Mears has strengthened its position as one of the UK’s leading housing maintenance providers after securing more than £1.4 billion of new work during the first half of the year, driving its order book to a record £4.2 billion. The public sector housing specialist continues to expand its long-term maintenance
Housing association believe housing has achieved its best ever customer satisfaction results, with feedback helping to shape services and lessons from complaints driving further improvements. The not-for-profit landlord, which owns and manages more than 18,000 homes across the northeast of England, has recorded its highest Tenant Satisfaction Measures results. Overall
By Amman Boughan, CEO at Pagabo Group. Members of the new Labour cabinet are busy making their arrival known, with announcements coming thick and fast. Procurement has been a frequent talking point for prime minister Andy Burnham since his resurgence and rise to the top of government. However, talking is
Peel Group has launched a £582 million cash bid to acquire Harworth Group, offering shareholders 172.5p per share in a move that could reshape the future of one of the UK’s leading brownfield regeneration and strategic land developers. The offer values the listed developer at approximately £582 million and comes
A Who’s Who of thought leaders and experts headline the new-look Main Stage at UK Construction Birmingham this autumn (NEC, September 29 to October 1), where high-level, conference sessions will explore a myriad of issues including policy, leadership, major projects, skills, productivity, technology, sustainability and the future direction of construction.
The Fit Out Awards UK 2026 has strengthened its expert judging panel with the appointment of acclaimed interior designer Mia Karlsson-Matthews, Founder and Director of Mia Karlsson Interior Design, as preparations continue for one of the UK’s leading celebrations of excellence across the fit out and interiors sector. Based in
The sheer volume of waste the construction industry generates raises critical questions about efficient management practices. In response, building design and construction professionals are shifting away from reactive disposal toward digital waste management solutions that protect profit margins while improving operational efficiency. As companies evaluate how different waste management software
Communal areas have become one of the most closely watched categories in commercial design. As organizations rethink how much space they need and what that space should do, shared lounges, break rooms and collaboration zones are being asked to work harder than ever. You’re no longer just planning a lunchroom
Grosvenor has reported a strong first half of 2026 across its prime central London portfolio, completing 58 leasing transactions spanning more than 80,000 sq ft as demand continues to grow for premium retail, hospitality and commercial space in Mayfair and Belgravia. The property company secured £5.4 million in annual rental
Luxury interior fit-out specialist ‘raising the bar’ by offering in-house craft at scale to the UK’s most prestigious developments EE Smith, one of the UK’s leading luxury interior fit-out contractors, is celebrating 130 years of craftsmanship, innovation and excellence, marking a remarkable milestone for a business that has heled shape
Mears has strengthened its position as one of the UK’s leading housing maintenance providers after securing more than £1.4 billion of new work during the first half of the year, driving its order book to a record £4.2 billion. The public sector housing specialist continues to expand its long-term maintenance portfolio after a series of major contract awards and renewals, reinforcing confidence in the company’s strategy despite a temporary dip in profits linked to the mobilisation of new contracts. Revenue reached £560 million during the period, while adjusted pre-tax profit stood at £29 million. Although margins eased slightly to 5.2% from 5.6%, the company attributed this to the costs associated with mobilising several significant long-term contracts. Among the largest awards was a landmark 10-year, £450 million contract with Birmingham City Council. Under the agreement, Mears will deliver a comprehensive range of housing services, including responsive repairs, void property works, gas servicing, heating installations and planned maintenance across the authority’s housing stock. The company also secured a further 10-year contract with Rooftop Housing Group worth £150 million, providing repairs and maintenance services to approximately 7,000 homes across South Worcestershire and North Gloucestershire. Alongside these new appointments, Mears successfully retained several key long-standing partnerships, including contracts with Cross Keys Homes, Livin, Leeds City Council, Moat Homes and Thurrock Council. Together, these renewals contributed more than £1 billion of additional work to the company’s expanding pipeline. For the construction and housing sectors, the results underline the continued demand for long-term asset management, planned maintenance and compliance services as housing providers invest in improving existing homes, enhancing building safety and maintaining regulatory standards. Mears also completed the integration of consultancy Pennington Choices during the period, strengthening its expertise across compliance, asset management and building safety services. The acquisition enhances the group’s ability to provide integrated solutions to local authorities and registered housing providers. In line with its strategic focus on housing, the company also completed the sale of its non-core facilities management business for £18 million, allowing it to concentrate resources on its core maintenance and housing services operations. Chief Executive Lucas Critchley said: “Mears has continued to make strong progress against its key strategic objectives.” The company also noted that an intensive two-year programme of rebidding existing contracts has now largely concluded. As a result, its bidding teams are increasingly able to focus on pursuing new opportunities rather than defending existing work, providing further potential for future growth. Looking ahead, Mears has reaffirmed its full-year guidance, forecasting revenue of around £1.04 billion and adjusted pre-tax profit of approximately £51 million. With a record order book, strengthened building safety capabilities and a growing portfolio of long-term maintenance partnerships, Mears appears well positioned to play an increasingly significant role in supporting the management, maintenance and improvement of the UK’s public housing stock. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Housing association believe housing has achieved its best ever customer satisfaction results, with feedback helping to shape services and lessons from complaints driving further improvements. The not-for-profit landlord, which owns and manages more than 18,000 homes across the northeast of England, has recorded its highest Tenant Satisfaction Measures results. Overall satisfaction rose from 78% in 2024-25 to 82% in 2025-26, while satisfaction with repairs increased from 76% to 85%. More customers also said they feel safe in their homes, up from 82.3% to 84.9%, and that they are treated fairly and with respect, up from 83.1% to 86.2%. The results reflect the work believe housing has done to listen to customers and act on what they say. But the organisation says there is always more to learn and is continuing to gather insight from customer feedback, comments and complaints. One way it is doing this is through its new Customer Complaints Panel, established in November 2025. The panel brings together customers who want to use their experiences to improve complaint handling, learn from complaints and help ensure the Housing Ombudsman’s Complaint Handling Code is followed. Members have received training on believe housing’s complaints policy, the Code and what good complaint handling looks like in practice. Meeting at least every three months, the panel reviews performance information, explores customer journeys and identifies learning from complaints and feedback. Members will also hear from colleagues across the business to understand how customer insight can help improve services. The panel helps believe housing understand what is working well, where improvements are needed and what actions should be taken next. Louise Taylor, Executive Director of Governance and Strategy at believe housing, said: “These are our best ever Tenant Satisfaction Measures results and they reflect the commitment of colleagues across believe housing to do the right thing for customers every day. “We’re particularly pleased that more customers told us they are treated fairly and with respect. Feedback regularly highlights the professionalism, kindness and commitment of our colleagues, and that’s something everyone across the organisation should be proud of. “But our focus is on continuous improvement. Whether customers tell us we’ve done something well or raise a complaint when we’ve fallen short, every conversation gives us valuable insight. “Customer feedback helps shape services, while the learning we gain through complaints helps us understand where we can do better. “By listening to customers and acting on what they tell us, we can continue to provide healthy homes, a quality service and a better customer experience.” Customer feedback is already helping believe housing improve services, shape policies and communicate more clearly. During 2025/26, customers shared their views through more than 6,000 feedback survey responses, 1,164 Tenant Satisfaction Measures survey responses, consultations, co-design projects, workshops, app and portal testing, and Customer Complaints Panel meetings. The latest Tenant Satisfaction Measures results are available on believe housing’s website at tenant satisfaction measures | believe housing believe housing customers who would like to share their views and help shape services can find out more at get involved | believe housing Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
By Amman Boughan, CEO at Pagabo Group. Members of the new Labour cabinet are busy making their arrival known, with announcements coming thick and fast. Procurement has been a frequent talking point for prime minister Andy Burnham since his resurgence and rise to the top of government. However, talking is one thing and issuing a procurement policy note (PPN) is another. With that in mind, we wholeheartedly welcome and are encouraged by the direction of travel that the government is embarking on with the announcement of PPN 026 – the social value model – this week. The direction of travel, to simplify the model, helps to cut the red tape that locks smaller firms out, and focuses squarely on jobs, skills and community impact, which is what the Pagabo Group has been championing for a decade across wider public procurement. Continued simplification of an industry that is often overcomplicated can unlock so much opportunity. As our strapline goes: ‘Simply better procurement.’ Our focus has always been on helping the public sector deliver outcomes faster and creating impact where communities need it most. The government wants to back British jobs and skills in every postcode, so that’s exactly what its new weighting in public contracts will help achieve. Though it’s vital that social value is measured and proven, not just promised, as we’ve been advancing through our digital operating system. We don’t have long to wait until the rules begin to apply and we stand ready to be a partner in leading the change that the government wants to see. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Peel Group has launched a £582 million cash bid to acquire Harworth Group, offering shareholders 172.5p per share in a move that could reshape the future of one of the UK’s leading brownfield regeneration and strategic land developers. The offer values the listed developer at approximately £582 million and comes as Peel, already Harworth’s largest shareholder through subsidiary Goodweather Holdings, looks to take full control of the business. Goodweather currently owns around 29.96% of Harworth’s issued share capital. Harworth has established itself as a major player in the UK’s regeneration sector, with a portfolio comprising modern industrial and logistics assets alongside extensive strategic land holdings across the North of England and the Midlands. The business has played a significant role in transforming former industrial sites into employment, residential and mixed-use developments, including securing planning approval last year for its £190 million Gascoigne Interchange scheme. However, Peel believes the company’s current financial model is becoming increasingly difficult to sustain, citing rising administrative and financing costs alongside weakening recurring rental income. For the year ending 31 December 2025, Harworth reported administrative expenses of £36.34 million and net interest costs of £10.6 million, representing increases of 9.5% and 58.2% respectively compared with the previous year. During the same period, rental income from its investment portfolio fell by 7% to £14.7 million. Peel argues these figures demonstrate growing pressure on Harworth’s cash flow, with operating and financing costs significantly exceeding the income generated from its investment portfolio. The proposed acquisition also reflects Peel’s view that Harworth’s stock market listing no longer provides meaningful strategic benefits. The investor points to the company’s concentrated shareholder base, with the three largest shareholders controlling approximately 75.7% of the business, limiting trading liquidity and reducing the advantages typically associated with being publicly listed. Peel further noted that Harworth has not raised new equity for almost a decade and believes current market conditions, combined with what it describes as a persistent discount to the company’s underlying value, make future equity fundraising unlikely to deliver attractive returns. The cash offer represents a substantial premium for shareholders, equating to 36.9% above Harworth’s one-month volume-weighted average share price and 36.0% above the three-month average. For the construction, development and property sectors, the proposed acquisition could have significant implications. Harworth has become one of the UK’s foremost brownfield regeneration specialists, delivering large-scale industrial, logistics, residential and mixed-use developments that support regional economic growth while unlocking previously underutilised land. Should the transaction proceed, Peel would gain full ownership of a substantial regeneration pipeline and strategic land portfolio, further strengthening its position within the UK’s development and regeneration market. The proposed takeover also highlights the continuing attractiveness of long-term regeneration assets, as investors seek to secure development opportunities capable of delivering future residential, commercial and industrial growth across key regional markets. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A Who’s Who of thought leaders and experts headline the new-look Main Stage at UK Construction Birmingham this autumn (NEC, September 29 to October 1), where high-level, conference sessions will explore a myriad of issues including policy, leadership, major projects, skills, productivity, technology, sustainability and the future direction of construction. Built around the core themes of Building Better, Building Smarter and Building Responsibly, the Main Stage – one of five theatres at UKCW Birmingham – will welcome an array of leading luminaries, including: Main Stage seminar highlights include: Tuesday 29th September 10.30am – 11.15am The Construction Reset: What Needs to Change and What Happens if We Don’t? [Build Better] This session will examine where the industry can unlock growth, improve performance and build a future-ready workforce through innovation, collaboration and new career pathways. Speakers: Jackie Rigby (Homes England), Saul Humphrey (Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), Tim Balcon (CITB) 12.30pm – 1.15pm Housing at Scale: The Race to 1.5 Million Homes This session will examine the opportunities created by planning reform, New Towns and strategic growth areas, while exploring whether more scalable delivery models can help increase capacity. With political focus, investment and innovation aligning, the next five years could represent the biggest opportunity for housebuilding in a generation. Speakers: Ed Griffiths (Barbour-ABI); Emma Osmundsen (Chair, Passivhaus Trust Board) 2.15pm – 2.45pmWho are the people changing construction for the better? Announcing the UKCW Role Models Winners for 2026 With three categories: Rising Star, Pioneer and Icon, UKCW Role Models recognises outstanding achievement at every stage of a career. This special session will reveal the 2026 winners and celebrate the exceptional leadership, innovation and impact that have earned them recognition as some of the industry’s most inspiring role models. Presenters: Christina Riley, Senior Planning Manager, Coniston Ltd & Co-Founder, Building Equality; Rebecca Rickwood, CEO, Gement Group Wednesday 30th September 11.30am – 12.15pm Constructing the Gold Standard: Choosing the Right Framework for Better Supply Chain Partnerships This panel will explore how the principles of the Construction Excellence Gold Standard are reshaping procurement, moving beyond lowest-price tendering towards fairer risk allocation, earlier supply chain engagement and longer-term collaborative relationships. Moderator: Alison Nicholl (Head of Constructing Excellence, BRE & DfE) Speakers: Prof. David Hancock (Construction Director and Infrastructure Practice Lead, His Majesty’s Treasury, Expert Advisory Team & NISTA); Rob Byrnes (Frameworks Director, Vinci Building UK) 2.30pm – 3.15pmNet Zero That Pays: Making Commercial Sustainability Work in Construction An opportunity to examine how whole-life carbon, material choices, energy performance and retrofit strategies are increasingly shaping procurement decisions, project outcomes and competitive advantage. Speakers: Ste Garlik (Strategic Lead for Decarbonisation & Retrofit, Building Design Partnership & Chief Executive, Association for Environment Conscious Building (AECB)); Will Arnold (Head of Sustainable Materials, Useful Simple Trust) Thursday 1st October 12.30pm – 1.15pm AI in Construction: Reimagining How Real Applications Deliver Real Results [Build Smarter] This session will showcase real examples of AI being used to automate repetitive tasks, improve document and data management, accelerate design coordination, enhance project controls and increase productivity across construction workflows. Speakers: Paul Beeston (Partner – Head of Industry and Service Insight, Rider Levett Bucknall); Meghan Davies (Co-Founder, Cammina) 1.30pm – 2.15pm The New Industrial Revolution: How Digital-First Construction Can Finally Scale Productivity How digital-first approaches, combined with standardisation, better data and new ways of working, can help the industry move away from fragmented project-by-project delivery towards more repeatable, efficient and scalable systems. Moderator: Trudi Sully (Industrialised Construction Director, Mott MacDonald and Co-Chair Building Better: Community of Practice (BB:CoP))Speakers: Lilian Ho (Associate Director – Digital & BIM, UK+I Architecture + Design , AECOM); George Mokhtar (Director, Turner & Townsend) Martin Hurn, UKCW Birmingham Editorial Director, commented: “Our theme of The Construction Reset will position UKCW Birmingham as a marketplace and industry meeting point, built around the real challenges, opportunities and partnerships shaping construction today. “The Main Stage is at the very heart of that, with some of the biggest names in the industry coming together to discuss, debate and help shape the conversations that will define the future of the built environment. From innovation and digital transformation to sustainability, skills and policy, the programme has been designed to provide practical insight, fresh thinking and meaningful discussion for everyone working across the sector.” Sponsored by Wyre, HotelPlanner and Build Warranty, UKCW Birmingham will feature over 250 leading brands; 200 speakers and over 150 hours of CPD accredited seminars across four stages, alongside a series of built-for-purpose sections. Architect, TV presenter and UKCW ambassador, George Clarke will officially open the show and also host the Main Stage discussions on Day One (September 29th). To find out more and to register free for UKCW Birmingham, visit https://register.visitcloud.com/survey/0hcnqiudc1lrv?actioncode=1000 Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Fit Out Awards UK 2026 has strengthened its expert judging panel with the appointment of acclaimed interior designer Mia Karlsson-Matthews, Founder and Director of Mia Karlsson Interior Design, as preparations continue for one of the UK’s leading celebrations of excellence across the fit out and interiors sector. Based in London, Karlsson-Matthews brings more than 20 years of award-winning design experience to the judging process, having built an internationally recognised practice renowned for creating bespoke residential interiors that combine Scandinavian functionality with contemporary luxury. Originally from Sweden, she established Mia Karlsson Interior Design in 2004, developing a distinctive design philosophy centred on intelligent space planning, craftsmanship and timeless interiors. Since then, the studio has successfully completed more than 300 residential projects, earning a reputation for delivering highly personalised environments that balance aesthetics with practical living. Her work has featured extensively in leading interior design publications, reflecting the studio’s consistent commitment to quality and innovation across a diverse portfolio of high-end residential commissions. Karlsson-Matthews also brings strong academic and professional credentials to the judging panel. She holds a first-class degree in Interior Design and Technology and is a prominent member of the British Institute of Interior Design (BIID). As a former BIID Board Director, she has also played an influential role in supporting the continued development of professional standards across the UK’s interior design and interior architecture sectors. Her appointment further strengthens an already distinguished judging panel for the Fit Out Awards UK 2026, which brings together leading experts from across architecture, workplace design, sustainability, academia and the wider built environment. The awards programme features 32 categories recognising excellence across every aspect of the fit out industry, including commercial office fit out projects, hospitality, healthcare, retail, residential and conservation, alongside awards celebrating sustainability, collaboration, product innovation and overall project delivery. Karlsson-Matthews joins Judging Coordinator Ann-Marie Aguilar of IWBI alongside Vanessa Brady of SBID, Vyvyan Byrne of VB Design, Dr Eshrar Latif of Cardiff University, Giuseppe Parito of Studio Seilern Architects, Professor Robert Schmidt III of Loughborough University and Lydia Szewczyk of IWBI. For the construction, architecture and interior fit out sectors, the awards continue to showcase the outstanding talent, innovation and technical expertise shaping the UK’s built environment. The appointment of experienced industry professionals such as Mia Karlsson-Matthews reinforces the awards’ commitment to recognising projects that demonstrate exceptional quality, creativity and excellence in design and delivery. The Fit Out Awards UK 2026 will culminate in a gala ceremony on 24 September 2026 at the Park Plaza London Riverbank, where the industry’s leading designers, contractors, architects and suppliers will come together to celebrate the year’s most outstanding achievements in fit out and interior design. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The sheer volume of waste the construction industry generates raises critical questions about efficient management practices. In response, building design and construction professionals are shifting away from reactive disposal toward digital waste management solutions that protect profit margins while improving operational efficiency. As companies evaluate how different waste management software options compare, understanding the total cost of this transition and the programs available remains essential for informed decision-making. The True Cost of Construction Waste Poor material management silently drains profits across the construction sector. Reliance on manual tracking and paper tickets results in significant financial losses that compound over time. The EPA estimates that construction and demolition debris accounts for over twice the amount of municipal solid waste generated in the United States. The financial impact extends beyond volume. Research indicates that 95% of delivery tickets and 75% of waste records contain incomplete or inaccurate information. These data gaps lead to billions in lost revenue across the industry. Manual processes fail to capture critical information about material flows, disposal costs and operational inefficiencies that erode project budgets. Proactive Management Boosts the Bottom Line Embracing operational excellence and digital tracking transforms waste management from a compliance burden into a profit-generating function. When companies reduce waste directly, associated costs drop proportionally. Rising hauling and landfill fees make this approach increasingly valuable for maintaining project profitability. Landfill costs continue climbing, with tipping fees rising about 4% year-on-year, based on the 2025 national average. Zero-waste approaches and digitally tracked operations help contractors preserve substantial portions of project budgets. Digital systems provide real-time visibility into waste streams, enabling companies to identify cost-saving opportunities and optimize disposal routes. The shift toward proactive management represents a strategic investment in long-term operational efficiency. How Do Different Waste Management Software Options Compare? Specialized software helps companies gain complete visibility over waste operations, streamline routing and ensure compliance. The following solutions offer distinct approaches to automated waste management for building design and construction professionals. 1. Paradigm Software L.L.C.® Paradigm Software L.L.C.®has been providing automated weighing and routing software solutions to recycling and roll-off businesses for more than three decades. Its WeighStation® solution offers a centralized system with flexible customization that enables efficient, fully unattended operations. The platform has processed 40 million transactions per year across 986 customer sites. Key features include: 2. ISB Global ISB Global offers solutions for companies seeking intelligent logistics automation on a global scale. Its Waste and Recycling One software adheres to digital waste tracking regulations in the United Kingdom. The platform delivers comprehensive control and ranks among the most advanced environmental waste management and recycling software available. Key features include: 3. Eco Software Solutions Eco Software Solutions presents a continuous-flow solution designed to eliminate duplicate data entry through EcoSoft. The platform adapts to existing work processes for smoother integration, aiming to reduce administrative overhead while enhancing waste management capabilities. Key features include: 4. The Access Group The Access Group has developed business management software for over 160,000 small and midsized organizations. Access Weighsoft Evo represents its modular solution tailored for construction aggregate and commercial waste management. The platform emphasizes seamless implementation and migration to minimize operational disruptions. Key features include: 5. Evreka Evreka delivers cloud-based waste management technology focused on smart city applications and sustainable operations. The platform combines Internet of Things sensors with artificial intelligence to optimize collection routes and reduce operational costs. Evreka serves municipalities and private waste operators seeking data-driven decision-making capabilities. Key features include: Frequently Asked Questions Building professionals often have questions about implementing efficient waste management systems. The following addresses common concerns. Q: What are the true costs of construction waste? A: The costs extend beyond disposal fees. Incomplete waste records and inaccurate tracking lead to billions in lost revenue across the industry. Manual systems fail to capture critical data about material flows, resulting in missed opportunities for cost reduction. Rising tipping fees compound these losses, with national averages increasing approximately 4% annually. Q: How does proactive management improve the bottom line? A: Digital tracking and operational excellence reduce expenses across multiple categories. Real-time visibility into waste streams enables companies to identify inefficiencies and optimize disposal routes. Reduced hauling costs, lower landfill fees and improved material recovery contribute directly to project profitability. These systems transform waste management from a cost center into a value-generating operation. Q: What features should building professionals look for in different waste management software options? A: Essential features include weighbridge integration for accurate transaction recording, route optimization to reduce transportation costs, and automated compliance tracking to ensure regulatory adherence. Robust reporting capabilities provide the insights needed for continuous improvement. End-to-end integration from weighing through invoicing eliminates manual data entry and associated errors. Strong technical support ensures operational continuity during implementation and daily use. Final Thoughts on Efficient Waste Management Transitioning to proactive waste tracking and leveraging specialized software makes waste management substantially more efficient. These practices and programs support circular economy principles while protecting profit margins. Building design and construction professionals who adopt digital solutions position their operations for sustainable growth and improved financial performance in an increasingly competitive market.
Communal areas have become one of the most closely watched categories in commercial design. As organizations rethink how much space they need and what that space should do, shared lounges, break rooms and collaboration zones are being asked to work harder than ever. You’re no longer just planning a lunchroom or a lobby. You’re shaping the spaces that determine whether employees actually want to come into the office. For architects, designers and builders, this shift creates an opportunity to move past generic, one-size-fits-all layouts. Clients are asking harder questions about how a shared space will actually be used, who it needs to accommodate and how it will hold up over years of daily traffic. Below are seven trends currently shaping how communal areas are conceived, specified and built. 1. Biophilic Design and Natural Materials Natural light, greenery and organic textures continue to dominate communal area briefs. Designers are specifying white oak millwork, stone accents and living walls to soften the hard edges of commercial interiors and create a stronger sense of calm. This isn’t just an aesthetic preference. A systematic review of workplace stress research found that access to outdoor views and nature-based break areas measurably reduces employees’ stress response. Practically, this means larger glazing packages near shared spaces, operable skylights where structure allows and planting strategies that account for maintenance access. Teams should coordinate early with mechanical engineers, since additional glass and interior plantings can shift HVAC and humidity requirements across the entire zone. 2. Flexible, Multi-Functional Layouts The single-purpose break room is giving way to layered, adaptable spaces that can shift between quiet focus work, informal meetings and social gatherings throughout the day. Movable partitions, modular seating and furniture on casters let a communal area be reconfigured without a renovation. Building professionals should design the shell to support this flexibility from the outset. That means flush flooring transitions, ceiling grids that accommodate reconfigurable lighting and power and data distribution that isn’t tied to a fixed furniture plan. A space that can only function in one way will quickly age out of usefulness. 3. Elevated Break Rooms and Coffee Bars Workplace kitchens and pantries are being redesigned with the same intentionality as residential kitchens. Homeowners are increasingly carving out separate prep kitchens and sculleries to keep food prep and clutter out of the main gathering space, and that same logic is now shaping commercial break room layouts. For commercial teams, this means budgeting for higher-grade finishes and the plumbing and electrical capacity to support espresso equipment, filtered water systems and induction cooktops. 4. Smart Technology Integration Communal areas are increasingly wired for convenience, with technology built into the space rather than bolted on afterward. This trend places new demands on infrastructure planning. Low-voltage cabling, dedicated network drops and coordination with IT teams need to happen at the design stage, not as a retrofit once furniture is already selected. 5. Wellness-Focused Amenities Wellness has moved from an amenity add-on to a core design driver, and communal areas are where that shift shows up first. Communal areas now regularly include quiet rooms, meditation nooks and improved air filtration alongside the more familiar café and lounge functions. A Harvard-led study on office air quality linked low ventilation rates and elevated particulate matter to measurably reduced cognitive performance among office workers. Designers should treat air quality and acoustic privacy as measurable performance targets rather than vague goals, and document them the same way lighting levels or fire ratings would be documented in a project spec. 6. Acoustic Comfort and Zoning Open, social communal areas create an obvious tension. The same buzz that makes a space feel lively can also make it hard to concentrate or hold a private conversation. Noise-related dissatisfaction affects over half of open-plan office workers, making it the leading source of workplace complaints. This requires early collaboration between interior designers and acoustic consultants, particularly in buildings with hard, reflective surfaces like exposed concrete or large expanses of glass. 7. Sustainable and Low-Maintenance Finishes Durability and sustainability are converging in communal area material choices. Recycled quartz surfacing, responsibly sourced wood and low-VOC finishes are being specified not just for their environmental credentials but because they hold up better under heavy daily use than trend-driven alternatives that need frequent replacement. Building teams should weigh life cycle cost alongside up front price when selecting these materials, since a communal area with dozens of daily users will show wear far faster than a private office. Specifying finishes built for longevity now can prevent a costly refresh in just a few years. Designing Communal Areas That Last Communal area design has grown far more sophisticated than it was even a few years ago, drawing influence from hospitality, wellness and residential design in equal measure. The strongest projects treat these spaces as flexible, well-engineered environments rather than an afterthought tacked onto the end of a floor plan. Building design and construction professionals who plan for flexibility, air quality, acoustics and durable materials from the earliest stages will be best positioned to deliver communal areas that hold up to daily use and continue to serve occupants well past the initial move-in.
Grosvenor has reported a strong first half of 2026 across its prime central London portfolio, completing 58 leasing transactions spanning more than 80,000 sq ft as demand continues to grow for premium retail, hospitality and commercial space in Mayfair and Belgravia. The property company secured £5.4 million in annual rental income through a combination of new lettings and lease renewals, reinforcing the resilience of two of London’s most prestigious mixed-use neighbourhoods. During the six-month period, Grosvenor completed 37 new leases alongside 21 renewals across its retail, hospitality and office portfolio. New agreements were achieved at rents 9.4% above estimated rental value (ERV), while overall leasing activity outperformed expectations by 7.8%. The performance has helped maintain portfolio occupancy at an impressive 97%, with retail vacancy standing at just 2.6%—significantly below the wider West End retail vacancy rate of 12.2%. For the construction and property sectors, the results demonstrate the continued strength of well-managed, mixed-use destinations where long-term investment in public realm, heritage buildings and carefully curated occupier mixes continues to attract businesses despite wider challenges across parts of the retail market. Mayfair has continued to attract leading international and independent brands seeking flagship London locations. Jewellery brand FoundRae has selected Mount Street for its first UK store, while skincare specialist Melanie Grant will open a new clinic at 129 Mount Street. The area’s hospitality offering has also expanded, with Persian restaurant Berenjak opening on Duke Street following the successful arrival of Crisp at The Marlborough on North Audley Street last year. Meanwhile, Belgravia continues to evolve as a destination for independent retailers, restaurants and lifestyle brands. Eccleston Yards welcomed Weezies, a new restaurant from the team behind neighbouring Amie Wine, while London Epicerie is preparing to open on Ebury Street. Elizabeth Street has recently welcomed jewellery designer Sophie Breitmeyer, while Onyx Matcha Club is due to launch on Motcomb Street later this summer. Pimlico Road has further strengthened its reputation as a destination for interiors and design, with new occupiers including auction house Roseberys and antiques specialist Molly Alexander. The latest leasing activity reflects Grosvenor’s long-term strategy of creating vibrant mixed-use neighbourhoods that combine premium retail, hospitality, workspace and high-quality public realm, supporting both commercial performance and the wider appeal of central London. Amelia Bright, Executive Director of the London Estate at Grosvenor, said: “Our strong performance so far this year reflects the value of a long-term approach to stewardship. We actively shape and curate our neighbourhoods, bringing together the right mix of retail, hospitality, workspace and public realm to create places where people and businesses want to be. The strong demand we’re seeing, reflected in our leasing performance, is a direct result of that approach. We’re also seeing more leading international brands choose Mayfair and Belgravia for their first UK locations, reinforcing both the appeal of our neighbourhoods and London’s global reputation. “Mayfair and Belgravia are part of what makes London one of the world’s great cities, and we’re proud of the role we play in helping them evolve. By continuing to invest for the long term, we’re ensuring these neighbourhoods remain vibrant, attract businesses, talent and visitors, and continue to thrive for generations to come.” The results underline the enduring strength of London’s prime mixed-use districts, where strategic placemaking, heritage-led investment and a carefully balanced mix of commercial, retail and hospitality uses continue to drive strong occupier demand and long-term investment confidence. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Luxury interior fit-out specialist ‘raising the bar’ by offering in-house craft at scale to the UK’s most prestigious developments EE Smith, one of the UK’s leading luxury interior fit-out contractors, is celebrating 130 years of craftsmanship, innovation and excellence, marking a remarkable milestone for a business that has heled shape some of the country’s most prestigious hospitality, super-prime residential and commercial interiors. From luxury hospitality projects such as The Peninsula London to current landmark super-prime residential developments including the prestigious 1 Mayfair, St John’s Wood Square and 52 Avenue Road, EE Smith has spent more than a century setting the benchmark for luxury interior fit-out. Built on a foundation of exceptional craftsmanship, technical expertise and trusted partnerships, the business has evolved across generations while remaining committed to delivering interiors of the highest quality. Their portfolio boasts so many iconic London buildings including One Grosvenor Square, The Londoner Hotel, Battersea Power Station, Chelsea Barracks, and Knightsbridge Gate. Founded in 1897, with a now 250-strong team operating between its purpose-built headquarters in Leicester and its project delivery London base in Angel, EE Smith has spent 130 years raising the standard in luxury interior fit-out. EE Smith’s origins lie in engineering precision bar pumps, an expertise that naturally evolved into the design and manufacture of bespoke bars. It is a legacy that inspired the company’s new strapline, ‘Raising the Bar’ – a playful reference to its roots and a philosophy that continues to define every luxury fit-out project it delivers. Today, the company is recognised as one of the UK’s foremost specialists in delivering complex, high-value hospitality, super-prime residential and commercial interiors, earning a reputation for uncompromising quality, programme certainty and excellence in execution. Driven by continued demand for its specialist capabilities and a strong pipeline of prestigious projects, EE Smith is anticipating turnover of £100m this year, reflecting the strength of its position within the UK’s luxury interior fit-out sector. EE Smith delivers luxury interior fit-out for some of the UK’s most prestigious developments through an integrated model that combines proactive project leadership with extensive in-house joinery and specialist metalwork capabilities spanning 90,000 sq ft. The refreshed brand reflects EE Smith’s commitment to raising the standard in luxury fit-out through drive, integrity and partnership. It builds on 130 years of craftsmanship and expertise, reinforcing the company’s reputation for delivering complex, high-profile projects with exceptional quality, programme certainty and a collaborative approach. Alongside its project expertise, EE Smith continues to invest in the future of British craftsmanship. The business is one of the UK’s leading trainers of apprentice joiners and cabinet makers, with more than 500 apprentices having successfully completed its renowned training programme. This long-standing commitment to developing future talent ensures traditional craftsmanship continues to thrive alongside modern engineering and manufacturing techniques. Dan Cashmore, Chief Operating Officer at EE Smith, said: “Celebrating our 130th year is a proud milestone for everyone at EE Smith. Our reputation has been built over generations through exceptional craftsmanship, trusted partnerships and the successful delivery of some of the UK’s most prestigious interior fit-out projects. “As we enter this next chapter, we remain committed to raising the standard in luxury fit-out. By continuing to invest in our people, our in-house manufacturing capabilities and our collaborative approach to project delivery, we are strengthening our position as the trusted partner for the UK’s most complex and prestigious hospitality, commercial and super-prime residential developments.” The refreshed brand is the first step in a broader evolution for EE Smith, with a new identity that showcases the company’s expertise, capabilities and landmark portfolio. As it enters its next chapter, the business remains focused on delivering exceptional interiors with the precision, reliability and craftsmanship that have defined EE Smith for 130 years, while continuing to set new standards for luxury fit-out across the UK. For further information visit https://eesmith.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals