Sophie Schuller is a neuroarchitecture researcher at the Technical University of Eindhoven, where her PhD focuses on the neurophysiological effects of architectural environments on human health, stress, and cognition. Her interdisciplinary research investigates how sensory, interior and architectural design, particularly in workplaces, influences the autonomic nervous system, postural dynamics, and cognitive performance. Using methods including heart rate variability, electrodermal activity, and EEG, she examines how built environments can induce or mitigate physiological stress.

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Sophie is a published author and member of the editorial board for Intelligent Buildings International, contributing to the advancement of evidence-based design in architecture. She is also the founder of Common Space, a consultancy that helps architects and real estate professionals integrate scientific research into socially responsible and health-promoting environments. Her practice bridges architecture, neuroscience, and urban strategy, offering clients insight into how design can improve health outcomes, support cognitive function, and promote social value.

With over 18 years of professional experience, including her continuing role as Head of Applied Research, EMEA, at Cushman & Wakefield, Sophie has advised global organisations on the intersection of design, human performance, and wellbeing. She holds an MSc in Neuroscience from King’s College London, an MBA from London Business School, and a BSc (Hons) in Urbanism.

Jonathan Rush is an architectural lighting designer from the United Kingdom, He has 25 years of experience, driven by the transformative power of light. He runs the lighting design team of Hoare Lea - a UK multidisciplinary building services consultancy and part of the Tetra Tech Group.

He understands how light shapes emotional and physiological well-being, using this insight to craft experiences that resonate deeply. For Jonathan, light is more than a design tool - it’s a catalyst for creating extraordinary architectural spaces that foster human connection and environmental harmony.

A Fellow of the CIBSE Society of Light and Lighting, and holder of a master’s degree in Light & Lighting, Jonathan remains at the forefront of the industry, championing a future where light promotes well-being, human experience and sustainability.

Jason Danziger is a German-American architect based in Berlin, Germany. His background includes studies in art, languages and anthropology. Danziger earned a Master of Architecture degree from MIT in 1998. Established in 2000, his thinkbuild architecture studio has since received numerous commendations for its design work, most notably the BDA Prize Berlin in 2015 for the Soteria Berlin. He has held various teaching positions in Germany and France and continues to work in both the social and public sectors, often focusing on kindergartens and health care facilities in Germany, Europe and the UK. His projects are frequently characterised by meticulous attention to detail and a strong emphasis on context, offering comprehensive architectural design solutions encompassing original furniture, custom lighting components and meticulous colour planning.

Imagine stepping into a meticulously crafted space that doesn't just function, it ignites your senses and tells a captivating story. This is the ethos of Layrd Design, a team of passionate commercial interior design specialists who believe in the transformative power of well-designed environments.

More than just designers, they're storytellers. Layrd Design goes beyond aesthetics, crafting spaces that embody your brand's unique character and resonate deeply with your users. Whether it's a dynamic gym that energizes members, a welcoming hospitality space that individuals return to, or a collaborative workspace that fuels productivity, they weave your vision into every detail.

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Here's what sets Layrd Design apart:

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Bold, Character-Driven Design: They don't shy away from pushing boundaries, infusing every project with personality and purpose. Think statement lighting, unexpected textures, and custom design elements that leave a lasting impression.

Nationwide Fit-Out Expertise: Their services extend beyond design, offering comprehensive fit-out solutions to seamlessly bring your vision to life, ensuring a stress-free and efficient process from concept to completion.

Collaborative Client Partnerships: Layrd Design believes in building genuine relationships with their clients. They take the time to understand your needs, goals, and brand aspirations, resulting in spaces that truly reflect your unique identity.

Diverse Project Portfolio: Their expertise spans across various sectors, including workplaces, gyms and leisure facilities, hospitality venues, and retail spaces. No matter your industry, they have the experience and creativity to tailor the perfect solution.

Dr. Elizabeth C Nelson is a renowned scientist, acclaimed author, and trusted advisor to some of the world’s most influential organizations. With a doctorate in Biomedical Engineering, her career has been built on uncovering how environments—both physical and cultural—shape human performance, wellbeing, and leadership.

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Her academic work has broken new ground in the study of stress, focus, and resilience, earning her recognition as a thought leader in the fields of cognitive science and environmental psychology. As an author, her book has become go-to resources for leaders looking to build healthier, higher-performing workplaces.

Dr. Nelson has consulted with Fortune 100 companies, global tech giants, and government agencies—guiding C-suites through complex transformation, cultural evolution, and performance optimization. Her impact spans from developing science-backed strategies for burnout prevention to helping leaders rethink the way work works.

Dr. Heather Wray is a scientist, working at the intersection of circularity, sustainability and social impact. Her research focuses on waste valorization, resource efficiency, and developing systems that close material and energy loops. A pioneer in urban agriculture, Heather co-developed The Sky Garden, sparking her ongoing interest in how green spaces and circular design can support both environmental and community wellbeing.

Gustavo Valbuena is a strategic leader with a multidisciplinary background in business development, digital transformation, and human-centered innovation. With a career spanning over 20 years, he has held key roles in leading European technology and consulting firms such as Indra, where he led customer experience and business transformation projects across diverse sectors. His work has consistently focused on aligning technological advancement with meaningful user experiences, anticipating change, and creating value through purpose-driven design.

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Currently, Gustavo directs strategic design and foresight initiatives at a European-based company specialized in workplace, hospitality, education, and healthcare furniture. There, he is pioneering the Life Friendly Spaces vision—an organizational model that redefines how we design and experience environments, placing wellbeing, adaptability, inclusion, and sustainability at the heart of every space.

· Eleanor Penny, Head of Workplace Design at Layrd Design
· Becky Gordon, Regional Sustainability Manager at Interface
· Heather E. Wray, PhD, Scientist & Innovator at TNO
· Ella Shuttleworth, Sustainability Manager at Morgan Sindall Construction

Four leading professionals unite design expertise with a deep commitment to sustainable development. Their conversation will highlight today’s most impactful solutions. How they bring fresh perspectives to their industries and reshape the way we build, live and connect.