The London Build Expo provided a dynamic platform for thought leaders to discuss the future of regenerative design and biophilic spaces. Carlo Battisti, President, and Martin Brown, Vice President of Living Future Europe, each took the stage on November 21st to inspire audiences with visionary insights into transforming the built environment.
Integrating Regenerative Principles into Design Thinking
Carlo Battisti kicked off the conversations at 2 pm on the Architecture Stage with a compelling panel on regenerative design. The session brought together a powerhouse lineup of thought leaders from across the built environment – including Dave Cheshire, Director, Sustainability, Buildings + Places, AECOM; Jess Hrivnak, Practice Technical Adviser (Sustainability), Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA); James Mickelburgh, Co-Founder and Director, Jensen Hunt Design; Paula Chandler, National Design Director, Wates Construction Group; and Rachael Owens, Head Of Sustainability, Buckley Gray Yeoman, National Retrofit Hub – to redefine what’s possible for the future of our industry. From designing buildings that actively contribute to ecosystems to reimagining the potential of existing structures, the conversation was a call to action for a paradigm shift.
Speakers explored how regenerative design moves beyond sustainability, focusing on creating spaces that enrich both people and the planet. Highlights included practical strategies like designing within planetary boundaries, embedding circular economy principles, and leveraging adaptive reuse to unlock the hidden value of existing buildings. The importance of digital tools, storytelling, and collaboration across disciplines emerged as key enablers for making regenerative design the new norm.
The session left participants inspired by real-world examples like the PAE Living Building and bold ideas like measuring positive impacts through “handprinting.” It underscored that while challenges remain—such as budget constraints and client buy-in—the movement toward a regenerative future is gaining momentum. Attendees left energized, ready to join forces in transforming the built environment from a problem to a solution.
The Nature Effect: Biophilic Spaces, Thriving Communities
At 4 pm on the Sustainability Stage, Martin Brown led a thought-provoking panel – including Isabella Bhoan, Global Head of Landscape Architecture – Weston Williamson + Partners; Ben Martin, Principal – HKS Inc.; Lorna Edwards, Associate Partner – RSHP; Phil Askew, Director Landscape – Peabody; and William Braid, Owner of Plant Designs and Co-Chair of the European Interior Landscape Organisation – EILO – Plant Designs – exploring how reconnecting with nature can transform our spaces and communities. The discussion highlighted the disconnect many feel from nature and showcased inspiring projects bridging that gap through biophilic design and nature-based solutions.
Panelists shared examples of spaces that promote health, well-being, and ecological vitality, from revitalized urban green areas to workplaces designed for creativity. The conversation underscored the potential of the Nature Effect, where humans and natural systems flourish together.
Closing on a hopeful note, each speaker left the audience with a clear message: a regenerative future is not just possible—it’s already taking shape.
