🎙 Episode Summary

In this premiere episode of Season 2, I sit down with Leonie M Hicks, a powerhouse in workplace design and a driving force at Unispace, the global firm reimagining how the world works. With over 20 years of experience in architecture and interior design, Leonie shares her insights into how spaces influence behavior, creativity, and collaboration—especially in a post-pandemic world.

We explore the evolving role of technology in workplace environments, the psychological impact of design choices, and the importance of sustainability in modern office planning. Leonie also shares her journey from traditional architecture to pioneering flexible, human-centered workspaces for some of the world’s most forward-thinking companies.If you’ve ever wondered how physical environments shape culture, productivity, and the future of work—this one’s for you.

👤 About Leonie M Hicks

Leonie M Hicks is a senior leader at Unispace, where she combines her deep knowledge of workplace strategy, sustainable design, and interior architecture to deliver transformative spaces for global clients. With a background in both academic design training and hands-on architectural practice, Leonie has led projects that respond to the unique needs of hybrid work, employee well-being, and brand identity.

Her portfolio includes:

Multinational HQ transformations

Flexible co-working hubs

Post-COVID workplace redesigns

Leonie is also a respected speaker and thought leader, frequently featured at international conferences and in industry publications.

🧠 Key Themes:

Hybrid work models & the new office landscape

The role of environmental psychology in workplace design

Bridging technology and space to enhance collaboration

Why workplace design needs to be as dynamic as the people in it

Hit play and let’s talk about the future of where—and how—we work.----

Download the  @unispaceglobal  Future Workplace Insight Report

https://www.unispace.com/global-workplace-insights-en----

Find out more about Leonie M Hicks

https://www.linkedin.com/in/leonie-m-hicks/

InSight Systems and  @mykeireland  would also like to recognize  @CorsairSolutions  and  @MyLumens  for their ongoing support of Real InSight.

0:26  Introduction to the Interview

1:26  Journey to Sobriety

1:40  The Resilient Workplace Model

2:17  Workplace Strategy Explained

5:47  Measuring Success in Relocation

7:31  The Hybrid Workplace Challenge

9:10  Space Optimization Trends

12:40  Neurodiversity and Work Style

14:03  The Future of Hot Desking

21:09  Flexibility in Work Hours

22:57  Addressing Empty Spaces

23:50  Resilient Workplace Model Overview

25:23  Enablement and Technology

30:49  Adaptability in Workspaces

34:59  Well-being in the Workplace

38:02  Personal Experiences with Neurodiversity

48:03  Importance of Connection

51:07  Authenticity in Workplace Design

54:16  The Rewarding Nature of Projects

1:01:07  The Evolution of Classroom Technology

1:06:48  Designing with Nature in Mind

1:07:17  Conclusion and Further Resources