Design thinking is being used far more widely than it ever has done before, although this is fantastic in some ways – a dilution comes along with this expanse which can allow for the act of design to be seen as a commodity. Designers are faced with ever-increasing demands and pressures which often prioritize speed over considered outcome. In some ways this is an inevitable product of our fast paced developing world, but the danger of the hamster wheel becoming the norm is that we hop on board and add to the pace, putting the design process at risk by rushing on past.

Imagining the future. A little dramatic and existential I know, but as designers we’re part of creating the future, and that future deserves quality time within our imaginations (alongside a lot of research and data!).

Adventuring somewhere new. Everyone loves a vacation, but it’s all about exploration of the places, cultures and people for me. Experiencing other communities and nature’s stunning creations in many corners of the world has done the most to shape who I am today. I’ve been lucky to work abroad a lot in my life and it’s fantastic to experience new cities without being a stereotypical tourist; navigating your way to work, communicating in new ways, challenging the processes you take for granted each day is what I find the most interesting about existing in a new place.

Togetherness through placemaking. Walls serve a purpose but they are also a barrier – we’re not solitary creatures by nature, even though most individuals will love some space to themselves. Designing with human interaction and community in mind, creating places, spaces and experiences that entice people to be there together is so important for the social well being of people.