Shared Space

Shared Space uses science and storytelling to reveal the power of architecture and design to make us healthier, happier, and more connected.

Erin Peavey Erin Peavey

Building A Better Block with Andrew Howard

How can a one-day event spark lasting change? How can community design be open sourced? What should we be measuring if we want to gauge positive change?

I talk with transportation and placemaking expert, Andrew Howard about his experiences doing just this with Team Better Block. Andrew is the director of placemaking at WGI, a national design and professional services firm leading in technology-based solutions for the construction of public infrastructure and real estate development. Andrew co-founded Better Block in 2010 as a transportation and placemaking focused public outreach firm that temporarily re-engineers auto-dominated, blighted, and underused urban areas into vibrant centers.

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Erin Peavey Erin Peavey

The Psychology of Places of Connection - Colin Ellard, PhD [Part 1]

I speak with acclaimed author, researcher, TEDx speaker, and professor of environmental psychology, Dr. Colin Ellard.

Part 1: On this first part of our two-part episode, Colin and I explore how he discovered his passion for this field, how COVID-19 is shaping his current research and how we are all connecting, and lastly we discuss what evolutionary psychology can teach us about ideal group sizes for connection and community.

Part 2: On the second half of our two-part episode, Colin and I explore research around what small tweaks can shape how we evaluate and want to connect with others, difference between what people think will make them happy and what they want, vs. what actually makes us happy in our home environments, and lastly he leaves us with what he hopes we consider in design and beyond.

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Meet the Team

  • Erin K. Peavey

    PODCAST HOST

    Erin is the host of Shared Space. She is an award-winning architect, researcher, writer, explorer, and activist. Erin started Shared Space to create a place to hear the voices and stories behind how our spaces and places shape our live, work, love, and connections.

  • Arnila Nolok

    AUDIO PRODUCER (SEASON 2)

    Arnila is a passionate storyteller and actor, graduated from the University of North Texas with a Master of Fine Arts degree. Her contributions have made additional seasons possible, she is a wonderful collaborator and storyteller.

  • Leanne Doore

    GRAPHIC DESIGNER (SEASON 2)

    Leanne is passionate about design and making awesome things, whether it’s an interactive experience, printed media, or artwork. We are lucky enough to have her assist with her wicked graphic design skills.