Episode Summary
In this special episode for the Workspace Design Show London, Bernie talks with Humaira Pilkington, one of the show's driving forces, about the future of workspace innovation.
They dive into why activating the senses is more than just a theme—it's the key to better productivity, deeper focus, and a thriving workplace culture.
From designing with neurodiversity in mind to making events that genuinely serve their communities, Humaira shares how the Workspace Design Show curates must-see panels, hands-on installations, and a speaker lineup that avoids the usual "pay-to-speak" nonsense.
Whether you run a coworking space, design offices, or want to work in a place that doesn’t feel like a fluorescent-lit prison, this episode is packed with insights you can use today.
Timeline Highlights
[00:40] – The many hats of running a small coworking space
[02:00] – What is the Workspace Design Show, and why should you care?
[04:23] – Why seeing workspace products in person changes everything
[06:19] – The truth about event speaker lineups (and why this one is different)
[07:39] – What does "Activate the Senses" actually mean for workspaces?
[11:28] – How sound, lighting, and design impact focus & neurodiversity
[14:18] – Must-see moments at this year’s Workspace Design Show
[18:17] – How the team keeps the event fresh and relevant every year
Detailed Episode Breakdown
The Workspace Design Show: Why It Matters
This isn’t just another industry event—it’s where the future of office design, coworking, and workspace experience is shaped.
Humaira breaks down the show's international appeal, what to expect, and why it’s become a must-attend event for designers, operators, and workplace strategists.
Ditching the Sales Pitches: How They Choose Speakers
Nobody wants to sit through another dull, sponsored talk. The Workspace Design Show actively avoids the "pay-to-speak" model that plagues so many conferences.
Instead, they curate high-value, needs-based panels designed to give attendees actual takeaways, not just product pitches.
What "Activate the Senses" Means for Workspaces
This year’s theme, Activate the Senses, is about more than just aesthetics—it's about creating work environments that improve productivity, focus, and well-being.
Soundproofing for better concentration
Lighting and texture that reduce stress and improve engagement
The role of scent in boosting creativity and focus
Humaira shares how these elements shape workplace experiences, making coworking spaces and offices places where people actually want to be.
Essential Talks & Experiences to Catch at the Show
If you’re attending, plan ahead - follow this link for talks.
Some of the standout moments include:
Panel on Workspace Communities & Social Value (Feb 27th)
The Mood Board Contest showcases cutting-edge design approaches
A Mixed Media Showcase by Hawley, unveiling new sensory-driven workspace concepts
Hands-on materials & design sessions from Material Bank
Humaira also shares why first-day attendees get the best experience, including exclusive product reveals and networking opportunities.
How to Keep an Event Fresh Every Year
With workspace trends changing fast, how does the Workspace Design Show avoid repeating the same old ideas? It’s simple: they talk to the people shaping the industry.
What problems need solving?
Who needs a bigger voice?
What didn’t we cover last year?
Rather than recycling past panels, the team builds each year from scratch based on real industry conversations.
Links & Resources:
One more thing
Coworking brings communities together, helping people find and share their voices.
Each episode of the Coworking Values Podcast explores the core values driving coworking: Accessibility, Community, Openness, Collaboration, and Sustainability.
These values aren’t just ideas—they shape the spaces where we gather, work, and grow.
We hope this resonates with you.
If it does, please rate, follow, and share the podcast.
Your support amplifies our reach, helping others discover how coworking can enrich lives, build careers, and strengthen communities.
Community is the key 🔑
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