Stuart Allen Joins Industry Experts at WORKSPACE SUMMIT 2025
Beyond Aesthetics: Stuart Allen Joins Industry Experts to Explore How Design Fuels Culture and Belonging in the Workplace
At the recent WORKSPACE Exhibition Summit – Day 3, our Managing Director, Stuart Allen, took part in a thought-provoking panel discussion titled "More than just an office – Designing workspaces that inspire culture & belonging." The panel brought together an industry peers from CBRE, Gensler, Keane, Designsmith, and Alea to discuss the evolving role of workplace design in today’s business landscape.
In an era where hybrid work, employee well-being, and meaningful engagement are at the forefront, the conversation shifted away from traditional ideas of functionality and aesthetics. Instead, the panel focused on how workspaces are becoming strategic tools that reflect a company’s identity, values, and culture.
Designing for More Than Looks
One of the key themes of the discussion was how intentional design can empower people. Stuart and the panellists explored how thoughtfully designed environments are no longer just about layout and finishes—they’re about storytelling. When designed with purpose, workplaces can create a sense of belonging, encourage collaboration, and strengthen organisational culture.
Key Takeaways from the Panel
Design with Meaning: Workspaces should be an extension of a company’s purpose. From layout to materiality, every decision can signal care, identity, and intent.
Creating Belonging: A truly inclusive workplace doesn’t rely on policy alone. Through thoughtful integration of technology, spatial planning, and wellness design principles, companies can foster a culture where people feel seen and supported.
Hybrid & Human-Centric Thinking: The future of work demands flexibility—but also community. The panel agreed that as remote and hybrid work continues, the role of the office will become more focused on experiences that can’t be replicated online: culture, collaboration, and connection.
The panel was moderated by Scott Armstrong, Founder of mentl, whose insightful questions helped unearth valuable perspectives across the design and strategy spectrum.
We’d like to extend a big thank you to dmg events and the organisers of the WORKSPACE Exhibition for bringing together such a dynamic group of industry leaders. Events like these not only spark important conversations but also inspire all of us to continue pushing the boundaries of what workplace design can achieve.
