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"Architects for Change" is a podcast exploring the intersection of architecture, the built environment, and politics. Hosted by Jay Morton, an architect and political enthusiast, this podcast tackles critical issues facing the world today. Each episode features changemakers and thought leaders shaping the future of our cities and spaces. The podcast aims to uncover innovative ideas and common threads that act as barriers to progress.
28 Episodes
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In the Architects for Change podcast we have often spoken about the economy and economics. So for this episode it seems fitting to talk to an economist, and who better than Paul Johnson. Paul is one of the most trusted economic voices in the country. Until recently he was the Director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies, the UK’s most respected independent economic research body, and he is now Provost of Queens College Oxford and a senior adviser at Frontier EconomicsIn this conversation we look at how economic choices shape everyday life in our cities, towns and neighbourhoods. We talk about the UK’s long term growth challenges, the impact of stop start infrastructure planning, why our planning system struggles, and what this means for housing, placemaking and the 1.5 million homes agenda.Paul gives a clear, grounded view of why economic and political timescales clash, how local and regional governance can help unlock growth, and why building well connected homes in the right places matters just as much as the numbers. A vital listen for anyone working in planning, architecture, housing or public policy. #pauljohnson #Instituteoffiscalstudies #economy #ifs #politics #architecture #builtenvironment #planning
In this episode, Jay Morton steps away from bricks and mortar to delve into politics and culture with writer, broadcaster and cultural commentator Peter York. Co-author of The Official Sloane Ranger Handbook and author of Dead Cat on the Table, Peter unpacks how culture wars are manufactured, funded and weaponised to distract from the issues that really matter. From the power of think tanks and the media to the politics of place and pride, this conversation explores how narratives are shaped in Britain today—and why architects and placemakers should care. #architecture #culturewars #peteryork #culturewars #55tuftonst #thinktanks #instituteofeconomicaffairs #politcs #builtenvironment #architecture
Jonathan Smales has never taken the easy route — from leading Greenpeace UK to creating one of the UK’s most sustainable neighbourhoods. In this episode, we explore his journey into ethical development, the radical thinking behind the Phoenix in Lewes, and what it really takes to transform how we build homes and communities. He shares lessons from a lifetime of activism, the practical challenges of using timber and hempcrete, and why Human Nature is part developer, part movement. It’s a hopeful, grounded vision for the future of place. #podcast #humannature #architectsforchange #architectureandpolitics #architecture #planning #1.5millionshomes #labourgovernment #climatechange #biobasedmaterials #regenerativearchitectureLinks: https://www.humannature-places.com/
In this episode of Architects for Change, host Jay Morton sits down with Tamara Cincik, founder and CEO of Fashion Roundtable, to explore how fashion has successfully built political influence — and what architecture and the built environment can learn from it.Tamara shares her personal journey from a working-class background into the fashion industry and politics, offering insights on community, aspiration, and the importance of creative industries to the UK economy.They discuss the decline and regeneration of the high street, why policy needs to better support creative sectors, and how valuing cultural capital can help communities thrive. This conversation unpacks how government could rethink support for industries beyond the usual "jobs for the boys" and why investing in creative industries means investing in place, people, and prosperity. Links: Fashion Roundtable:https://www.fashionroundtable.co.uk/Fashion Roundtable podcast: https://www.fashionroundtable.co.uk/podcastRegenerating Great British Wool: https://www.fashionroundtable.co.uk/what-we-do-change-agency#ArchitectsForChange#Podcast#TamaraCincik#FashionRoundtable#CreativeIndustries#FashionAndPolitics#PolicyAndPlace#HighStreetRevival#CulturalCapital#UrbanFuture#PlaceMaking#CreativeEconomy#FashionPolicy#ArchitectureAndPolitics#FutureOfPlace
What if developers didn’t just build homes — but built communities, hope, and long-term change?In this episode of Architects for Change, Jay Morton is joined by Tim Heatley, co-founder of Capital & Centric and one of the UK’s most progressive voices in urban regeneration. From flipping his first house in Salford to investing millions each week in socially conscious development, Tim’s journey is anything but typical.He talks about transforming overlooked towns like Farnworth, the power of retrofit, working with metro mayors, and founding initiatives like Regeneration Brainery and Embassy Village. Whether it’s tackling homelessness or rethinking what regeneration can mean, Tim shares an honest, energetic, and often surprising take on what the future of housing could — and should — look like.#capital&cetnric #architecture #politis #placemaking #housing #1.5million homesLinks: https://www.capitalandcentric.com/https://www.embassyvillage.co.uk/
What if housing policy and design started with children in mind? In this episode, Jay Morton speaks with Dinah Bornat—co-director of ZCD Architects and author of the upcoming All to Play For: How to Design Child-Friendly Housing—about how play, community, and public space are being squeezed out of our cities. From forgotten post-war estates to the silent epidemic of parental isolation, Dinah shares eye-opening insights backed by years of research. We dive into why the UK’s current housebuilding model is failing families, what the government gets wrong about health and housing, and how small design moves—like moving the car—can radically transform lives. This is a powerful conversation about reclaiming our streets, reimagining suburbia, and building places where everyone can thrive. #housing #architecture #1.5millionhomes #labourparty #labourgovernment #politics #1960estates #gardencitiesUseful links: All to Play for: All to Play For: How to design child-friendly housing | RIBA BooksZCD Architects: ZCD Architects | Experts in people-centred city-making, architecture, and development
What if the voices most affected by the housing crisis never make it into the planning process? In this episode of Architects for Change, Jay is joined by Wyn Evans and Millie Dodd from Just Build Homes — a campaign amplifying the voices of the silent majority who want more homes built.They explore their new report 6,000 Reasons to Build, based on real planning comments from supporters across the country. It reveals five powerful motivations for backing development — from hardship and generational fairness to sustaining rural communities.It’s a rallying call to the built environment sector: change the language, centre human stories, and reframe housing as a public good. #YIMBY #Housing #labourgovenrment #planningreform #architecture #builtenvironment #politcs #architectsforchange
This week, Jay is joined by Mark Stevenson — author, advisor, and former comedian — whose work sits at the intersection of science, storytelling and systems change. Mark’s not a fan of the term “futurist,” but his career has been spent helping governments, companies and NGOs navigate what’s coming — and what needs to change.He’s the author of An Optimist’s Tour of the Future and We Do Things Differently, co-founder of the carbon removals platform CUR8, and a Global Ambassador for ClientEarth. He also co-hosts the podcast Jon Richardson and the Futurenauts — and brings his trademark wit and clarity to this conversation.Together, they explore:– Why short-term thinking is wrecking our systems (and how to change the incentives)– What architecture can learn from nature – How carbon behaves like the “slut of the periodic table” and how to remove it.– And why feelings, not facts, are often what drive real changeThis is a funny, fiery and deeply practical episode about power, politics, and what it takes to build a future worth living in. Take it as a call to arms for us all to make the change we want to see. Find out more about Mark Here: https://markstevenson.org/
In this episode of Architects for Change, host Jay Morton sits down with Christopher Young KC—widely regarded as the UK’s leading planning barrister—for a no-holds-barred conversation on the future of housing, planning, and politics.Chris shares his journey into planning law and dives deep into the big questions:How do we actually deliver 1.5 million homes?What’s holding the system back?Why has localism failed—and what needs to change?Is the green belt still fit for purpose?And what role should planning really play in shaping our national future?With trademark clarity and unapologetic honesty, Chris makes the case for bold reform, better design, and a planning system that finally works for people—not just process.🎧 A must-listen for anyone interested in the built environment, housing policy, or how real change can actually happen.Also check out Chris podcast, Have We Wot Planning News For You : https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcMtoF0MPgFble556ncjNvQ#1.5millionhomes#labourparty #matthewpennycook#labourgovernment#Architecture#UrbanPlanning#HousingCrisis#PlanningPolicy#BuiltEnvironment#UrbanDesign#AffordableHousing#ChristopherYoungKC#ArchitectsForChange#CityMaking#PlanningReform#GreenBelt#HousingPolicy#Infrastructure#Regeneration
In this episode of Architects for Change, Jay sits down with the brilliant and unconventional Steve Webb of Webb Yates Engineers. From his early days growing up surrounded by builders and mechanics to pioneering the use of stone and timber in modern construction, Steve challenges the status quo of the built environment. We discuss why the industry resists innovation, the true carbon cost of materials like steel and concrete, and why he believes craftsmanship—not automation—could be the key to a more sustainable future. Thought-provoking, inspiring, and filled with fresh ideas, this is a must-listen for anyone passionate about rethinking the way we build.Projects discussed: Elephant Park Pavilion, the Tree House Elephant & CastleWimbledon College of Arts: A new BREEAM Outstanding studio building designed as a simple, flexible enclosure with excellent natural light and ventilation. Anna Freud Centre (Kantor Centre of Excellence): This centre provides clinical, research, and training facilities, as well as office and teaching spaces for the Anna Freud CharityCraft not Carbon Pavillion, Webb Yates15 Clerkenwell Close
The real estate industry is at a crossroads. With rising costs, outdated policies, and shifting workplace expectations, how do we build for the future without repeating the mistakes of the past?On this episode of Architects for Change, I sit down with Tyler Goodwin, CEO of Seaforth Land, to explore:🏗 Retrofit vs. New Build – Why demolition isn’t always the answer💰 The Profit Crisis – Why real estate isn’t making money (and what needs to change)🏢 Earning the Commute – How office spaces need to evolve to stay relevant🏡 1 Million Empty Offices = 1 Million Potential Homes – Why aren’t we converting them?🔄 Sustainability & Policy – Why current rules are making it harder, not easier, to innovateTyler brings decades of experience in global real estate investment, development, and sustainability.Useful Links: Seaforth Land: https://www.seaforthland.com/Bleeding Heart Yard: https://nla.london/projects/8-bleeding-heart-yard-1Tyler NLQ article: https://nla.london/new-london-quarterly/nlq-issue-59#Retrofit #RealEstate #Sustainability #Architecture #UrbanDesign #FutureOfCities #Architectsforchange #seaforthland #tylergoodwin
Two Architects and political geeks come together in this special joint episode, Architects for Change teams up with Urban Forecast Podcast as Jay Morton and Oliver Lowrie dive into the powerful connection between politics, architecture, and urban regeneration.
Oliver, Director and founder of Ackroyd Lowrie Architects and host of Urban Forecast, shares insights on how local government leaders often have the greatest influence on urban development. He highlights why architects must engage with policymakers early, how political vision (or the lack of it) shapes major projects, and the challenges of navigating planning policies. Jay, Director at Bell Phillips, brings her perspective on sustainable innovation, community engagement, and lessons from her own foray into politics.
Together, they explore fast-paced decision-making, the impact of government stability on investor confidence, and why a cross-industry approach is essential for the future of construction and urban design.
Links:
Ackroyd Lowrie: https://www.ackroydlowrie.com/
Bell Phillips: https://www.bellphillips.com/
Urban Forecast: https://www.youtube.com/@UrbanForecast
A short voice note from Jay the host of Architects for Change. Here Jay reflects on the past year and what listeners have to look forward to in 2025.
A call to action for architects to take the lead in transforming the profession and the industry:
In this episode, Jat sits down with Doug Hodgson, co-founder of New-works, to discuss how his practice is redefining sustainability in architecture. From materiality and workforce well-being to the importance of collaboration and specialism, Doug offers an insightful look into the shifts needed in our industry. We explore New-works’ innovative approach to balancing creative flow with structured processes, their focus on sustainability in design and practice, and the pressing need for architects to unify and advocate for meaningful change. A must listen for anyone passionate about the future of architecture and its role in shaping better communities.
Interesting links: https://www.tdoarchitecture.com/great-suffolk-yard
New-works: https://www.new-works.net/
The Pheonix, Lewes: https://www.phoenixlewes.com/
#architecture #profession #sustainable #riba #buildings #places
In this episode, Jay sits down for an inspiring conversation with Eliot Postma, partner and group leader at Heatherwick Studio.
They dive into the studio’s Humanise campaign, which challenges the rise of soulless architecture and explores how thoughtful design can transform mental health, sustainability, and urban life.
Eliot shares how Heatherwick Studio’s philosophy—focusing on detail, visual complexity, and emotional design—has shaped projects like the Olympia redevelopment. From the neuroscience behind great architecture to the role of lift buttons in making spaces feel human, this episode is packed with insights for anyone passionate about the future of our cities.
Tune in to discover how design can inspire joy, connection,
and resilience in the built environment.
#HeatherwickStudio #HumaniseCampaign #Architecture
#DesignInnovation #Podcast #ThomasHeatherwick
Projects discussed
Olympia, Heatherwick Studio: https://heatherwick.com/project/london-olympia/
Burgess Park, Bell Phillips: https://www.bellphillips.com/burgess-park-pavilion
Appleby Blue, Witherford Watson Mann: https://www.wwmarchitects.co.uk/projects/almshouse-southwark
Humanise campaign: https://humanise.org/
Drinks Reception, Thursday 28th November: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/architects-for-change-drinks-reception-tickets-1050871724617
In this episode of Architects for Change, Jay sits down with Charlie Lemner, a Healthy Homes expert and host of The Healthy Home Show. With a background in property development and building biology, Charlie shares her journey from real estate to advocating for human-centered design that prioritises well-being.
Together, they discuss:🔹 The hidden health risks in our homes and workplaces, from toxic materials to poor ventilation🔹 Practical steps architects and developers can take to create healthier environments🔹 How sustainability and health go hand in hand in building design🔹 The challenges—and opportunities—of shaping healthier cities and communities
From retrofitting older properties to designing the homes of the future, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and bold ideas for creating spaces that truly support human health.
Useful links:
https://charlielemmer.com/ where you can access Charlies podcast The Healthy Home Show .
Appleby Blue Alms House: https://hdawards.org/scheme/appleby-blue-almshouse/
In this episode of the Architects for Change Podcast, Jay sits down with Pierre Bidaud, a master stonemason and creative director of the Stone Masonry Company. With a deep passion for sustainable building practices, Pierre shares his journey from joining a journeyman guild to mastering the art of working with natural stone. Together, they explore why stone should be seen as a commodity rather than a luxury and how the disconnect between architects, engineers, and the materials they use has impacted the industry.Pierre delves into the challenges facing the construction world today, including the invisibility of craftsmen in the building process, the importance of respecting raw materials, and how stone, despite being centuries old, can be a sustainable, low-carbon alternative to modern materials. They also discuss innovative ways to reintroduce stone as a structural material in affordable housing projects and rethink its role in the broader construction industry.This episode is a must-listen for architects, builders, and anyone interested in the future of sustainable architecture and the role of traditional materials in modern design.#stone #architecture #politics Useful links : 15 clerkenwell close Amin Taha: https://www.architecture.com/awards-and-competitions-landing-page/awards/riba-regional-awards/riba-london-award-winners/2018/15-clerkenwell-close?srsltid=AfmBOor6N7Z6X-yY08XqZkMGZHIvqhITay6Fj8A8mLwWye5g32fU0rDCThe stone masonry company : https://www.thestonemasonrycompany.co.uk
In this episode of Architects for Change, Jay sits
down with Gil Penalosa, an international urbanist and founder of the nonprofit
8 80 Cities, which advocates for cities that are equitable, sustainable, and
accessible to people of all ages. Gil offers his unique perspective as a global
urban planner and recent mayoral candidate in Toronto, where he finished second
in the 2022 race. Together, they discuss his visionary approach to transforming
cities, emphasizing the importance of proximity, public spaces, and rethinking
urban design to prioritize people over cars.
Join us as we explore what it takes to create healthier,
happier, and more playful cities—and why it's crucial for politicians, urban
planners, and communities to collaborate on this shared vision.
Find out more about Gil and 8 80 cities here:
https://www.880cities.org/ #cities
#Architecture
#Architectsforchnage
#politicsofspace
#poltics
#canada
#toronto
#urbanplanning
#housing
In this episode, Jay continues the conversation with Patrik Schumacher, principal of Zaha Hadid Architects, delving into the intersections of politics, architecture, and technology. Patrik shares his insights on the Libertarian experiment in Liberland, the future impact of the Metaverse on urban design, and the evolving role of AI in architecture. Known for his controversial views, Patrik offers a thought-provoking perspective on the challenges and opportunities ahead.
Some interesting kinks to explore:
Liberland: https://liberland.org/
Metrotopia: https://metrotopia.io
#Architecture #zahahadid #politics #metaverse #metatopia #Ai #Liberland
In this episode, Jay speaks to Patrik Schumacher, Principal of Zaha Hadid Architects and a controversial figure in the world of architecture. Known for his bold views on parametricism and libertarian politics, Patrik shares his perspective on the future of cities, the housing crisis, and the impact of planning restrictions. He discusses how entrepreneurial freedom could reshape urban environments and challenges conventional approaches to city-making. Tune in for an engaging conversation that explores the intersection of architecture, politics, and innovation. This is Part 1, tune in next week for Part 2.
#politics #architecture #architectsforchange #zahahadid #patrikshumacher #urbandesign #housing #urbanism
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