In this podcast, Michael Stiefel spoke with Nimisha Asthagiri about the importance of system thinking, multi-agent systems, the consequences of society applying a technology into an area for which it was not designed, and whether we can ever have a healthy relationship with artificial intelligence.
 
System thinking emphasizes the importance of mental models, and how they relate to business requirements, and the architect's role in reconciling the different mental models of the participants in system design. In the area of multi-agent systems the discussion focused on how to scale such a system and control its autonomy in its relationship with humans. The discussion concludes with an exchange of views on our relationship with artificial intelligence, and the consequences of technology being used in areas for which it was never designed.

Read a transcript of this interview: http://bit.ly/487NPel

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Transcript

Mental Models in Architecture & Societal Views of Technology: A Conversation with Nimisha Asthagiri

Hello and welcome to the show everyone. Today, we’re joined by Sahil Shaik‑Muzawar, an urban planner and geographer based in Dubai. Holding an MSc from the University of Birmingham, Sahil has been working towards shaping the contextually-sensitive urban fabric across the region. He is a young urbanist from the Academy of Urbanism based in the UAE. He is also a part of RTPI’s Middle East Young Planners Network. He brings a unique blend of technical knowledge and passion for people-centered design. So without further ado, let’s get into it!

E99 - Sahil Shaik‑Muzawar

On today’s episode, we have Mark Klever. He is the Founder and Design Director at MKD Architecture in Dubai. Mark is celebrated for blending contemporary aesthetics with practical design. As an “architect's architect”, he has championed the craft of not just design, but design delivery & execution. With numerous award-winning projects across multiple continents, Mark has amassed a portfolio that is both diverse & deep. Much to get through on this episode, so without further ado, let’s get into it!

E100 - Mark Klever

Hello and welcome to the show. Today, we are joined by Laila Al‑Yousuf and Matthew Sexton, founders of SAY Studio in Dubai. Under their leadership, SAY Studio has partnered with global names like LinkedIn, Apple, Google, and Siemens Energy, delivering LEED‑Gold workplace environments and expanding into hospitality and F&B with projects like Grand Mercure. Their studio has designed over 3 million sq ft of human‑centric, sustainable spaces and recently grew into KSA with high-profile workplace headquarters. So, without further ado, let’s get into it!

E101 - Laila Al‑Yousuf + Matthew Sexton

Hello and welcome to the show everyone. Today, we’re delighted to be joined by Khaled AlShamaa and Hamdi Adam, founders of XYZ Designers in Dubai. Their recent work on Quattro Del Mar and Edge 1 at Raha Canal both earned Gold at the 2024 Global Future Design Awards. It's showcasing their innovative, community-focused approach. Their studio combines ecological sensitivity, timeless elegance, and urban design across architecture, interiors, and planning. So, without further ado, let’s begin!

E102 - Khaled AlShamaa + Hamdi Adam

Hello and welcome to the show. Today’s guest is Marija Krsmanovic, a Senior Architect at LWK + PARTNERS based in Dubai with a global background that spans Slovenia, Brazil, Germany, Qatar, and over a decade in the UAE. Her journey has been focused on design excellence whilst maintaining a balance across her life goals. So without further ado, let’s get into it!

E103 - Marija Krsmanovic

Hello and welcome to the show. Today, we’re joined by Muhammad Habsah, Director at U+A in Dubai and a leading voice in contemporary architecture across the region. With a deep focus on context-driven design and innovative solutions, Muhammad has played a key role in shaping U+A’s diverse portfolio of projects. His work reflects a thoughtful balance between creativity, functionality, and cultural relevance. So without further ado, let’s get into it!

E104 - Muhammad Habsah

Hello and welcome to the show. Our guest today is Vaishali Deshmukh. She is a Design Director based in Dubai. Vaishali has designed and delivered projects within the region for close to 2 decades. Needless to say, she is known for exciting innovations in design & has a wealth of experience to share. So without further ado, let’s get into it!

E105 - Vaishali Deshmukh

Rothwell Chair Public Lecture 2025 at the University of Sydney – Architectural Behaviorology: creating better accessibility to local resources: Yoshiharu Tsukamoto, Momoyo Kaijima, Yoichi Tamai

Architectural Behaviorology: creating better accessibility to local resources

Émilie, gérante de l’entreprise Cosy Casa, viendra nous présenter son enseigne et nous expliquer l’importance d’être bien accompagné lors d’un projet de construction ou de rénovation de maison. Ces démarches peuvent souvent sembler complexes, et Émilie répondra à nos questions pour nous aider à y voir plus clair.

Engrenages - Cosy Casa

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