts Manager at Ambit Moat, to dig into the side of projects we don’t talk about enough: the nuts and bolts of delivery.

From why “never assume” is the golden rule on site to how document control, health & safety, value engineering, and communication actually make or break a programme, Warren shares what it really takes to deliver projects on time, on budget, and safely — and how designers can help contractors long before site starts.

⸻

What You’ll Learn

1. Why bridging the gap between design vision and site delivery starts with earlier collaboration
2. The “never assume” mindset — and how small assumptions can create big site issues
3. How document control portals help teams work from the latest information (and reduce mistakes)
4. What a Contracts Manager actually does day-to-day across multiple live projects
5. Why health & safety is the biggest thing keeping delivery teams up at night
6. Practical value engineering wins — why lighting is often the first big saving, and how to do it smartly
7. How to spot cost-saving alternatives in furniture and finishes without compromising design intent
8. Where sustainability is genuinely viable — and where it becomes a cost/time balancing act
9. How AI, Matterport scans, and immersive visuals could change decision-making and reduce surprises
10. The biggest delivery challenge: communication, expectation management, and getting end users on board early
11. How designers can help projects run smoother by sharing standard details and build-critical info sooner

This episode is a must-listen for anyone designing, managing, or delivering workplace projects — and for teams who want fewer surprises once the programme hits site.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

⸻

Episode Highlights

00:00 Intro: Bringing the construction “nuts and bolts” into Space by Stansons

00:57 Warren’s career journey: from assistant site manager to contracts manager

02:33 “Never assume”: why construction needs checkpoints and rigorous process

03:31 Document control portals: keeping teams aligned on the latest drawings

06:35 What a Contracts Manager does: juggling projects, people, budgets, and programmes

08:42 What keeps Warren up at night: health & safety, changing sites, and risk management

11:11 Staying organised: diaries, emails to self, and why WhatsApp is underrated

14:47 Value engineering hacks: why lighting is often the biggest opportunity

16:47 Furniture & finishes: finding alternatives that protect design intent and budget

18:02 Sustainability in practice: reuse, repurpose, and when it does (and doesn’t) stack up

24:26 What’s changing in construction: robots, AI, Matterport scans, and immersive planning

30:18 Biggest delivery challenge: communication, end-user expectations, and disruption planning

34:36 How design can help delivery: sharing details early to avoid rework on site

38:02 What excites Warren: sustainable products becoming more accessible and affordable

39:13 Wrap: bridging design and delivery through better communication

Episode Resources

Warren Braggs on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/warren-bragg

Guy Stanley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guystanley

Learn more about Stansons Group Ltd. here: https://stansons.co.uk

🔗 Useful Links:

🎧 Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3JuplSC

🎧 Spotify: https://bit.ly/4924osv

💬 Comment below your favourite part!

“Yeah, that’ll be fine” — famous last words on site.

Full episode drops next week.

Come listen 👀🎧

Episode Resources

Warren Braggs on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/warren-bragg

Guy Stanley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guystanley

Learn more about Stansons Group Ltd. here: https://stansons.co.uk

🔗 Useful Links:

🎧 Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3JuplSC

🎧 Spotify: https://bit.ly/4924osv

We’re switching things up in this episode of Space by Stansons, as host Guy Stanley brings together designers and workplace experts to explore one forward-looking question: what spaces will be used most in offices in 2026?

From cocoon environments and soft meeting rooms to kitchen islands, event spaces, and brand-led pitch pods, this conversation looks at how offices are evolving beyond desks and meeting rooms — and why the future workplace is defined by connection, flexibility, and experience.

What You’ll Learn

1. Why cocoon environments are making a comeback as people look for focus without distraction
2. How collaboration spaces are becoming the primary reason people choose to come into the office
3. Why the traditional boardroom is being replaced by softer, more relaxed meeting spaces
4. How kitchens and tea points are emerging as the true social heart of the workplace
5. Why event spaces and multifunctional areas are some of the most heavily used zones in modern offices
6. How pitch pods and curated Zoom rooms can support brand consistency in hybrid working
7. Why amenities like yoga studios, podcast rooms, and multi-use spaces are becoming standard requests
8. How designing places people want to be changes behaviour, connection, and culture

This episode offers a practical and future-focused look at how offices are being reshaped to support collaboration, wellbeing, and meaningful in-person experiences.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Episode Highlights

00:00 What space will be used most in 2026? Cocoon environments and focus

00:21 Collaboration as the real purpose of coming into the office

00:45 Designing spaces that help people shape their day around connection

01:23 Soft meeting rooms: sofas over boardrooms

02:00 Lounges and designing workplaces people want to be in

02:05 Kitchen islands as natural collaboration hubs

02:28 Why kitchens and tea points are the heart of the office

03:00 Event spaces as some of the busiest areas in modern workplaces

03:35 Multifunctional spaces: events, panels, and lounge modes

03:58 The evolution of Zoom pods into branded pitch spaces

04:51 Amenities on the rise: yoga studios, podcast rooms, and multi-use spaces

05:13 Looking ahead to the workplace of 2026

Episode Resources

Antonia Walmesly on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antonia-walmsley-590a13b/

Paula Rowntree on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paula-rowntree-05318733/

Eleanor Penny on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eleanor-penny-096058157/

Sarah Wakefield on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-wakefield-405349ba/

Ellie Mumford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eleanor-louise-mumford-344b64136/

Tia Brooks on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tia-brooks/

Dicky Lewis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dicky-lewis/

Guy Stanley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guystanley

Learn more about Stansons Group Ltd. here: https://stansons.co.uk

🔗 Useful Links:

🎧 Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3JuplSC

🎧 Spotify: https://bit.ly/4924osv

💬 Comment below your favourite part!

We’re diving into colour in this episode of Space by Stansons, as host Guy Stanley brings together designers and industry voices to debate one big question: what colour trends will we see in 2026?

From bold predictions like mustard and black cherry to strong opinions on why corporate blue has had its day, this conversation explores how colour influences mood, identity, and experience in the workplace — and why designers are increasingly looking to warmer, richer palettes to shape the offices of the future.

What You’ll Learn

1. Why mustard, black cherry, and deep reds are emerging as standout colour trends for 2026
2. Why many designers are moving away from corporate blue in workplace interiors
3. How colour can add calm, warmth, and depth to office environments
4. Why yellow is having a resurgence — and how to use it without overwhelming a space
5. How personal taste, brand identity, and cultural shifts all influence colour decisions
6. Why looking back to 70s and 80s palettes is shaping contemporary design thinking

This episode is a lively, opinion-led discussion on colour, confidence, and creativity — perfect for anyone designing, specifying, or rethinking the modern workplace.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Episode Highlights

00:00 What is the colour of 2026? Mustard enters the conversation

00:26 Earthy neutrals, sage greens, and evolving colour trends

00:45 Black cherry and dark plum tones take centre stage

01:04 A strong stance: why terracotta divides opinion

01:59 “I’m sick of the corporate blue office” — and why designers are moving on

02:19 Burgundy, red wine tones, and creating calm through colour

02:39 Browns and yellows: adding joy, warmth, and depth to spaces

03:21 Deep reds in the workplace: bold but striking choices

04:15 Red oxide, ochres, and the return of retro-inspired palettes

05:30 Burnt orange and warm autumnal tones as future-facing colours

Episode Resources

Antonia Walmesly on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antonia-walmsley-590a13b/

Paula Rowntree on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paula-rowntree-05318733/

Eleanor Penny on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eleanor-penny-096058157/

Sarah Wakefield on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-wakefield-405349ba/

Ellie Mumford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eleanor-louise-mumford-344b64136/

Tia Brooks on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tia-brooks/

Dicky Lewis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dicky-lewis/

Guy Stanley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guystanley

Learn more about Stansons Group Ltd. here: https://stansons.co.uk

🔗 Useful Links:

🎧 Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3JuplSC

🎧 Spotify: https://bit.ly/4924osv

💬 Comment below your favourite part!

The conversation on the Mix 30 Under 30 miniseries continues in the latest episode of Space by Stansons as host Guy Stanley welcomes winner, Ellie Mumford, Senior Creative at Modus to explore why designers need collaborative partnerships, how to balance aesthetics with acoustic performance and accessibility

and the strategies shaping flexible, human-centred workspaces for the hybrid era.

What You’ll Learn

1. Why functionality must precede aesthetics in design strategy
2. How to build a collaborative ecosystem instead of being a solo expert
3. The shifting purpose of office spaces in hybrid work models
4. How to design wellness-centric spaces that serve multiple emotional needs
5. Why face-to-face client engagement remains irreplaceable despite digital tools
6. The "flexible meeting space" framework beyond traditional boardrooms

Ellie Mumford is a Senior Creative at Modus, specialising in interior design and spatial planning with a focus on functionality-first design strategies. Recently recognised as a Mix 30 Under 30 winner, Ellie brings innovative thinking to complex workplace design challenges, including neurodiversity considerations, sustainability integration and multi-disciplinary collaboration.

Her expertise spans designing flexible, human-centred spaces that balance aesthetic excellence with practical functionality. Her work exemplifies the next generation of design professionals committed to creating spaces that genuinely serve people's wellbeing and professional needs.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Instructions on how to do this are here: https://www.fame.so/follow-rate-review

Episode Highlights

1. 00:00 Introduction to Space by Stansons
2. 00:56 Meet Ellie Mumford: Senior Creative at Modus & 30 Under 30 Honoree
3. 04:08 Why Functionality Reigns Supreme in Workspace Design
4. 05:25 Multi-Disciplinary Partnerships vs. Solo Mastery
5. 08:41 Is Gen-Z Tired of Tech?
6. 11:55 Innovative Workplaces: Design Studio, Pitch Room & Music-Inspired Meeting Space
7. 15:40 Design for Social Connection, Not Just Individual Workstations
8. 17:00 Meeting Spaces Don’t Have to be Boring & Traditional
9. 19:20 Design Wellness Rooms for Emotional Regulation & Wellbeing
10. 22:10 The Value of Comprehensive Post-Launch Aftercare
11. 23:19 Ellie’s Picks: Music, Podcasts & Personal Focus
12. 28:05 New Year's Resolutions: Half Marathon, Family, & Health Goals
13. 31:07 Final Thoughts

Episode Resources:

Ellie Mumford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eleanor-louise-mumford-344b64136/

Modus Website: https://www.modus.space/

Guy Stanley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guystanley

Learn more about Stansons Group Ltd. here: https://stansons.co.uk

The conversation on the Mix 30 Under 30 miniseries continues in the latest episode of Space by Stansons as host Guy Stanley welcomes winner, Ellie Mumford, Senior Creative at Modus to explore why designers need collaborative partnerships, how to balance aesthetics with acoustic performance and accessibility and the strategies shaping flexible, human-centred workspaces for the hybrid era. 

What You’ll Learn

• Why functionality must precede aesthetics in design strategy
• How to build a collaborative ecosystem instead of being a solo expert
• The shifting purpose of office spaces in hybrid work models
• How to design wellness-centric spaces that serve multiple emotional needs
• Why face-to-face client engagement remains irreplaceable despite digital tools
• The "flexible meeting space" framework beyond traditional boardrooms

Ellie Mumford is a Senior Creative at Modus, specialising in interior design and spatial planning with a focus on functionality-first design strategies. Recently recognised as a Mix 30 Under 30 winner, Ellie brings innovative thinking to complex workplace design challenges, including neurodiversity considerations, sustainability integration and multi-disciplinary collaboration. 

Her expertise spans designing flexible, human-centred spaces that balance aesthetic excellence with practical functionality. Her work exemplifies the next generation of design professionals committed to creating spaces that genuinely serve people's wellbeing and professional needs.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Instructions on how to do this are here: https://www.fame.so/follow-rate-review 

Episode Resources:

Ellie Mumford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eleanor-louise-mumford-344b64136/ 

Modus Website: https://www.modus.space/ 

Guy Stanley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guystanley 

Learn more about Stansons Group Ltd. here: https://stansons.co.uk 

💬 Comment below your favourite part!

The Mix 30 Under 30 miniseries continues on Space by Stansons as host Guy Stanley sits down with winners Hannah Carson, Strategist at M Moser Associates and Tia Brooks, Project Designer at Peldon Rose, for a riveting discussion on creating emotionally intelligent and supportive workplaces using innovative design practices.

What You’ll Learn

• How to design for neurodiversity and individual needs by moving beyond one-size-fits-all open plan 
• Why emotional design matters more than functional design
• The importance of spaces that look after their occupants as much as occupants invest in them
• The business case for ongoing client partnerships post-delivery of projects
• How to position authenticity as your competitive advantage by leaning into personality and individuality 
• Why in-office presence is non-negotiable for knowledge transfer and innovation
• The importance of having in-person interactions in facilitating cross-generational mentorship
• Why it’s necessary to foster belonging in an atomised, digital-first world

Hannah Carson is a Strategist at M Moser Associates, recognised as part of Mix Magazine's 30 Under 30 in 2025. With a background in workplace strategy and design, Hannah transitioned from her role as a designer to lead client-facing strategy work, specialising in understanding organisational needs and crafting compelling briefs. Her expertise lies in building deeper workplace connections through data-driven insights and human-centred design, making her a key voice shaping how offices foster authentic community and collaboration in the next generation of workplace design.

Tia Brooks is an Interior Designer within the Landlord Team at Peldon Rose, also recognised as a Rising Star in 2025. With a unique journey that began through early exposure to workspace design, Tia brings fresh perspectives on neurodiversity-informed design, adaptable spaces, and challenging conventional office typologies. Her work focuses on creating emotionally resonant environments that celebrate individuality while fostering genuine human connection, a philosophy that's redefining how landlords and tenants approach space activation in London's design community.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Instructions on how to do this are here: https://www.fame.so/follow-rate-review 

Episode Highlights

• 00:00 Introduction & Meeting the Rising Stars Shaping Office Design
• 01:26 The Road to Mix 30 Under 30 Recognition
• 04:40 Breaking Into Design: Two Unconventional Career Paths
• 10:10 Strategy vs. Interior Design: Understanding the Difference
• 11:51 Design for Human Connection, Not Just Function
• 13:52 Design for Neurodiversity and Individual Choice
• 15:35 The Office as a Place to Meet, Connect, and Belong
• 20:50 Challenging the Market: Design Leaders vs. Client Expectations
• 22:28 When Design Works Too Well: Unexpected Office Demand
• 24:00 Why Full In-Office Presence Matters for Mentorship
• 25:08 Reverse Mentoring: What Interns Teach Senior Designers
• 26:00 AI and ChatGPT: Balancing Tools With Human Learning
• 26:55 Lean Into Authenticity as Your Professional USP
• 31:04 Reframe Imposter Syndrome as Creative Ambition
• 31:43 Book & Podcast Recommendations for Design Leaders
• 33:26 Key Takeaways: The Future of Office Design and Culture

Episode Resources:

Hannah Carson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-carson-30abab1b3/ 

Tia Brooks on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tia-brooks/ 

M Moser Website: https://www.mmoser.com/  

Peldon Rose Website: https://www.peldonrose.com/ 

Guy Stanley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guystanley 

Learn more about Stansons Group Ltd. here: https://stansons.co.uk 

💬 Comment below your favourite part!

The Mix 30 Under 30 miniseries continues on Space by Stansons as host Guy Stanley sits down with winners Hannah Carson, Strategist at M Moser Associates and Tia Brooks, Project Designer at Peldon Rose, for a riveting discussion on creating emotionally intelligent and supportive workplaces using innovative design practices.

What You’ll Learn

• How to design for neurodiversity and individual needs by moving beyond one-size-fits-all open plan 
• Why emotional design matters more than functional design
• The importance of spaces that look after their occupants as much as occupants invest in them
• The business case for ongoing client partnerships post-delivery of projects
• How to position authenticity as your competitive advantage by leaning into personality and individuality 
• Why in-office presence is non-negotiable for knowledge transfer and innovation
• The importance of having in-person interactions in facilitating cross-generational mentorship
• Why it’s necessary to foster belonging in an atomised, digital-first world

Hannah Carson is a Strategist at M Moser Associates, recognised as part of Mix Magazine's 30 Under 30 in 2025. With a background in workplace strategy and design, Hannah transitioned from her role as a designer to lead client-facing strategy work, specialising in understanding organisational needs and crafting compelling briefs. Her expertise lies in building deeper workplace connections through data-driven insights and human-centred design, making her a key voice shaping how offices foster authentic community and collaboration in the next generation of workplace design.

Tia Brooks is an Interior Designer within the Landlord Team at Peldon Rose, also recognised as a Rising Star in 2025. With a unique journey that began through early exposure to workspace design, Tia brings fresh perspectives on neurodiversity-informed design, adaptable spaces, and challenging conventional office typologies. Her work focuses on creating emotionally resonant environments that celebrate individuality while fostering genuine human connection, a philosophy that's redefining how landlords and tenants approach space activation in London's design community.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Instructions on how to do this are here: https://www.fame.so/follow-rate-review 

Episode Highlights

• 00:00 Intro
• 02:21 Meet the Rising Stars Shaping Office Design
• 03:32 From Complete Shock to Mix 30 Under 30 Recognition
• 06:46 Breaking Into Design: Two Unconventional Career Paths
• 12:14 Strategy vs. Interior Design: Understanding the Difference
• 14:12 Design for Human Connection, Not Just Function
• 16:08 Design for Neurodiversity and Individual Choice
• 18:14 The Office as a Place to Meet, Connect, and Belong
• 19:51 Bringing Your Authentic Self to Work Culture
• 21:44 Moving Beyond Open Plan: The Case for Cosy Workspaces
• 22:45 Challenging the Market: Design Leaders vs. Client Expectations
• 24:04 Post-Delivery Partnership: Evolving Spaces With Your Clients
• 25:06 When Design Works Too Well: Unexpected Office Demand
• 26:30 Why Full In-Office Presence Matters for Mentorship
• 27:06 Reverse Mentoring: What Interns Teach Senior Designers
• 28:52 AI and ChatGPT: Balancing Tools With Human Learning
• 30:52 Lean Into Authenticity as Your Professional USP
• 34:08 Reframe Imposter Syndrome as Creative Ambition
• 34:43 Book & Podcast Recommendations for Design Leaders
• 36:19 Key Takeaways: The Future of Office Design and Culture

Episode Resources:

Hannah Carson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-carson-30abab1b3/ 

Tia Brooks on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tia-brooks/ 

M Moser Website: https://www.mmoser.com/  

Peldon Rose Website: https://www.peldonrose.com/ 

Guy Stanley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guystanley 

Learn more about Stansons Group Ltd. here: https://stansons.co.uk 

💬 Comment below your favourite part!

The Mix 30 Under 30 miniseries kicks off on Space by Stansons as host Guy Stanley welcomes Eleanor Penny, Head of Workplace at Layrd and Sarah Astill, Interior Designer at Jolie Studio. Tune in for an inspiring masterclass in going against the tide and asking the tough questions. 

What You’ll Learn

• How to design for neurodiversity without creating sterile, overstimulating spaces
• Why sensory design goes beyond aesthetics to influence behaviour and emotional well-being
• How to leverage colour psychology, fragrance, sound, and texture to create spaces where people want to work
• The business case for designing soft, collaborative meeting spaces over cold boardrooms
• How design impacts psychological safety in the workplace 
• How to break through gatekeeping in male-dominated construction and property sectors as a young woman designer
• Why portfolio presentation and personality matter as much as technical skills when hiring emerging talent
• The emerging 2026 design trends shaping workplace culture

Eleanor is Head of Workspace Design at Layrd, recognised as a rising star in design for her innovative approach to creating inclusive, neurodiversity-conscious workspaces. With a background in interior design, Eleanor was inspired to pursue autism assessment after exploring how neurodiversity influences spatial design, a discovery that fundamentally shaped her professional philosophy. Her work emphasises designing spaces that consider sensory experiences for all users, moving beyond one-size-fits-all approaches. Featured in Mix’s 30 under 30, 2025, Eleanor champions the integration of warmth, texture, and accessibility into workplace environments while leading a talented design team across the UK.

Sarah Astill is an Interior Designer at Jolie Studio, a Manchester-based studio specialising in sensory-driven design experiences. With an architectural background and a dissertation focused on colour theory's psychological impact, Sarah brings technical rigour and creative vision to every project. Recognised on Mix’s 30 under 30, 2025 list, her expertise spans colour psychology, fragrance integration, and multi-sensory design strategies that enhance how people feel and function in spaces. Sarah's commitment to sustainable material innovation and holistic design approaches—from hotel concepts to collaborative workspaces, reflects a new generation of designers prioritising human wellbeing alongside environmental responsibility.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Instructions on how to do this are here: https://www.fame.so/follow-rate-review 

Episode Highlights

• 00:00 Intro: Mix 30 Under 30 Rising Stars in Workplace Design
• 00:03 Meet Eleanor & Sarah: Layered and Jolie Interior Design
• 00:07 How Team Excellence Drives Industry Impact
• 00:12 Sustainability as a Holistic Design Philosophy
• 00:13 Sensory Design: Layering Colour, Scent, Sound and Texture for Impact
• 00:16 Why Neurodiversity-Informed Design Benefits All Users
• 00:20 Inclusive Design Doesn’t Have to Be Bland
• 00:24 Young Women in Male-Dominated Construction and Property
• 00:28 Why Gen Z Learns Faster Than Previous Generations
• 00:31 Getting Your Foot in the Door: Portfolio Strategy and Culture Fit
• 00:35 Why Physical Portfolios Cut Through Digital Noise
• 00:36 Your Personality Won't Appeal to Everyone (And That's Good)
• 00:38 Book Recommendations: The Colour Bible, Sense Hacking, Designing Inclusively
• 00:40 2026 Design Predictions: Warm Burgundy, Soft Meeting Spaces, Kitchen Islands
• 00:43 The Death of Cold Office Aesthetics
• 00:45 Rich Yellows, Browns, and Warm Tones: The Future of Workplace Colour
• 00:45 Reimagining Break Room Culture
• 00:48 Key Takeaways: Inclusive, Sensory-Rich Design Is the Future of Work

Episode Resources:

Eleanor Penny on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eleanor-penny-096058157/ 

Sarah Astill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-astill/ 

Layrd Website: https://www.layrddesign.co.uk/ 

Jolie Studio Website: https://wearejolie.com/ 

Guy Stanley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guystanley 

Learn more about Stansons Group Ltd. here: https://stansons.co.uk 

💬 Comment below your favourite part!

The Mix 30 Under 30 miniseries kicks off on Space by Stansons as host Guy Stanley welcomes Eleanor Penny, Head of Workplace at Layrd and Sarah Astill, Interior Designer at Jolie Studio. Tune in for an inspiring masterclass in going against the tide and asking the tough questions. 

What You’ll Learn

• How to design for neurodiversity without creating sterile, overstimulating spaces
• Why sensory design goes beyond aesthetics to influence behaviour and emotional well-being
• How to leverage colour psychology, fragrance, sound, and texture to create spaces where people want to work
• The business case for designing soft, collaborative meeting spaces over cold boardrooms
• How design impacts psychological safety in the workplace 
• How to break through gatekeeping in male-dominated construction and property sectors as a young woman designer
• Why portfolio presentation and personality matter as much as technical skills when hiring emerging talent
• The emerging 2026 design trends shaping workplace culture

Eleanor is Head of Workspace Design at Layrd, recognised as a rising star in design for her innovative approach to creating inclusive, neurodiversity-conscious workspaces. With a background in interior design, Eleanor was inspired to pursue autism assessment after exploring how neurodiversity influences spatial design, a discovery that fundamentally shaped her professional philosophy. Her work emphasises designing spaces that consider sensory experiences for all users, moving beyond one-size-fits-all approaches. Featured in Mix’s 30 under 30, 2025, Eleanor champions the integration of warmth, texture, and accessibility into workplace environments while leading a talented design team across the UK.

Sarah Astill is an Interior Designer at Jolie Studio, a Manchester-based studio specialising in sensory-driven design experiences. With an architectural background and a dissertation focused on colour theory's psychological impact, Sarah brings technical rigour and creative vision to every project. Recognised on Mix’s 30 under 30, 2025 list, her expertise spans colour psychology, fragrance integration, and multi-sensory design strategies that enhance how people feel and function in spaces. Sarah's commitment to sustainable material innovation and holistic design approaches—from hotel concepts to collaborative workspaces, reflects a new generation of designers prioritising human wellbeing alongside environmental responsibility.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Instructions on how to do this are here: https://www.fame.so/follow-rate-review 

Episode Resources:

Eleanor Penny on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eleanor-penny-096058157/ 

Sarah Astill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-astill/ 

Layrd Website: https://www.layrddesign.co.uk/ 

Jolie Studio Website: https://wearejolie.com/ 

Guy Stanley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guystanley 

Learn more about Stansons Group Ltd. here: https://stansons.co.uk 

💬 Comment below your favourite part!