+44 7825394320
The Science and Soul of Space
We hold a passionate conviction: the spaces we inhabit are alive with possibility. They can either drain our energy and focus, or they can become powerful catalysts for well-being, creativity, and human flourishing. At the intersection of artful design and rigorous science, we pioneer neuro-environments—places intentionally engineered to heal, inspire, and unlock an organisation's full potential.
"The right environment doesn't just support work; it amplifies potential."
William Butterworth
A 30-Year Crusade for Transformative Design
Our founder, William Butterworth's, work is the culmination of a lifelong fascination with the soul of a garden and a 30-year career driven by a single, unwavering mission: to craft landscapes that can profoundly heal and inspire.
This crusade began with a deep, immersive journey to learn from the world's most innovative minds in landscape design and was forged in the real world, cemented by the undeniable impact of co-created design on people’s lives.
Pivotal projects, such as a Gold-Medal winning RHS garden designed with a survivor of the Rwandan genocide and a vibrant musical playspace for the children of Kids Company, crystallized his purpose. These experiences affirmed the power of design to uplift and led to the founding of The Design Charity and The Design CIC in 2011, built around the core principle of creating Transformative Healing Environments.
The Next Evolution: From Practice to Pioneer
This journey of practical application has now evolved into a new chapter of pioneering academic rigor. William is currently pursuing a PhD in Neuro-Environmental Design, which serves as the formal R&D engine for our enterprise. This doctoral work transforms a lifelong passion into a data-driven practice, allowing us to weaponize academic insight and translate cutting-edge findings from neuroscience and environmental psychology into powerful results for our clients. Our approach is further informed by connections with leading institutions like Johns Hopkins University's NeuroArts Initiative and UCL London, ensuring our work is always at the forefront of the field.
Our Mission as a Community Interest Company
We believe that creating healthier, more productive, and more inspiring environments is a vital social mission. As a CIC, we are committed to reinvesting our resources into research and initiatives that advance the field and deliver a positive impact on the communities and organisations we serve.
A Collaborative Force
This venture stands on the shoulders of more than a decade of mission-driven work. Its success and impact have only been possible through the dedication and shared vision of a core collaborative team. Their unwavering belief in the power of transformative environments has been instrumental, and the charity's work continues to be a deep source of inspiration and a testament to our shared values.