How to Build Less, Better: Designing Sustainable Workplaces That Last

About this episode

Guy Stanley interviews Jenny Edwards about sustainable workplace design and the importance of inclusivity and adaptability in the built environment.

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…

People in this episode

Host: Guy Stanley

Guest: Jenny Edwards

Topics covered

• sustainability
• workplace design
• inclusive design
• AI in design
• zero-waste principles
• design thinking

Keywords

• sustainability
• workplace design
• inclusive design
• AI
• zero-waste
• design thinking
• lifecycle impact

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Oktra, Stansons Group Ltd., OneNote, Miro

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