Hi, I’m Summer Whitney

I am an occupancy planning and workplace strategy expert.

I combine data analytics with design thinking to help organizations navigate the complexities of the modern-day hybrid work environment.

I have worked with clients ranging from Bank of America to Google, and every industry in-between, tackling some of the toughest challenges facing the workplace today, shaping my identity as a strategist, analyst, and designer.

I help organizations develop a clear understanding of their real estate and workplace needs, enabling them to make data-driven decisions based on more than a feeling.

A Zoom presentation slide titled 'Data-Driven Design' with a subtitle 'How to gather, analyze, and apply data inform design solutions' by Summer Whitney. The slide features circles of various sizes and colors arranged in a graph-like layout, and a video feed of a woman smiling in the lower right corner.

I also teach design students how to conduct effective client research, analyze data, and identify trends and insights to inform design solutions.

Curious about the intersection of data and design?

You've come to the right place! I’ve compiled insights, examples, and practical tips on how to effectively integrate data into your design practice.

My goal is to bring data to the forefront of the problem-solving process. Whether you're an occupancy planner, interior designer, or workplace strategist, you'll discover resources and problem-solving techniques that you can apply immediately.

You can check out the featured articles below or head over to the Learn Page to see the full collection.

Featured Posts

  • Floor plan of a building showing various rooms including private offices, conference rooms, huddle rooms, wellness and mother’s rooms, restrooms, mail, storage, and focus rooms, with areas highlighted in different colors.

    What Does an Occupancy Planner Do?

    Occupancy planners ensure that the workplace evolves as organizational and employee needs change overtime. Learn more about common OP requests, solutions, and sample deliverables.

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  • Modern white office building with vertical slats and glass windows against a clear blue sky.

    4 Phases of the Workplace Lifecycle

    The workplace is a dynamic environment that undergoes constant evolution, and its lifecycle is comprised of four key phases. Let’s explore each phase to better differentiate between the roles of an interior designer and an occupancy planner.

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  • Interior office space with desks, chairs, computers, and an overlay of a desktop floor plan with conference rooms, meeting rooms, and workstations.

    Designing and Evolving Workplaces: The Connection Between Interior Design and Occupancy Planning

    Discovering the field of occupancy planning changed my entire career trajectory. Learn more about the profession and the connection between Interior Design and Occupancy Planning.

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  • Music player interface with pause button in the center, rewind button on the left, and fast-forward button on the right, on a background with vertical color stripes of tan, red, and light gray.

    Combining Past and Present Data to Inspire Action

    Historical data is a key component of data-driven decision-making. By analyzing your past successes and failures, you can make smarter decisions that align with your future goals.

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