Space by Stansons

A new season of architecture and design is upon us as the traditional barriers that once defined the world are shifting on a dime. In the latest episode of  Space by Stansons, host Guy Stanley welcomes the well-travelled, experienced and versatile Scott Malin to explore the evolution of workplace design. 

What You’ll Learn

• The pros and cons of the Design & Build model and how to adapt with the changing structures of work 
• What you need to know about the WPP way of design - how it helps and how it challenges designers 
• How to capture the geographical and cultural essence of a place in the design of its buildings
• Why paying attention to the little details can make or break your project 
• Unique approaches to expand the horizons of workplace design - from just a space to brand clubhouses

Scott Malin is an accomplished architect and workplace design specialist with over 18 years of experience in transformative commercial interior projects. Having worked with industry leaders, including Gensler, BDG, and, most recently, Thirdway Group, Malin has specialized in complex multinational workspace consolidation and brand integration projects. His notable achievements include leading major WPP campus developments across Europe, where he successfully integrated multiple agency brands while preserving individual corporate identities. His expertise in managing large-scale projects for global brands, particularly his work on WPP's European portfolio, including Sea Containers and Amsterdam's Amstel Dock, demonstrates his deep understanding of creating spaces that balance brand identity, functionality, and user experience.

Episode Resources:

Scott Malin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-malin-089b8727 
Guy Stanley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guystanley
Learn more about Stansons Group Ltd. here: https://stansons.co.uk

In this episode of Space by Stansons, host Guy Stanley sits down with Abigail Reynolds, a Project Designer at Modus, a leading design-build firm specialising in innovative workplace solutions with a strong reputation for creating functional and aesthetically driven office spaces. They discuss the evolving role of workplace design and how storytelling enhances client engagement. Abi shares insights into her transition from architecture to workplace strategy, the power of critique in the design process, and the importance of designing spaces that foster inclusivity, creativity, and cultural change.

Episode Highlights

• [00:00] Introduction and Abi’s Background in Architecture & Workplace Design
• [00:03:17] The Power of Storytelling in Presenting Design Concepts
• [00:04:25] Learning from Early Career Projects & Workplace Strategy
• [00:12:43] Exploring the Future of Workspace Design and Culture
• [00:25:00] Creating Flexible Spaces to Attract a Modern Workforce
• [00:34:00] The Role of AI in Enhancing Employee Interactions
• [00:42:00] The Shift Towards Employee-Centric Design Philosophy
• [00:47:30] Lessons Learned from Abi’s Career in Workplace Design
• [00:50:00] The Future of Workplace Flexibility and Employee Experience

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe, rate, and review it.
🎧 Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/4fpfYgW

🎧 Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4fpS0Cf

In this episode of Space by Stansons, host Guy Stanley sits down with Abigail Reynolds, a Project Designer at Modus, a leading design-build firm specialising in innovative workplace solutions with a strong reputation for creating functional and aesthetically driven office spaces. They discuss the evolving role of workplace design and how storytelling enhances client engagement. Abi shares insights into her transition from architecture to workplace strategy, the power of critique in the design process, and the importance of designing spaces that foster inclusivity, creativity, and cultural change.

In this episode of Space by Stansons, host Guy Stanley and Katie Jago, Senior Designer at Loop Interiors bring an immersive experience to the series as they take you through the ins and outs of completing and succeeding at a renovation project. 

Jago, a critical member of the team who renovated the now-office of tech company, Fresha, reflects on how the client’s brief evolved into the innovative workspace we see today, the importance of embracing challenges and using them as opportunities for both professional and personal growth, cultivating a knack for sustainability and resourcefulness through the design process and striking a balance between creating something collaborative and welcoming yet futuristic. Tune in for details on the new materials the Loop team used, the unique approaches that helped them turn this project into a success, and the art of bringing a client brief to life. 

Katie Jago is a Senior Designer at Loop Interiors, where she specialises in creating innovative workspace designs that prioritise employee experience and functionality. With a background in working closely with clients, Katie played a pivotal role in the design of Fresha's new headquarters in London, a project that required a balance of creativity and practicality. Her expertise in materiality and spatial design was crucial in transforming an existing space into a modern, high-tech environment that reflects the company's youthful and dynamic culture.

Notably, Katie's work on this project pushed her out of her comfort zone, allowing her to explore new materials and design concepts that emphasise reflection and movement. Her contributions not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal of the office but also supported Fresha's rapid growth and commitment to employee well-being.

In this episode of Space by Stansons, host Guy Stanley and Katie Jago, Senior Designer at Loop Interiors bring an immersive experience to the series as they take you through the ins and outs of completing and succeeding at a renovation project. 

Jago, a critical member of the team who renovated the now-office of tech company, Fresha, reflects on how the client’s brief evolved into the innovative workspace we see today, the importance of embracing challenges and using them as opportunities for both professional and personal growth, cultivating a knack for sustainability and resourcefulness through the design process and striking a balance between creating something collaborative and welcoming yet futuristic. Tune in for details on the new materials the Loop team used, the unique approaches that helped them turn this project into a success, and the art of bringing a client brief to life. 

Katie Jago is a Senior Designer at Loop Interiors, where she specialises in creating innovative workspace designs that prioritise employee experience and functionality. With a background in working closely with clients, Katie played a pivotal role in the design of Fresha's new headquarters in London, a project that required a balance of creativity and practicality. Her expertise in materiality and spatial design was crucial in transforming an existing space into a modern, high-tech environment that reflects the company's youthful and dynamic culture.

Notably, Katie's work on this project pushed her out of her comfort zone, allowing her to explore new materials and design concepts that emphasise reflection and movement. Her contributions not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal of the office but also supported Fresha's rapid growth and commitment to employee well-being.

In this episode of Space by Stansons, host Guy Stanley sits down with Petr Esposito, Co-Founder and Director of Anomaly, a disruptive architectural firm in London that challenges the traditional frameworks of design and architecture. Bringing that spirit to the conversation, Petr emphasises the importance of bringing diverse professionals together to create unique and robust teams,  how embracing imperfection can lead to disruptive innovation and the importance of value-driven projects. Throughout the conversation, he also reflects on some of his milestone projects, and reveals the never-heard-before story behind one of his favourites - “Scattered Domesticity”. Tune in for insights that will reshape your understanding of what it takes to build innovative teams, a strong culture and a brand that stands out from the rest. 

Petr Esposito is the Co-Founder and Director of Anomaly - an innovative architecture practice that believes in a collaborative and inclusive approach to design. With a background in architecture from the Bartlett School of Architecture and Ravensbourne University, Petr has charted a rich career for himself, combining a decade of experience working for internationally renowned practices and value-driven projects, with a unique philosophy. His commitment to fostering a supportive environment allows his team to thrive creatively, encouraging them to embrace imperfection - a stepping stone to innovative work. 

Notably, Petr has led significant projects, including a pro bono design for a men's mental health charity and a national memorial for AIDS, showcasing his dedication to socially responsible architecture. His insights into turning individual differences into a team’s strength along with his perspectives on staying true to oneself is sure to resonate deeply with listeners, making him a relevant voice in discussions about leadership and innovation in the architectural field.

In this episode of Space by Stansons, host Guy Stanley sits down with Petr Esposito, Co-Founder and Director of Anomaly, a disruptive architectural firm in London that challenges the traditional frameworks of design and architecture. Bringing that spirit to the conversation, Petr emphasises the importance of bringing diverse professionals together to create unique and robust teams,  how embracing imperfection can lead to disruptive innovation and the importance of value-driven projects. Throughout the conversation, he also reflects on some of his milestone projects, and reveals the never-heard-before story behind one of his favourites - “Scattered Domesticity”. Tune in for insights that will reshape your understanding of what it takes to build innovative teams, a strong culture and a brand that stands out from the rest. 

Petr Esposito is the Co-Founder and Director of Anomaly - an innovative architecture practice that believes in a collaborative and inclusive approach to design. With a background in architecture from the Bartlett School of Architecture and Ravensbourne University, Petr has charted a rich career for himself, combining a decade of experience working for internationally renowned practices and value-driven projects, with a unique philosophy. His commitment to fostering a supportive environment allows his team to thrive creatively, encouraging them to embrace imperfection - a stepping stone to innovative work. 

Notably, Petr has led significant projects, including a pro bono design for a men's mental health charity and a national memorial for AIDS, showcasing his dedication to socially responsible architecture. His insights into turning individual differences into a team’s strength along with his perspectives on staying true to oneself is sure to resonate deeply with listeners, making him a relevant voice in discussions about leadership and innovation in the architectural field.

In this episode of Space by Stansons, host Guy Stanley sits down with Monika Passey, Design and Strategy Director at Oktra, a leading workplace design and build company dedicated to crafting exceptional spaces that empower people to thrive. Monika shares her journey from architecture to workplace design, discusses her groundbreaking projects, and explains the importance of aligning workplace strategy with business goals. She also highlights how Oktra’s new Evolve team integrates real estate and workplace strategy to deliver transformational client outcomes. Monika’s journey is packed with insights on leadership, workplace culture, and the transformative power of aligning design and strategy to create meaningful impact.

Monika Passey is a distinguished architect and workplace strategist with over a decade of experience in transforming spaces to inspire productivity and collaboration. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Architecture from the Chandigarh College of Architecture and an MSc in Sustainable Environmental Design from the AA School of Architecture in London. Her career spans roles at Spacelab and Capita P&W Consulting before joining Oktra, where she has led award-winning projects such as the PortSokin transformation, one of the largest design-and-build projects in the UK, and a recent endeavour to design a workspace that reflects a company’s vibrant culture and fosters collaboration post-COVID. Passionate about aligning workplace strategy with business goals, Monika emphasises the importance of understanding client needs, working at the intersection of personality and design, and catering to diverse work styles. As the leader of Oktra's Evolve team, she integrates real estate and workplace strategies to deliver transformational outcomes for clients. Her dedication to sustainability, innovation, and impactful design has earned her the 'Best Woman in Architecture' award at the 2021 Women in Construction & Engineering Awards.

Episode Highlights

• [00:00] Intro
• [00:03:50] Monika’s Career Journey: From Architecture to Workplace Design
• [00:10:06] PortSokin: Balancing Architecture and Workplace Strategy
• [00:22:33] Designing with Energy: Addressing Client Challenges Post-COVID
• [00:31:28] Integrating Personality into Workplace Design
• [00:39:16] Adapting Spaces for Generational and Cultural Diversity
• [00:46:00] Monika’s Aspirations: Passion, Purpose, and Future Impact

In this episode of Space by Stansons, host Guy Stanley sits down with Monika Passey, Design and Strategy Director at Oktra, a leading workplace design and build company dedicated to crafting exceptional spaces that empower people to thrive. Monika shares her journey from architecture to workplace design, discusses her groundbreaking projects, and explains the importance of aligning workplace strategy with business goals. She also highlights how Oktra’s new Evolve team integrates real estate and workplace strategy to deliver transformational client outcomes. Monika’s journey is packed with insights on leadership, workplace culture, and the transformative power of aligning design and strategy to create meaningful impact.

Monika Passey is a distinguished architect and workplace strategist with over a decade of experience in transforming spaces to inspire productivity and collaboration. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Architecture from the Chandigarh College of Architecture and an MSc in Sustainable Environmental Design from the AA School of Architecture in London. Her career spans roles at Spacelab and Capita P&W Consulting before joining Oktra, where she has led award-winning projects such as the PortSokin transformation, one of the largest design-and-build projects in the UK, and a recent endeavour to design a workspace that reflects a company’s vibrant culture and fosters collaboration post-COVID. Passionate about aligning workplace strategy with business goals, Monika emphasises the importance of understanding client needs, working at the intersection of personality and design, and catering to diverse work styles. As the leader of Oktra's Evolve team, she integrates real estate and workplace strategies to deliver transformational outcomes for clients. Her dedication to sustainability, innovation, and impactful design has earned her the 'Best Woman in Architecture' award at the 2021 Women in Construction & Engineering Awards.

Episode Highlights

• [00:00] Intro
• [00:03:50] Monika’s Career Journey: From Architecture to Workplace Design
• [00:10:06] PortSokin: Balancing Architecture and Workplace Strategy
• [00:22:33] Designing with Energy: Addressing Client Challenges Post-COVID
• [00:31:28] Integrating Personality into Workplace Design
• [00:39:16] Adapting Spaces for Generational and Cultural Diversity
• [00:46:00] Monika’s Aspirations: Passion, Purpose, and Future Impact

In this episode of Space by Stansons, host Guy Stanley sits down with Matt Osborne, Head of Furniture at AIS, a rapidly growing provider of commercial office furniture that boasts one of the most impressive stories of growth and success in the office furniture market, to discuss the evolving role of furniture design and its impact on modern workspace design. From catering to neurodiversity to creating versatile office environments, Matt shares his insights on designing spaces prioritising employee well-being and adaptability.

Matt Osborne is a furniture specialist with over 20 years of experience in design, manufacture, and global supply, and an accomplished professional in the architectural furniture community. His previous roles have involved working on the design and manufacture of furniture and delivering large-scale projects worldwide. Matt has worked on high-profile projects such as Disney in Manchester and Expedia in Amsterdam, where innovative design solutions were key to success.

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

Episode Highlights

• [00:00] Intro and Matt’s Journey into the Furniture Industry
• [00:03:30] From Product Design to Leadership at AIS
• [00:11:00] Tackling High-Profile Projects Like Disney and Expedia
• [00:18:00] Addressing Neurodiversity in Workspace Design
• [00:25:00] Creating Flexible Spaces to Attract a Modern Workforce
• [00:34:00] The Role of AI in Enhancing Employee Interactions
• [00:42:00] The Shift Towards Employee-Centric Design Philosophy
• [00:47:30] Lessons Learned from Matt’s Career in Furniture Design