Lessons learnt
The discussion underscored that retrofit and repurpose now represents the majority of construction activity in London, reflecting the shift from new build over the past decade. Early, collaborative risk-sharing was consistently cited as essential, with participants agreeing that clarity in surveys, structural assessments and contractual arrangements reduces both risk and uncertainty. Despite progress, knowledge sharing and data transparency were identified as ongoing gaps, particularly in capturing lessons from past retrofit projects and disseminating insights on emerging technical innovations.
Participants noted that innovation is happening across the sector, but scaling these solutions requires confidence, supportive policy frameworks and the ability to demonstrate value at scale. Whole-life carbon and sustainability must remain central to decision-making, not only to meet environmental obligations but also to secure long-term commercial benefits. The discussion also stressed the importance of bringing the right people together at the right stages of a project, fostering honest and early dialogue with clients, planners and project teams to unlock value and maximise project potential.
With 80% of the buildings that will exist in 2050 already standing, retrofit is the mainstay of construction. Yet VAT still favours new build over retrofit, and changing that could unlock skills, jobs and a major economic catalyst."
