Mum on a Mission • Property Developer • Bestselling Author • Wellbeing Advocate
Meet Philippa Charrier
With a background in architecture and urban regeneration, I’ve spent over a decade reimagining student accommodation through my award-winning company, FAT Properties - making wellbeing the foundation of great design.
I trained as an architect and then undertook a Master’s in Urban Regeneration and Development at The University of Manchester. In 2013, I co- founded FAT Properties to create student homes that prioritise mental health, sleep, connection, and academic success. I am proud to be one of the UK’s first “Recognised Practitioners in Urban Design” and to have been recognised for my leadership in wellbeing-focused design.
But my most important role? I am a Mum of three. Everything I build - whether it’s a home, a book, or a movement - is shaped by one question: Would I want this for my own children? That’s what drives me to help the next generation thrive.
My first book, Designed for Wellbeing, explores how built environments directly influence mental health, focus, and belonging and why student wellbeing must be central to architectural design. Together with my husband Tom, I co-host a podcast which combines design insights with impactful storytelling on Designed for Wellbeing.
I believe every student deserves to feel safe, seen, and supported - not just survive university, but truly thrive. That’s why I write, speak, design, and build: to transform how we approach mental health and wellbeing in education.
What I Do Today
Deliver talks and workshops to schools, universities and housing providers, to spark change in how student wellbeing is understood and supported.
Write and speak about architecture, mental health, and student support.
Lead FAT Properties, creating award winning student homes that support thriving.
Design student living environments grounded in human wellbeing and performance science.
Host the podcast Designed for Wellbeing.