Spec Finish

03 Voice of the industry Iain McIlwee, FIS Chief Executive, discusses the Building Safety Act which heralds the arrival of a New Sheriff for Construction. 06 News round-up We highlight what’s been happening in the finishes and interiors sector. 08 Skills Strategy needs to be turned into business as usual. We ask: “Have you and your organisation made the necessary changes to ensure you stay on the right side of UK law?” 10 Feature The design and delivery of an ambitious 18-week refurbishment project. 13 Technical The FIS Tendering, Procurement and Contracts Research Survey returned some unsettling results. 14 Sustainability Reuse makes sense - the industry is being driven in a positive direction in terms of sustainability. 16 Design A discussion about how the Met Office floorplate redesign creates an inclusive and accessible environment for all. 18 Feature See what two FIS members’ and a National Association are doing to encourage women to join the sector and then how they support and inspire them to flourish, and stay in the industry. 20 Feature A discussion with a developer of complex building projects about their different approach and strong message of hope. 22 Training Awards 2022 Awards to showcase and celebrate the achievements of students, and apprentices and for the best professional achievements in the finishing and interiors sector and various training organisations large and small. 24 Workspace Design Show We discuss the focus of the show which is on products that advocate building a culture that attracts, retains and motivates employees and the FIS Conference and Innovation Awards which will take place over two days. 26 Legal Guidance is provided to contractors on what steps they can take if they are not getting paid. 27 Community news 30 Innovations Welcome IN THIS ISSUE EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Nick Tagliarini Nick is Pexhurst’s Director Claire Bennett Claire is an Architect at Vincent + Gorbing Matt Taylor Matt Taylor is Taylor Design Consultancy’s Director Flavie Lowres Flavie is FIS Sustainability Champion Ralph James Ralph is Met Office’s Facility andTechnical Services Manager Lisa and Julie Cartwright Lisa and Julie are Access Panel Shop Directors Amy Hough Amy is Marketing Director at Workplace Interiors Company Cheltenham Peter Rogers CBE Peter is Lipton Rogers Developments Partner Len Bunton Len is Bunton Consulting Partnership’s Owner www.thefis.org 5 elco e George Swann George is FIS Skills and Training Lead