On the evening of the 24th April, the commercial interiors community gathered at the stunning Hallé St Peters in Manchester for a truly unforgettable event — the 2025 Next Generation Awards, hosted by Commercial Interiors UK. As organisers, we are proud to say the night was filled with energy, and an overwhelming sense of celebration for the outstanding talent that is shaping the future of our sector.
From the moment the doors opened for the drinks reception, there was an electric buzz throughout the venue. The room quickly filled with laughter, lively conversation, and excited reunions, setting the tone for what would become a fantastic night. It was wonderful to see so many members, guests, designers, and industry friends reconnecting and building new relationships over a glass of fizz.
As guests were called to dinner, the evening was formally opened with a warm and inspiring speech from Carolyn Mitchell, Chair of Commercial Interiors UK. Carolyn captured the spirit of the evening perfectly, describing it as "a celebration not just of talent, but of excellence, dedication, resilience, and commitment." She warmly welcomed our members and guests, emphasising how crucial collaboration is within our industry. Carolyn also extended heartfelt thanks to our event sponsor, Silentnight Contract, whose generous support helped make the evening possible and whose commitment to the future of commercial interiors was evident throughout the night.
Her speech reminded everyone why events like these matter — not just to recognise achievement, but to strengthen the powerful connections that underpin our sector. "We are all part of the same team," she said, as she urged the audience to take a moment to celebrate the incredible work happening behind the scenes: the designers, manufacturers, suppliers, and makers who bring creative visions to life with quality, service, and innovation. Carolyn’s final rallying cry — to celebrate the next generation and meet her on the dance floor later — perfectly set the tone for the evening ahead.
Following Carolyn’s words, guests enjoyed a delicious three-course dinner, a welcome chance to relax, share ideas, and savour the hospitality in the stunning surroundings of Hallé St Peters.
Then came the highlight of the night — the awards ceremony. As nominees were announced on screen, it was great to see each company proudly cheering for their colleagues. The supportive atmosphere was undeniable, with cheers, applause, and heartfelt celebrations filling the room for every nominee. There was a genuine buzz of excitement as we recognised some of the incredible individuals making their mark in our industry. Sean Moss of Amtico Flooring was named winner of Rising Apprentice; Matt Hall of Balsan received the Senior Leader Award; Helen Owen of Humanscale was crowned Outstanding Marketeer; and Ashley Garside of Hypnos Contract Beds took home the Production Leader Award. In addition, we celebrated Julia Gdula of Sheffield Hallam University, who won the Next Generation Student Award for her outstanding Cotton Bloom Residences project, inspired by colour psychology and Manchester’s rich industrial heritage.
Matt Hall (Balsan), Helen Owen (Humanscale), Ashley Garside (Hypnos Contract Beds), David Lawrenson (Silentnight Contract), Julia Gdula (heffield Hallam University), Sean Moss (Amtico Flooring)
Throughout the ceremony, the room was filled with huge cheers, applause, and standing ovations — a true reflection of the pride and support within our community. It was an emotional and joyous reminder that the future of the commercial interiors sector is in safe, ambitious hands.
Of course, no Commercial Interiors UK celebration would be complete without a proper party. As the awards wrapped up, the lights dimmed, the music turned up, and the dance floor came alive. Guests, winners, and organisers alike danced, laughed, and let their hair down well into the night. It was the perfect way to close a night that was not just about awards but about community, resilience, and the joy of being part of something so dynamic and purposeful.
Commercial Interiors UK would like to extend our sincere thanks once again to Silentnight Contract, whose sponsorship made the 2025 Next Generation Awards possible. Their support embodies the values we celebrated on the night — innovation, collaboration, and a firm commitment to the next generation of our industry.
On behalf of everyone at Commercial Interiors UK, thank you for being part of such a special evening. Thank you for your ambition, your collaboration, and your belief in our future. We can’t wait to see what the next year brings — and we look forward to celebrating with you all again at the 2026 Next Generation Awards!