From Architecture to Immersion: The Creative Journey of Estelle Asmaa Alanbari

By Argjenda Miftari

From architecture to visual art and immersive storytelling, Alanbari’s practice bridges disciplines to create experiences that resonate on both emotional and sensory levels. We caught up with her in her canal-side studio 115 based here at Great Western Studios, to hear more about her creative philosophy, her most meaningful projects, and the inspirations that continue to shape her work.

What’s your guiding philosophy when working with clients, and how did you develop it?

“My guiding philosophy is rooted in collaboration and emotional resonance. Whether I’m working with a cultural institution, a brand, or a theatre company, I see my role as both interpreter and amplifier – translating a core idea into an immersive experience that audiences can feel. This approach developed organically through working across disciplines: from the precision of spatial design, I learned how vital structure and flow are; from visual art, I gained a sensitivity to symbolism and mood; and from performance and film, I embraced the power of storytelling. Above all, I’ve found that the best work comes when there’s genuine dialogue with the client – when I listen closely, challenge gently, and build something bold together.”

By bringing together her experience across architecture, visual art, and performance, she creates projects that are layered, considered, and deeply engaging. Her emphasis on listening shows how important trust and dialogue are in her creative process.

Which client project has been the most meaningful to you, and why?

“Working with Milan-based furniture designer Piana was especially meaningful because it allowed me to align environmental responsibility with commercial storytelling in a tangible, impactful way. For the Milan International Furniture Fair, I created an immersive installation that not only showcased their sustainable furniture line but also made their commitment to eco-design impossible to ignore. The space was constructed using video projections and music to bring the majestic beauty as well as the urgency of the endangered forests and glaciars to the central Milan showroom. The result? Piana’s stand stood out for its aesthetic and for its message. It drew consistent footfall, generated meaningful press coverage, and positioned the brand as a forward-thinking leader in sustainable design. It was a clear example of how environmental values, when thoughtfully embedded in the creative process, can drive both awareness and commercial success.”

An inspiring reminder of how design can amplify sustainability messages while still capturing attention.

Can you share a challenging experience you faced in your journey, and how you overcame it?

“A particularly challenging but fulfilling project was designing a brand activation for a client with a very tight budget. This was overcome by spending as much time as necessary to find the most efficient use of funds.”

Proof that resourcefulness and imagination often go hand-in-hand.

How has your style or technique evolved over the years?

“I started my career as an architect, then as a visual artist, and now my practice sits between both.”

This dual background continues to shape how Alanbari approached projects, balancing structure with symbolism, functionality with feeling. Her journey shows how fluidly disciplines can merge to create something new.

What has been your favorite exhibition or show to date, and why?

“Nature is by far the most talented artist and designer. I get inspiration by spending time in nature as all geometric proportions, colours and light are perfectly construed yet constantly changing.”

How do you benefit from being surrounded by diverse creatives at Great Western Studios?

“There is a certain energy, a buzz that comes from being surrounded by other creatives in an organised well managed office complex.”

Community is at the heart of GWS, and her words capture that perfectly. Inspiration isn’t always linear; it’s often sparked by chance conversations, shared energy, or simply being around people who are driven to create. For her, the studios aren’t just a workspace but a living ecosystem that fuels new ideas.

What’s one element of the GWS model you hope grows, and that would benefit you as an artist?

“Perhaps having a digital or physical wall where studio holders can share opportunities and roles they are looking to fill. It would give us a more trusted network to pick from before advertising roles to the wider public.”

One artist (living or dead) you’d love to share a studio with?

“Pipilotti Rist.”

A perfect choice. Rist’s bold, immersive, and emotionally charged installations resonate strongly with her own practice, making the pairing a natural fit. One can only imagine the creative sparks that would fly in such a shared studio.

Favourite colour you always return to?  

“Navy because it is soothing like night time yet and when seen next to other colours it provides contrast for other colours to shine bright.”

Alanbari’s journey shows how architecture, art, and storytelling can merge to create bold, resonant experiences. Rooted in collaboration and inspired by nature, her practice proves that creativity thrives where structure meets emotion. To learn more about her work, visit alanbari.co.uk.

The end of summer often comes with a surge of energy – fresh projects, packed schedules, and ambitious goals. But while motivation is high, it is also the time when many of us risk running too fast, too soon. At Great Western Studios, we believe creativity and wellbeing go together, and avoiding burnout is key to sustaining inspired work.

The Chalcot Care Way: Supporting People, Building Communities

By Argjenda Miftari

Down the bright atrium of Great Western Studios, just steps away from the buzz of the café and a stone’s throw from the canal, you will find the welcoming studio of Chalcot Care. And one thing is always for sure … You leave their studio smiling, sometimes even in stitches, and always reminded that kindness and fun can absolutely go hand in hand with serious, important work.

Built on over 15 years of experience, Chalcot Care places healthcare professionals across both the NHS and private sectors, from nursing homes to private hospitals. But what sets them apart is the way they do it with warmth, and a real sense of care, not just for their clients, but for each other.

“Let’s Do This!”

That’s the unofficial motto of the Chalcot Care office, a phrase shouted across desks when energy dips or a big job comes in. It is fitting, because the team operates with a kind of fast-paced optimism.

Jay, one of the founders, shared what inspired him to start the company:

“I have always believed that caring for the elderly and those less able than ourselves is one of the most important responsibilities we have as a society. Growing up, I was taught the values of compassion, respect, and service, and those values really stuck. Chalcot Care came from the desire to match dedicated, skilled carers with the people who need them most, not just to fill shifts, but to create meaningful connections.”

And it shows. The team is not just placing people into jobs, they are investing in careers, in dignity, and in relationships that matter.

Jay may have accidentally earned himself the title of “Most likely to turn a 5 minute chat into a TED talk”, but honestly? When he talks about their mission, you kind of want to sit down and let him talk for 20 minutes straight.

Growing More Than a Business

Since its start with just two people, Chalcot Care has grown into a close-knit team of five, all working hard.

When asked what they are most proud of, they did not just talk about their rapid growth, or the contracts they have landed, they talked about people. “What we are most proud of is that Chalcot Care has become a safe and supportive space where people can grow in their careers. We provide opportunities for carers to gain training, develop professionally, and genuinely thrive. And beyond that, we are giving back, supporting charities like Adopt a Grandparent, and doing our best to create a positive ripple effect in the community.”

From Chaiiwala Runs to Fast-Paced Challenges

Malik, who joined Chalcot two years ago, claims he got the job on his way to get tea at Chaiiwala, but there is a very strong reason as to what inspired him to join the team:

“I am still here inspired by the opportunity to provide staff who support others and make their daily lives easier. What drew me in was the welcoming environment and the supportive team around me, people who share my values and morals. And of course, I’ve stayed partly because I’m still the undisputed FIFA champion in the room, and I’m not ready to give up that title just yet.”

There is something about the vibe in Studio 32 that balances that playful energy with serious commitment. For Darren, it is that fast pace and constant variation that keeps him engaged:

“I enjoy the challenges the role entails and the fast-paced environment.” Everyone brings their own energy to the mix, but the thread tying them together is their drive, and a genuine sense of purpose behind the work.

Finding Balance and Growth

We love asking what studio holders do to switch off because we think it says a lot about the people behind the work. For Rez, unwinding means cruising on his motorbike, catching up with family, or walking along the canal, just down from the studio:

“Time alone is really important to me. It helps me reset, reflect, and return to work with a fresh perspective. Sometimes I will walk the canal just to clear my head or think through new ideas, for work and for personal goals.” We can confirm excellent spot for a reset. GWS really does have those hidden pockets of peace. And it is not just about recharging. It is also about growing. Marwaan reflected on how Chalcot has helped him do just that, not just professionally but personally:

“The moment I stepped into the world of Chalcot and truly understood what we stand for, I knew I was in the right place, somewhere I could grow, develop, and do work that actually matters. We have built a culture where it is safe to raise concerns, ask for help, and collaborate openly. That kind of trust does not just make work better; it makes the care we deliver stronger.”

Beneath all the banter and energy, there is a deep sense of responsibility and pride in the work they do.

Home at GWS

Being based at Great Western Studios has clearly shaped how Chalcot Care works, and how they care for their own team.

“The team at GWS makes us feel truly at home, providing excellent service whether it is the front of house support or helping with any issues that arise. Its location offers the perfect balance – peaceful walks along the canal to disconnect from work. GWS has also created a safe and welcoming space for our staff to work flexibly, with access to multiple areas such as meeting rooms, the café, the atrium, and the courtyard. It is an environment that supports both productivity and wellbeing.”

Their favourite team spot? The atrium, where weekly meetings happen.

“It is a space that brings us together, sparks collaboration, and makes work feel even
more enjoyable.”

The One-Word Vibe Check

When we asked them to sum up their studio vibe in one word, the answer came quickly: Forward Thinking.

From building careers in healthcare to championing charities, teasing each other over FIFA rankings, and transforming a recruitment office into a space that feels like home, the team at Chalcot Care is definitely looking ahead. And luckily for us, they are doing it right here at GWS.

You can find Chalcot Care in Studio 32. Make sure you stop by to say hi but be warned – you may laugh a little too much, be recruited, or pulled into a very passionate FIFA debate.

When you are planning an office move, the right space can do more than house your work, it can inspire it. The best workplaces offer the right location and access, strong security and amenities, and a thriving community. Great Western Studios brings all three together in one purpose-built hub for the creative industry, home to artists, designers, tech pioneers, product innovators, and more. With offices ranging from 200 to 2,800 sqft, co-working desks, meeting rooms, and event space, it is designed for those who want inspiration and collaboration built into their everyday.