Money Talks #1
Design and new value models
How can designers create social value in a world where financial systems are increasingly dictating what we build?
The major spatial challenges of our time call for new ways of collaborating, funding and designing. Yet many decisions are still driven by existing economic models, investment logic and short-term returns.
During the first edition of Money Talks, part of the IABR School of Thought, designer Nanne de Ru and economist Sandra Phlippen explore how design and finance can work together to contribute to a future-proof living environment. What scope is there for incorporating social value into investment decisions? What forms of financing can accelerate the transition? And how do we prevent today’s projects from becoming tomorrow’s stranded assets?
The webinar is being moderated by Elise van Herwaarden.
Drawing on real-life examples, economic insights and critical reflection, the speakers will explore how economic, environmental and social values can be better integrated.
The live masterclass then provides an opportunity for discussion, reflection and applying the insights to participants’ own practice. Participants are invited to apply these insights to their own projects and to explore the scope they have to contribute to societal transitions.
Who is it for?
For architects, urban planners, landscape architects, property developers, policymakers and other professionals working on the future of our living environment.
Admission to the event costs €32,50.
The language of the event is Dutch.
Program
15:15 | Walk-in online
15:30 | Start program
17:00 | End program
Money Talks is part of the IABR School of Thought, the IABR’s learning platform for professionals in the built environment. Read more about the School of Thought.
Speakers
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Nanne de Ru. Image: 500watt Nanne de Ru
Nanne de Ru is an architect, developer and contractor. In 2005 he was the founding partner of Powerhouse Company, an international architecture firm. Ten years later he co-founded RED Company, a real estate development firm, followed by Construction Company, a general building contractor in 2020. Together, they create a unique synergy that enables a fully integrated approach from concept to completion.
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Sandra Phlippen. Image: Marie Wanders Sandra Phlippen
Sandra Phlippen has been Chief Sustainability Officer of ABN AMRO since January 2026 and Professor of Sustainable Banking at the University of Groningen since 2023. Until December 2025, she was Chief Economist of ABN AMRO. As an external advisor to the Council of State, she advises the Dutch government on national and European budgetary matters.
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Elisa van Herwaarden. Image: Riccardo de Vecchi Elise van Herwaarden (moderator)
Elise van Herwaarden is a sustainability strategist and researcher with a background in architecture and real estate investment. She is a Research Fellow in the Climate, Space & Politics group at the Academy of Architecture Amsterdam, where her work focuses on the role of spatial design in climate justice. Alongside this, Elise develops and works on projects contributing to a more just and resilient built environment. Last year, she initiated an international research project on inclusive strategies for mitigating heat stress, and she currently works with Invest-NL on a guarantee fund for sustainable social real estate.
Previously, Elise led the ESG programme at INREV, the European association for investors in non-listed real estate, and was Sustainability Manager at a.s.r. real assets. She holds an MSc in Architecture, Urbanism and Building Sciences from Delft University of Technology.