Transforming Spaces: Sarah Wicker's Vision for Health-Centric Design at Perkins&Will

Embracing Beauty and Functionality Through Design

In a captivating conversation between David Corson, the Publisher/Editor of CCR Magazine, and Sarah Wicker, Principal of Branded Environments at Perkins&Will in Dallas, TX, the essence of modern design is explored. Established in 1935, Perkins&Will has long championed the notion that design can transform communities and environments into healthy, inclusive spaces. With over 2,500 professionals engaged across 30 studios around the globe, they have set a high bar for architectural excellence.

The Philosophy of Living Design

The foundation of Perkins&Will's approach is their commitment to ‘Living Design’—a philosophy that emphasizes not just aesthetics, but the well-being of individuals and communities. Sarah elaborates that this framework involves a blend of practicality with poetic beauty, aiming to create spaces that foster wellness and support the mental and physical health of their inhabitants. This commitment aligns closley with the rising trend in construction where health-conscious design is at the forefront.

Innovations in Branded Environments

Branded environments are increasingly taking center stage in commercial design, merging architecture and branding to tell a company's story in a tangible way. According to Wicker, this process transcends mere branding; it’s about ensuring that every physical space is a reflection of the organizational ethos and enhances user experience. By leveraging technology and innovative design strategies, Perkins&Will ensures that functionality meets beauty, resulting in spaces where people thrive.

Positive Community Impact

Wicker stresses the importance of community and inclusion, stating that effective design is not just a luxury but a necessity for sustainable development. The team’s collaborative efforts with global partners are geared toward creating spaces that significantly improve community interactions and access to vital services. This perspective resonates especially with socially conscious businesses and community developers looking to invest in spaces that elevate societal well-being.

Insights for Business Owners and Developers

For business owners, property developers, and facility managers, embracing a philosophy of health-centric design not only boosts employee morale but also enhances productivity. Research consistently shows that well-designed environments lead to lower stress levels, improved cognitive function, and higher engagement rates. Wicker advises stakeholders to consider these long-term benefits when investing in their spaces, as health-focused designs often yield substantial financial returns through enhanced worker efficiency and satisfaction.

The Power of Collaboration

Perkins&Will is part of the Sidara Collaborative, a network of leading designers and engineers that embraces diverse perspectives to push the boundaries of conventional design. By collaborating with entities like Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects, Perkins&Will showcases the value of teamwork in achieving groundbreaking outcomes. Wicker encourages budding architects and designers to engage with a broad spectrum of professionals to innovate solutions that address real-world issues.

Conclusion: A Call to Embrace Living Design

As we navigate an ever-evolving architectural landscape, stakeholders are invited to consider the philosophy of Living Design championed by Perkins&Will. By prioritizing beauty, functionality, and community engagement, we can reshape our environments to foster healthier, happier, and more productive lives. As businesses and individuals, let us commit to creating spaces that reflect our highest values—after all, the built environment is a lens through which we embody our collective aspirations.