Workplace Makers

Nina Fountain

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_______ The Workplace Makers podcast is on a mission to help workplace leaders create 100 people-centric workplaces, where both business and people can thrive. We get to know the leaders, decision-makers and advisors creating workplaces we aspire to. Our conversations are about how we can achieve that ultimate win - a workplace that is a powerful tool for business growth, through changing the conditions and environment in which people work. We talk about workspace design, ways of working, project management, technology and change management. Find more episodes on the podcast website. Workplace Makers is hosted and produced by Nina Fountain and team. To contact us about the podcast, email podcast@theworkspaceconnection.com Nina is the Founder and Workplace Strategy and Change Consultant at The Workspace Connection. Follow the link to book a free consultation call >> https://www.theworkspaceconnection.com/information-call

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Oct 29, 2023

Innovating modern workplace design to attract people to the office with SpaceWorks CEO Lizzi Whaley

In an era where all kinds of designers are offering to provide the most human-centred solution, it is nice to speak with someone who puts people at the heart of workplace design. Lizzi Whaley, CEO of Spaceworks and Interior Designer, blends innovation with human considerations. Her journey into design began a little unconventionally. A stint at a paint company exposed her to the world of colour and established her interest in interior design. Lizzi argues that for a design to be successful, it must be both aesthetically pleasing and functional. It's not just about beautiful spaces; it's also about sending a message that employees are cared for and valued. And this leads her to human-centred design—where understanding the emotions and needs of users informs the design process. She places a high value on direct observation. In her aim to bring a sense of value to people in a workplace, Lizzi will sometimes explore low-cost changes that can make a significant impact. In one office simply installing a hairdryer in the bathroom had a powerful effect, as a response to employees’ needs. This is part of a broader strategy tailored to align with each business’s unique objectives. Lizzi has adapted her views on evolving workspaces and believes we’ll be in a different place in a year's time - the picture of what hybrid work means for workplaces is still evolving. If you're intrigued by the role of intelligent, human-centred design in creating not just workspaces, but environments that enrich human experience, then this conversation with Lizzi Whaley will offer both inspiration and practical wisdom. – Nina _______ *Key moments* 00:01:42 - Lizzi Whaley discusses her unconventional start in design, sparked by her job at a paint company. 00:03:14 - Lizzi shares her views on failure, considering it a stepping stone to learning and growth. 00:03:52 - She elaborates on her nuanced use of colour in design to influence mood, branding, and behaviour. 00:05:12 - Highlights the need for functional and aesthetically pleasing interior design. This is how employers can send a message of care and value. 00:07:22 - We discuss human-centred design, and how understanding users' needs and feelings informs the most successful design choices. 00:09:19 - Lizzi stresses the role of direct observation over surveys in gathering genuine insights for workplace design. 00:10:27 - A case study on low-cost changes, like installing hairdryers, can make employees feel valued. 00:13:06 - The necessity for tailored design strategies, adjusted to a business's unique goals. 00:16:21 - The emotional challenges involved in transitioning from closed to open office spaces. 00:19:42 - Lizzi’s view on evolving flexible workspaces, now seeing a lack of team connection as a downside. 00:25:10 - Lizzi notes the increasing role of diversity and sustainability in modern office design. _______ *Connect with Lizzi* *Lizzi on LinkedIn** * *SpaceWorks on Instagram* Find more episodes here: https://theworkspaceconnection.com/podcast Workplace Makers is hosted and produced by Nina Fountain and team. To contact us about the podcast, email podcast@theworkspaceconnection.com Connect with Nina on LinkedIn Nina is the Founder and Workplace Strategist at The Workspace Connection. Follow the link to book a free consultation call >> https://www.theworkspaceconnection.com/information-call