Inspirational Women: Accelerating Action for Gender Equality in Commercial Interiors
This International Women’s Day 2025, Design Insider is celebrating the Inspirational Women who are shaping the future of commercial interiors. As part of this, we have published seven full interviews with Pippa Nissen, Director at Nissen Richards Studio; Gurvinder Khurana, Director at M Moser Associates; Lynn Kingdon, Head of Creative Design at Camira; Nickie West, Managing Director at Montgomery Group; Helen Owen, Product Marketing Manager at Humanscale; Sharon Grob, Partner & Head of Business Development at Studio Moren; and Kate Usher, Workplace Menopause Consultant & Coach at Menopause in Business.
This article summarises the insights they shared, covering the challenges women face in the industry, the actions needed to accelerate change, and the advice they have for future generations. Click on their names above or see the full list at the end to read each complete interview.
This year’s theme, Accelerate Action, calls for urgent progress in breaking down systemic barriers and advancing gender equality. At the current rate, full parity won’t be achieved until 2158—five generations from now. To drive meaningful change, we must identify and amplify the strategies that truly make a difference. Through this series, we explore the challenges, initiatives, and solutions these industry leaders are championing to create a more inclusive and equitable future.
One of the most pressing challenges women face in commercial interiors is outdated workplace dynamics and cultural barriers. Many of our interviewees pointed out the need for a shift in behaviour and mindset to foster a more inclusive industry. Pippa Nissen said:
“Reducing male aggression, challenging soft sexism, and calling out mansplaining when it occurs are essential steps in changing outdated power dynamics.”
On the same topic, Gurvinder Khurana highlighted how the industry’s culture itself can be exclusionary, particularly for those balancing professional growth with personal responsibilities.
“Historically, socialising and community-building often revolved around drinking—perhaps a legacy of the hedonistic ‘80s or the ladette years? But this culture hasn’t always been inclusive, particularly for those balancing career progression with having a family.”
To accelerate progress, supporting organisations that uplift women is critical. From role models to structured industry initiatives, collective efforts can make a real impact. Lynn Kingdon shared:
“As a role model for women, Barbara Chandler exemplifies how one can successfully combine a passion for sustainability with a commitment to empowering others.”
Building on this, Nickie West emphasized the importance of actively engaging with networks that support women.
“I feel that all women should join at least one organisation whose aim is to elevate women, and all businesses in the sector should look to sponsor and support at least one woman-focused association or group.”
The next generation of female leaders will also be shaped by the women who are disrupting the industry today. When asked what impact their work will have on the future of the industry or society as a whole, Gurvinder Khurana said:
“I’m fortunate to be living in the legacy of some incredibly inspirational women who paved the way for us to have the voice we have today.”
Adding to this, Helen Owen highlighted the transformative work of fellow Inspirational Woman, Kate Usher:
“Kate Usher is making a significant impact as a menopause and organisational culture specialist. She is helping companies create inclusive environments where women feel supported throughout their careers rather than being pushed out due to menopause-related challenges.”
When asked what strategies, tools, or practices within the commercial interiors sector are effective in advancing women in leadership, design, or business, Sharon Grob said:
“Too often, we are the quiet achievers, getting the job done but not shouting about our successes. We need to celebrate and highlight women’s achievements more publicly—whether that’s through awards, panel discussions, or simply taking ownership of our wins.”
On this same topic, Kate Usher shared:
“We need to create processes to enable women to manage the phases of their life without needing to step off the career ladder.”
For young women looking to make their mark in commercial interiors, resilience, passion, and expertise are key. Lynn Kingdon stated:
“You must work hard, learn your craft, and be tenacious—there are no shortcuts. Be a bit obsessed, be authentic, and stay passionate.”
Reinforcing this, Pippa Nissen said:
“Become really skilled at what you do and keep building on that expertise. This will both give you confidence and open doors.”
At the current rate of progress, full gender equality won’t be achieved until 2158. When asked what one key change within the commercial interiors sector she would accelerate to have the greatest impact on closing the gender gap sooner, Sharon Grob said:
“When women hold decision-making roles, they drive policies that foster equality—better hiring practices, pay transparency, and flexible work structures.”
Expanding on this, Nickie West said:
“In order to accelerate change, there needs to be more transparency and industry-wide reporting on the pay gap. All companies, practices, and firms need to promote equity policies.”
So, what can the industry—and the world—do to drive meaningful change? Our interviewees share their messages of inspiration and action for International Women’s Day 2025. Helen Owen said:
“Investing in gender equality isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s smart business. Organisations that prioritise diversity see better collaboration, stronger decision-making, and improved financial performance.”
Closing with a powerful reminder, Kate Usher emphasized that gender equality is a collective responsibility.
“Gender equality is not just a woman’s issue, it’s an everyone issue.”
By sharing these perspectives, we hope to ignite action and accelerate progress towards a future where commercial interiors—and every industry—thrives through true gender equality.
Read each individual interview by clicking on the names above or selecting from the list below:
Pippa Nissen, Director at Nissen Richards Studio
Gurvinder Khurana, Director at M Moser Associates
Lynn Kingdon, Head of Creative Design at Camira
Nickie West, Managing Director at Montgomery Group
Helen Owen, Product Marketing Manager at Humanscale
Sharon Grob, Partner & Head of Business Development at Studio Moren
Kate Usher, Workplace Menopause Consultant & Coach at Menopause in Business