Gen Z Is Tired of Tech? Her Confession Will Surprise You
December 23, 2025
The conversation on the Mix 30 Under 30 miniseries continues in the latest episode of Space by Stansons as host Guy Stanley welcomes winner, Ellie Mumford, Senior Creative at Modus to explore why designers need collaborative partnerships, how to balance aesthetics with acoustic performance and accessibility and the strategies shaping flexible, human-centred workspaces for the hybrid era. From wellness rooms to acoustic-conscious meeting spaces, tune in to discover how the next generation of designers is rethinking office culture and why emotional regulation through thoughtful design matters more than ever.
This conversation unpacks the real responsibilities designers carry today.
The conversation on the Mix 30 Under 30 miniseries continues in the latest episode of Space by Stansons as host Guy Stanley welcomes winner, Ellie Mumford, Senior Creative at Modus to explore why designers need collaborative partnerships, how to balance aesthetics with acoustic performance and accessibility and the strategies shaping flexible, human-centred workspaces for the hybrid era.
What You’ll Learn
- Why functionality must precede aesthetics in design strategy
- How to build a collaborative ecosystem instead of being a solo expert
- The shifting purpose of office spaces in hybrid work models
- How to design wellness-centric spaces that serve multiple emotional needs
- Why face-to-face client engagement remains irreplaceable despite digital tools
- The "flexible meeting space" framework beyond traditional boardrooms
Ellie Mumford is a Senior Creative at Modus, specialising in interior design and spatial planning with a focus on functionality-first design strategies. Recently recognised as a Mix 30 Under 30 winner, Ellie brings innovative thinking to complex workplace design challenges, including neurodiversity considerations, sustainability integration and multi-disciplinary collaboration.
Her expertise spans designing flexible, human-centred spaces that balance aesthetic excellence with practical functionality. Her work exemplifies the next generation of design professionals committed to creating spaces that genuinely serve people's wellbeing and professional needs.
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Episode Highlights
- 00:00 Introduction to Space by Stansons
- 00:56 Meet Ellie Mumford: Senior Creative at Modus & 30 Under 30 Honoree
- 04:08 Why Functionality Reigns Supreme in Workspace Design
- 05:25 Multi-Disciplinary Partnerships vs. Solo Mastery
- 08:41 Is Gen-Z Tired of Tech?
- 11:55 Innovative Workplaces: Design Studio, Pitch Room & Music-Inspired Meeting Space
- 15:40 Design for Social Connection, Not Just Individual Workstations
- 17:00 Meeting Spaces Don’t Have to be Boring & Traditional
- 19:20 Design Wellness Rooms for Emotional Regulation & Wellbeing
- 22:10 The Value of Comprehensive Post-Launch Aftercare
- 23:19 Ellie’s Picks: Music, Podcasts & Personal Focus
- 28:05 New Year's Resolutions: Half Marathon, Family, & Health Goals
- 31:07 Final Thoughts
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