Can a multicultural approach to design elevate design philosophy for the better? In the latest episode of Space by Stansons, host Guy Stanley welcomes Antonia Walmsley, Head of Strategy and Design at Unispace Global, to explore how cultural heritage shapes workplace design philosophy, the evolution from traditional architecture to innovative design-build approaches, and the delicate balance between structure and creativity in modern workspaces.

What You’ll Learn

How indigenous principles of community and hospitality can transform modern workplace design
Why structured routines enable rather than restrict creative design thinking
The evolution of design-and-build from startup to global enterprise, maintaining entrepreneurial spirit
How to balance global brand consistency with local cultural authenticity in workplace design
Why workplace needs remain fundamentally unchanged post-COVID, despite shifting dynamics
The importance of understanding individual client culture in workplace strategy
Why successful workplace design must consider both psychological and practical needs

Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on why cultural diversity is key to design diversity.

Antonia Walmsley is the Head of Strategy and Design at Unispace Global, where she leads the European design team and brings a unique perspective shaped by her Maori heritage and architectural background. With over 15 years of experience, including 9 years at Unispace, she has been instrumental in transforming the company from a startup in New Zealand to a global workplace design leader. Antonia's expertise spans traditional architecture, design-and-build approaches, and creating culturally responsive workspaces across diverse European markets.

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Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction & Meeting Antonia Walmsley at Unispace HQ
03:35 Cultural Heritage: How Māori Values Shape Modern Design
12:05 Strategies to Navigate Cultural Diversity in Design
29:03 Design: Where Structure Meets Creativity
29:21 The Psychology of Workplace Design
35:10 Unispace Journey: From NZ Startup to Global Design Leader
42:10 Adaptability in Design: Embracing Change and Innovation
47:25 Final Thoughts: Expert Insights and Podcast Recommendations

Episode Resources:

Antonia Walmsley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antonia-walmsley-590a13b/

Unispace Global Website: https://www.unispace.com/

Guy Stanley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guystanley

Learn more about Stansons Group Ltd. here: https://stansons.co.uk

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Being Maori & Multicultural: How Heritage Drives Design with Antonia Walmsley

Space by Stansons