What to Expect at Digital Construction Week 2025
Digital Construction Week (DCW) is back, and it’s not just any return – this is the landmark 10th edition of the UK’s leading event for digital innovation in the built environment.
Taking place at ExCeL London on 4–5 June 2025, this milestone event promises the most ambitious programme yet. With more than 350 industry-leading speakers, 10 dynamic stages, and over 150 exhibitors, DCW 2025 is setting the stage for two days of cutting-edge insights, collaboration, and forward-thinking strategies.
Innovation at the Core
From AI to digital twins and sustainable retrofitting, the construction industry’s digital revolution is in full swing. DCW 2025 brings together architects, engineers, contractors, and digital specialists under one roof to dive deep into how technology is reshaping our built world.
Visitors can expect a vibrant, hands-on experience packed with:
- Real-world case studies and technical masterclasses
- Live workshops and panel discussions
- Opportunities to connect with industry peers and thought leaders
Best of all, the event is completely free to attend, making it a must for professionals hungry to stay ahead of the curve.
Digital Delivery Done Right
One of this year’s flagship sessions comes from Laing O’Rourke, offering an insider view of one of the UK’s most ambitious builds to date – the new Everton Stadium. A mammoth 52,000-seat venue constructed on a reclaimed dock, this project was delivered on time and on budget thanks to a full digital delivery approach.
Paul Drayton from Laing O’Rourke will guide attendees through key learnings and outcomes: “We embraced digital delivery from the outset to reduce risk and increase certainty. The result speaks for itself.”
Expect to gain practical takeaways on seamless digital coordination and managing complexity through cutting-edge tech.
Designing with Digital Complexity
Gaganjit Singh from Zaha Hadid Architects will unveil how one of the world’s most recognisable firms tackles architectural complexity using parametric design and advanced digital tools.
This deep-dive will explore:
- Streamlining intricate workflows through parametric principles
- Real-world case studies demonstrating digital design breakthroughs
- Future-facing trends shaping architecture’s digital toolkit
Singh’s session promises to be both inspirational and hands-on: “We see parametric design as a lens for solving real-world challenges. It’s not just about aesthetics – it’s about performance, sustainability, and clarity.”
Saving Carbon by Reusing What We Have
In an era of climate accountability, retrofitting is gaining traction as the most impactful route to reducing carbon in the built environment. Ellen Willis and Sagal Rooble from Chetwoods will lead this urgent conversation.
Their session focuses on:
- How to conduct deconstruction audits and reuse materials
- The inner workings of Project RESTOR and its lessons on component repurposing
- Practical retrofitting strategies that attendees can immediately apply
Willis states: “The greenest building is the one that already exists. Retrofitting isn’t just sustainable – it’s smart, cost-effective, and essential.”
Industry Collaboration in Action
Data consistency and supply chain communication remain significant challenges in construction. That’s where the newly launched Manufacturers’ Information Hub comes into play.
In this interactive workshop, a powerhouse panel featuring Alex Small (Tata Steel Europe), Cristina Sánchez Jiménez (Bovis), Robert Barbour (Travis Perkins), and others will lead attendees through a live information management session.
Participants will:
- Discover the vision and goals of the Information Hub
- Work on real-world case exercises
- Collaborate with manufacturers, facilities managers, and supply chain professionals to co-create solutions
According to Small: “Standardising product data isn’t just a pipe dream anymore – it’s a necessity for a modern, transparent, and efficient construction industry.”
Digital Twin or Digital Bin?
Back by popular demand and with a fresh twist, this year’s debate session is set to stir the pot. In a gameshow-style format, Dan Rossiter (BSI) and Vicki Reynolds (One Creative Environments) will referee a high-stakes battle of opinions on whether certain case studies meet the true definition of a digital twin – or if they’re better left in the proverbial digital bin.
This lively, interactive format promises laughs, learning, and no shortage of passionate viewpoints. Rossiter notes: “A digital twin must add value, not just buzzwords. Otherwise, what’s the point?”
A Rich Tapestry of Topics
Beyond the headline acts, DCW 2025 promises a robust and diverse programme. With 10 themed stages running simultaneously, visitors can tailor their experience to their professional interests, whether that’s smart cities, AI in design, robotics, or digital project delivery.
Key themes include:
- The rise of generative design in architecture
- Automation and AI in infrastructure planning
- Information management and data governance
- Construction cybersecurity
- Emerging sustainability standards
Plus, the exhibitor floor will feature more than 150 tech providers showcasing the newest digital solutions, software, and platforms transforming construction today.
Get Involved and Stay Ahead
With so much on offer, it’s clear why DCW 2025 is shaping up to be the go-to destination for anyone serious about digital innovation in construction.
Whether you’re a seasoned project manager, a start-up innovator, or a government policymaker, DCW provides an unparalleled opportunity to:
- Learn from the best in the business
- Share knowledge and experience
- Forge meaningful partnerships and collaborations
And let’s not forget the energy. This isn’t just another trade event. It’s a high-octane meeting of minds with the future of the built environment front and centre.
Be Part of the Movement
With free registration, there’s no reason not to mark your diary for 4–5 June 2025 at ExCeL London. Digital Construction Week is more than a showcase – it’s a call to action. The future of construction is digital, and it’s being built right here.
Explore the full programme and register now: Digital Construction Week Programme.