New Episode: Nurturing Leadership in the Built Environment In this powerful conversation, four respected leaders from across the built environment - Gillian Stewart, Rebecca Heald, Caroline Baker, and Emma Lepley - join me to unpack what it truly means to lead with integrity, empathy, and purpose in an industry still shaped by legacy behaviours and systemic challenges. Drawing on ONS statistics, lived experience, and years spent navigating high-pressure environments, our panel reflects on the state of representation, the impact of everyday culture, and why genuine leadership requires more than performative gestures. While the numbers still show a stark gender imbalance, the discussion moves beyond the idea of “women in construction” and instead centres on how we nurture future leaders, build healthier workplaces, and create conditions where talent can thrive. This is not just a conversation about inequality - it's a call to action for better leadership across the industry. Key themes include: • The realities behind the latest ONS statistics • Why progress isn’t linear—and why it matters • How to recognise baked-in systemic issues • Leadership vs performative inclusion • The next steps for building a more equitable industry Whether you're in architecture, construction, development, or simply care about shaping better places, this episode offers insight, honesty, and a clear reminder: there is still a long way to go, but change starts with leadership.

Our “Leading the Future: Nurturing Talent in the Built Environment” panel — with the brilliant Emma Lepley, Caroline Baker, Gillian Stewart, and Rebecca Heald — delivered exactly the insight, honesty, and inspiration I was hoping for. Stay tuned… the full conversation is dropping very soon.

In this new episode of Design Lives Here, Sara sits down with Stephen Lewis for an honest and insightful conversation about the future of Glasgow. From the city’s shifting identity as a business hub to the delicate balance between preserving heritage and embracing contemporary design, Stephen offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at what real transformation requires. Together, they explore why action must finally take precedence over endless planning, how landmark buildings like G1 prove that old and new can coexist beautifully, and what sustainability should truly mean in practice. The discussion also touches on the growing demand for high-quality office spaces post-COVID, the importance of mentorship in shaping the next generation, and why profit and purpose are not mutually exclusive. If you care about Glasgow, design, development, or the future of our built environment, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

Here is a snippet of the inspiring chat I had with Stephen Lewis, MD of HFD Developments, for Design Lives Here | Cucina edition. Stephen explains how to successfully merge old and new architecture.

When I asked Tiernan Dixon at Superbeam earlier this year whether making a second video about my roots and heritage would be a vanity project, he didn’t hesitate — “Absolutely not.” He said it would deepen the message, not dilute it. So here we are. Episode 1 of a new mini-series, beautifully curated by Clara Cesari, that begins to explain why I do what I do — and why there’s never been a doubt about my passion for design and architecture. In this first episode, we talk about Moroso, and I had the absolute privilege of sitting down with Patrizia Moroso, who’s been at the helm of the company, together with her brother Roberto, since taking over from their parents in the 1980s. 🎥 Enjoy the conversation — and the start of this new chapter in storytelling.

500 houses… and not a single shop, café, or park in sight. Shouldn’t we expect more from developers and planners? Let’s talk about community

In this episode of Il Salotto Sessions, Sara Seravalli sits down with Jason Milne from Contagious Design to explore the powerful role of human connection in branding - with a special focus on the drinks industry. Together, they unpack how brand homes go far beyond bricks and mortar, becoming immersive spaces that spark emotions, create memories, and deepen relationships between brands and their audiences. From the craft of storytelling to the magic of sensory design, the conversation shines a light on how experiences can transform casual consumers into loyal advocates. Jason also shares insights into the evolving expectations of today’s consumers and why adaptability is key for brands looking to stay relevant. Along the way, Sara and Jason discuss how the smallest details - like the warmth and knowledge of staff - can make or break a brand encounter, and why design must always reflect the true spirit of the brand. Whether you’re in design, hospitality, or simply curious about the psychology of brand loyalty, this episode offers inspiration on building connections that last.

Confession time When perimenopause hits and the world just feels too loud, I used to escape to the toilet for a moment of peace. Not exactly glamorous, right? Now I’ve upgraded - our new acoustic pod at Il Salotto is my little sanctuary. Silence, calm, and no one wondering why I’ve been in the loo for so long. Absolute bliss! #IlSalotto #WorkplaceWellbeing #Perimenopause #AcousticPod #DesignThatMatters