Around the Table: A podcast by Building Relations

Beyond Results Day: Why Apprenticeships Are Becoming a First Choice

In this special two-part episode of Around the Table, we explore changing attitudes towards apprenticeships following new Barratt Redrow research. Apprentices Samrawit Tesheme and Rushane Williams share their experiences, before William Walsh of Barratt David Wilson Kent and Andy George of the Home Builders Federation discuss careers advice, progression and the future skills needs of housebuilding. Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW

Building Resilience in Property- Mental Health, Leadership and Staying Active

In this episode of Around the Table, Rachel Colgan is joined by Andrew Link of Property Sports Network, adventurer and mental resilience speaker Alex Staniforth, and Caroline Richardson of Vistry to explore mental health, leadership and staying active in the built environment. Together, they discuss why resilience is not just about pushing through pressure, but about creating healthier workplaces, stronger teams and better communities. From active networking and leadership culture to social value, placemaking and access to green space, this is a conversation about how the property sector can better support wellbeing while improving performance and retention. Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW

Zero Bills Living: How it works for housebuilders

Zero Bills homes are moving from headline to delivery reality, but what does it actually take to make them work? In this episode of Around the Table, Rachel Colgan is joined by Hannah McCarthy (Octopus Energy), Leon Beale (Thakeham) and Oliver Luard (Greencore Homes) to unpack how Zero Bills living works in practice - from solar, heat pumps and batteries through to fair use allowances, commissioning and customer handover We explore what housebuilders need to get right from the outset, the lessons learned from early adopters, and why performance-led developers are now building Zero Bills into their standard house types If the housing sector is serious about decarbonising at pace while offering greater certainty on running costs, this conversation makes one thing clear: joined-up delivery models are fast becoming the direction of travel. Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW

Skill, Baby, Skill: Solving the UK’s Construction Workforce Crisis

Britain’s ambition to build 1.5 million new homes is under serious threat from a growing skills shortage. In this episode of Around the Table, host Rachel Colgan, of Building Relations PR is joined by William Walsh of Barratt David Wilson Kent and Roger Morton from NHBC to explore how the sector can rebuild its workforce. Together, they discuss apprenticeships, training hubs, new career pathways, digital skills and the policy interventions needed to attract, train and retain the next generation - turning “build, baby, build” into “skill, baby, skill.” Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW

• Transcript

Can we build 'New Towns' that work for people, economy, and planet?

The UK Government’s 'New Towns Strategy' sets out the boldest housing ambition in a generation - but can we really build at scale and create great places to live? In this episode of Around the Table, host Helen Tinlin from Building Relations is joined by: • Paul Silver, CEO, Dorchester Living(developers behind Heyford Park, recently announced as one of the Government’s new towns) • Andrew Matthews, Co-founder, Proctor & Matthews Architects • Melanie Leech, Chief Executive, British Property Federation Together they explore what it really takes to plan and deliver modern new towns - from design, placemaking and sustainability to funding, political commitment and community trust. Drawing on lessons from Heyford Park and decades of planning history, our guests ask whether new towns can become the generational legacy Britain needs. Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW

Housing Needs Architects

With more architects involved in designing new homes, the results can be better for everyone - from developers to communities. Host Natalie Daniels is joined by Keith Bradley (Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios) and Simon Vernon-Harcourt (City & Country) to explore how design can shape thriving neighbourhoods, balance local character with innovation, and meet modern expectations around sustainability, wellbeing, and accessibility. Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW

Why Aren’t We Building More Passivhaus Schemes in London?

Passivhaus is often called the gold standard for low-energy homes - but why has it been slow to take off in London? Host Kathryn Reucroft is joined by Attzaz Rashid (Barratt London), Dr Joel Callow (Beyond Carbon), and Sarah Lewis (UK Passivhaus Trust) to explore the challenges, misconceptions, and opportunities of scaling Passivhaus in the capital, and what Barratt’s landmark rollout could mean for the future of sustainable housing. Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW

Can Downsizing Solve the UK’s Housing Crisis?

Is downsizing the key to solving the UK’s housing crisis? With £2.9 trillion of property wealth tied up in under-occupied homes, host Laura Hellon-Hughes talks to Lucian Cook (Savills) and Steve Bangs (Pegasus Homes) about breaking barriers, reshaping perceptions, and why “rightsizing” could unlock homes and transform later living. Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW

How Shall We Build - How Shall We Live?

In this powerful and timely episode of Around the Table, we ask not just how many homes the UK should build – but how we build, and how we want to live. As the government announces a landmark £39bn housing boost, our panel explores the bold ideas behind Human Nature’s new “How Shall We Live” report – a radical yet practical vision to tackle climate breakdown, housing unaffordability, social isolation, and economic fragility, all through how and where we build. Host Rachel Colgan, Founding Director of Building Relations PR, is joined by: Joanna Yarrow - Chief Impact Officer, Human Nature Brogan MacDonald - Head of Sustainability, Ramboll UK (Buildings) Jon DiStefano - CEO, Greencore Homes Together, they explore: Why we need to move from building units to building communities How nature-based materials can remove carbon at scale What radical affordability really means – beyond house prices The role of place in supporting health, connection, and belonging Real delivery models proving that better is not only possible – it’s already happening Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW

The Rise and Future of Single Family Housing

In this insightful episode, we explore the dramatic rise of Single Family Housing (SFH) as one of the UK’s fastest-growing residential sectors – and ask what it means for renters, investors, housebuilders, and communities. Host Rachel Colgan from Building Relations PR is joined by: Piers de Winton (Savills) – lead author of the latest SFH report and a key voice on UK residential investment strategy Lottie Outen (Kennedy Wilson) – sharing a global investor’s perspective on the scale, ESG demands, and opportunity ahead Simon Pendlebury (Dandara) – offering boots-on-the-ground insight into delivering 200+ purpose-built homes at Linmere Together, they unpack the trends reshaping the Build-to-Rent landscape and why institutional investors are betting big on houses, not just apartments. Topics include: Why SFH now makes up over 50% of Build-to-Rent investment What renters really want – and how housebuilders are adapting How institutional capital is driving better ESG standards The future of design, delivery, and operational models Practical lessons from delivering sustainable homes at scale A must-listen for developers, investors, planners, or anyone curious about how SFH is redefining suburban renting – and the long-term shape of the UK housing market. Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW

Does Building Sustainable New Homes Need to Cost the Earth?

In this thought-provoking episode, we ask whether sustainable housing really needs to come with a higher price tag. Host Charlotte Radcliffe from Building Relations PR is joined by Michael Pratt (Invertay Homes & Timber Engineering UK), Professor Robert Hairstans (Edinburgh Napier University and NMITE), and Sue Riddlestone OBE (Bioregional) to explore how to build greener, more affordable homes without compromising on quality or ambition. Topics include: The cost myths around sustainable homes Benefits of fabric-first design and modern methods of construction (MMC) Circular economy principles and material reuse Policy, finance, and skills gaps impacting delivery Real-world insights from sustainable housing pioneers A must-listen for anyone working in housing, development, construction, or policy who wants to scale sustainability without scaling cost. Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW

Empowering Women Through Housing: A Conversation with Zaiba Qureshi

In this episode of Around the Table, we hear the inspirational journey of Zaiba Qureshi, CEO of Housing for Women, as she shares her leadership story and their mission to provide safe, affordable housing for vulnerable women. Hosted by: Natalie Daniels, Sustainability PR Director, Building Relations PR Our guest: 🔹 Zaiba Qureshi, CEO of Housing for Women We discuss: ✅ Zaiba’s personal journey, the barriers she has overcome, and what drives her ✅ The critical housing challenges women face in London ✅ Innovative solutions for social housing and gender equality ✅ The power of leadership, partnerships, and advocacy in making lasting change Tune in for an empowering conversation ahead of International Women’s Day! Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW

Designing for All: Neuro-architecture and inclusive spaces

In this episode of Around the Table, we explore the transformative role of neuro-architecture, a design approach that prioritises inclusivity, sensory well-being, and accessibility for all. Hosted by: Rachel Colgan, Founding Director of Building Relations PR Our guests include: 🔹 Jean Hewitt, Inclusive Environments Technical Lead at Buro Happold and Technical Author of PAS 6463 (Design for the Mind – Neurodiversity and the Built Environment) 🔹 Magdalena Arent, Building Performance Consultant at Holmes Miller Architects and a Neurodiversity Champion 🔹 Velimira Drummer, Associate Director & Senior Architect at Stantec, specialising in interior design for workplaces, healthcare, and education We discuss: The fundamentals of neurodivergence and why it matters in design How lighting, acoustics, biophilic design, and sensory zoning impact well-being The challenges and misconceptions in designing neurodivergent-friendly spaces How businesses, housebuilders, and architects can integrate these principles into their projects Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW

What the Future Homes Standard means for the housing sector

In this episode of Around the Table, we explore the Future Homes Standard, a transformative regulation set to launch in 2025, and its implications for the housing sector. Hosted by Charlotte Radcliffe, Senior Account Manager with Building Relations PR, the discussion features insights from three industry experts: Lynne Sullivan OBE, Architect, LSA Studio, RIBA & Chair of Good Homes Alliance James Snelgar, Technical Director, Dandara Southern Alex Jahanshahi-Edlin, Associate Director, McBains Some key topics discussed: The goals and challenges of the Future Homes Standard and its expected impact on industry practices. Lessons learned from implementing Part L of the building regulations as a precursor to the Future Homes Standard. Innovations like modern methods of construction (MMC) and the role of renewable energy in creating sustainable housing. Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW

What the Autumn Budget means for the housing industry

In this episode of Around the Table, we dive into the Autumn Budget announcement and its significant impact on the UK housing industry. Hosted by Ramsay Jones CBE, Public Affairs Consultant with Building Relations PR, the discussion features insights from three industry leaders: Tim Collins, Group Corporate Affairs Director at Barratt Redrow Melanie Leech CBE, Chief Executive of the British Property Federation Sean Ellis, Managing Director of Fernham Homes. Together, they analyse key budget measures, including affordable housing funding, social housing rent caps, and support for small and medium-sized developers, providing valuable perspectives on what these changes mean for the sector’s future. Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW

How can the housing sector navigate decreasing demand for section 106 homes?

In this episode of Around the Table, hosted by Rachel Colgan, Managing Director at Building Relations PR, we explore the critical issue of how the housing sector can navigate the declining demand for Section 106 homes. As housing associations in many parts of the UK are stepping back from bidding on these homes, the resulting decrease in affordable housing has led to delays in broader housing delivery. Our expert panel—Maggie Rafalowicz, Director at housing consultancy Campbell Tickell, and Kush Rawal, Director at Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing—discuss the wider implications of this collapse, including its impact on the government’s housing goals. They also share insights into the challenges and potential strategies to overcome this crisis, offering listeners a comprehensive view of what the future holds for affordable housing in the UK. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on the housing sector’s most pressing issues and possible solutions. Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW

Creating social value through the built environment

In this episode of Around the Table, hosted by Natalie Daniels, Sustainability PR Director from Building Relations PR, we delve into the concept of creating social value through the built environment. Our expert panel—Nathan Spencer, Managing Director at UKREiiF; Joanna Dahlgren, Head of Social Value & SROI at London Borough of Waltham Forest; and Danielle Buckley, Regional Social Value Manager at Wates Group—discuss how developers, planners, and policymakers are embedding social value into their projects. The conversation focuses on the tangible impact of these initiatives beyond just numbers, emphasising long-term legacy, community collaboration, and the role of local expertise. The panel also highlights the challenges and opportunities of creating social value, such as the need for standardisation, better collaboration, and removing barriers like postcode restrictions that limit impactful partnerships. Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW

Is shared ownership the solution to the housing crisis?

Following recent negative press coverage about shared ownership, we bring the experts together to tell us the truth about shared ownership. This episode will explore the role shared ownership can play in solving the UK’s housing crisis. Hosted by: Laura Hellon-Hughes, Senior Account Manager, Building Relations PR With panellists: Esaiyas Mollallegn, Head of Marketing at Metropolitan Thames Valley Stuart Hensby, Director of Sales & Marketing, Abri Group Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW

The Great British Housing Crisis

In this episode we discuss the upcoming election with two leading property experts to understand their views on the housing-related aspects of the major political party manifestos. We reflect on which party might be best for the housing sector, their current plans, and what they should prioritise for this sector in crisis. Hosted by: Ramsay Jones, Public Affairs Consultant with Building Relations With panellists: Tim Sargeant, Owner of City & Country Kate Faulkner OBE, Property Expert Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW

Designing homes of the future

Welcome to a special episode of the 'Around the Table' podcast, marking World Environment Day on June 5th. In this episode, we explore how architects and interior designers can create sustainable homes, both inside and out, to drive a greener tomorrow for our sector. Participants: - Gareth Price: Architect and Founder of Counterbalance XYZ - Alicia Storie: Eco-conscious Interior Designer and Founder of ADesignStorie Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW Music credit: Uppbeat OAKTY4TYK7ENPSSW