Judging Panel

An independent panel of recognised and expert judges, drawn from academia, business and broader related sectors will determine the winners of the Fit Out Awards UK.

We understand the importance of a fair and objective judging process. That's why we assemble a prestigious panel of industry leaders, renowned for their extensive knowledge, enthusiasm, and expertise in the fit out industry.

Our selection process is meticulous. Judges are bound by strict confidentiality agreements and declare any potential conflicts of interest. Entries with conflicts are reassigned, ensuring complete impartiality.

A comprehensive judging process has been developed to decide the winners of the Fit Out Awards UK.

This unwavering commitment to integrity is the foundation of our awards programme. Become a part of recognising industry excellence. If you're interested in joining the judging panel, email your details to judges@businessriver.com

2025 Judging Panel

Ann-Marie Aguilar (Judging Coordinator)

SVP, IWBI

Ann Marie Aguilar represents IWBI across Europe, she is passionate about sustainable and healthy buildings globally and works to share the benefits of the WELL Building Standard across Europe. VIEW MORE

Tolu Adeko

Founder, Adeko & Co

Tolù Adẹ̀kọ́, founder of Adẹ̀kọ́ & Co., leads a luxury interior design studio specializing in storytelling through design. Mentored by Sir Terence Conran, he collaborates with artisans to craft timeless, contemporary spaces. VIEW MORE

Vanessa Brady

CEO & Founder, The Society of British and International Interior Design

Vanessa is an international award-winning interior designer and founder of the Society of British and International Interior Design (SBID) with over thirty years experience in the design industry, championing standards and representing the interests of the interior design profession in Government. VIEW MORE

Gavin McAuley MCIAT BA Int Arch

Creative Director, McAuley Architecture + interiors

Gavin is an award winning Founder and Creative Director of McAuley Architecture + Interiors, an award-winning chartered practice specialising in creating innovative work place interiors and immersive hospitality interiors. VIEW MORE

Robert Schmidt III

Reader in Architectural Design, Loughborough University

Dr Robert Schmidt III, BArch, MEng, PhD is a Reader in Architectural Design at Loughborough University where he led the development of architecture (BArch & MArch) and currently leads the RaRe design lab and the Adaptable Futures Research Group. He has published several papers and books on the topic VIEW MORE

Lydia Szewczyk

Senior Associate, EMEA, International WELL Building Institute

As a Licensed Architect who wanted to have a greater impact on community and city policy – Lydia Szewczyk is delighted to be representing IWBI, where she works directly with clients who scale health and well-being across entire organizations and global real estate portfolios. VIEW MORE