The future of work isn’t physical versus digital. It’s both, beautifully and intelligently intertwined. That’s the driving force behind Connected Realities, the newly announced theme for Workspace Design Show, taking place 25–26 February at the Business Design Centre, London. This edition invites exhibitors and visitors alike to explore how hybrid models, immersive technologies, and smart environments are reshaping the workplace, not just as spaces we use, but as environments we feel, engage with and belong to. “We’re moving beyond furniture and floorplans. Today’s most successful workplaces behave almost like living organisms, responsive, sensory, and human,” says Esha Bark-Jones, Event Director for Workspace Design Show. “Connected Realities is a celebration of that evolution, the moment where physical design and digital intelligence finally operate in harmony.” Rather than treating the theme as a backdrop, Workspace Design Show is turning it into a full-scale design challenge, asking exhibitors to interpret Connected Realities through the way they build and behave within their stands. Whether through AR-enabled product demos, blended material palettes, live data walls or wellbeing-driven sensory environments, the show floor is set to become a living exhibition of this reality’s workplace behaviour. A few of the leading brands already confirmed to participate include König + Neurath, Sedus, Bisley, Pedrali, Interface, Kvadrat, and Forbo, each set to showcase not just products, but perspectives on how connection between people, space and technology can elevate performance, culture and everyday joy at work. We are also working closely with our design partners Gensler, Peldon Rose, MCM Architecture, M Moser Associates and Area to bring this theme to life. Adding to the excitement, the inaugural Workspace Design Awards will take place live at the show on 25 February 2026, celebrating completed workplace projects from around the world. The Workspace Design Awards are assessed by senior occupiers, developers and workplace transformation leaders, meaning entries are evaluated from the perspective of the people who actually live with the results. Entry is free and open to architects, interior designers, design consultancies, fit-out companies, occupiers, developers and workplace strategists for projects completed between 1 January 2023 – 30 October 2025. Full details at workspaceshow.co.uk/awards Workspace Design Show is inviting the industry not just to attend but to participate in a collective showcase of how work can evolve when physical and digital no longer compete but collaborate. Key DatesWorkspace Design Show London: 25–26 February 2026Workspace Design Awards Ceremony & Show Party: 25 February 2026Awards Entry Deadline: 31 October 2025 Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Integra Buildings has been formally presented with The King’s Award for Enterprise as it proudly flies the flag for modular construction. Integra welcomed His Majesty The King’s representative for the East Riding of Yorkshire, Lord-Lieutenant Jim Dick OBE, to its site in Paull, near Hull, to receive the royal accolade. The Lord-Lieutenant’s role dates back to Tudor times and the holder of the post represents The King within the region, supporting and visiting voluntary, charity, and business organisations who are doing great things in the local community. After a special ceremony, attended by many of Integra’s 180-strong team, the Lord-Lieutenant and two Deputy Lieutenants were shown around the business’ production facilities, meeting team members and hearing about the company’s work as a leader in the modular construction sector. The Lord-Lieutenant said: “I’m very proud for Integra and what they have achieved. The King’s Award is a hugely prestigious accolade, and is not easily won. “I’m pleased that the region is represented by such a strong business. It is recognition of all of the employees at Integra, under Gary’s leadership, and I congratulate each and every one of them.” In May, Integra was announced as one of just 27 recipients nationally of The King’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development in 2025. Regarded as the country’s most prestigious business honour, The King’s Award recognises Integra as a trailblazer and a pioneer in sustainable construction, demonstrating that modular can lead the way in addressing climate challenges while delivering commercial success. Integra SHEQ Director and Co-owner, Paul Tansey, said: “It was a huge honour to host the Lord-Lieutenant and Deputy Lieutenants to our site, and to show them around our production facilities so they could see first-hand the work we do. “In receiving The King’s Award, we have demonstrated that modular has a key role to play in the future of sustainable construction, producing buildings which are exceptional in quality and in environmental standards. “We’re extremely proud to be recognised as one of the country’s most forward-thinking, sustainable businesses. This is a day that will live long in the memory for all of our colleagues.” As the only modular construction company named as a 2025 King’s Award recipient, Integra was commended for “challenging the boundaries of what is possible in sustainable construction through bespoke design and offsite manufacturing”. Whether it’s through the buildings it delivers, the development of its team or making responsible decisions across its supply chain, sustainability is rooted in Integra’s values. The company has cut gas consumption by 22 per cent since 2022, with plans to remove it altogether by 2028, and has installed more than 1,000 rooftop solar panels on office and production facilities to generate 380,000KW of clean electricity capacity. An impressive waste reduction programme has seen materials sent to landfill cut from 70 per cent to 1.2 per cent in just three years, and Integra’s evolution into a multi-disciplinary, full turkey construction company has significantly increased project efficiency and sustainability. After being announced as a 2025 King’s Award winner, Integra’s CEO Gary Parker was invited to a royal reception at Windsor Castle, where he had the honour of meeting His Majesty The King, speaking to King Charles about the importance of modular as a construction method. Integra’s innovative approach was also recently highlighted at the 2025 Offsite Awards – considered the “Oscars” of the modular industry – when Integra was crowned Offsite Pioneer of the Year. Integra Managing Director Chris Turner said: “To receive not one, but two, major awards this year reflects a total commitment across our operations to set new standards and push boundaries in what modular construction can achieve. “We’ve invested significantly, not only in sustainability, but in our own operations and our people, which positions us for future growth and success. “On this special day, the Directors would like to express our thanks to our brilliant team. They have all played their part in securing these prestigious awards.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

A conference hailed as ‘the south’s biggest property show’ will be giving university students free access in a bid to connect them with future employers. South Coast CPS, which is to be held at St. Mary’s Stadium on Thursday 13th November, will be opening its doors to students between 2pm and 5pm with entry completely free of charge. Set to welcome more than 1,500 attendees, South Coast CPS unites the south’s property, planning and investment sector for a day of learning, panel discussions, networking and more. Students will benefit from exposure to big names in the property industry such as Morgan Sindall Construction, Vail Williams and CBRE to name a few. Graduate Project Manager at AtkinsRéalis Georgia Turner will also be hosting one of the conference’s panel discussion on attracting and retaining top young talent, sharing her experience of progressing from university to a graduate role. Director of South Coast CPS Lucy Richmond said: “I’d encourage any university student to start looking into their post-graduation options as early as they can, even if they’re not sure what path they want to take yet. Not only this, students will be able to listen and learn at our range of panel discussions led by the region’s experts. “The conference is a great opportunity for them to meet potential future employers, find out about the options available to them and expose them to the industry they’ll become a part of. I’m looking forward to welcoming students to the conference once again this year and I hope they’ll come away with plenty of new insights and new connections.” To claim this offer, students must register in advance here: https://guestevent81304rpgf9zElpiIaQRBYYmgm.eventify.io/t2/tickets/9474AA To find out more about South Coast CPS and its upcoming flagship conference on Thursday 13th November, visit its website: https://www.southcoastcps.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Caledonia Housing Association (CHA) has received four shortlist nominations at leading industry awards. CHA has been shortlisted in two categories at the 2025 Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) Awards. The CIH Awards, which recognise the creativity, passion and innovation of housing organisations and individuals across the sector in Scotland, have shortlisted CHA in the Housing Organisation of the Year category. In addition, CHA has been shortlisted in the Excellence in Accessibility and Inclusion category for the Better Homes, Brighter Futures project. The shortlisting recognises CHA’s focus on maintaining connections, responsiveness, and trust while designing and maintaining homes for all ages, abilities, and circumstances – enabling people to live well, independently, and with dignity in communities they are proud to call home. CHA has also received two shortlist nominations at this year’s HR Network National Awards which recognise, acknowledge and reward the champions of the Scottish HR profession. The People Team have been shortlisted in Leading with Kindness category while Angie Merrilees, Caledonia Organisational Development Business Partner, has been shortlisted for Business Partner of the Year. Barry Johnstone, Executive Director of People and Governance, Caledonia Housing Association, said: “We are pleased to receive nominations for four categories in these two leading industry awards. At Caledonia Housing Association, our focus is on making life better for thousands of people across eight local authority areas, providing homes to over 5,700 tenants and factoring services to 2,300 homeowners. This recognition is a real tribute to the passion and dedication of our people, who strive every day to make a positive difference in the communities we serve.” The winners of the HR Network National Awards will be revealed on Thursday, 13th November. The winners of the CIH awards will be revealed on Friday, 14th November 2025. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

As the doors to the UK’s biggest event for the built environment prepare to open, building safety will be high on the agenda at this year’s UK Construction Week (UKCW) Birmingham. With a wide range of exhibitors and a dedicated programme of talks, the award-winning show will spotlight best practice, compliance and the importance of meeting the highest safety standards, as well as ensuring the safety of the buildings under construction. Leading voices in the construction industry will be sharing their expertise and the latest regulatory updates, including fire safety; product regulation; working at heights; and Digital Skills Passports for workers. Taking place at the NEC from September 30th to October 2nd, UKCW Birmingham will be a bustling networking hub for all tier 1 and tier 2 contractors; housebuilders and developers; local authority and housing associations; architects; buyers and procurement experts. To help attendees get the most out of the show, UK Construction Week has launched its handy web-based app. Visitors can quickly build a personalised itinerary of talks, book meetings and navigate the floorplan all from the palm of their hand. The programme of talks on building safety includes: Tuesday September 30th Product Safety and Standards: Next Steps in Regulatory Reform Main Stage, 12.20pm With the Green Paper consultation period concluded, this session offers a timely look at the future of construction product regulation. Featuring insights from the CCPI, Construction Products Regulator and senior voices from MHCLG as well as major product users, the panel will explore what reforms are coming, how the industry should prepare, and what it means for accountability, responsibility, and compliance. Join us for a critical discussion on rebuilding trust and raising standards across the construction product supply chain. Speakers: ● Amanda Long, CEO, Code for Constructions Products Information ● Duncan Johnson, Deputy Director – Construction Product Regulation, Office for Product and Safety Standards ● Gary Neal, Head of Fire Risk Management, Skanska ● Louise Barr, Deputy Director – Construction Products Reform, Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government Post-Grenfell: Turning Regulation into Reality – One Year On Roofing, Cladding & Insulation Hub, 1.15pm A year after the final phase of the Grenfell Inquiry, the construction sector is moving from reflection to implementation, as new regulations reshape responsibilities, competency frameworks, and safety culture. This session offers updates on legislative progress, enforcement, and how businesses are adapting on the ground to meet the demands of integrity and accountability. Speakers: ●  Kevin McKeown, Chartered Fire Engineer, Pillar Fire ●  Paul Scott, Partner, Trowers & Hamlins LLP ●  Rachael Hobbis, Partner & Head of Birmingham Office, Trowers & Hamlins LLP ●  Richard Cymler, Director Registered Building Inspector Class 4 3G/H Technical Manager & Specialist Building Inspector RBCP04038R1D at Sweco Building Control Limited Wednesday October 1st Competence in Construction: The Role of CSCS cards and the Digital Skill Passport Culture Change & Skills Hub, 10.30am As expectations around safety, transparency, and accountability grow, workforce competence is becoming a central focus in construction. This panel will explore how the industry is defining, measuring, and demonstrating competence at every level, and the practical steps being taken to meet these evolving demands. It will also examine how digital tools like Digital Skills Passports and smart verification systems are transforming the way capability is evidenced across sites. Speakers: ●  Charlotte Brumpton-Childs, National Officer, GMB Union ●  Colin Marrs, Editor-in-Chief, Construction News ●  Faye Burnett, Super Sector Programme Director, Mace ●  Mark Blundy, Group Director Health & Safety, Bowmer & Kirkland Group Raising the Standard: Improving Process Control in Roofing, Cladding, and Insulation Roofing, Cladding & Insulation Hub, 11.30am Roofing, cladding, and insulation installations often face challenges due to inconsistent processes, unclear guidance, and a lack of shared understanding across the supply chain. This session will highlight how adopting structured methodologies – such as Construction Product Quality Planning (CPQP) – can improve quality, safety, and confidence in delivery. Drawing on real-world examples, we’ll explore how manufacturers and contractors can work together to embed clarity, consistency, and accountability at every stage of the build. Speaker: ●  Krish Parmar, CEO, Elevate Building Safety Thursday 2 October The Building Safety Act and Low-Rise Housing: Clarity, Compliance, and Consequences Roofing, Cladding & Insulation Hub, 11.50am While the Building Safety Act has largely focused on high-rise buildings, its implications for low-rise developments are increasingly coming into focus. This panel will unpack what the Act means for low-rise residential projects – from design accountability and compliance to resident engagement and duty-holder responsibilities. Join experts from across the sector to explore how to navigate these changes and ensure proportionate, practical implementation that doesn’t stall delivery. Speakers: ● Huw Wilkins, Senior Associate, Fenwick Elliot LLP ● Krish Parmar, CEO, Elevate Building Safety ● Nia Stewart, Partner, Burges Salmon LLP ● Olivia Jenkins, Senior Associate, Trowers & Hamlins LLP ● Tom Weller, Head of Group Building Safety, Persimmon Homes Working at Height – Risks and Compliance Roofing, Cladding & Insulation Hub, 1.30pm Discussion around the risks of working at height, the associated statutory requirements and how standards and training drive competency, safety and compliance. Speaker: ● Mark Collinson, Head of Technical, National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) Neil Gaisford, Divisional Director, Construction, commented: “As new legislation and regulations demand greater accountability, the focus on building safety could not be more important. At UK Construction Week (UKCW), we provide a platform to ensure safety remains at the heart of every project and corner of the construction industry.” UKCW Birmingham attracts visitors and exhibitors from across the globe, and will showcase a host of international exhibitors from the likes of China, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, and Turkey. Amongst those already confirmed are Lanes Group; Build Warranty; Reader Cement; Unibond; Xpedeon; Cure It Composites; Don & Low; Metador; and Licata. Alongside over 300 leading brands from around the world, UKCW Birmingham will feature 200 speakers and over 150 hours of CPD accredited seminars and talks across five stages. To register for UKCW Birmingham for free, visit https://forms.reg.buzz/ukcw-birmingham-2025​/cab-pr To download the show app, visit

The London Irish Centre has awarded its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award to Jacqueline O’Donovan OBE, the distinguished businesswoman, entrepreneur, and industry trailblazer renowned for her transformative impact on the waste management and construction sectors. The award, presented by his excellency the Irish Ambassador to the UK, Mr. Martin Fraser, recognises Jacqueline’s outstanding contribution to the Irish community in London, where she has long been a leading advocate, mentor, and supporter. Jacqueline’s career has been marked by exceptional leadership and innovation. As one of the most influential women in the construction and waste management industries, she has not only broken barriers but also championed sustainable practices, safety standards, and opportunities for others to thrive. Her remarkable achievements have been recognised on both sides of the Irish Sea. She was previously honoured by President Michael D. Higgins with the Presidential Distinguished Service Award for her extraordinary commitment to the Irish diaspora, and in King Charles III’s 2023 Birthday Honours she was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her outstanding contribution to recycling, safety, and industry. Speaking about the award, Jacqueline O’Donovan OBE said: ‘It is an incredible honour to receive this Lifetime Achievement Award from the London Irish Centre. I am deeply proud of my heritage, and it has always been important to me to give back to the Irish community in London, which has played such a vital role in my own journey. To be recognised in this way, and by the Irish Ambassador, is truly humbling.” A respected role model for women in business, Jacqueline continues to inspire future generations with her unwavering dedication to community, innovation, investment and leadership. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

UK Construction Week (UKCW), the UK’s biggest event for the built environment, will champion women in the construction industry at its upcoming Birmingham show with a dedicated programme of panel discussions, skills workshops and networking opportunities. Taking place at the NEC from 30 September to 2 October, this year’s event will address the sector’s ongoing challenges of representation and retention, while showcasing the development opportunities available for women to drive greater diversity in the construction industry. Now in its 10th year and with a theme of ‘where decisions are made’, UKCW Birmingham will be celebrating the impact of women shaping the built environment. The programme of talks and workshops include sessions intended to inspire leadership, drive cultural change, and create meaningful connections across the industry.  Talk highlights include: Wednesday 1st October Roofing, Cladding & Insulation Hub, 10.30am Unlock the Power Within: A Leadership Activation  An energising session with Natalie Baksheieva, Executive Coach and Trainer. Discover practical strategies to build clarity, confidence, and leadership skills for every stage of your career.  Digital Construction Hub, 3.30pm Crafting Business Brilliance – Women in BIM Panel  Hear from Women in BIM experts on how generative AI is driving innovation, efficiency, and agility in construction. Speakers include Emma Rees, Wates Smartspace; Hadeel Saadoon, Turner & Townsend; Lilian Ho, Aecom; and Mairead Gallager-Morgan, Grimshaws.   Digital Construction Hub, 4.15pm Women in BIM Networking Session  Connect directly with Women in BIM experts, exchange insights, and share experiences in an informal, one-to-one setting. This is expected to be a popular event, therefore seats are reserved on a first come first served basis. Visitors can easily book their seat using UKCW’s dedicated show app.  Thursday October 2nd Culture Change & Skills Hub, 1.15pm – 3.15pm Building Connections: Meet Women Who Shape Construction  Join a dynamic networking session moderated by Monique Wintle-Camp with panellists Siu Mun Li, director at Siu-lutions; Holly Kattenhorn, Senior Construction Manager at L.A. Kattenhorn & Partners; Renee Preston, CEO at Gallaway Construction & Founder, Construction for Women; and Sam McCabe, Sustainable Buildings Lead Scotland & Passive House Designer at WSP & Women in Property, who all volunteer for NAWIC (The National Association of Women in Construction). Engage in practical networking exercises, small group reflections, and conversations that explore challenges and opportunities for women in construction, and how to build a stronger, more inclusive industry. Whether you’re new to the sector or a seasoned professional, come along to share, learn, and expand your network in a supportive environment. This long format session will feature the following: Round Table at the Build Connect Lounge, 11am Women Leaders in Construction – Beyond Allyship: Conversations for Leaders Who Want to Get It Right  Bringing together a small group of industry leaders for a closed-door roundtable on lived experiences, leadership, and building inclusive cultures. Led by Monique Wintle-Camp, MD at Wintle-Camp Coaching, hear directly from women in construction about their lived experiences and reflect on what that means for your leadership, culture, and company.  Neil Gaisford, Divisional Director, Construction, commented: “It was important for us to put women’s voices and experiences at the forefront of this year’s show – not just to spotlight the fantastic leaders already making waves in the built environment, but to also challenge the industry to do more. It needs to move faster on diversity and cultural change to ensure retention and inspire more women to consider a career in construction. This year’s programme has been designed to inspire reflection and action to ensure the next decade of UKCW reflects a more inclusive and dynamic community.”  UKCW Birmingham attracts visitors and exhibitors from across the globe, and will showcase a host of international exhibitors from the likes of China, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, and Turkey. Amongst those already confirmed are Lanes Group; Build Warranty; Reader Cement; Unibond; Xpedeon; Cure It Composites; Don & Low; Metador; and Licata. Alongside over 300 leading brands from around the world, UKCW Birmingham will feature 200 speakers and over 150 hours of CPD accredited seminars and talks across five stages.  To help attendees get the most out of the show, UK Construction Week has launched its handy web-based app. Visitors can quickly build a personalised itinerary of talks, book meetings and navigate the floorplan all from the palm of their hand.  To register for UKCW Birmingham for free, visit https://forms.reg.buzz/ukcw-birmingham-2025​/cab-pr To download the show app, visit https://www.ukconstructionweek.com/ukcw-app. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals