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 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: Petr's largest and most impulsive business credit card purchase 💸 The reality of the impact of ADHD on personal life and business growth 🧠 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!