Judging 2025 Master Builder Awards: High-Calibre Construction

Judging the 2025 Master Builder Awards: A Glimpse into High-Calibre Construction

Recently, I had the privilege of serving as an online judge for the Federation of Master Builders’ 2025 Master Builder Awards. It was quite a marathon, to be honest! Fifty-four entries, each requiring careful assessment and scoring. Let’s just say our project work took a backseat for a day!

But despite the workload, I was genuinely impressed by the standard of work submitted. It’s clear that there are many dedicated contractors out there committed to delivering excellence and getting it right the first time. The quality of craftsmanship and professionalism was truly inspiring. This experience really highlighted the high level of master builder quality that exists within the industry.

The Sustainable Building Award: A Need for Deeper Understanding of Master Builder Quality

One area that stood out, however, was the Sustainable Building Award category. While the entries were commendable, I noticed a recurring theme: a heavy emphasis on operational energy savings. While important, I felt there was a significant gap in the assessment of embodied carbon and embodied energy. These crucial elements, which form the building’s fundamental makeup, seemed to be overlooked in many submissions.

In my opinion, details about embodied carbon and embodied energy should be integral to the judging criteria. Promoting a more comprehensive understanding of true sustainable building, including the importance of master builder quality in sustainable practices, is crucial for the future. I hope to see a shift towards a more holistic approach in future awards.

Looking Ahead: The North Awards in Newcastle

I’m also excited to announce that I’ll be attending the Federation of Master Builders North Awards ceremony in Newcastle this May. I’m looking forward to meeting the builders, industry professionals, and celebrating their achievements. It will be a fantastic opportunity to connect with the people who are making a real difference in the construction sector.

Keep an eye out for updates! We’ll be sharing more insights and experiences as soon as we can.