Human Spaces — Latest Posts

Why Ikigai is the Design Philosophy We All Need Right Now

Why Ikigai is the Design Philosophy We All Need Right Now

December 7, 2020

Whether organizing your way to happiness or embracing hygge, the Danish philosophy of cozy living, it always seems that just when you catch up to a design craze, insiders are already on to the next. So while the ascendance of ​Ikigai​ was intriguing, skepticism seemed wise. ​Ikigai​, which translates to “having a purpose” in English, is of Japanese origin, associated with the feeling of self-fulfillment earned by pursuing a meaningful life. Today, it’s being embraced by the creative community.

Ontario Association of Architects Meets Carbon Neutral Goals
Case Study

Ontario Association of Architects Meets Carbon Neutral Goals

November 30, 2020

Given its role as a regulator, promoter, and resource for Canadian architects in Ontario, it’s hardly surprising that the Ontario Association of Architects would want its Don Mills headquarters building in Toronto to meet the loftiest of sustainable standards. Originally designed by Toronto architect Ruth Cawker, who won a province-wide competition to create the building…

Inscape’s Showroom Optimizes for Wellbeing and Adaptability
Case Study

Inscape’s Showroom Optimizes for Wellbeing and Adaptability

October 28, 2020

Inscape, a furniture and architectural solutions leader, has been designing products and services focused on the future since 1888.  When the opportunity arose to create their newest showroom in Toronto, they knew they wanted to foster a welcoming space that set a new benchmark of design for the rapidly evolving workplace.

Redefining Metrics for a Carbon Negative Future

Redefining Metrics for a Carbon Negative Future

October 2, 2020

Here at Interface, we recently released our 2019 Sustainability Highlights, which convey much of the progress we’ve made toward minimizing our environmental impact since we began tracking key metrics in 1996. While we share a similar overview each year, our 2019 metrics are something to celebrate – not only because we announced the achievement of…

Wellbeing in “The New Normal” Through Biophilic Design

Wellbeing in “The New Normal” Through Biophilic Design

August 27, 2020

As we consider options to return to public spaces, it is paramount for us to incorporate health and wellbeing as ultimate drivers. The obvious focus in this instance is on minimizing contact and supporting respiratory health. It is also paramount that we support each other by utilizing interventions that foster our emotional wellbeing.

Reapproaching Base Camp

Reapproaching Base Camp

August 10, 2020

As anyone involved in a commercial construction or design project knows, it’s not a simple A-to-Z process. There are budgets to consider, stakeholders to involve, and let’s not forget that an ongoing global pandemic brings health and safety to the forefront of every discussion. We know that Interface isn’t the only organization thinking about COVID-19’s implications to our built space, but we think it might be helpful to publicly chart our process in hopes that it might help others.

Featured Contributor

Mindy O'Gara

Mindy O'Gara

With a passion for design and learning, Mindy O’Gara blends both of these talents into her daily role as Director of Product and Learning Experience at Interface.

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