“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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

• 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

• 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
  
  

• 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

• 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
  
  

• 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

• 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
  
  

• 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
  
  

• 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
  
  

• How to reframe sustainability from an abstract future concern to an immediate operational priority,
• Why remote-first work experience during formative education years is reshaping expectations around workplace design
• How to shift recruitment strategy from overweighting experience to valuing mindset and core beliefs
• The bidirectional mentorship model: why reverse mentoring creates competitive advantage over traditional one-way knowledge transfer
• How to harness ambition as a differentiator rather than a liability, positioning the next generation's drive as a cultural asset
• The wellness-as-longevity framework: How to design workplaces and policies that support this generation's focus on holistic health
  
  

• 00:00 Introduction to the Brand New Series: Mix Class of 2025 
• 02:02 Sustainability, Remote Work & Holistic Wellbeing: The New Generation
• 03:23 Rethinking Recruitment: Mindset Over Experience
• 04:03 Bidirectional Mentorship: Why Reverse Mentoring Matters
• 04:34 Harnessing Ambition as a Competitive Cultural Asset
• 05:10 Magazine, Show Notes, and How to Stay Connected