Post - IA Design

Different Brains, Better Places

James Morgan — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 00:47:13 +0000

Different Brains, Better Places

Why Designing for Difference Benefits Everyone

By Bruce Khajehnoori, Regional Director NSW, IA

A 2-part series on my lived experience of thinking and learning differently, by Bruce Khajehnoori.

I wasn’t officially diagnosed with ADHD until my mid-twenties. It was only later that I began to understand the role dyslexia had also played throughout my education.

Ironically, the child who struggled to learn within traditional environments would eventually build a career designing them.

For much of my school life, I assumed the problem was me.

Looking back, learning was difficult.

Not occasionally difficult.

Consistently difficult.

I watched classmates grasp concepts that seemed obvious while I struggled to understand what teachers were explaining. Reading took more effort. Following instructions sometimes felt overwhelming. Tasks that appeared straightforward for others often felt frustratingly complex.

Years later, I began to ask a different question.

What if some of the challenge wasn’t individual capability?

What if part of the challenge was the environment itself?

Today, as a designer, I find myself returning to that question regularly.

Throughout my career, I’ve worked on workplaces, educational facilities, government environments and public spaces.

That question becomes even more important when we consider one of design’s most persistent assumptions: the idea of an average user. The average employee, student, customer or visitor may be a useful abstraction, but they do not exist in real life. Every person brings different experiences, preferences, strengths, challenges and ways of thinking. If our environments are designed around an imagined average, many real people are required to work harder simply to participate.

One observation continues to stand out.

People experience the same environment very differently.

Some thrive in busy settings.

Others perform better in quieter spaces.

Some process information best through discussion.

Others need time to reflect independently.

Some gain energy from constant interaction.

Others lose it.

Yet many environments continue to be designed around an assumption that people work, learn and engage in broadly the same way.

Historically, we’ve often designed around expectations such as:

Sit still.
Focus for long periods.
Learn in one way.
Work in one way.
Process information at the same pace.
Engage in the same manner.

The challenge is that very few people fit that model perfectly.

My experience of learning differently taught me something that has influenced my entire approach to design.

Attention and understanding do not exist in isolation.

They’re influenced by environment.

Factors such as:

Lighting
Acoustics
Visual clutter
Spatial organisation
Movement
Access to choice

can significantly influence how people focus, process information and perform.

I’ve seen this play out repeatedly during stakeholder engagement sessions.

People rarely ask for larger spaces.

More commonly, they ask for:

Places to focus.
Places to collaborate.
Places to think.
Places to recharge.
Greater flexibility in how they use a space.

Whether we’re talking about a student, an employee or a visitor, the underlying need is remarkably similar.

People want environments that support the way they work best.

Importantly, these responses are not specialist accommodations that benefit only a small group. Better acoustics improve concentration for everyone. Clear wayfinding reduces uncertainty. Flexible settings support different working styles. Retreat spaces give people somewhere to reset. Designing with neurodiversity in mind is not a separate layer added to good design; it is one way of achieving good design.

Designing for the edges often improves outcomes for the middle. The goal is not to create one perfect environment, but to create environments flexible enough to support different ways of thinking.

The more I reflect on my own experiences, the less convinced I become that there is a normal way to learn, work or engage with the world. Once we accept that there is no average user, we can stop asking people to adapt to our environments and start creating environments that adapt to people.

Perhaps the better question is this:

As designers, clients, educators and leaders, what would change if we treated human difference as our starting point rather than an exception?

Coming next in the series

Part 2: Choice Matters: Designing Better Learning Environments for Different Minds

About the author

Bruce Khajehnoori
Regional Director NSW, IA

Follow Bruce on LinkedIn

IA launches IA Group LLC USA, establishing a dedicated presence in the United States

admin — Thu, 03 Sep 2026 12:40:19 +0000

IA launches IA Group LLC USA, establishing a dedicated presence in the United States

IA is pleased to announce the launch of IA Group LLC USA, marking an exciting new chapter in our growth and establishing a dedicated presence in the United States.

Joining as Vice President is Matt Mansfield, who will lead the establishment, growth and operations of the US business from Los Angeles.

Matt brings more than 35 years of experience across the construction and building industry, including nearly 20 years specialising in commercial fit-out and construction.

In his new role, Matt will focus on establishing the foundations for IA Group LLC USA and driving its growth in the US market. This will include developing new business opportunities, building the client pipeline and establishing relationships with contractors and industry partners.

Working closely with IA’s broader team, Matt will also play an important role in bringing IA’s established architecture and design expertise and project capabilities to the US market.

The launch of IA Group LLC USA represents a significant step in IA’s continued growth. A dedicated US presence provides a platform to better support existing clients with international requirements, develop new client relationships and expand IA’s project capabilities internationally.

With seven studios across Australia and now a dedicated presence in the United States, IA continues to build on the strength of its national expertise while creating new opportunities for our people, clients and partners across international markets.

We are delighted to welcome Matt to the team and look forward to seeing IA Group LLC USA take shape and grow under his leadership.

The post IA launches IA Group LLC USA, establishing a dedicated presence in the United States first appeared on IA Design.

What Unpriced Risk Actually Costs

admin — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 12:22:00 +0000

What Unpriced Risk Actually Costs

A note on fees, rigour, and who pays later

One of our teams has been asked to sign off on a set of drawings in four days that, done properly, needed three weeks. The fee had already been agreed. The risk didn’t go away, it just stopped being covered.

That’s the quiet trade happening across our industry right now. Australia’s regulatory framework is becoming more demanding by the year, yet many design consultants are being asked to carry more statutory responsibility and accept greater professional risk for lower fees than ever before. Something has to give. It’s always time. And time is the one thing the rules were meant to protect.

At IA, we operate as a national design consultancy spanning architecture and interior design across seven Australian studios and now one in the US. Our teams take real pride in the work, and a significant part of that work is producing documentation that carries genuine statutory weight. Done well, it protects builders, developers, clients, and the communities we design for. When the fee doesn’t leave enough time, that documentation gets harder to hold together. Not because anyone wants to cut corners. Because there just isn’t time left to do it properly. Coordination gets thin. Checks get skipped. None of that shows up on the fee proposal. It shows up later, when it’s expensive to fix.

The good PMs we work with understand that procurement isn’t about finding the cheapest number, it’s about paying for the outcome you actually need. That’s a collaborative relationship, built on a shared understanding of what risk and rigour actually cost to deliver properly. It’s also, in my experience, increasingly rare.

What’s more common is a race to the bottom. Lowest bid wins, then gets cut again in a best and final round, on the assumption there was still room to give. Sometimes there was. More and more, there isn’t. Every extra cut comes straight out of the hours the project actually needs.

This isn’t a criticism of procurement, it’s a call to change what procurement optimises for. The conversation our industry needs isn’t “how low can we get the fee” but “what does this project need to be done properly, and are we paying for that.” Those are different questions, asked of different people, and they lead to very different outcomes for everyone at the table, including, ultimately, the client.

Here’s the test. Before asking a consultant to do it faster and cheaper, ask yourself honestly whether you’ve actually accounted for the risk you’re handing them.

If you haven’t, you haven’t saved money. You’ve just put off the bill. Someone always ends up paying it.

Andrew Whitelegg

CEO & Managing Director, IA Group

The post What Unpriced Risk Actually Costs first appeared on IA Design.

Embracing Accessibility and Inclusivity Design in the Workplace

AXS2editor — Wed, 01 Jul 2026 04:04:00 +0000

Embracing Accessibility

and Inclusivity Design in the Workplace

When designing a workspace that involves accessibility and inclusivity, a multifaceted approach is paramount. Physical environments should prioritise features like ramps, elevators, and adjustable furniture to accommodate individuals with diverse mobility requirements. Ergonomic considerations, such as customizable desk heights and seating options, cater to the varying needs of employees.

Technological inclusivity is equally crucial. Implementing assistive technologies like screen readers, speech recognition software, and ergonomic keyboards ensures that all employees can engage fully in digital tasks. Additionally, creating digital content and interfaces with accessibility standards in mind contributes to a more universally usable workspace.

Interior design that fosters an inclusive culture involves promoting awareness and sensitivity. Training programs on disability etiquette and unconscious bias can cultivate an environment where all employees feel valued and respected. Encouraging open communication and providing channels for feedback allows the organisation to continually refine and improve inclusivity initiatives.

The accessible and inclusive workspace is one that not only accommodates diverse needs but also celebrates the unique strengths everyone brings to the workplace, fostering a culture of equality and belonging.

The post Embracing Accessibility and Inclusivity Design in the Workplace first appeared on IA Design.

Lighting Design in the Workplace

AXS2editor — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 03:59:00 +0000

Lighting Design in the Workplace

Lighting design plays an important role in enhancing the workplace experience, influencing employee well-being, productivity, and overall satisfaction. Well planned lighting can create a comfortable and stimulating environment, contributing to a positive workplace.

Properly illuminated workplaces reduce eye strain and fatigue, fostering a healthier and more focused workforce. Natural light, when incorporated into the design, promotes circadian rhythm regulation, improving sleep patterns and mood. This, in turn, positively impacts employee alertness and performance.

Strategic lighting design also considers task-specific requirements, ensuring appropriate illumination for various work activities. Dimmable and adjustable lighting solutions provide flexibility, allowing employees to personalize their workspace according to preferences and tasks. By incorporating energy-efficient lighting technologies not only reduces environmental impact but also contributes to a reduction in property costs.

Lighting can be used creatively to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the workplace. Thoughtful use of ambient, accent, and decorative lighting can contribute to a visually pleasing and inspiring atmosphere, fostering creativity and innovative thinking amongst employees.

An effective lighting design goes beyond just functionality; it is a holistic approach that considers the physical and psychological well-being of employees, creating an environment that positively influences their overall workplace experience.

The post Lighting Design in the Workplace first appeared on IA Design.

Biophilic Design in Australia

AXS2editor — Fri, 01 May 2026 03:43:00 +0000

Biophilic Design in Australia

Biophilic design is transforming Australian workplaces by seamlessly integrating nature into office environments. Recognizing the impact on employee well-being and productivity, companies are more than ever embracing this innovative approach. In Australia, where a connection to the outdoors is ingrained in the culture, biophilic design aligns perfectly with the local ethos.

Workspaces are adorned with indoor plants, living walls, and expansive windows to invite nature indoors. This not only enhances aesthetics but also contributes to improved air quality and psychological well-being, reducing stress, and boosting creativity. Australian interior workplaces are increasingly utilizing biophilic design to create rejuvenating breakout areas and collaborative spaces, fostering a sense of connection with the environment.

This design philosophy aligns with Australia’s commitment to sustainability, promoting energy efficiency and responsible material resourcing. By incorporating natural elements, companies aim to create a harmonious balance between the built environment and the beauty of the Australian landscape. As a result, biophilic design is not just a trend; it’s a transformative force shaping workplaces into healthier, more inspiring, and sustainable spaces across the continent.

The post Biophilic Design in Australia first appeared on IA Design.

Embracing Remote Collaboration: The Future of Flexible Work Arrangements

AXS2editor — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 03:37:00 +0000

Embracing Remote Collaboration:

The Future of Flexible Work Arrangements

In the ever-evolving landscape of work, a paradigm shift towards remote collaboration is shaping the future of flexible work arrangements. The traditional 9-to-5 office routine is giving way to a more dynamic and adaptable approach, where professionals are no longer tethered to a physical workspace. A typical work week experienced by most of our clients is 3 days in the office and 2 days working from home.

The biggest challenge for most organisations is accommodating for the occasions when whole teams want to be in the office to celebrate, recognise and collaborate with each other. Clients are working hard on their workplace design to achieve adaptable and engaging ‘team spaces’. Combining both digital and physical solutions in your design thinking helps to bridge the gap between working locally and remotely.

Embracing remote collaboration not only allows for a more flexible work environment but also unlocks a myriad of benefits. The proliferation of digital communication tools has facilitated seamless interactions across geographies, fostering a global talent pool. Teams can collaborate in real-time, breaking down barriers imposed by physical distance. This shift empowers employees to achieve a better work-life balance, enhancing overall job satisfaction and well-being.

Moreover, organizations embracing remote collaboration often witness increased productivity and innovation. The diverse perspectives that come from a geographically dispersed workforce can lead to more creative problem-solving and a richer tapestry of ideas. This shift is not just a response to external circumstances but a strategic move towards a future where flexibility is a cornerstone of a successful workplace.

As companies adapt to this new normal, the ability to embrace remote collaboration becomes a competitive advantage. It is a catalyst for cultivating a more agile, resilient, and responsive workforce, underscoring the transformative power of flexible work arrangements in shaping the workplaces of tomorrow.

As your organisation is unique, so is our approach to workplace governance and executive leadership team level decision making.  Flexible working arrangements need to be clear and tailored for each business to ensure that a single arrangement is equitable across all facets of your business.  For assistance in gaining round table agreement please don’t hesitate to reach out to our workplace advisor experts.

The post Embracing Remote Collaboration: The Future of Flexible Work Arrangements first appeared on IA Design.

High Performing Workplaces: Adaptation is the Key

AXS2editor — Sun, 01 Mar 2026 03:24:00 +0000

High Performing Workplaces:

Adaptation is the Key

In the contemporary workplace, the importance of adaptable spaces cannot be overstated when considering the long-term resilience of workplace design throughout the duration of a lease. An adaptable workspace is a strategic investment that aligns with the dynamic nature of business environments, ensuring that the design remains relevant and functional as the organization evolves.

The ability of a workspace to adapt to changing needs and technologies is essential for optimizing productivity and employee satisfaction. At the heart of our design philosophy is the recognition that businesses undergo transformations, and their physical spaces should seamlessly support these changes. The problem property teams face is that at the commencement of a lease there is a large sum of funds to achieve the ideal workplace design and fitout.  As experienced by most of our clients, by the time they move in ‘change’ at a team or divisional level has already occurred.  Whether that be by organisational change or simply growth or retraction in one or more areas. What happens is there is little to no available funds during the term of the lease to accommodate for these changes appropriately. Sound familiar? Traditional workplace design or ‘lazy design’ as we refer to it is not a high performing workplace design for any client.

The solution is to design for adaptation, the ‘what if’ from the outset, but both from a technical and physical aspect of workplace design. From flexible layouts to modular furniture, our focus is on creating environments that can be easily reconfigured to accommodate shifting priorities and work styles. The smarts is in aligning our strategic planning with design outcomes that enable spaces such as 6 person meeting rooms to be reconfigured into 2 quiet rooms with little to no impact. Design contingencies in the workplace environment that have considered acoustic performance differentials over time and changes to levels of ad-hoc collaboration versus primary workpoint occupation. Our teams pride themselves on appreciating the relationships between your teams and the spaces they want to occupy today and the ones they will need to occupy tomorrow.

The long-term success of a workplace design is measured not only by its initial functionality but by its sustained relevance. Adaptable spaces contribute to the resilience of the design, offering a future-proof solution that saves both time and resources. By anticipating and accommodating change, our approach ensures that our clients’ workplaces remain vibrant, efficient, and conducive to success over the entire duration of their leases.

The post High Performing Workplaces: Adaptation is the Key first appeared on IA Design.

The Future of Work in 2024

AXS2editor — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 04:21:00 +0000

The Future of Work in 2024

In 2024, the future of work will continue to be shaped by ongoing technological advancements and evolving workplace dynamics.

Remote work will continue to be prominent, with a hybrid work model either gaining traction or in decline due to rising unemployment and increased competitive tension around the labour market. AI will play a pivotal role, automating routine tasks while emphasizing the importance of human-centric skills like creativity and adaptability.

Companies will prioritise employee well-being, implementing mental health initiatives and fostering a supportive work culture to attract staff back into the office.

Upskilling and continuous learning are integral as industries undergo rapid transformations. Collaborative tools and virtual reality enhance remote collaboration, transcending geographical boundaries.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion take centre stage, promoting a more representative workforce. Sustainability becomes a key focus, with organizations integrating more eco-friendly practices into their operations.

Government policies are looking to adapt to accommodate the changing nature of work, addressing issues like gig economy regulations and AI. As organizations navigate uncertainty, agility becomes a core competency. Strategic planning incorporates resilience to external disruptions, ensuring adaptability in an ever-evolving landscape. The future of work in 2024 is a dynamic ecosystem where technology, human-centric values, and adaptability converge for sustainable success.

Although, for the first time in several years, the balance of power will shift ever so slightly from the employee to employers.

The post The Future of Work in 2024 first appeared on IA Design.

Innovative Workspaces: Rethinking Office Design for Productivity and Well-being

admin — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 04:28:31 +0000

Innovative Workspaces:

Rethinking Office Design for Productivity and Well-being

In the realm of modern work, the concept of “Innovative High Performing Workspaces” stands as a testament to the evolving nature of work environments. Companies are acknowledging the pivotal role that office design plays in shaping the employee experience, moving beyond conventional layouts to create spaces that prioritize both productivity and well-being.

This paradigm shift goes beyond aesthetics, delving into the core principles of how workspaces impact the mental and physical health of employees. Forward-thinking organizations, recognizing the correlation between a well-designed workspace and enhanced job satisfaction, are investing in innovative designs that foster creativity and collaboration.

As every client of ours has experienced, the way they deliver their services continues to shift over time.  Experiencing growth and retraction at a team level often impacts built space and subsequently forces ad hoc workplace refurbishments. At IA we specialise in high performing workplaces that remain resilient for our clients over the long term of their lease.  Our Advisors and Designers strategically plan and design for adaptation over time, ensuring lasting performance of each space therein.

The post Innovative Workspaces: Rethinking Office Design for Productivity and Well-being first appeared on IA Design.

Post - IA Design

Different Brains, Better Places

Different Brains, Better Places

Why Designing for Difference Benefits Everyone

Coming next in the series

About the author

Related reading

IA launches IA Group LLC USA, establishing a dedicated presence in the United States

IA launches IA Group LLC USA, establishing a dedicated presence in the United States

What Unpriced Risk Actually Costs

What Unpriced Risk Actually Costs

A note on fees, rigour, and who pays later

Embracing Accessibility and Inclusivity Design in the Workplace

Embracing Accessibility

and Inclusivity Design in the Workplace

Lighting Design in the Workplace

Lighting Design in the Workplace

Biophilic Design in Australia

Biophilic Design in Australia

Embracing Remote Collaboration: The Future of Flexible Work Arrangements

Embracing Remote Collaboration:

The Future of Flexible Work Arrangements

High Performing Workplaces: Adaptation is the Key

High Performing Workplaces:

Adaptation is the Key

The Future of Work in 2024

The Future of Work in 2024

Innovative Workspaces: Rethinking Office Design for Productivity and Well-being

Innovative Workspaces:

Rethinking Office Design for Productivity and Well-being