Ahead of July’s Design + Innovation Meetup, we speak with Colette McCartney (Principal, Interior Architect) and Michael Carter (Associate Principal, Architectural Designer) from Wingates about the role of how design shapes how we experience spaces – and what others can learn from it. 

What’s the difference between architecture and interior design? 
Architecture and interior design are closely connected disciplines. Architecture focuses on the building, while interior design concentrates on the spaces within it. For a building to be truly successful, both must work together seamlessly. Often, the architectural language informs the interior design, carrying the building’s external character and aesthetic into its internal spaces. In the commercial sector particularly, interior design extends beyond aesthetics to include workplace strategy. Understanding how people work, and ensuring spaces are designed to support productivity, collaboration and a positive user experience.

What would surprise people about architecture? 
Probably the amount of detail involved. It’s easy to think of architecture as purely big-picture or conceptual, but much of the work lies in the small decisions. How people enter a space, their movements, how light is used, how materials are used to make a space feel and, of course, how the building is assembled and constructed. There is intention behind every one of those choices. Architecture is a balance of creativity and practical problem-solving, where often the simplest looking detail can be the most complex to get right.

What’s key when making architectural decisions? 
When making an architectural decision, it is important to understand the full implications of that choice. Even a minor change can have significant flow-on effects, as many disciplines must work together to deliver a successful project. Getting things right from the outset is essential. This starts with a clear understanding of the client’s brief and the development of a concept that responds thoughtfully and effectively to their needs.

Why is good design important in architecture and interiors? 
Design is part of everyday life. Most people interact with designed spaces constantly, even if they don’t realise it. It influences how comfortable, confident and at ease we feel in a place, and often, you notice design the most when it isn’t working. Good design has a positive impact on people’s lives. It helps people do what they need to do with ease, while also enhancing how they feel and experience the spaces around them.

How does design shape a city? 
Design has a profound influence on how a city feels and functions. The quality of its buildings and public spaces affects how connected people feel to a place and whether they want to spend time there. Over time, these experiences shape how people perceive their city and how they choose to use it. Well-designed environments create places that are welcoming, intuitive and fit for purpose. But design is about more than functionality. it’s also about creating a sense of place. Good design shapes a city’s identity, fosters connection and contributes to people’s wellbeing. That’s why thoughtful, high-quality design should be recognised, valued and prioritised.

At the upcoming Design + Innovation Meetup, Colette and Michael will share how this thinking plays out in practice, drawing on local projects and their experience across people-focused environments. This session offers the opportunity for an in-depth, practical look at how design influences experience – whether in a building, a workplace or a wider system.

4pm–6pm, Wednesday, 22 July at Priority One. Register for free now.