The Commercial Interiors UK Lifetime Achievement Award is the highest honour presented at the CIUK Annual Luncheon, celebrating individuals whose careers have left an enduring mark on the commercial interiors sector. Each year, this prestigious accolade recognises exceptional talent, leadership, and dedication - those who have not only shaped their own fields but also elevated the industry as a whole.
From trailblazers in design and manufacturing to champions of hospitality, workplace, care, cruise, and education, our winners embody the spirit of innovation, influence, and service to the community. Their legacies inspire us all, reminding us of the power of passion and commitment in shaping the spaces where we live, work, and thrive.
The Commercial Interiors UK Lifetime Achievement Award 2025 is proudly sponsored by Panaz, global designers and manufacturers of high-quality flame retardant fabrics and wallcoverings for the hospitality, healthcare, cruise, and corporate sectors.
We are delighted to celebrate past recipients here, each one a testament to the excellence and progress of our industry!
2023 – Colin Mustoe MBE
In 2023, the Lifetime Achievement Award was proudly presented to Colin Mustoe MBE. Colin’s journey began back in 1976 when he founded Kingsway Contracts, the company that grew into Senator International and is today recognised as The Senator Group. Under his leadership, the business flourished, reaching a remarkable turnover of over £220 million in 2022. Alongside this success, Colin was awarded an MBE in 2017 for his services to manufacturing and charity. His support of Blackburn Youth Zone and his tireless promotion of apprenticeships highlight his deep commitment to future generations. A true advocate for nurturing young talent, Colin’s influence has left an indelible mark on both the industry and the community.
The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Colin Mustoe MBE by Mr Rollie Attard, of Panaz
2022 – Kit Kemp MBE
In 2022, we had the joy of honouring Kit Kemp MBE, Founder and Creative Director of Firmdale Hotels and the Kit Kemp Design Studio. Kit has built an internationally admired reputation not only as a hotelier, but also as a designer of textiles, fragrance, and homeware, as well as an author and passionate supporter of British art, craft, and sculpture. Her acceptance speech was both inspiring and moving, underlining her role as a trailblazer for women in the industry. Warm, creative, and influential, Kit’s award celebrated a career defined by originality and dedication to design excellence.
The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Kit Kemp MBE by Mr Rollie Attard, of Panaz
2021 – Simon Waller
In 2021, the award was presented to Simon Waller, retired Production Manager at Silent Gliss. Beyond his professional life, Simon gave his time as an NHS Blood Runner, often working through the night before heading straight into a full day at work - never seeking recognition, just quietly making a difference. After his retirement, Simon faced an incredibly tough health battle, including the amputation of his left leg, yet he never lost his humour or positivity. Unable to attend in person, he shared a heartfelt speech by video, moving many of us to tears while still raising smiles with his jokes. Simon’s courage and spirit made his recognition especially memorable.
The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented by Mr Tony Attard OBE DL, of Panaz
2019 – Jack Pringle
The 2019 Lifetime Achievement Award went to Jack Pringle, co-founder of Pringle Brandon, one of the UK’s leading architectural practices working with major companies across banking, professional services, TMT, and hospitality. In 2012, Pringle Brandon joined Perkins and Will, where Jack became London Principal. In his acceptance speech, Jack reflected sincerely on his journey and the many people who had inspired him along the way. Warmly received by his peers, his words highlighted his significant and lasting contribution to the contract furnishing and interiors industry.
The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Jack Pringle by Mr Tony Attard OBE DL, of Panaz
2018 – Peter Keen
In 2018, we celebrated Peter Keen, Chairman of Hypnos, with the Lifetime Achievement Award. A long-standing influence within the industry, Peter’s leadership has extended far beyond Hypnos. He has served as Chair of the BCFA, Master of the Worshipful Company of Furniture Makers, and President of the Windsor Royal Warrant Holders Association. Today, he continues to contribute as Chair of the southern region fundraising for the WCFM and as a Trustee of the Bucks Community Foundation. In his speech, Peter warmly thanked his family, his Hypnos team, and long-standing suppliers and clients, while also delighting guests with reflections on his nearly 50 years in the industry.
The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Peter Keen by Mr Tony Attard OBE DL, of Panaz
2017 – Olga Polizzi
The 2017 recipient was Olga Polizzi, Director of Design and Deputy Chairman of Rocco Forte Hotels, a collection of luxury hotels and resorts spanning Europe, the Middle East, and Russia. Olga was delighted to accept the award and was visibly moved by the enthusiastic response from the room. The recognition celebrated not only her exceptional design leadership but also her wider influence in raising the standard of hospitality interiors across the globe.
The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Olga Polizzi by Mr Tony Attard OBE DL, of Panaz
2016 – Jan Wilson
In 2016, the award was presented to Jan Wilson for her outstanding contribution to the contract furnishing industry. Jan’s career began after moving from Australia to the UK in the late 1970s - her advice to others making the same move? “Make sure your offices have heating!” Guests responded with thunderous applause to her heartfelt acceptance speech, recognising a career defined by creativity, determination, and lasting impact on the industry.
The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Jan Wilson by Mr Tony Attard OBE DL, of Panaz
Previous recipients include:
Terrance Conran
Margaret Miller
Rodney Fitch
Mary Fox Linton