I recently spoke at a co-working seminar at MPavilion, hosted by Foolscap Studio and Relative Projects. The audience had spent the day working remotely within MPavilion’s curved amphitheatre-like clasp, designed as a ‘third space’ for working and knowledge sharing. When asked about the future of workplace design, I referenced the blending of workplace with residential and hospitality typologies, and spoke about the rise of premium first-class experiences within corporate spaces – among other things.

I really think I missed an opportunity in not talking about the intersection of education and working. The two are inextricably linked. Education prepares us for working life. The way we study is closely aligned with the way we work, and as such, our learning environments offer exciting insights into future working modes. Along with this issue’s Special Edition Editor, Leanne Amodeo (page 24), I’m fascinated to see how the design of learning spaces draws on every possible aspect of our lives: from our connection to nature, to human social behaviours, agile working habits, local lifestyle and national culture.

Also in this issue, we are excited to announce the INDE.Awards Official Shortlist 2018. It was no small task whittling over 400 blockbuster entries down to a very tight and polished shortlist. Here we present the judges’ final selections for best-in-class design in the region. Special thanks go to our INDE.Awards Partners who have made this year’s awards possible. Meet our fabulous team of major supporters, and find out who made the shortlist, page 29.

As the inaugural FRONT event draws closer (9-10 August in Sydney), we contemplate the 360-degree equation of the specification and procurement process. Through supplier showcases, industry talks, events, and good old-fashioned face-to-face time (never to be underestimated!), FRONT connects all the links in the supply chain. It’s an event not to be missed. We’ll see you there! front.design

Alice Blackwood | Editor