The NLA Retrofit Conference 2026 brought together architects, developers, contractors, consultants and policymakers to consider one of the defining challenges facing London’s built environment: how do we move from recognising the need for retrofit to delivering it effectively and at scale? 

One phrase that seemed to capture the mood of the day was simply “Survey, Survey, Survey”. Understanding the existing building has never been more important. As Madush Gupta (Deputy Chair of the Planning and Transportation Committee, City of London Corporation) noted, retrofit at scale is now a necessity rather than an exception, with retention increasingly the assumption. Yet the success of any retrofit strategy depends on knowing what we are working with. Detailed surveys, safety information, existing-condition drawings and an understanding of future occupancy all need to inform decisions from the outset. 

Ian Poole, Associate Director and Innovation Lead at ElliottWood called for a “retrofit first, but not retrofit only” approach while also suggesting that the industry needs to broaden its focus beyond operational carbon. Retaining, rather than replacing a building’s fabric minimises construction waste and preserves the utility and functionality of existing materials. 

The discussions around future retrofit reinforced that there is no universal solution. Sam Watkins (Director, tp bennett) took a similar “retrofit first, not retrofit only” view; the objective should not be to preserve everything regardless of consequence, but to understand the qualities and opportunities of an existing building and intervene intelligently. Early engagement between client, design team and contractor is critical, supported by a robust brief and clearly defined parameters. 

Uncertainty is inevitably part of the process; the challenge is to manage it rather than allow it to become a blocker. Better surveys, standardisation and early decision-making can provide greater certainty, while still allowing architects and developers to respond creatively to the particular opportunities each building presents. 

The circular economy sessions broadened this conversation further. Ivo Kolchev (Senior Sustainability Manager, McLaren Construction) recommended that the whole project team look beyond the structure itself, evaluating “façades, services, finishes, fixtures and fit-out” from day one. Material passports, more reliable data and the concept of “urban mining” could help us understand existing buildings not simply as assets to be upgraded, but as stores of materials that can remain in circulation. 

Designing for future change is critical, too. Buildings should not simply be retrofitted to meet today’s requirements; they should be made capable of adapting to tomorrow’s. Flexible services, accessible components, modularity, salvageability and better material information can all make the next intervention easier. 

Ultimately, these conversations show how retrofit has evolved beyond extending the life of existing buildings to achieving an understanding of what we have, retaining what works, improving what does not and designing every intervention with the next change in mind. Delivering this at scale calls for buy-in from clients, architects, contractors and suppliers and a collective willingness to challenge ingrained processes and assumptions. With my colleagues at Barr Gazetas, I look forward to continuing to play my part in the conversation.