SQ.FT Stories

Step by Step Guide to Monetise Your Personal Brand in Construction - Beatrice Ronchetti - EP18

Beatrice Ronchetti is a personal branding strategist for the built environment and a driving force behind how professionals in construction can turn online presence into real project wins.
Starting her career in architecture before moving into marketing roles within the construction sector, Beatrice brings a rare combination of creative thinking and commercial awareness. She’s seen first-hand how slow the industry has been to adopt digital and why that’s a massive missed opportunity.
In this episode, she shares her proven framework for building a personal brand on LinkedIn from the ground up. From creating content that adds value, to positioning yourself for inbound opportunities, Beatrice breaks down exactly how to turn visibility into viable project leads.
We explore:
- Why construction is behind on digital presence and what needs to change.
- How to use LinkedIn strategically to stay top-of-mind with potential clients.
- The key pillars of a personal brand that actually drives revenue.
- Why pitching less and posting more could win you more projects.
Whether you're a business owner, BD professional, or someone in construction looking to build your reputation this episode will shift how you think about LinkedIn and show you how to turn visibility into real commercial value.

How to Use Workplace Strategy to Maximise ROI - Leeson Medhurst - EP17

Leeson Medhurst is the Head of Strategy at AIS Interiors and a leading voice in the world of workplace strategy.
Leeson’s journey into the Design & Build world wasn’t linear. He started at a company where he felt like a round peg in a square hole, before finding his stride through roles at several respected firms, ultimately specialising in strategic workplace consultancy.
A firm believer in the power of deep, early-stage thinking, Leeson is a strong advocate for investing serious time in RIBA Stage 0—the point where workplace vision should begin. He argues that this phase is too often rushed or undervalued, when in fact it’s the foundation for getting a space that truly reflects the needs of its users.
He shares why 18 months before lease end is the ideal time to engage in strategy, how culture and data should drive every workplace decision, and why meaningful discovery beats surface-level assumptions every time.
Now at AIS Interiors, he’s helping reshape how businesses approach space—not through fast decisions, but through informed, people-centric planning.
We explore:
- How Leeson’s early experience shaped his views on workplace misalignment.- Why deep, data-driven strategy must begin up to 18 months before lease end.- How culture, not just square footage, should inform workplace design.- Why RIBA Stage 0 is the most undervalued—and most critical—phase in the project journey.
A must-listen for anyone looking to elevate workplace design through meaningful strategy and long-term thinking.

£150 million turnover. 1 Group of companies. One brutal lesson - Clive Lucking - EP16

Clive Lucking is the co-founder of The Fourfront Group—a business that scaled to an incredible £150 million in turnover by building not just one company, but a group of brands across the Design & Build space.
Clive started his journey in office interiors sales before launching Area Squared with two partners. Their rapid success led to a bigger vision: a group structure that included a D&B firm, a traditional contractor, a design studio, and a workplace consultancy—all working in sync to serve clients more effectively.
He shares how this model helped them scale fast, the lessons learned along the way, and the difficult reality of facing numerous difficult situations along the way.
Now, Clive is channeling his experience into Studio Alliance—a Europe-wide network of trusted D&B companies helping clients navigate cross-border projects.
Three things that stood out to me:
His clarity on why a group structure was the key to sustainable, scalable growth.
Why you should think big when growing your Design & Build company, or any company.
His forward-thinking approach to helping clients operate at scale across Europe through Studio Alliance.
This one’s packed with hard-won lessons and honest insight.

Why Design & Build Needed a Reset & How Fit-Out Companies Can Adapt - Keith Tiltman - EP15

SQ.FT Stories welcomes Keith Tiltman, an experienced leader and entrepreneur in the Design & Build industry.
Starting his career in the furniture sector before moving into full fit-out, Keith built a reputation for delivering quality spaces before founding his own successful company, Lume Interiors.
Most recently, he has launched Re-Seat, a business focused on reusing and repurposing office furniture—a bold move that taps into a growing market shift toward sustainability and smarter procurement.
In this episode, Keith shares his perspective on how the Design & Build industry has evolved over the years, how new legislation has helped clean up outdated practices, and why the pitching process has become a more sophisticated and longer-term journey compared to the fast, competitive world it once was.
We explore:
How the Design & Build sector has matured with new regulations and client expectations.
Why reusing and repurposing office furniture is creating new opportunities.
How the pitch process has evolved from quick wins to relationship-driven success.
Whether you're in office design, construction, or simply passionate about how the industry is adapting to modern challenges, this episode offers a fresh look at innovation, resilience, and evolving client needs in today's market.

The Honest Truth About Construction from a Sub-Contractor’s View - Luke Blanshard - EP14

SQ.FT Stories welcomes Luke Blanshard, a driven sub-contractor and a resilient voice within the construction industry.
With a background in project management and hands-on experience as a sub-contractor, Luke offers a  balanced perspective on the realities of working within the construction supply chain. 
His journey—from running his own project management company to navigating major personal and professional setbacks—has shaped a mindset.
In this episode, Luke shares his thoughts on the challenges subcontractors face in today’s market and why it’s time they take greater responsibility for their own actions, instead of solely blaming main contractors. 
He also opens up about the difficult decision to dissolve his own company after overpaying drawdowns to contractors who ultimately didn’t deliver, and how that experience continues to inform his approach to business.
We explore:
- The real challenges subcontractors face—and the mindset shift needed to thrive.
- Lessons from dissolving a business and the dangers of financial mismanagement.
- How trust is built (and lost) between main contractors and subcontractors.
Whether you’re a sub-contractor, project manager, or someone passionate about improving how the construction supply chain operates, this episode offers an unfiltered look at the realities of the industry—and the inner drive required to keep going.
 

The Construction Crisis: Rising Costs & Future Solutions - Alex Hurn - EP13

SQ.FT Stories welcomes Alex Hurn, the CEO of Horde Group and a leader in building surveying, project management, and property development.
With a strong background in building surveying and project management, Alex has worked on a wide range of high-value developments, overseeing projects from inception to completion. His expertise spans feasibility studies, planning, and risk management, ensuring projects are delivered efficiently and profitably.
Alongside this, Alex is actively involved in high GDV property deals, giving him a unique perspective on the commercial realities of development in today’s volatile market.
In this episode, Alex shares his perspective on the rising costs of labour and materials and how these challenges are impacting construction projects across the UK. We also discuss the future of construction—how technology, innovation, and new methods of building could shape the industry in the years to come.
Something that was intriguing from a host’s perspective was Alex’s view on the recent turmoil in the industry, including ISG’s administration and Vistry’s profit warnings. His insights into how major industry shifts impact contractors, developers, and clients alike highlight the importance of resilience and adaptability in today’s market.
We explore:
- The challenges of rising labour and material costs in construction.- How market uncertainty is affecting project viability and investment decisions.- The future of construction and how new approaches may reshape the industry.- The relationship between main contractors and subcontractors—common issues and how they can be avoided.
Whether you’re in construction, property development, or simply interested in the forces shaping the built environment, this episode is packed with insights on where the industry is headed.
Tune in to hear Alex’s expert take on navigating today’s construction challenges and what the future might hold.

The Future of Office Space Isn’t Smaller, It’s Smarter - Michael Potter - EP12

SQ.FT Stories welcomes Michael Potter, the Co-Founder of Curve Workplaces.
With a background in Project Management, Michael developed a strong foundation in delivering commercial fit-out projects before co-founding Curve Workplaces. His experience has given him unique insights into the evolving nature of commercial property and the challenges businesses face when making workplace decisions.
In this episode, Michael shares his perspective on how the commercial property landscape has shifted, why clients are taking longer than ever to proceed with projects, and the broader impact of remote working on company culture and growth. He also dives into the realities of business development in the Design & Build industry—why BD reps often move between companies and what needs to change to create stability and long-term success.
We explore:
🔹 How commercial property has changed and what that means for workplace design. 🔹 Why clients are more hesitant to move forward with projects in today’s market. 🔹 The hidden costs of remote working and its impact on company culture. 🔹 Why business development reps struggle with longevity in the industry—and what needs to change.
Whether you’re a workplace strategist, industry leader, or business owner navigating the ever-changing commercial property sector, this episode is packed with valuable insights on the future of office design and client decision-making.
Tune in to hear Michael’s expert take on where the industry is heading and what businesses need to consider when planning their future workplace.

Why Construction Needs a Culture Shift & How to Start- Mike Garrett - EP11

SQ.FT Stories welcomes Mike Garrett, the Managing Director of IKON Build and a dedicated leader in the Design & Build industry.
With a wealth of experience in construction and project management, Mike is passionate about evolving the industry to meet the expectations of the modern generation. As a forward-thinking professional, he challenges outdated mindsets that continue to hold the sector back and advocates for a more progressive approach to leadership, mental health, and site efficiency.
In this episode, Mike shares his candid views on why the Design & Build industry must adapt—or risk being left behind. He discusses the importance of addressing mental health at its root cause rather than reacting too late, as well as the role of strong client relationships and operational efficiency in running successful projects.
We explore:
- How the industry must evolve to attract and retain the next generation.- The outdated mentalities restricting progress in Design & Build.- Why mental health in construction needs a proactive, not reactive, approach.- The key to nurturing client relationships and running efficient sites.
Whether you're a construction professional, industry leader, or someone passionate about modernising the built environment, this episode provides invaluable insights into the future of Design & Build.
Tune in to hear Mike’s vision for a more forward-thinking, efficient, and mentally healthy construction industry.

Why Every Fit-Out Should Solve a Problem - It's Not Just a Floorplan - Jitesh Patel - EP10

SQ.FT Stories welcomes Jitesh Patel, the CEO of Peldon Rose, an award-winning Design & Build company known for transforming workplaces with purpose-driven solutions.
Jitesh’s journey with Peldon Rose began in finance, auditing the company as a junior accountant before eventually joining as Finance Director and rising to CEO. His deep financial expertise and strategic leadership have played a key role in the company’s growth, shaping its reputation for delivering high-impact office spaces.
In this episode, Jitesh shares his perspective on why workplace design must go beyond aesthetics—unlocking real business challenges to create meaningful solutions. He dives into the evolution of Design & Build, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and why service-driven thinking is at the heart of successful projects.
We explore:
🔹 How Jitesh’s finance background shaped his leadership approach.🔹 The importance of solving client problems—not just delivering office fit-outs.🔹 How Peldon Rose has evolved into an award-winning leader in Design & Build.🔹 Why a strategic, service-led mindset is essential for the future of the industry.
Whether you're a business leader, a workplace strategist, or someone curious about the intersection of finance and design, this episode offers a compelling look at how commercial spaces can be both beautiful and impactful.
Tune in to hear Jitesh’s insights on leadership, problem-solving, and the future of Design & Build!

The Good, The Bad & The Ugly of Design & Build - Matt Watts - EP9

SQ.FT Stories welcomes Matt Watts, the CEO of MWA Projects and a highly skilled leader with a multi-faceted background in the Design & Build industry.
With a career spanning all sectors of the industry, Matt brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective on the evolution of Design & Build. From managing projects for global brands like Jimmy Choo and Bally Shoes to specializing in facility management and co-working spaces, Matt has seen it all—and has a lot to say about how the industry has changed, for better and for worse.
In this episode, Matt shares his insights into how the Design & Build landscape has transformed over the years and what that means for project management in today’s fast-paced environment. His practical experience and deep understanding of the industry make this a must-listen conversation for anyone in the sector.
We explore:
- How the Design & Build industry has evolved—what works & doesn't.
- The challenges and opportunities in project management today.
- Lessons learned from working with some of the world’s most prestigious brands
- Why understanding client needs and fostering collaboration are more critical than ever.
Whether you're a project manager, a facility manager, or someone curious about the behind-the-scenes of global Design & Build projects, this episode offers invaluable insights into the shifting dynamics of the industry.
Tune in to hear Matt’s reflections on the past, present, and future of Design & Build—and why innovation and adaptability are key to success.
0:00 - Intro
6:51 - How not to run a D&B company.
15:30 - Start of MWA Projects
24:38 - Corrupt Project Managers?
29:41 - The good side & bad side to D&B.
36:37 - What Coworking was then, and what it is now.
42:09 - Future of MWA Projects
46:49 - Is there a Lack of talent in D&B?