Design for Collectives — Mini Episode: People Power and the Future of Energy Flexibility

Design for Collectives — In Conversation with Matt Ford: Inclusive Design in Practice

In this guest episode of Design for Collectives, host Anna Chatzimichali, Associate Professor of Engineering Design at the University of Bath, is joined by Matt Ford, industrial designer at Designability, a UK charity developing life-changing products for disabled children and adults. Designability’s work spans everything from adapted pushchairs for disabled parents to powered wheelchairs for children, as well as research into how vehicles and electric charging infrastructure can better serve disabled communities. With a background working for major manufacturing brands including Dyson and Airbus, Matt brings deep industry experience alongside a commitment to inclusive, user-centred design. This conversation explores how thoughtful design can remove barriers, expand independence, and ensure that emerging technologies, including those shaping the energy transition, work for everyone. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Design for Collectives — In Conversation with Kathy Peach: Collective Intelligence for Social Change

In this guest episode of Design for Collectives, host Sonja Oliveira, Associate Dean and Professor in Architecture and Sustainability Design Innovation at the University of Strathclyde, is joined by Kathy Peach, Director of the Centre for Collective Intelligence Design at Nesta, the UK’s innovation agency focused on delivering social change. Kathy’s work explores how collective intelligence, combining human knowledge, data, and technology, can help tackle complex global challenges. She is the lead author of the Collective Intelligence Design Playbook and works in partnership with organisations including the United Nations Development Programme and the International Federation of the Red Cross & Red Crescent Societies. Drawing on a career spanning international development, public health, disability advocacy, and global policy, this conversation explores how collective intelligence can shape better decision-making, more inclusive systems, and new approaches to social innovation. A thought-provoking discussion about collaboration, technology, and designing solutions that work at scale. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Design for Collectives — In Conversation with Roberto Cavallo: Architecture, Cities, and Collective Futures

In this guest episode of Design for Collectives, host Sonja Oliveira, Associate Dean and Professor in Architecture and Sustainability Design Innovation at the University of Strathclyde, is joined by Roberto Cavallo, Associate Professor in the Department of Architecture at the Faculty of Architecture & the Built Environment at Delft University of Technology, and President of the European Association of Architectural Education. With a career spanning both academic research and professional practice, Roberto explores how architecture can help shape the future in a time of rapid urban and environmental change. His work focuses on the evolving role of design across disciplines, the transformation of cities, and the social and environmental challenges shaping public space today. From mobility infrastructure and urban transitions to sustainable and inclusive city-making, this conversation explores how architects can work collaboratively, alongside communities, policymakers, and other disciplines, to respond to the climate crisis and the energy transition. A wide-ranging discussion about design, responsibility, and the future of our shared urban environments. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Design for Collectives — Mini Episode: People Power and the Future of Energy Flexibility

In this mini episode of Design for Collectives, Sonja Oliveira, Associate Dean and Professor in Architecture and Sustainability Design Innovation at the University of Strathclyde, brings the series together to explore why people and relationships are the real drivers of energy flexibility. Reflecting on the journey so far, this episode revisits the core ideas behind flexible energy use, the contrast between proactive and reactive energy managers, the limits of top-down policy, and the powerful role of social identity in shaping behaviour. Across neighbourhoods in Bristol and Glasgow, research shows that when people feel connected to their communities, they are far more likely to adapt their energy use, support others, and act collectively. Energy flexibility becomes not just a technical solution, but a shared social practice. The message is clear: building a resilient, fair, and sustainable energy system means designing with communities, not just for them. Because when people feel connected to each other and to a shared purpose, energy flexibility becomes a collective achievement. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Design for Collectives — Mini Episode: Energy Is a Social Value

In this mini episode of Design for Collectives, Sonja Oliveira, Associate Dean and Professor in Architecture and Sustainability Design Innovation at the University of Strathclyde, explores why energy use is shaped as much by social identity as by technology. While energy policy often focuses on smart devices, efficiency, and cost, this episode looks at the social forces behind everyday decisions. Drawing on Social Identity Theory and research into community energy behaviour, Sonja explains how belonging, trust, and shared norms influence what people see as responsible energy use. From neighbourhood solar projects to everyday household routines, energy practices are embedded in relationships, habits, and collective values. When people identify with their community and trust those around them — they are more likely to engage in energy transitions and adopt flexible behaviours. Designing effective energy systems means recognising the social reality of how people live, connect, and make decisions, not just how much energy they consume. Next time: People power; the real drivers of energy flexibility. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.