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

2024 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

Rachel Atthis

Director, Arup

Rachel is a Director with Arup and leads the Engineered Architecture offer for Arup delivering collaborative, highly technical facilities within the Science Industry and Technology sector, outwardly valuing the contribution of others, and believing that we are always better together. 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

James Cheung

Partner and Commercial Director, Mamou-Mani ltd

James Cheung has 20+ years of experience as a practicing architect working in both large and small practices throughout his career. He brings a wealth of experience in dealing with complex projects ranging from commercial offices, skyscrapers, masterplanning, residential, industrial and aviation. VIEW MORE

Eshrar Latif

Associate Professor, Cardiff University

Eshrar Latif, Associate Professor at the Welsh School of Architecture, Cardiff University, is a Certified Passivhaus Designer and LEED Green Associate. He specializes in sustainable architecture, advancing eco-friendly design and energy efficiency. VIEW MORE

Simon Savage

Owner/Managing Director, OU Interiors ltd

Simon Savage, Founder and Managing Director of OU Interiors ltd, leads a specialised commercial and retail fit-out business that partners with organisations ranging from multi-building enterprises to startups looking for their first commercial space. 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

Brian Seymour

Associate - Head of Interiors, Studio Seilern Architects

Brian is a forward thinking designer with over 17 years of experience in Hospitality & F&B interiors and a degree in Multi-Disciplinary Design. Since 2022, he leads the interior design work of the studio. 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