“Elevating Human Connection Through Good Design” – Keynote Speaker & Panel Evening

To celebrate Auckland Design Week we’ve pulled together an evening not to be missed.

Unveiling our brand new showroom upstairs at The Orange, we’re excited to introduce our guest speaker, Kirsti Simpson, Principal of Woods Bagot Brisbane who will present a keynote on “Elevating Human Connection Through Good Design”

Kirsti will be joined by an experienced panel of New Zealand designers for an indepth discussion following. The Panel includes Anna Hill, Principal and Interior Design Lead at Jasmax, Ken Sin, Director of MAKE Architects and Alexander Wastney, Designer and Director from Designwell.

The evening will explore how intentional design choices can transcend physical spaces, fostering deeper connections and enriching human experiences. Through inspiring examples and insightful commentary, participants will gain a profound understanding of the transformative power of design in creating environments that nurture authentic connections, promote well-being, and elevate the human spirit.

This is a ticketed event as part of the incredible program that Auckland Design Week has pulled together. There is limited seating so make sure to get your tickets and register for this event when registrations open early March.

Want to attend this event but not attending Auckland Design Week? We have a limited amount of reserved tickets available – contact us today to reserve your spot. Email to RSVP. 

About our panel

Kirsti Simpson – Principal, Brisbane Studio Chair, Global Sector Leader – Workplace Interiors – Woods Bagot

Kirsti is an internationally recognised expert in workplace architecture with significant expertise in the design and delivery of major complex projects, drawn from over 25 years’ experience across the design and construction industry. With global architecture practice Woods Bagot, Kirsti holds the positions of Global leader – Workplace Interiors, Studio Executive Chair (Brisbane) and Principal. Throughout her 25-year tenure in the industry Kirsti has designed groundbreaking workplaces for international and local clients, acting as a mediator in how design can foster organisational change.

Beyond this, Kirsti is an adjunct professor at the University of Queensland (UQ) School of Architecture. She is a Member of the Economic Development Queensland advisory panel and a member of the Division Council of the Property Council of Queensland.

Alexander Wastney – Designer & Creative Director – Designwell

As the founder of Designwell & Daymark, Alexander blends his extensive experience as a multi-disciplined designer with an insatiable drive to create brands and spaces that create connection and lasting impact for their customers. His Hamilton-based studios focus on bringing design excellence to the regions of Aotearoa.

Anna Hill – Principal & Interior Design Lead – Jasmax

Anna Hill is a Principal and Jasmax’s Interior Design Lead with over a decade of local and international experience in executing world-class interior design projects across a variety of sectors. With a sharp eye for detail, she draws on experience in residential, recreational, commercial, and hospitality projects to support her multi-skilled design approach, which strengthens Jasmax’s fully integrated design offering.

Anna’s designs aim to create spaces that convey unique personalities, connecting existing and prospective users. Her design acumen, alongside a comprehensive understanding of different user experiences, allows her to create spectacular design outcomes that align with the specifics of each project. Her track record of delivering professional, well-executed projects is testament to her ability to build strong relationships and negotiate the complexities of large teams, significant projects, and multiple stakeholders.

Kenneth Sin – Director – Mark Architects – Social Entrepreneur

Kenneth is passionate about the power of design to enhance holistic wellness.  His approach is to consider social, emotional, spiritual and physical wellbeing cohesively.  Built environments need to be more than shelters, they should be salubrious.  He loves to design in collaboration for well-considered solutions and mutual learning.  Kenneth has 20 years’ experience in architecture and is also co-founder of What Hope, a charity that focusses on holistic well-being for young people in South Auckland.