Where it's AT - the Architectural Technology podcast

Welcome to Where it's AT | the Architectural Technology PodcastAmelia Chasey MCIAT and Ann Vanner FCIAT explore the intersection of nature and architecture, discussing the concept of biophilia and its impact on the built environment. They explore how Architectural Technologists can integrate biophilic principles to enhance human well-being, productivity, and ecological sustainability. The conversation covers educational approaches, the influence of biophilic design in various sectors, and the idea of incorporating nature as a key stakeholder in design processes. This episode emphasises the importance of designing spaces that feel alive and support life, from professional practices to personal choices.Ann Vanner FCIAT is an accomplished Chartered Architectural Technologist, designer, and research consultant. She runs Healing Buildings, a design practice and educational consultancy dedicated to integrating health and wellbeing into architectural practices. With extensive experience in school, university, and research facility design, she is a passionate advocate for the role of nature in the built environment and emphasises the importance of sustainable, health-promoting spaces. Ann is also a Living Futures accredited professional and a seasoned academic, leveraging her diverse expertise to drive industry innovation.Amelia Chasey MCIAT is a passionate Chartered Architectural Technologist with specialist expertise in Biophilic Design. Driven by both personal and professional experience within the built environment, she is committed to enhancing health and wellbeing through thoughtful, human-centered architectural solutions.—00:00 Introduction00:38 Meet the Hosts: Amelia and Ann01:20 Understanding Biophilia in Architecture03:35 The Impact of Biophilic Design05:39 Biophilia in Education and Professional Development14:11 Research Supporting Biophilia18:46 Personal and Professional Applications of Biophilia23:02 Final Thoughts and Takeaways—See nature as an important part of every building project, right from the start. Instead of thinking about plants or natural features as something to add later, you can make better choices by including nature in your plans and decisions from day one. This way, your designs will be more thoughtful and connected to the world around you.When you bring natural elements like daylight, fresh air, and greenery into buildings, you help people feel happier, healthier, and more comfortable. These changes can make a big difference in how people work, learn, and live. By thinking about how nature affects people, you can create spaces that are not just useful, but also pleasant and good for wellbeing.Learning about biophilia and using it in your work is something that matters at every stage, from your first lessons in school to your daily job as a professional. You can keep growing your knowledge and skills by staying curious and open to new ideas. This helps you make better choices in your projects and supports a way of working that cares for both people and the planet.—Know someone who could benefit from listening?  Subscribe and share this episode with your network.Know someone with a story to tell or a topic to explore?  Email us at atpodcast@ciat.global to nominate a guest or a topic.Want to learn more about Architectural Technology, how to progress your career, or how to work with a Chartered AT?  Head to architecturaltechnology.com to find out more—Podcast recorded and edited by: Jon Clayton...

Welcome to Where it's AT | the Architectural Technology PodcastIn this episode of 'Where it's AT,' host Ann Vanner FCIAT, a Chartered Architectural Technologist and co-founder of The School of Biophilia, is joined by co-founder Amelia Chasey MCIAT. They explore the concept of biophilia and its profound impact on human health and wellbeing. Amelia shares her personal journey with biophilic design, sparked by her challenges with a chronic pain illness, and how it led her to advocate for integrating nature into the built environment. They discuss the importance of biophilic design in architecture, its benefits supported by research, and how The School of Biophilia aims to educate professionals and the general public about creating healthier and more productive spaces.Ann Vanner FCIAT is an accomplished Chartered Architectural Technologist, designer, and research consultant. She runs Healing Buildings, a design practice and educational consultancy dedicated to integrating health and wellbeing into architectural practices. With extensive experience in school, university, and research facility design, she is a passionate advocate for the role of nature in the built environment and emphasises the importance of sustainable, health-promoting spaces. Ann is also a Living Futures accredited professional and a seasoned academic, leveraging her diverse expertise to drive industry innovation.Amelia Chasey MCIAT is a passionate Chartered Architectural Technologist with specialist expertise in Biophilic Design. Driven by both personal and professional experience within the built environment, she is committed to enhancing health and wellbeing through thoughtful, human-centered architectural solutions.—00:00 Introduction00:44 Meet Your Hosts01:19 Understanding Biophilia03:15 Amelia's Journey to Biophilia07:11 Impact of Biophilic Design on Health12:28 The School of Biophilia14:46 Evidence Supporting Biophilic Design20:14 Practical Applications and Final Thoughts24:26 Conclusion and Farewell—You benefit from being close to nature.When you connect with nature, you feel better, work better, and your health improves. Even small changes, like having more sunlight or plants around you, can make a big difference in your daily life.You can shape your environment to support your wellbeing.By making simple changes to your home, school, or workplace, you can create a space that helps you feel happier and more comfortable. Paying attention to things like light, air, and natural elements can help you enjoy your surroundings more.You can help others by sharing what you know.When you learn how nature and good design help you, you can share these ideas with others. By working together, you can make your community, school, or office a better place for everyone.—Know someone who could benefit from listening?  Subscribe and share this episode with your network.Know someone with a story to tell or a topic to explore?  Email us at atpodcast@ciat.global to nominate a guest or a topic.Want to learn more about Architectural Technology, how to progress your career, or how to work with a Chartered AT?  Head to architecturaltechnology.com to find out more—Podcast recorded and edited by: Jon Clayton [Podcasting]—DisclaimerThe contents and views expressed by individuals in the Where it's AT podcast are their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of the companies they work for or the Host. This podcast is for informational purposes only and...

Welcome to Where it's AT | the Architectural Technology PodcastWhere it's AT is the podcast dedicated to Architectural Technology, presented by CIAT. It celebrates the individuals and projects advancing the discipline, featuring 30-minute monthly episodes released on the last Friday of the month. With conversations from both aspiring and practicing Architectural Technologists and thought leaders.Know someone who could benefit from listening? Subscribe and share this episode with your network.Know someone with a story to tell or a topic to explore? Email us at atpodcast@ciat.global to nominate a guest or a topic.Want to learn more about Architectural Technology, how to progress your career, or how to work with a Chartered AT? Head to architecturaltechnology.com to find out morePodcast recorded and edited by: Jon Clayton [Podcasting]DisclaimerThe contents and views expressed by individuals in the Where it's AT podcast are their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of the companies they work for or the Host. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as advice.The episode transcript is AI-generated. Typos or incorrect words may still be present.

Welcome to Where it's AT | the Architectural Technology PodcastIn this episode of 'Where it's AT', co-hosted by Paul Laycock MCIAT, CIAT's Vice President of Education and CIAT’s Head of Education, Noora Kokkarinen, discusses the recent updates to the Professional Standards Competency Framework (PSCF). The conversation highlights the enhanced focus on fire safety, health, ethical conduct, and continuous professional development. Paul explains the implications for both current and prospective Chartered Architectural Technologists, outlining the new standards in education, practice, and professional conduct. The discussion also underscores the broader impact on the Architectural Technology profession and the construction industry.—00:00 Introduction00:36 Overview of the Professional Standards Competency Framework (PSCF)01:06 Detailed Changes in the PSCF04:07 Stages of the PSCF Process09:28 Impact of PSCF on the Profession and Industry12:55 Additional Resources and Final Thoughts14:07 Conclusion and Farewell—Key TakeawaysThe Professional Standards Competency Framework (PSCF) update is transformative for the field of Architectural Technology, addressing future demands around sustainability, technical innovation, and ethical considerations.The updated PSCF places significant emphasis on fire safety, health, safety, materials, building performance, ethics, behaviour, professional conduct, and continuous professional development (CPD), ensuring that Architectural Technologists are well-prepared for the industry's evolving standards.The PSCF enhances clarity and confidence for industry stakeholders, assuring clients and collaborators of professionals' competence in delivering high standards throughout their careers, while also promoting the value of Architectural Technologists in all project stages.The PSCF document referred to in this episode of Where it’s AT can be found here: MCIAT Professional Assessment.—Know someone who could benefit from listening?  Subscribe and share this episode with your network.Know someone with a story to tell or a topic to explore?  Email us at atpodcast@ciat.global to nominate a guest or a topic.Want to learn more about Architectural Technology, how to progress your career, or how to work with a Chartered AT?  Head to architecturaltechnology.com to find out more—Podcast recorded and edited by: Jon Clayton [Podcasting]—DisclaimerThe contents and views expressed by individuals in the Where it's AT podcast are their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of the companies they work for or the Host. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as advice.The episode transcript is AI-generated. Typos or incorrect words may still be present.

Welcome to Where it's AT | the Architectural Technology PodcastIn this episode hosted by Tom Gray MCIAT, Chartered Architectural Technologist, the conversation centres on inclusive design and its emotional and functional impacts on people with disabilities. Guest, psychotherapist, speaker, and BBC broadcaster Fern Lulham, who is blind, shares her experiences growing up with messages of resilience and equality but notes the practical challenges and emotional toll of navigating spaces not designed with accessibility in mind. The discussion extends to the need for creativity, courage, and connection in architectural design, emphasising that thoughtful design should empower and include everyone. Fern and Tom also discuss specific examples like public toilets and airport wayfinding to highlight how design decisions can significantly affect the lives and self-esteem of people with disabilities.—00:00 Introduction01:00 Guest Introduction: Fern Lulham01:52 Messages from Childhood02:59 Navigating the World Differently05:53 Loneliness and Ideal Self10:28 Challenges in the Built Environment18:37 The Importance of Inclusive Design25:39 Final Thoughts and Closing—Key TakeawaysInclusive Design Benefits Everyone: Designing spaces that are accessible to all people, including those with disabilities, helps everyone feel welcome and valued. It’s not just about meeting practical needs but ensuring that everyone can participate equally.Emotional Impact of Design: The way a space is designed can greatly affect a person's self-esteem and confidence. Poorly designed environments can make people feel excluded and frustrated, while thoughtful design can foster a sense of belonging and independence.Curiosity and Courage in Design: Designers should always be open to new ways of thinking and not be afraid to try different approaches. Collaborating with those who have different experiences, such as people with disabilities, can lead to better and more inclusive solutions.—Know someone who could benefit from listening?  Subscribe and share this episode with your network.Know someone with a story to tell or a topic to explore?  Email us at atpodcast@ciat.global to nominate a guest or a topic.Want to learn more about Architectural Technology, how to progress your career, or how to work with a Chartered AT?  Head to architecturaltechnology.com to find out more—Podcast recorded and edited by: Jon Clayton [Podcasting]—DisclaimerThe contents and views expressed by individuals in the Where it's AT podcast are their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of the companies they work for or the Host. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as advice.The episode transcript is AI-generated. Typos or incorrect words may still be present.

Welcome to Where it's AT | the Architectural Technology PodcastIn this episode we explore the relationship between architectural technology and health. With guest speakers Ann Vanner FCIAT from Healing Buildings and Richard Alston MCIAT from Alston and Donnelly Architecture, the discussion covers how design can improve wellbeing, strategies for a healthier built environment, and the importance of education to drive the industry forward. Recorded live at Futurebuild 2025, the conversation also highlights the practical applications of architectural technology, focusing on standards like PassivHaus and various holistic design approaches. Key issues such as sick building syndrome, environmental damage, and social disconnect are explored, alongside actionable solutions for creating healthier spaces.Guest SpeakersAnn Vanner FCIAT is a distinguished Chartered Architectural Technologist (FCIAT), a registered architect (ARB), and a Living Future Accredited Professional (LFA).  As a founder of Healing Buildings, she is dedicated to pioneering a holistic approach to architecture that integrates restorative design principles. Her firm, Acorn Architects, stands out for its commitment to creating environments that promote healing and well-being. In her professional service to the industry, Ann has made significant contributions, including her roles as Panel Moderator for the MCIAT Professional Assessment, Regional Councillor for the North West Region of CIAT, and Judge for the Student Award for Excellence in Architectural Technology (AT) Report. A passionate advocate for dyslexia awareness, Ann is also proudly affiliated with  “Made By Dyslexia” reflecting her commitment to embracing neurodiversity in the professional sphere.Richard Alston MCIAT is a seasoned Chartered Architectural Technologist with a wide-ranging career in both residential and commercial clean room design. Co-founding the architectural practice, Alston and Donnelly Architecture, he brings a unique blend of technical expertise and practical experience from his previous roles at Rockwool and Kingspan. Richard is a strong proponent of PassivHaus standards and sustainable building practices, focusing on delivering high-performance, health-promoting environments. His commitment to closing the gap between as-designed and as-built performance underscores his dedication to advancing the architectural industry.—00:00 Introduction and Overview01:41 Meet the Speakers: Ann Vanner & Richard Alston04:36 The Impact of Built Environments on Wellbeing06:44 Identifying Problems in the Built Environment11:01 Educational Approaches to Healing Buildings15:15 Implementing Standards and Frameworks15:56 Case Study: Passive House Standards19:42 The Importance of Holistic Design34:43 Audience Interaction and Final Thoughts—Key TakeawaysWork Together from the Start It helps to bring everyone together early - you, your client, the builder, and the rest of the team. When you all talk things through from the beginning, the project runs more smoothly. You’re more likely to end up with a building that works well and does what it’s meant to do.Keep Learning – and Start Young Teaching people about buildings and places from a young age helps them make better choices later on. If you’re already working in the industry, it’s good to keep learning so you stay up to date with new tools, better ways of working, and what’s changing in the world around you.Follow Clear Steps and Standards Using trusted standards - like the RIBA Plan of Work, PassivHaus, or ISO 19650 - can help you get better results. These standards give you a clear plan to follow, from first ideas to finished building. They also help make sure your building is healthy, saves

Welcome to Where it's AT.You might notice a change of introduction music, that's because this special episode has been produced in collaboration with Architecture Business Club. For anyone running a business in architecture, whether you're a practice leader or sole practitioner, the new year is the perfect time for reflection on the past year and to set up your new year for success. But as any business owner or sole practitioner will know, running a business isn't always easy. There can be problems that trip you up and hold you back. So join Where it's AT collaborator, Jon Clayton MCIAT-  Founder of Architecture Business Club, as he explores three of the biggest problems that architectural technologists, architects and architectural designers in business face, and more importantly, how these problem can be overcome!Podcast recorded and edited by: mrjonclaytonWe welcome your feedback, so please keep in touch and email all feedback to atpodcast@ciat.globalDisclaimer The contents and views expressed by individuals in the Where it's AT podcast are their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of the companies they work for or the Host. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as advice.The episode transcript is AI-generated. Typos or incorrect words may still be present.

Welcome to Where it's AT.Professional indemnity insurance is a key component of protecting your business against claims of negligence, errors or omissions in the services you provide. But as the construction industry continues to evolve with new technologies, rising risks and complex regulations, the landscape of insurance is shifting too. So how are insurers adapting to these changes - in particular the Principal Designer role introduced by secondary legislation to the Building Safety Act - The Building Regulations etc. (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2023 and what do construction professionals need to know to ensure they're properly covered and that the vital protection PI offers their clients, is in place.  Join Harry Pangli FCIAT,  Deputy Chair of CIAT’s Liability Taskforce, CIAT representative on CIC Liability Panel and member of CIAT’s Documents Taskforce amongst others and Darren Hewitt, Director, Claims and Risk Management at MFL Insurance Group Limited who administer CIAT Insurance Services, as they answer some frequently asked questions that have been received in from our members, and explore how professional indemnity insurance plays a critical role in protecting members and clients.  They also edify us on the changes to limitation periods which is outlined in the Building Safety Act, increasing simple contract liability from 6 to 15 years and retrospectively 30 years from the dates of publication (1992). If you would like further information on the subject matter covered in this podcast then please feel free to email pdregister@ciat.global or visit CIAT Principal Designer RegisterPodcast recorded and edited by: @VoytekWe welcome your feedback, so please keep in touch and email all feedback to atpodcast@ciat.globalDisclaimer The contents and views expressed by individuals in the Where it's AT podcast are their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of the companies they work for or the Host. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as advice.The episode transcript is AI-generated. Typos or incorrect words may still be present.

In this episode, we're asking, "Will buying a drone or laser scanner make you a better designer?"  Leading today's conversation on the pros and pitfalls of data driven design is Dan Rossiter FCIAT, who is the Built Environment Standards Lead at BSI and Vice-President Technical for CIAT.  Joining him on our digital sofa is his guest, Andrew Evans, a leading authority in surveying technologies from Topcon Positioning Systems.Useful links:Chartered Institute of Architectural TechnologistsChartered Institution of Civil Engineering SurveyorsCivil Aviation AuthorityTitanic - First ever full-sized scans reveal wreck as never seen before | BBC | May 2023Podcast recorded and edited in June 2024 by: @VoytekWe welcome your feedback, so please keep in touch and email all feedback to atpodcast@ciat.global Disclaimer The contents and views expressed by individuals in the Where it's AT podcast are their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of the companies they work for or the Host. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as advice.The episode transcript is AI-generated. Typos or incorrect words may still be present.

Welcome to Where it's AT- the Architectural Technology podcast from CIAT that uses technology, to talk Architectural Technology for Technologists.  The Student Award for Excellence in Architectural Technology Project in 2017 was won by Edward Kercher.  Since then, Ed has had a big impact on the profession, first working for Adam Architecture and now running his own successful businesses. Past President, Alex Naraian PPCIAT MCIAT was there at various stages of his career as a friend and mentor. Here they reunite after many years, revisiting their overlapping journeys, and how their shared values and a passion for Architectural Technology have influenced their approach to work and their businesses.Podcast recorded and edited by: @VoytekWe welcome your feedback, so please keep in touch and email all feedback to atpodcast@ciat.global Disclaimer The contents and views expressed by individuals in the Where it's AT podcast are their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of the companies they work for or the Host. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as advice.The episode transcript is AI-generated. Typos or incorrect words may still be present.

Welcome to Where it's AT.  In this episode, frequent collaborators Ann Vanner FCIAT, Founder and Director  at Healing Buildings and Roger Hines MCIAT - Chartered AT and Landscape Designer at Habitat Architecture discuss their shared passion and unique approach to creating healthier buildings, and imagine ways in which the industry can respond to the challenge. Podcast recorded and edited by: @VoytekWe welcome your feedback, so please keep in touch and email all feedback to atpodcast@ciat.global Disclaimer The contents and views expressed by individuals in the Where it's AT podcast are their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of the companies they work for or the Host. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as advice.The episode transcript is AI-generated. Typos or incorrect words may still be present.

The golden thread is a digital record that will be created for new high rise residential buildings, containing vital information about the building's life, including its design, construction and ongoing maintenance. To find out more, we joined a panel of Chartered Architectural Technologists (Dan Rossiter FCIAT, Spacy Bondarenko FCIAT and Gareth Sewell FCIAT) on stage at futurebuild in March of this year.  They discuss what the golden thread means in practice, and how it should be incorporated throughout the life of the building to ensure crucial information is reliable and easily accessible.Useful links:futurebuild  is an annual event which takes place March at London’s ExCeL, focused on showcasing the latest sustainable innovations and solutions in the built environment industry.Keeping information about a higher-risk building: the golden thread - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)CLC - Building SafetyMinistry of Housing, Communities & Local GovernmentIf you would like further information on the subject matter covered in this podcast then please feel free to email  CIAT's Practice and Technical Department via practice@ciat.global Podcast recorded and edited by: @VoytekWe welcome your feedback, so please keep in touch and email all feedback to atpodcast@ciat.global Disclaimer The contents and views expressed by individuals in the Where it's AT podcast are their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of the companies they work for or the Host. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as advice.The episode transcript is AI-generated. Typos or incorrect words may still be present.

The Principal Designer Competency Framework allows for Chartered Architectural Technologists to register as Principal Designers.  To explore what this means to the discipline Professor Sam Allwinkle PPBIAT FCIAT Chair of the Principal Designer Competency Steering Group talks to Head of Membership at CIAT, James Banks about their work and developing the register and its impact on Members.Useful links:CIAT | Principal Designer (architecturaltechnology.com)CIAT Principal Designer Registration Process and Insight Workshop led by James Banks, Head of Membership at CIAT and Professor Sam Allwinkle PPBIAT FCIAT Chair of the Principal Designer Competency Steering Group. If you would like further information on the subject matter covered in this podcast then please feel free to email pdregister@ciat.globalPodcast recorded and edited by: @Voytek We welcome your feedback, so please keep in touch and email all feedback to atpodcast@ciat.globalDisclaimer The contents and views expressed by individuals in the Where it's AT podcast are their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of the companies they work for or the Host. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as advice.The episode transcript is AI-generated. Typos or incorrect words may still be present.