Debbie Watts

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

SKILLS

ABOUT DEBBIE WATTS

I design workplaces that work for people. Founder, Ashlar ID | 36 years experience.I\'ve spent 36 years designing workplaces. What that\'s taught me, more than anything, is that how a space feels matters just as much as how it looks. Ashlar ID was founded in 2007, out of a need to create a way of working that supported both my career and parenting. I\'ve worked with organisations of all sizes, from refurbishing a 20 person charity office to overseeing the restack of a 16 building corporate site. My work spans briefing, strategy, space planning and delivery, always grounded in how people actually work and experience space. As a parent of a neurodivergent young person, and someone who recognises many of those traits in myself, I have a first-hand understanding of how environments can support or challenge people in very real ways. That understanding runs through everything I do. I believe the environments we create have a profound impact on how people feel, think and connect. My focus is on designing spaces that are not only functional, but genuinely supportive, helping people feel settled, focused and able to do their best work. I take a calm and considered approach, listening carefully, working collaboratively and speaking up when something doesn\'t feel right. I\'m particularly interested in the psychology of the workplace and how thoughtful design can support wellbeing, culture and long term performance. Change only has value when it works in practice. My priority is to ensure design decisions deliver real outcomes for organisations while supporting the people who use their spaces. Specialisms: Workplace Design, Workplace Strategy and Analysis, Inclusive and Sensory Design, Space Planning, Interior Finishes and Furniture Selection, Education and Learning Environments, Inclusive Design Workshops and Talks.