Practical completion reached at The Crescent Centre as fit out company appointed On behalf of investment and development company CEG, Kier has completed the redevelopment of Crescent at Temple Quay in Bristol. The building has been transformed to include a new two-storey feature façade, a rooftop extension and the addition
The Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS) is delighted to announce its new partnership with The Skills Centre to deliver essential training and support for individuals pursuing careers in the finishes and interiors sector. This collaboration aims to address the growing skills shortage in construction, specifically in this sector, which faces
The Government Property Agency (GPA) has appointed Wates Smartspace to deliver the Category B (Cat B) fit-out of its flagship First Street Hub in Manchester city centre, marking a major step toward the completion of one of the UK’s most significant regional government office projects. The appointment follows a competitive
One of the UK’s leading principal contractors is continuing to branch out into education after making a high-profile hire. Inco Contracts, which has offices in Cannock, Cardiff, Stevenage and Warrington, has appointed Billy Sneddon as its dedicated Contracts Manager for this specialist area with the brief of generating more than
Women in construction are breaking barriers, driving change, and shaping the future of the industry. Their voices and experiences prove that progress is happening – but there’s still more to be done. This International Women’s Day, British Gypsum and Isover – businesses that are part of Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions –
Interior design consultancy OP has completed the transformation of a new two-storey extension at the Derbyshire headquarters of global mining solutions provider, MMD. The eight-week project has delivered 4,800 sq ft of modern, collaborative space that seamlessly blends the company’s rich mining heritage with contemporary workplace amenities. The development creates
Design-led interiors firm Chameleon Business Interiors has completed the transformation of McCain Foods USA’s 63,000sqft Oakbrook Experience Centre, Chicago. Shaun Watts, chairman of Chameleon said: “McCain’s brief was clear. They needed to create a real ‘destination’ – an office environment that would ‘wow’ employees and visitors. We’ve been operating in North
The British Council for Offices (BCO) has released the third edition of its Guide to Fit-Out, offering fresh insights and best practice recommendations for office design in an era shaped by hybrid working and the transition to net zero. This is the first update to the Guide since 2011 and
Whitbread PLC, the owner of the Premier Inn chain, has started the construction of its most high-profile hotel development in Ireland at Dublin’s Clerys Quarter. Leading construction and fit-out company, Gilbert-Ash has been appointed as the principal contractor for the development which is an important part of the regeneration of
Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS) is delighted to announce the appointment of Damian Hill to the newly created role of Technical Projects Manager, following the retirement of its Technical Director Joe Cilia. A seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience in the interiors sector, Damian brings a wealth of
Practical completion reached at The Crescent Centre as fit out company appointed On behalf of investment and development company CEG, Kier has completed the redevelopment of Crescent at Temple Quay in Bristol. The building has been transformed to include a new two-storey feature façade, a rooftop extension and the addition of three private roof terraces, the most prominent of which offers unrivalled views over Temple Gardens from the fifth floor. The first letting has already been secured with OVO relocating its UK headquarters to 22,894 sq. ft of space, which includes the entire fifth floor and a fourth-floor suite. Crescent offers 100,000 sq ft of office space and has the largest private garden in the city centre as an added benefit for its occupiers. There is also a secure weatherproof cycle park for 164 bikes and a repair docking facility, wellbeing and fitness studio with leisure club changing facilities. As well as targeting BREEAM Excellent and EPC A, the building is targeting Net Zero Carbon in operation. Reuse of the existing structure provides a 45% reduction in upfront embodied carbon over new build, allied with best-in-class energy efficient heating and cooling, makes Crescent a compelling sustainability option. CEG has now appointed Bath-based fit out specialist, Interaction, to deliver break out workspace and beautiful fitted office suites. The fitted office suites will provide occupiers with the option of taking tailor made space ready for immediate occupation or taking traditional office suites where they can deliver their own fit out. Interaction’s Business Director, Hannah Eardley said: “We are thrilled to collaborate with CEG on such a transformative project. The design balances sustainability with a deep respect for the building’s heritage, incorporating nods to Bristol’s rich manufacturing history such as the original fabric racks and pottery. By reimagining communal areas with thoughtful, flexible design, we’re creating a space that really works for its occupiers, offering something for everyone. This collaboration is a fantastic opportunity to deliver not just a workplace, but a destination where community and sustainability are at the heart of the experience.” Paul Richardson, Investment Manager at CEG, said; “Crescent sits in a prime location on Temple Back. This is a first-class redevelopment and Interaction’s interior design will deliver a contemporary and healthy place to work, supported by amenities including a ribbon business lounge, Temple Grind café, well-being and fitness studio.” The development will offer floor plates of 18,000 sq ft. It also benefits from the ability to accommodate a range of requirements from 1,600 sq ft upwards. Carter Jonas and Savills have been appointed to launch the development to market. Harry Allen, Director of Office Agency South-West at Savills, said: “Crescent offers exceptional space for small and growing businesses, from 16 desks to 180, it will create a vibrant and thriving business community. The building’s flexibility and market leading tenant amenities, from a private garden to a café and gym, will appeal to Bristol businesses seeking best in class working environments for their staff with Net Zero commitments.” This £30 million investment is the latest in significant investments into the CEG Group’s portfolio in Bristol which, to date, stands at £234 million. The team is managing a 250,000 sq ft Bristol portfolio, has refurbished the Quorum, delivered the award-winning EQ at 111 Victoria Street and 1000 Aztec West. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS) is delighted to announce its new partnership with The Skills Centre to deliver essential training and support for individuals pursuing careers in the finishes and interiors sector. This collaboration aims to address the growing skills shortage in construction, specifically in this sector, which faces a critical demand for skilled workers. According to the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), the construction sector will require an additional 251,500 workers by 2028. Furthermore, 61% of FIS members report struggling to find skilled workers, highlighting the urgency of this partnership to address the skills gap. As the UK continues to invest in reaching its Net Zero targets, retrofit projects will increase, driving continued demand for insulation and drylining skills as the 2050 deadline approaches. Through this collaboration, The Skills Centre will deliver a series of Bootcamps designed to provide individuals with the hands-on training and industry-specific knowledge necessary to kickstart their careers in the finishes and interiors sector. These intensive programmes will bridge the gap between talent supply and employer demand, offering practical experience and career support to participants. The first offering will be an Introduction to Insulation and Drylining course, which is a free, eight-week programme. Successful participants will earn a Level 2 qualification. The training and qualifications* will include: -Cskills Level 1 Health & Safety -CITB CSCS Health & Safety Environment (Green Card) -Level 2 Understanding Domestic Retrofit -Level 2 Removing Non-Hazardous Waste in the Workplace (Blue Card) -Environmental awareness in the construction industry -Introduction to Interior Systems -Introduction to Passive Fire In addition, a new Drylining Apprenticeship will be available for pre-screened local candidates who have come through funded Bootcamps. This specialist training will cover Partition Walls, MF Ceilings, Grid Ceilings, Shaft Walls, Metsec Installation, Rainscreen Cladding and Passive Fire Protection. Employers in the finishes and interiors sector are encouraged to get involved and support the initiative by providing interview opportunities or offering work experience placements with a view to future employment. The initiative aims to support workforce development, create opportunities for career growth, and enhance the talent pipeline within the sector. Commenting on the initiative, FIS Head of Skills Beena Nana, said: “We are thrilled to be partnering with The Skills Centre to enhance the support we provide to our members while tackling the growing skills shortages in our industry. This partnership enables us to combine resources and expertise, fostering opportunities for development, training, and growth, which will ultimately benefit our members and the broader community by addressing critical workforce challenges.” Sam Downton, Director at The Skills Centre added: “Our new partnership with FIS marks a significant step forward for the interior systems and drylining sector. This part of the industry plays a critical role in shaping the internal environments where we live, work, and learn—but it continues to face skills shortages and often flies under the radar as a long-term, rewarding career option. “Joining forces with FIS brings together their sector leadership and our expertise in delivering high-quality, hands-on training. Central to this partnership are our specialist Bootcamps, which are imperative for attracting new talent into the industry. They provide a direct route for individuals—many of whom are new to construction—to gain essential skills, site experience, and the confidence to move straight into employment. “For employers, these Bootcamps open up access to a wider, work-ready talent pool and offer a practical solution to workforce gaps. Together with FIS, we’re not only building stronger pathways into the sector, but also helping to create a more sustainable, inclusive, and skilled future for interior systems and drylining across London and Essex”. Employers can also attend planned visits to the following training centres to meet candidates and see the training in action: If you are an employer interested in attending any of these sessions or would like to support this initiative, please contact Beena Nana at beenanana@thefis.org or call 0121 707 0077. For employers interested in finding out more about the Bootcamps and how they can get involved, a dedicated webinar will provide all the information needed to get started. *Actual qualifications delivered may vary based on employer demand at the time of delivery. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Government Property Agency (GPA) has appointed Wates Smartspace to deliver the Category B (Cat B) fit-out of its flagship First Street Hub in Manchester city centre, marking a major step toward the completion of one of the UK’s most significant regional government office projects. The appointment follows a competitive tender process and will see Wates Smartspace take on responsibility for the full internal fit-out of the nine-storey building, transforming it into a fully functional office space for around 2,600 civil servants. The new hub is part of the GPA’s wider Government Hubs Programme and will house teams from several key departments, including the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), the Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted), and the Department for Education (DfE). Completion of the project is expected in Autumn 2026. With the recent completion of the Category A (Cat A) fit-out and lease commencement, the Cat B contract marks the final major hurdle ahead of the building’s full operational readiness. Once complete, the First Street Hub will be one of the largest cross-departmental government facilities outside London and is set to become a key anchor for civil service operations in the North. In addition to its scale, the hub is notable for its strong focus on sustainability, targeting an impressive NABERS 5.5* rating. “We are proud of the progress we continue to make as we work to provide high-quality and sustainable workplaces for civil servants across the UK,” said Georgina Dunn, Interim Director of Capital Projects at the GPA. The £105 million development has been forward-funded by the Pension Insurance Corporation (PIC), and supports the Government Hubs Programme’s mission to rationalise the public estate, promote flexible working, and drive economic growth across the UK’s towns and cities. Photo credit: Jon Matthews Architects Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
One of the UK’s leading principal contractors is continuing to branch out into education after making a high-profile hire. Inco Contracts, which has offices in Cannock, Cardiff, Stevenage and Warrington, has appointed Billy Sneddon as its dedicated Contracts Manager for this specialist area with the brief of generating more than £3m in revenue over the next twelve months. The company’s ability to manage complex projects and deliver on time and to budget has made it a natural choice for schools and colleges, with £1m of contracts already completed for organisations in the West Midlands and the North West. These have included a special education needs centre at Birchwood Community High School and multiple jobs for the Invictus Education Trust, which looks after eight schools across Dudley and South Staffs. “Education has always been an area we wanted to explore as we have all the core refurbishment skills required to deliver high quality projects quickly and at the right cost – as we all know the taxpayer has to see value for money,” explained David Cotterill, Managing Director of Inco Contracts. “Labour has announced a big cash injection to upgrade existing schools and, with the supply chain already creaking under pressure, we feel now is the right time to accelerate our expansion and provide services so desperately required to ensure our children learn in the best possible buildings.” He went on to add: “The appointment of Billy Sneddon is an important moment for us. He brings over 10 years’ experience in this sector, a massive book of contacts and supply chain specialists who have a proven track record in education.” Inco Contracts can work alongside architects, designers, and directly with schools to bring buildings back to life or to the required modern-day standards. Services provided range from roof repairs, classroom/toilet refurbishments, mechanical and electrical upgrades, extensions and PV installation. In just the last six months, Inco has transformed an existing library into a dedicated special educational needs unit, equipped with six classrooms, meeting rooms, toilets, reception area and state-of-the-art playground. Invictus Education Trust has also called on the company for resurfacing work, emergency repairs and a refurb of its headquarters at Kinver High School. Billy Sneddon picked up the story: “This is a really exciting opportunity to shape our education offer, so that we bring something a little bit different to an established marketplace. “The beauty of Inco Contracts is that we are agile. This means we can pick up smaller jobs quickly yet are big enough to handle £multi-million projects across the UK. Our people all have experience of working in this environment and understand the need to prioritise the safety of the children and teachers, whilst completing projects alongside their studies. “My approach is to build partnerships with schools, colleges and education providers so we are their ‘go to firm’ in an emergency or for planned works.” He concluded: “Our target is £3m in revenues over the next twelve months and increasing my team so that we have two or three dedicated people working with me on projects.” For further information, please visit www.incocontracts.co.uk or follow the company across its social media channels. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Women in construction are breaking barriers, driving change, and shaping the future of the industry. Their voices and experiences prove that progress is happening – but there’s still more to be done. This International Women’s Day, British Gypsum and Isover – businesses that are part of Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions – are proudly celebrating the women who are making an impact in the construction sector. By sharing their stories, we’re championing their achievements, amplifying their voices, and paving the way for an even more inclusive industry. Katie Anderson is Performance Manager at British Gypsum East Leake Works which produces bagged plaster and plasterboard. She has seen the business take proactive steps to help more women into its workforce. “We have got a lot more women coming through which is great,” she said. “It will take a while to change but I definitely see positive movement in that regard.” Katie joined British Gypsum in 2019 as a project leader and has progressed rapidly through the ranks. She is encouraging other women to consider construction manufacturing as a fulfilling career. “British Gypsum has really helped me with my training,” she added. “So even if you don’t have the skills initially, they can help you to develop those skills.” However, Katie says she still occasionally encounters gender bias. “Sometimes it can take a bit more time to build up a rapport or respect with people, it’s important to get to know people as individuals and learn to communicate with them in the most appropriate way.” Last year, Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions supported the launch of I am a Housebuilder. Founded by a cross-parliamentary group, it aims to grow the number of women working in the housebuilding industry. It is fronted by seven women who hold prominent roles in construction – dubbed the Magnificent 7. One of them is Xuan Meng, CEO of Cozy Haus. She started in property development after taking maternity leave from an investment fund. “It took me a lot of effort and mental determination to plunge myself into building Cozy Haus because it is something I’ve never done,” she said. “I thought to myself, if I could make this a success, it could give me the flexibility to be my own boss and also the flexibility to look after my daughter and the financial stability I wanted for my family. This was my chance, I took it, and I think that it was the best decision I ever made.” Cozy Haus now employs over 30 people and has more female staff than male. “I think that 60% of our staff members are female and a lot of them are single mums,” added Xuan. “I believe that, because you are a mum, you have more reasons to work hard not only because you have to provide financially but also because you have to lead by example.” As part of their mentoring programme, each of the Magnificent 7 will give one-to-one mentoring to women taking their first steps into the housebuilding sector. Georgina Hammond, Co-Founder of Beau Property, has taken 21-year-old graduate Abbi Bird under her wing as her mentee. Abbi saw the Magnificent 7 announced on LinkedIn and reached out to them about mentorship. She first became interested in construction aged 13 when her dad asked her to help with a building project. As a teenager she relentlessly pursued her passion, even switching schools to study construction and engineering before going on to complete a university degree. She is now shadowing Georgina while looking to start her career in construction management. “I really want to help her to navigate her career, to grow within her next role and be able to set goals for what her career is going to look like,” said Georgina. “I hope that she achieves becoming an MD of a PLC housebuilder because I know that she’s got it in her. She’s incredibly determined, she’s so enthusiastic, and she loves building houses. She’s incredibly technically minded. “It is so amazing and encouraging that people from that next generation have the enthusiasm and want to get into this industry because they feel so passionately about it and love it. So, I think from Abbi’s perspective, the sky is the limit and she can achieve anything. “Women need this support in an industry that is male dominated. I think that if we had this conversation again in ten years’ time, that would look very different. But while we go through that transition period, there needs to be role models and support for women that are making the move to enter this industry, to help them thrive.” The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day is Accelerate Action, focusing on driving progress for gender equality. Rachel Kelly, Head of Brand for British Gypsum and Isover said: “We are proud to support International Women’s Day and are accelerating our efforts to bring talented women into our workforce. “Women remain underrepresented in construction, facing barriers such as gender bias, lack of career visibility, and limited opportunities for progression. We are committed to addressing these challenges by amplifying female voices, promoting inclusivity and providing pathways for women to thrive in the sector.” The Building Better Hub provides resources and talking points on workforce gender diversity and other major industry issues. To hear more from some of the industry leaders featured in this article or to discover more about what women in construction have to say, visit the Building Better hub: https://www.saint-gobain.co.uk/building-better-hub/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Interior design consultancy OP has completed the transformation of a new two-storey extension at the Derbyshire headquarters of global mining solutions provider, MMD. The eight-week project has delivered 4,800 sq ft of modern, collaborative space that seamlessly blends the company’s rich mining heritage with contemporary workplace amenities. The development creates a vibrant destination where warehouse and office staff can come together to socialise, exercise and collaborate – moving away from traditional separated working patterns to foster a more inclusive company culture. At the heart of the scheme is a ground floor dining facility featuring a commercial-grade kitchen and servery. Taking inspiration from traditional British social clubs, the space incorporates brass lighting, dark green seating and classically-styled booths, creating a warm atmosphere that pays homage to MMD’s industrial roots. Sustainability and heritage elements are woven throughout the office design, including upcycled granite table tops salvaged from an unused reception counter. A glass cabinet displaying historical miner’s lamps from the 1800s provides a striking connection to the region’s mining past. The workplace incorporates extensive recreational amenities including a retro arcade machine, pool and ping-pong tables, and a popular darts area that has sparked ongoing friendly competitions between teams. A fully-equipped gym facility promotes employee wellbeing while providing practical benefits to staff. Careful consideration has been given to creating an inclusive environment, with durable, wipeable surfaces used throughout to ensure the space works equally well for both office and warehouse personnel. The success of the transformation was demonstrated during the recent festive period, when 95 staff members gathered in the new space for their festive celebrations – exemplifying the project’s goal of bringing people together in a welcoming, communal environment. Gary Tailby, managing director of OP, said: “We’re delighted to have partnered with MMD on this transformative project that perfectly balances heritage with innovation. The design not only creates essential amenity spaces but facilitates a cultural shift towards more collaborative ways of working. By incorporating sustainable technologies and celebrating MMD’s industrial heritage, we’ve created a recreational space that will serve their team well into the future.” Graham Griffiths at MMD said: “This development represents a significant step in MMD’s evolution, creating spaces where our teams can come together, collaborate and relax. OP’s understanding of our heritage and vision for the future has resulted in a design that will transform how we work and interact as a company.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Design-led interiors firm Chameleon Business Interiors has completed the transformation of McCain Foods USA’s 63,000sqft Oakbrook Experience Centre, Chicago. Shaun Watts, chairman of Chameleon said: “McCain’s brief was clear. They needed to create a real ‘destination’ – an office environment that would ‘wow’ employees and visitors. We’ve been operating in North America for several years, so we knew we’d be able to integrate with the whole team and transform the Oakbrook site. “This new space will now attract and retain talent and enhance the experience of McCain’s employees and visitors. It’s undeniably McCain and it’s been amazing to see the reactions of staff when they first enter the new space. “Central to McCain’s employee strategy is: creating a winning, fresh, modern and collaborative culture. Its new office will certainly support in fostering this.” The new space is designed with flexibility and collaboration in mind, providing a modern and dynamic environment for different work styles and activities. The inclusion of a townhall auditorium with movable tiered and lounge seating makes it adaptable for various events – like demonstrations and company meetings. The chef’s demonstration theatre and fully equipped commercial kitchen are unique features that will enhance team-building activities and serve as a place for workshops and culinary experiences. The smaller footprint of bench desking, while creating more open space, allows for the integration of different work settings. These work lounges, quiet areas, booths, and meeting rooms are thoughtfully categorised into ‘neighbourhoods,’ giving departments their own designated zones – while maintaining the ability to stay connected to the broader space. The investment in technology further highlights the commitment to modern, hybrid work practices. Surround sound speakers and immersive AV setups provide a more engaging, dynamic experience for those attending virtual meetings, product presentations, or cooking demonstrations. Large touchscreens in collaboration areas promote a seamless, interactive work environment, making it easier collaborate across teams. In terms of sustainability, Chameleon incorporated carbon neutral flooring throughout, utilised light sensors with energy efficient LEDs, used recycled and recyclable furniture, and reused existing elements wherever possible. Daylight harvesting systems were designed and installed to take advantage of natural sunlight and reduce the need for electric lighting. Howard Snape, McCain Foods’ regional president of North America, said: “The starting point was to be clear on the vision of what we were trying to achieve – which was really based around the theory of an experience centre. Chameleon understood that vision and has been a partner throughout this journey. They’ve proved themselves to be experts in their industry, regularly bringing fresh new ideas to the project. I am thrilled to see our company and our culture come to life in this new space – food, agriculture, manufacturing, sustainability and fun are all reflected in this forward-thinking design. With people at the heart of our business, we were purposeful to lead with safety, as we always do; we didn’t experience a single safety incident. “Investing in our physical spaces is just one way we’re creating an exceptional employee experience. With the renovation of our US corporate office, our employees and customers may now enjoy the new, modern and open spaces within the Oakbrook Terrace Tower.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The British Council for Offices (BCO) has released the third edition of its Guide to Fit-Out, offering fresh insights and best practice recommendations for office design in an era shaped by hybrid working and the transition to net zero. This is the first update to the Guide since 2011 and brings together expertise from over 100 industry professionals. It provides occupiers and built environment specialists with essential guidance on creating modern, flexible, and sustainable workspaces that enhance employee well-being while integrating smart technology and AI. Covering every stage of the fit-out process—from material selection and procurement to long-term management—the Guide is designed to be used alongside the BCO’s Guide to Specification, which helps define best-in-class workplaces. Key Focus Areas in the Latest Edition: This latest edition includes standalone sections on fire safety, acoustics, vertical transportation, and structural engineering—reflecting the increasing demand for offices that offer greater flexibility, adaptability, and connectivity. Offices Designed for the Future The Guide highlights a growing shift towards multi-use spaces, where traditional desk areas make way for collaborative and social zones. It also provides a checklist of design interventions that enhance occupier well-being, from biophilic elements and active workspaces to stress-reducing art and wellness facilities. Smart technology plays a crucial role throughout, with recommendations on how AI and automation can improve security, energy efficiency, and space management. The Guide also emphasises the importance of clear sustainability goals, encouraging businesses to set key performance indicators (KPIs) for reducing carbon impact. A major focus is the adoption of circular economy principles, where outgoing and incoming tenants collaborate with landlords to minimise waste and maximise reuse of fit-out materials. The Guide also advocates for material passport systems, improving traceability and reuse of building components. Insights from Industry Leaders Neil Pennell, Head of Design Innovation and Property Solutions at Landsec, said:“The new edition reflects how office use has evolved over the past decade. People want workplaces that offer valuable experiences beyond a traditional desk setup. Sustainability is now a key business priority, and our guidance on circularity principles shows how multiple stakeholders can help reduce waste in the fit-out process.” Peter Williams, Senior Technical Advisor at Stanhope, added:“The Guide is ultimately about helping businesses attract and retain the best talent. The pandemic accelerated a shift in office design, and now workspaces must work harder to differentiate themselves. By prioritising sustainability, flexibility, and technology, businesses can create office environments that foster creativity and collaboration.” Richard Kauntze, Chief Executive at the BCO, commented:“The Guide to Fit-Out is a practical resource for today’s rapidly changing workplace landscape. Health, well-being, and sustainability are no longer optional—they are essential. This edition encapsulates the latest industry trends and is a must-read for anyone involved in office design and fit-out.” The new edition features case studies from award-winning projects and links to an extensive online library that will be regularly updated. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Whitbread PLC, the owner of the Premier Inn chain, has started the construction of its most high-profile hotel development in Ireland at Dublin’s Clerys Quarter. Leading construction and fit-out company, Gilbert-Ash has been appointed as the principal contractor for the development which is an important part of the regeneration of one of Dublin’s most iconic department stores. The 229-bedroom hotel will be in the heart of the city at Earl Place, just off O’Connell Street, and will form part of a mixed-use development of Clerys Quarter, a new city centre destination that will regenerate Dublin’s landmark street. Gilbert-Ash’s scope of works at the former warehouse site include the construction of an eight-storey hotel plus basement and roof, with restaurant and reception on the ground floor. Whitbread acquired the development site in summer 2022 as part of its strategy to expand Premier Inn in Ireland, securing full planning permission to build the hotel from Dublin City Council in June 2023. The hotel, which is set for completion in summer 2026, will offer Premier Inn’s latest generation style bedrooms, and will be designed to achieve a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ target sustainability rating in line with Whitbread’s ‘Force for Good’ sustainability strategy. Emma O’Shiel, Project and Programme Manager for Whitbread in Ireland, said: “This new Premier Inn in the Clerys Quarter is an exciting step in Premier Inn’s growth story in Ireland. Dublin is a vibrant, high-demand market for both domestic and international travellers, and this hotel will offer guests an unbeatable city-centre location within one of Dublin’s most iconic and interesting areas. “We are thrilled to be contributing to the regeneration of such a beloved landmark and to bring the Premier Inn experience to more guests in Ireland. This development aligns with our commitment to creating outstanding hotels that deliver great value and comfort for our guests and it is sure to be one of the most popular Premier Inns in Ireland when we open the doors in 2026.” Gilbert-Ash Project Director, Sean Doran said the new hotel will be a key addition to the Clerys Quarter development: “Gilbert-Ash has a long-standing and excellent working relationship with Whitbread and we look forward to continuing this with the Clerys development. “For generations, the Clerys Department Store was an iconic Dublin landmark, and it is great to see the development work that has already gone on there. The Premier Inn hotel project forms part of the wider Clerys Quarter regeneration which will breathe new life into this historic location in the heart of the city. “Gilbert-Ash has an exceptional record delivering stand out projects in the hotels and leisure sector and we look forward to delivering another superb addition to Dublin’s expanding hospitality industry.” With the former department store a popular focal point for Dubliners and tourists alike, the regeneration of the area has been welcomed. The Clerys department store has been refurbished for a mix of business, retail and leisure uses with the development set to be fully open this year. The wider Clerys Quarter development will also boast the bustling Earl Place Market which will be a mecca for food and drink fans and a centre for Dublin’s thriving independent bar and restaurant scene. Whitbread has been growing rapidly in Ireland following the opening of the first Premier Inn hotel in Dublin City Centre in October 2021. The business currently offers its customers a choice of six hotel locations across the capital and Cork and is targeting 5,000 Premier Inn rooms in eleven towns and cities across Ireland where it wants Premier Inn to be represented. Gilbert-Ash has a unique approach to construction, fit-out and refurbishment based on the belief that great buildings come about through hard work, inspired innovation and genuine collaboration. Sustainability is a key focus for Gilbert-Ash with a number of initiatives underway to help the company to drive down its carbon footprint. To find out more about Gilbert-Ash visit www.gilbert-ash.com. For more on Whitbread plc visit www.whitbread.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS) is delighted to announce the appointment of Damian Hill to the newly created role of Technical Projects Manager, following the retirement of its Technical Director Joe Cilia. A seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience in the interiors sector, Damian brings a wealth of technical knowledge and leadership to FIS during an exciting time of transformation. As part of this transition, Jim Parlour has been promoted to Head of Technical, progressing from his previous position as Technical and Vetting Manager. These changes form part of FIS’s commitment to evolve and expand its technical support services for the £10 billion finishes and interiors sector. In his new role, Damian will play a pivotal role in supporting FIS as the leading technical authority for the finishes and interiors sector. His primary responsibilities will include managing technical projects, collaborating with the FIS team, members, and external stakeholders to enhance and update technical resources, and ensuring that FIS continues to deliver high-quality technical guidance, training, and support for the sector. “I am absolutely delighted to be joining FIS and look forward to working with the exceptionally talented team and all members of this amazing sector,” said Damian Hill. “Having spent 30 years within the interiors industry, I am excited to bring my knowledge, experience, and passion to continue the great work FIS does for its members in promoting quality, collaboration, innovation, safety, and best practice.” Hill’s extensive background in the interiors industry includes 24 years at SIG, where he held various roles across sales, business development, and training in core interior products. Most recently, as Ocula Partitions Technical and Training Manager since 2018, he has overseen product development, performance testing and certification, compliance, and systems training. Hill has also been an active member of the FIS Partitions and Pods Working Group, staying up-to-date on the latest developments and providing valuable insights to help shape the future of the sector. Commenting on the new role, Jim Parlour, Head of Technical at FIS, said: “Damian brings a wealth of experience as a technical communicator, having provided functional training to hundreds of staff in all interior construction product disciplines. We are looking forward to accelerating our development of the FIS e-learning platform, advancing competence standards for estimating, procurement, and design functions, as well as receiving project management support for all our technical activities and membership vetting efforts.” The addition of Damian Hill to the FIS leadership team, alongside Jim Parlour’s promotion, marks a key step in FIS’s efforts to enhance its technical support and resources for the finishes and interiors sector. For further information or for any questions please contact FIS at info@thefis.org or call 0121 707 0077. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
