
Hosted by Horton Interiors · EN
Let’s Talk is a podcast that provides valuable insights and knowledge about interior design and the fit-out industry.
The podcast aims to give back to the wider design and fit-out community by sharing our experiences, expertise, and advice on various topics related to the industry. The podcast also features interviews with industry experts, providing listeners with diverse perspectives and insights.

Welcome back to another thrilling episode of the Let's Talk podcast. This time we're turning our focus to a very special charity, Surge for Water, by inviting Marita Peters, Executive Director Middle East at Surge for Water and Laila Al-Yousuf, Design Director at SAY Studio. We start off by asking the duo about how the upcoming successful annual Gala dinner 'Design, Dine, make a Difference'! came to life, while delving into the heart of Surge's mission.We also discuss how Surge is working towards solving the global water crisis by looking at sanitation issues first while shedding light on the link between menstrual health and sanitation issues that women face in rural areas and across communities.Moving forward, we take a closer look into Surge's initiatives, ranging from bio-sand filtration systems to sanitation projects, leaving a positive footprint from Uganda to Indonesia.If you're wondering how they tailor solutions to specific communities? We'll share insights into Surge's collaborative efforts with local champions who truly understand the natural cycles within their communities.Feeling inspired to contribute to the cause? Stick around as we reveal how you can make a difference with Surge for Water!Horton Interiors proudly brings you the 'Let's Talk' podcast - the ultimate podcast series where we unravel the latest trends and insights in the industry. Together with our host, Oliver Baxter, we'll be talking about design, build and everything in between. Stay tuned as we bring you exciting discussions and unveil groundbreaking ideas with the industry's bests.Powered by Maven

We’re back with the latest episode of the Let’s Talk Podcast!This time, we bring in Chelsea Perino, Managing Director and Global Marketing & Communications at The Executive Centre, along with our Managing Director, Douglas Drummond, for a chat all about co-working spaces.The Executive Centre's (TEC) secret sauce for success? They focus on people, not just real estate, catering primarily to multinational corporations (MNCs). But how do they help MNCs set up shop in foreign countries when language and local contact are barriers? Flexible co-working spaces like TEC swoop in to save the day, offering unique solutions.We'll also dive into TEC's approach to branding co-working spaces for different companies and changing their mindset on how to utilise the space fully. From post-pandemic changes in the flexible workspace to the future of work and sustainability, this episode has it all.Lastly, Chelsea sheds light on the latest initiative she is working on to empower Asian women and provide opportunities to create connections and build their confidence. So, if you are curious about what the future of work is going to look like for your organisation, this episode is a must-listen.#hortoninteriors #letstalkpodcast #flexibleworking #coworkingspace #workspacedesign #businessgrowth Horton Interiors proudly brings you the 'Let's Talk' podcast - the ultimate podcast series where we unravel the latest trends and insights in the industry. Together with our host, Oliver Baxter, we'll be talking about design, build and everything in between. Stay tuned as we bring you exciting discussions and unveil groundbreaking ideas with the industry's bests.Powered by Maven

Serving up another enlightening episode of the Let's Talk podcast, we're back with our host, Oliver as he joins Senior Architect, Syahrozanna Tee and Project Architect, Mohamed Rowaizak from SLB.We kick things off with the exciting mission they're on to supercharge office efficiency by a whopping 50% in the next five years. You might be wondering where these numbers come from, and why choose 50%. It's a head-scratcher, right? But hold onto your hats, because things get even more intriguing.We also explore how SLB handles workspace design. They're all about making it diverse, inclusive, and innovative. How, you ask? Well, tune into the episode to hear more!Apart from taking workspaces from design to construction, we discuss mental health and well-being initiatives like the 'To the Moon' initiative. But that's not all! We'll also dive into the benefits of having in-house architects, the challenges of setting global workplace standards, and the role of data in making workplaces eco-friendly.If you're curious about the future of workspaces and looking for a fresh perspective on how to transform your workplace, this conversation is a goldmine of insights. So don’t miss out!Horton Interiors proudly brings you the 'Let's Talk' podcast - the ultimate podcast series where we unravel the latest trends and insights in the industry. Together with our host, Oliver Baxter, we'll be talking about design, build and everything in between. Stay tuned as we bring you exciting discussions and unveil groundbreaking ideas with the industry's bests.Powered by Maven

Welcome back to another episode of the Let's Talk Podcast. This week our host Oliver and Managing Director, Douglas Drummond, sit down with Pearce Hewitt, Sales Manager at Unified Microsystems, as they discuss integrating technology solutions in the design phase of a project. If you’re wondering if Alexa might just pop up in your office soon, we start off the episode by diving into the buzzworthy topic of ‘Internet of Things (IoT)’ as they discuss trends in hospitality and commercial spaces, and why it's so crucial to bring in tech companies early during the design phase.With the pandemic changing the way we work, with some of us now in a hybrid work model, we're discussing how IT has adapted, the challenges it brings, and sharing insights from occupancy and utilisation studies into the systems deployed by WeWork, highlighting the need for data-informed design. The Tech industry is known for not being sustainable because of the way they manufacture technological parts, so we dive in to find out if there are any changes being adopted to make the process more sustainable. Moving into the shadows, they uncover the dark side of AI and how technology companies are handling it with care. But tech isn't just about AI though, so we explore other technologies that are currently making waves in understanding space usage and occupancy.Ever wondered what's the first piece of tech you encounter when you walk into an office space? They're here to share the IT advancements and the most common issues people face in those environments.And lastly, the burning question: How can we get WiFi right, especially when we have high-speed connection? Listen in as they clear the air on this topic. If you're looking into new ways to use technology to grow your company and evolve operations, then this episode is for you.Horton Interiors proudly brings you the 'Let's Talk' podcast - the ultimate podcast series where we unravel the latest trends and insights in the industry. Together with our host, Oliver Baxter, we'll be talking about design, build and everything in between. Stay tuned as we bring you exciting discussions and unveil groundbreaking ideas with the industry's bests.Powered by Maven

Welcome back to another exciting episode of the Let’s Talk podcast! This time, we're flipping the script and placing our host, Oliver Baxter, Founder of Workplace Consultancy Firm, Maven, in the guest seat as he takes us through all things workplace consultancy within the region.To kick things off, we ask Oliver where we are with workplace consultancy in the UAE and how it's being adopted within the region. With interior design projects, time is everything, so knowing at which stage to take a workplace consultant into the design process is crucial.But here's where it gets interesting – workplace consultants aren't just about rearranging layouts and furniture. They're also helping companies figure out what kind of building and space they really need, especially with companies downsizing their offices due to the adoption of a hybrid work culture.Now, while Dubai has undoubtedly become a hub for business and living, the battle for talent remains fierce. We'll explore how companies can attract and retain top talent by optimizing their spaces to align with global workplace trends.What’s more, we also discuss the challenges of getting feedback from workplace surveys in a region enriched by diverse cultures and stringent data privacy regulations. So if you’re looking for ways to optimise your workspace even before you think of picking colors for your office walls, then this episode is a must-listen.Horton Interiors proudly brings you the 'Let's Talk' podcast - the ultimate podcast series where we unravel the latest trends and insights in the industry. Together with our host, Oliver Baxter, we'll be talking about design, build and everything in between. Stay tuned as we bring you exciting discussions and unveil groundbreaking ideas with the industry's bests.Powered by Maven

In this episode of the ‘Let’s Talk’ podcast, Oliver sits down with Martin Harris, Boeing's Manager for Global Real Estate (IMEAT & APAC), to dive into the art of creating sustainable and productive workspaces.We kick-off the conversation with a shared concern for numerous companies: what to do with all that extra office space?We also explore how companies expanding across the world can adapt their global office standards to regional offices striking a balance between consistency and local preferences or perceptions.In the post-COVID world, the importance of primary office locations is shifting. Proximity to similar businesses is becoming less crucial, and we examine whether Dubai is following the trend of satellite offices.We also discuss privacy in open offices and how we can tweak spaces to fit various work styles and needs. And, of course, we'll dig into the tech and AI tools that are shaping how we utilise these spaces.But that's not all, Martin shares the importance of a holistic approach to office space and fit-out, extending beyond furniture and the importance of communication.Tune in now to find out the 'how' of achieving workplace goals which is just as crucial as the 'what’ and create workspaces that truly meet the needs of your workforce.Horton Interiors proudly brings you the 'Let's Talk' podcast - the ultimate podcast series where we unravel the latest trends and insights in the industry. Together with our host, Oliver Baxter, we'll be talking about design, build and everything in between. Stay tuned as we bring you exciting discussions and unveil groundbreaking ideas with the industry's bests.Powered by Maven

In this episode of the ‘Let’s Talk’ podcast, join Oliver as he engages in an insightful conversation with Bhakti More, Chairperson & Associate Professor, School of Design & Architecture at Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Dubai campus, and Neelanchana Kumar, our Design Director at Horton Interiors.From mentoring powerhouse women within classrooms to navigating the ever-changing design industry, we take a closer look into the vital roles of mentors and universities in shaping the next generation of successful designers. Venturing beyond the world of academia, Bhakti shares insights and experience in writing an award-winning research paper that focuses on urban planning and social cohesion in the vibrant Dubai community. Moreover, as sustainability gains prominence on the global stage, we explore how universities and students are stepping up for sustainability by participating in initiatives such as creating a net-zero carbon campus by 2040, in sync with the UN's Race to Zero campaign.Shifting gears, we bridge the gap between theory and real-world practice by delving into the transformative power of internships as a gateway to offer students hands-on experience in real projects.So, don't miss out on tuning in to this episode that unravels the intricate threads of mentoring, sustainability, and design in the world of architecture and interior design.Horton Interiors proudly brings you the 'Let's Talk' podcast - the ultimate podcast series where we unravel the latest trends and insights in the industry. Together with our host, Oliver Baxter, we'll be talking about design, build and everything in between. Stay tuned as we bring you exciting discussions and unveil groundbreaking ideas with the industry's bests.Powered by Maven

We’re back with another exciting episode featuring the incredible success and leadership coach, the man behind 2b Limitless, and the driving force himself, Mick Todd. In this episode, we explore the journey to creating leaders who inspire, work that resonates, and a culture that thrives on contribution.Toss aside the tired old concept of work-life balance as Mick introduces the concept of work-life progress. Discover how to maintain momentum even as life constantly evolves, and uncover invaluable insights into combating workplace burnout while shifting perspectives on the very nature of work itself.Ever wondered why we tend to dwell on the negative? You’ll discover how to flip the script on negativity bias and set the stage for a world where everyone's unique sparkle shines bright.If you think employee engagement is just a buzzword? Think again! We're breaking down the science as we explore if the 4-day work week is as effective as data suggests and other strategies that can impact culture and productivity.As we wrap things up, don't miss Mick's enlightening perspective on creating space for direction, impact, and community. Get ready to reshape your approach to work, life, and everything in between! Horton Interiors proudly brings you the 'Let's Talk' podcast - the ultimate podcast series where we unravel the latest trends and insights in the industry. Together with our host, Oliver Baxter, we'll be talking about design, build and everything in between. Stay tuned as we bring you exciting discussions and unveil groundbreaking ideas with the industry's bests.Powered by Maven

Welcome to the latest episode of our podcast, where we venture into the world of Dubai Real Estate with Michael Waters, an associate professor in real estate at Heriot Watt University, Dubai. Join us as we take a closer look at the latest trends, regulations, and surprising insights that shape the ever-evolving landscape of Dubai property.Regulations play a crucial role in the industry, and we examine how they have shaped Dubai's real estate landscape over the years. Explore the changing consumer behaviour when investing in Dubai real estate, and gain valuable insights into investing in commercial properties and emerging trends.Amid the post-COVID era, we explore spaces to be considered as investments and leasing opportunities. We also explore the concept of hybrid work and the importance of a well-designed workplace strategy in enhancing productivity and employee satisfaction.But that's not all. We go beyond the present and delve into scenario planning and the process of predicting the future. Whether you're a seasoned investor, a real estate professional, or simply curious about the Dubai property market, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we explore the multifaceted world of Dubai Real Estate.Horton Interiors proudly brings you the 'Let's Talk' podcast - the ultimate podcast series where we unravel the latest trends and insights in the industry. Together with our host, Oliver Baxter, we'll be talking about design, build and everything in between. Stay tuned as we bring you exciting discussions and unveil groundbreaking ideas with the industry's bests.Powered by Maven

Welcome to the fourth episode of "Let's Talk," the podcast where we delve into the fascinating world of design and build. Get ready to embark on an exciting journey into the future of construction technology. In this episode, we will dive deep into the transformative power of technology and how it is reshaping collaboration, breaking down barriers, and revolutionizing the way projects are delivered.Gain fascinating insights into how Horton is embracing innovation by leveraging Procore's state-of-the-art project management solutions that is changing the game, making processes more efficient, and boosting productivity like never before.Delve into the world of data security, risk management and discover how harnessing the power of artificial intelligence is paving the way for advanced decision-making, predictive analytics, and automation.But that's not all! Gain valuable tips to master the art of public speaking. You'll walk away equipped with the skills to captivate any audience and convey your ideas with confidence and impact.So join us in this incredible episode of "Let's Talk" as we explore the remarkable world of project management technology which is focused on fostering innovation and pushing the boundaries of what's possible.Horton Interiors proudly brings you the 'Let's Talk' podcast - the ultimate podcast series where we unravel the latest trends and insights in the industry. Together with our host, Oliver Baxter, we'll be talking about design, build and everything in between. Stay tuned as we bring you exciting discussions and unveil groundbreaking ideas with the industry's bests.Powered by Maven