The event, which built upon CIBSE President Fiona Cousins’ 2024–25 theme, focused on practical strategies to improve sustainability, efficiency and occupant wellbeing. Drawing on recent CIBSE reports, discussions centred on thermal comfort, energy saving, data measurement and retrofit, with case studies illustrating how these priorities are being applied in practice.

Three sessions framed the day’s debate. A ‘fabric first’ discussion chaired by Sasha Krstanovic highlighted decarbonisation and resilience, with speakers offering examples from the housebuilding sector. A second session, led by Sam Baptist, explored the role of research and policy in shaping affordable, sustainable homes. The final session placed people at the centre of performance, with case studies showing how occupant needs drive design and operational outcomes.

The conference highlighted CIBSE’s efforts to advance building performance through actionable strategies, innovation and policy insight. By combining technical expertise with real-world examples, the event set the stage for future dialogue across the built environment.