INTRO

SOMEBODY: “So, what do you do?”

ME: “I work with architects, urban planners, city governments…”

SOMEBODY: “Oh, so are you an architect?”


ME: “No, not quite. I’d say ‘applied anthropology’ best describes what I do.”

SOMEBODY: “Anthropology? Like studying humans?”

ME: “Yes, humans in their built environments, to be precise. I like to think of us as a ‘species of spaces.’ People shape places, and places shape people.”

Martina Schwab Applied Anthropology

METHOD

Anthropology aims to better understand human interaction and behaviour. Anthropological methods such as participant observation, interviews, workshops, surveys, archival or media research have one thing in common - they all result in a thorough understanding of the existing context. Developing solutions from there, ensures that your project is more connected with its future users.

Martina Schwab Applied Anthropology

HUMAN-CENTERED PROJECTS

I take a human-centred approach to every project. Starting with a structured needs analysis, supports designers to create spaces (and services) that are truly meaningful and relevant to the people who will use them. When projects focus only on financial, legal, or technical aspects, they risk becoming outdated from the start - hard to use and even harder to love. 

Martina Schwab Human-Centered Design and Change Management

WORKFLOW & PROCESS MANAGEMENT

Change is inevitable and ever-present, yet it often catches us unprepared. I'm a firm believer in structured yet adaptable work processes that help your team stay organised. We begin with a thorough analysis of your existing processes and software. From there, we introduce improvements across a variety of domains: project management and planning, data management, financial oversight, IT infrastructure, knowledge transfer among team members, custom excel solutions for architects, and the refinement of prospection and tender procedures.

Martina Schwab Worklfow and Process Management

ABOUT

With an interdisciplinary background in political science and urban anthropology, I have ten years professional experience in the private and the non-profit sector. I work with i.a. Osmos (social designers), ncbham (interior architecture), Miss Miyagi and Stadsmakersfonds (sustainable real estate), &bogdan architects, noAarchitecten, Sill & Sound Architects, Jo Matba (DJ and producer), Psycol (psychologist collective), Fairphone (sustainable smartphones). Please connect with me on LinkedIn for detailed information about my skills and experience.

Martina Schwab Brussels, Belgium, Germany

CONTACT

Martina Schwab - Applied Anthropology, based in Brussels, Belgium

info@martinaschwab.eu

+32 4 883 663 41

My interventions typically span 1-6 months. For a lasting impact, I also offer opportunities for long-term collaborations and personalized coaching. Thank you for your interest. Don't hesitate to reach out with your questions or projects.

Martina Schwab Applied Anthropology