Forming the Future
How do we form a better future? One brick, one building, one idea at a time. Forming the Future explores the people, projects and innovations reshaping construction for the good of people and planet, and the success of the built environment sector.
Hosted by Emily Herbert and Sarah Le Gresley from Michelmersh, each episode features conversations with industry changemakers, including architects, developers and policy and product experts.
From pushing the boundaries of sustainable construction to improving wellbeing through design, guests will reveal how their vision and today’s decisions are forming tomorrow’s built environment. Whether you’re up-and-coming or have decades of experience, subscribe to Forming the Future for inspiration and actionable insights for your role in design or construction.
In this episode of the Forming the Future podcast by Michelmersh, Sarah Le Gresley and Emily Herbert host a discussion with industry expert Dave Mills on the topics of urban mining, sustainability in construction, and the importance of apprenticeships. They explore the challenges and opportunities in reusing construction materials, particularly bricks, and the shift towards more circular practices in the industry. The conversation also highlights the significance of education, transparency, and the need for a skilled workforce to drive innovation and sustainability in construction.
In this episode of the Forming the Future podcast, Sarah Le Gresley and Emily Herbert from Michelmersh speak with Mike Leonard, CEO of the Building Alliance about the future of masonry and its role in sustainable construction. They discuss the importance of longevity and durability in building materials, the need for resilience in the face of climate change, and the skills gap in the construction industry. The conversation also covers initiatives like the Get Britain Building campaign and Project 80, which aims to demonstrate the viability of masonry in achieving future home standards. The episode emphasises the need for behavioural change, circularity in construction, and the importance of a cohesive narrative to promote the benefits of masonry.
In this episode of the Forming the Future podcast, Sarah Le Gresley and Emily Herbert talk with Alexis (Lex) Harrison, a brick and architectural ceramics expert, to discuss the intersection of sustainability and architecture. They explore the evolving role of brick in modern construction, the significance of the Brick Awards, and the increasing focus on sustainability in architectural projects. The conversation delves into the circular economy, the life cycle analysis of materials, and the aesthetic value of ceramics in architecture. Additionally, they highlight innovative low carbon masonry systems and the future outlook for the brick industry, emphasising the importance of collaboration and innovation in achieving sustainable building practices.
In this episode of the Forming the Future podcast, Sarah Le Gresley and Emily Herbert interview Andrew Tam, Associate at Gort Scott, about the intersection of architecture and climate change. The discussion explores the impact of architectural design on the environment, the importance of sustainability, and the challenges faced in data collection for life cycle analysis. The conversation also delves into the role of AI in architecture, the significance of future home standards, and the need for circularity and retrofitting in the built environment. Additionally, they touch on biodiversity considerations in design and the importance of behavioral change in reducing carbon footprints.
In this episode of the Forming the Future podcast, Sarah Le Gresley and Emily Herbert discuss the vital role of ceramics in construction and everyday life with Rob Flello, Chief Executive at Ceramics UK and the Brick Development Association. They explore the challenges faced by the ceramics industry in the UK, including sustainability, government support, and the economic impact of ceramics. The conversation highlights the importance of raising awareness about the industry’s contributions and the need for innovation and support to ensure its future viability.