21/12/2025
Reflecting on 2025, Looking Ahead to 2026
As 2025 comes to a close, I’ve been taking a moment to reflect on a year that has been demanding, varied, and deeply rewarding.
It’s been a year of balancing professional practice with public service and education — progressing live architectural projects across Ireland, serving on CIAT Professional Interview Boards online and face to face in London, and stepping into my role as a lecturer at Leeds College of Building. Bridging professional practice and education continues to be one of the most meaningful parts of my work.
Internationally, 2025 also brought opportunities to contribute beyond the UK and Ireland — delivering seminars, engaging with universities and ministries, and continuing important conversations around architectural technology, regulation, and resilience.
On a personal level, the year included many proud moments as a swimming official and referee at national and international competitions, including BUCS and the Arab Swimming Championships — and, most importantly, watching my son achieve new personal bests through commitment and hard work.
The year closed on a particularly positive note, with a planning permission granted well ahead of schedule for a replacement dwelling project in Ireland — one of the fastest planning decisions I’ve received in my career, and a great way to end the year.
In between professional commitments, travelling to Liverpool and Lisbon to watch football has been a welcome way to switch off, recharge, and return with fresh perspective.
Grateful for the people, colleagues, clients, institutions, students, and family who made this year what it was. Wishing everyone a peaceful Christmas and a healthy, positive New Year, and looking ahead to 2026 with clarity and momentum.
Time for a short break. Happy New 😉