In this episode of the Enchanted Earth Podcast, host Maureen welcomes Janine de Waal, an international design architect and heritage practitioner. Janine shares her experiences growing up in South Africa and her deep connection to the land. She discusses how landscapes influence the human spirit and the subtle energy exchanges we have with nature. Janine elaborates on the importance of architecture that honors the past, inspires the present, and supports the future. This conversation delves into the profound relationship between people, place, and the planet, and how our surroundings shape our identities. Tune in for an enriching discussion on creating meaningful spaces and reconnecting with nature.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:54 Janine's Background and Connection to Africa

03:11 Childhood Memories and Connection to Nature

05:16 The Spiritual Connection to Landscapes

18:36 Architectural Inspirations and Career Path

24:59 The Subtle Sense of Place

33:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About Janine de Waal

Janine de Waal is an international design architect, heritage practitioner, explorer, educator and artist whose work is rooted in a deep commitment to Planet, People and Place. With an M.Phil in Conservation of the Built Environment and a B.Arch in Architecture, her practice integrates design, heritage stewardship and creative expression across diverse contexts.

Her work extends beyond architectural practice into education, having taught at the University of Cape Town, the Cape Peninsula University of Technology and at Yestermorrow - where she guides students, homeowners and professionals toward a holistic understanding of design. She is also the creator of curated travel journeys that offer immersive explorations of architecture, culture and heritage, connecting the “old,” the “famous” and the “new” in order to tell the layered stories of Place.

Through her artistic practice, Janine produces bronze sculptures and jewellery inspired by architectural forms, historic maps and the natural world, bridging art and design in tactile, intimate ways. At the heart of all her work lies a commitment to education, sustainability and cultural continuity: to create spaces, journeys and objects that are not only beautiful but also healing, enduring and deeply human.

About Maureen Calamia
Maureen Calamia has been a seeker all her life, tapping into the magic of nature, dreams, and consciousness to unearth truths of our ancient connection to heaven and earth. A teacher, author, and podcaster, she shares stories of greater meaning, purpose, and resonance with all of nature’s beings. Founded the Luminous Spaces School with online courses in feng shui, earth energy healing, biophilic design, and nature spirituality. Maureen offers private mentoring to those seeking self-discovery support. Her newest book, The Enchanted Earth: Embracing the Power of Nature to Discover the Wild in You (Mango, 2024), is available wherever online books are sold.

COURSE OFFERINGS AND CONSULTATIONS: https://www.luminous-spaces.com/

BOOK - The Enchanted Earth: Embracing the Power of Nature to Discover the Wild in You: https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-enchanted-earth-maureen-calamia/21477870?ean=9781684816859

SPEAKING: https://www.luminous-spaces.com/feng-shui-speaker/

SUBSTACK: https://substack.com/@maureencalamia