Il Salotto Sessions

Podcast by Sara Seravalli

Il Salotto Sessions

Welcome to Il Salotto Sessions — a podcast hosted by Sara Seravalli, where top architects, designers, and industry pros break down the world of design. Through meaningful conversations, inspiration, and knowledge sharing, we’re on a mission to make the world a better place—one story at a time. We cover trends, untold journeys, and the creative minds shaping our spaces. For more information, please visit our www.ilsalotto.design and www.designpopup.com . You can also find us on Instagram and LinkedIn

Latest episodes

09 June 2025

A Chat with Marc Cairns, Co-Founder of New Practice

In this episode of Il Salotto Sessions, Sara Seravalli sits down with Marc Cairns, director at New Practice, an architecture studio known for its deep commitment to community engagement and placemaking.

Together, they explore how architecture can better serve people—by listening more, collaborating often, and embracing both sustainability and creativity as core values. Marc reflects on Glasgow’s legacy of community-led development, the power of public art to spark dialogue, and the urgency of moving beyond greenwashing in the built environment.

Key takeaways:

Good design starts with diverse voices at the table.
Community-led approaches have deep roots—and real impact.
Art is a powerful tool for engagement and visibility.
Sustainability must be embedded, not added on.
Collaboration, not competition, drives meaningful change.
Temporary public art can bring life to overlooked spaces.
Every community deserves design that reflects its unique needs.

A conversation full of insight, purpose, and a call to do better—together.

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41:56

27 May 2025

A Chat with Helen Berresford, Partner at Sheppard Robson

In this engaging conversation, Sara Seravalli and Helen Berresford, Partner at Sheppard Robson and Head of ID:SR, explore the intricate relationship between architecture, workplace design, and the cultural richness of Milan.

They discuss how Milan's unique blend of historical and modern architecture influences contemporary workplace environments, emphasizing the importance of creating inviting spaces that foster collaboration and inclusivity.

The dialogue also touches on the significance of neurodiversity in design, the evolving nature of office spaces post-COVID, and the enriching impact of cultural fusion in design practices.

Takeaways

Milan's architectural heritage blends the old with the new.
Workplace design has evolved to prioritize human experience.
Creating inviting office environments enhances collaboration.
Designing for neurodiversity can improve workplace inclusivity.
Good design has the power to enhance well-being.
Cultural fusion enriches design practices in the workplace.
The office must be a destination that attracts people.
Understanding the needs of diverse users is crucial in design.
Every detail in design contributes to the overall experience.
The future of workplace design is interconnected and dynamic.

Keywords

Milan, workplace design, architecture, inclusivity, neurodiversity, customer experience, design week, cultural fusion, office environment, community building

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38:17

28 April 2025

A Chat with Rebecca Heald, The Heald Approach – Leadership. Sustainability. Inclusion. Real Talk.

In this engaging conversation, Rebecca Heald shares her journey from teaching to the construction industry, emphasizing the importance of empowering women and fostering diversity. She reflects on her experiences with adversity, the significance of in-person connections, and the role of her Italian heritage in shaping her identity.

The discussion highlights the need for inclusivity and the challenges faced by women in leadership roles, while also celebrating the resilience and strength of individuals who overcome obstacles.

In this engaging conversation, Sara Seravalli and Rebecca Heald explore the profound influence of strong women in their lives, the importance of resilience in overcoming adversity, and the need for women to support each other in their journeys. They discuss the challenges of self-doubt, the changing dynamics of gender equality, and the evolving expectations of younger generations in the workplace. The dialogue emphasizes the power of shared experiences and the necessity of embracing one's identity and strengths.Takeaways:

The importance of in-person connections in fostering meaningful conversations.
Empowering women in the building industry is crucial for progress.
Rebecca's journey illustrates the value of resilience and purpose.
Diversity and inclusion are essential for true equality in the workplace.
Personal experiences shape our professional journeys and perspectives.
The ideal worker stereotype still exists, impacting women's opportunities.
Mentorship is vital for guiding younger women in their careers.
Cultural heritage can play a significant role in personal identity.
Overcoming adversity can lead to greater passion and purpose in one's work.
The construction industry needs more diverse voices to thrive. Women before us need recognition for their strength.
Resilience is crucial for success in business.
Overcoming challenges builds personal resilience.
Empowerment comes from sharing experiences.
Women should support each other to rise together.
Self-doubt often holds women back from success.
Younger generations are less tolerant of inequality.
Workplace culture must adapt to attract talent.
Embracing feminine energy is a source of strength.
We are often our own biggest critics.

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46:45

16 April 2025

A chat with Helen Hare, Director of Projects at GPE

Episode Title: Making Your Mark – Helen Hare on Innovation, Sustainability & the Future of Workspaces

In this episode of Il Salotto Sessions, Sara Seravalli sits down with Helen Hare, Director of Projects at GPE, to explore the evolving role of design, sustainability, and innovation in shaping the built environment.

From her journey at GPE—from project manager to director—to leading some of the UK’s most ambitious real estate projects, Helen shares insights on supporting emerging talent, circular economy initiatives, and GPE’s commitment to ESG. Notably, we discuss their pioneering work on the largest steel reuse scheme in the UK, setting new standards for sustainable construction.

With the BCO Conference heading to Milan, we dive into what makes the city the perfect stage for this year’s theme: Making Your Mark. Milan’s unique blend of heritage and modernity, its rising influence in life sciences and sustainable urban development, and its role in shaping global design trends make it an inspiring backdrop for industry leaders.

The conversation also touches on the future of offices as a tool for talent attraction, the importance of healthy buildings for stronger communities, and how data-driven decisions are shaping customer-centric real estate solutions. Plus, we highlight the Next Gen’s growing involvement in the BCO, ensuring fresh perspectives and innovation in the sector.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and our website!

Let me know if you'd like any refinements!

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27:15

14 April 2025

AI to boost productivity, not replace creativity

Watch this snippet from the fascinating interview with Peter Kerr, Co-Founder of Cameron Kerr and Chair of BCO Scotland.

The AI Apocalypse

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00:45

07 April 2025

A chat with Peter Kerr, Director at Cameron Kerr

🎙️ Episode: AI Apocalypse
In this sharp and wide-ranging conversation, Sara Seravalli and Peter Kerr unpack the fast-moving world of artificial intelligence—what it means for how we work, create, and adapt.

They cover the essentials of AI, its real-world uses across sectors of the building industry, and the growing relevance of personalized models.

The episode also tackles bigger questions: how automation could shift job markets, what education needs to look like in an AI-driven world, and whether we're losing something by relying on instant access to knowledge.

Through it all, Sara and Peter make a case for the irreplaceable value of curiosity, creativity, and genuine human connection.

🎧 Listen in for a clear-eyed take on tech, learning, and the future we’re already stepping into.

#AI #FutureOfWork #Creativity #Innovation #Podcast #HumanConnection #ArtificialIntelligence

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25:07