Inspiring interiors

26 September 2012

A one day conference is to be run by the European Federation of Interior Landscape Groups (eFIG) at Swindon on 18 October 2012

Titled ‘Facing the Future with inspiration, innovation and inventivness’, the conference aims to encourage delegates to take a fresh look at the interior landscape industry.

Keynote speaker is Kenneth Freeman of Ambius and eFIG’s ex-chairman, whose talk is titled ‘Sustainable, healthy and effective buildings with interior landscaping’. Topics will include:
? The relationships between physical and psychological comfort in buildings
? Evidence of the restorative effects of nature
? A brief discussion about Sick Building Syndrome and the extent to which interior plants can counter complaints of SBS symptoms
? An understanding of the theory of biophilia and why it helps to explain many of the benefits of landscaping
? Ideas on how to improve well-being with nature-inspired interior landscaping
? How biophilic design is becoming more important in green and sustainable buildings

Dr Craig Knight from the University of Exeter claims that research robustly indicates that the design and management of offices generally varies from misinformed to shocking. Meanwhile quantitative psychological field studies have consistently increased office productivity by up to 32% and employee well-being by up to 40%.

Mark Laurence of Biotecture will talk about ‘Internal bio-systems for a low-impact future’. In a world of increasing urbanisation, pollution, climate change and resource depletion, our built environments have to radically change how they function over the next decade in order adapt to new realities. Building Biomembranes will create living eco-system services which operate externally and internally, in order to filter and clean air and water, add humidity and climate control, grow food for occupants and provide psychological nurture. Emerging technologies such as vertical hydroponics will be instrumental in delivering these services.

Ann-Marie Powell of Ann-Marie Powell Gardens, will present ‘Growing concepts’. Design principles and ideas from the world of exterior garden design to inspire your interior plantscapes. We'll explore Ann-Marie's own inspirations and schemes to inspire your own plantscapes filled with atmosphere, mood and presence.

In ‘A creative alternative’ Graham Pattison of G4 Consulting will cover: Inviting the client to a wider aspect of creativity in interior landscaping; and Looking at products offering a unique balance of design and originality

Steve McCurdy of Majestic Trees, will speak about ‘Focus, team and determination – the key to your success!’ A clear focus without any distractions, a motivated team lead by an inspirational leader combined with total determination come what may, are often the difference between success and failure in this continuing tough economy. Drawing on his background of interior landscaping he will bring the message to concentrate on what you do well.