Urban Living Festival 2025

Urban Living Festival 2025

By International Hospitality Media Limited

Urban Living Festival 2025 connects the global community of contemporary hospitality and real estate urbanites.

Date and time

Location

Mary Ward House Conference Centre

Tavistock Place London WC1H 9SN United Kingdom

Agenda

2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

DAY 1 - 'Unlocking the neighbourhood' property tours - limited places


Exclusive Property Tours: Experience first hand some of the most exciting properties and developments in the Bloomsbury area of London. Immerse yourself in the city's dynamic real estate and hospital...

6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

DAY 1 - Drinks reception and networking


Join us as lots of hospitality and real estate industry professionals across the urban living landscape converge. Enjoy a selection of beer, wine, and delicious nibbles in a relaxed and vibrant sett...

8:30 AM - 5:30 PM

DAY 2 - EXHIBITOR AREA OPEN - find your creative solution


Immerse yourself in the future of hospitality / real estate at our dynamic Exhibitor Area. This is the centerpiece of the conference—where proptech pioneers, smart city innovators, real estate develo...

8:30 AM - 9:20 AM

DAY 2 - EXHIBITOR AREA: Breakfast and Networking


Enjoy a light breakfast and chance to catch up with industry colleagues, before the agenda for the day begins.

9:20 AM - 9:30 AM

DAY 2 - MAIN STAGE : Welcome


George Sell, Editor-in-chief, IHM sets the scene for the day

9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

DAY 2 - MAIN STAGE : Keynote presentation: The future is now


Exploring the outer edges of possibility in the built environment. Speaker: Kai-Uwe Bergmann, partner, BIG

10:00 AM - 10:40 AM

DAY 2 - MAIN STAGE : Panel - Urban Living 2035



A panel of planners, architects, developers and investors discuss how urban development and regeneration will evolve over the next decade. Moderator: George Sell, editor, Urban Living News Panellis...

10:40 AM - 11:20 AM

DAY 2 - MAIN STAGE : Panel: Redressing the balance


All the living sector verticals are facing growing supply and demand imbalance - how can investors, developers and local authorities address the worsening problem? Moderator: Catherine Williams, hea...

11:20 AM - 11:50 AM

DAY 2 - Coffee Break


Enjoy some networking, visit our expo and caffeinate as required.

11:50 AM - 12:30 PM

DAY 2 - MAIN STAGE : Presentation: The material world


As construction costs continue to rise and ESG demands mount, a new wave of cutting-edge building materials will be key to delivering new buildings quickly, efficiently and sustainably. Speaker: Phi...

12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

DAY 2 - MAIN STAGE : The Urban Living Impact Awards


This is the second ever Urban Living Impact Awards - where we reward and recognise innovation and achievement across the living and flexible workspace sectors. Join us for a glass of something spark...

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

DAY 2 - Lunch - fuel up while you network


Grab lunch and make the most of your break right in the Exhibitor Area! Enjoy a curated selection of food and drinks while you explore the latest in hospitality and real estate service solutions. It’...

2:00 PM - 2:30 PM

DAY 2 - AI LOUNGE: Panel: Intelligent Spaces - AI's transformative impact


A discussion about the current and future use of AI in the living and hospitality sectors, covering design, operations, investment, customer service and marketing. Moderator: To be confirmed Panell...

2:00 PM - 2:30 PM

DAY 2 - COLIVING : Panel: Scaling coliving: balancing community


What are the challenges and opportunities of scaling coliving models while maintaining the core community aspect that makes them attractive? Moderator: Iain Murray, head of operational living, Bidwe...

2:00 PM - 2:30 PM

DAY 2 - PBSA : Presentation: PBSA investment strategies and risk management



Delving into the current state of the PBSA investment market, examining trends, opportunities, and potential risk

2:00 PM - 2:30 PM

DAY 2 - BTR : Presentation: Investment strategies and market dynamics



A deep dive into the current state of the BTR market, examining investment trends, emerging opportunities, and potential challenges. Presented by Andrew Screen, head of residential capital markets, ...

2:00 PM - 2:30 PM

DAY 2 - LATER LIVING : Presentation: Investing in later living


A deep dive in to the investment landscape for later living, analysing market trends, opportunities, and potential risks. • Presentation by Phil Schmid, senior director, operational real estate, sen...

2:00 PM - 2:30 PM

DAY 2 - HOSPITALITY : Panel: The economics of branded residences


A panel discussion exploring the profitability and long-term value implications of upfront sales revenue and the sustained income generated through premium services. Moderator: Peter Sugden, consul...

2:00 PM - 2:30 PM

DAY 2 - SHORT TERM RENTALS : Corporate Clients, flexible stays


As business travel returns in new forms, corporate clients are seeking more flexible, experience-driven accommodation options. This session will explore how short-term rentals are adapting to meet th...

2:30 PM - 3:00 PM

DAY 2 - AI LOUNGE: Smart stays: Voice tech & automation in guest experience


Roundtable discussion How voice assistants, smart controls, and AI-driven service are enhancing stays across hotels, BTR, and coliving. Discussion host: Victoria Day, Senior tech business developm...

2:30 PM - 3:00 PM

DAY 2 - BTR : Panel: Delivering successful communities


A focus on the practical aspects of developing and operating successful BTR communities. Moderator: Brendan Geraghty, CEO, Association for Rental Living Panellists: • Nathan Wise, director of leasi...

2:30 PM - 3:00 PM

DAY 2 - COLIVING : Panel: Coliving and the wider housing market


We explore the relationship between coliving and the broader housing market, addressing both the potential for collaboration and the competitive dynamics. Moderator: Matt Lesniak, co-founder, Consci...

2:30 PM - 3:00 PM

DAY 2 - PBSA : Panel: Beyond bricks and mortar


A look at the evolving needs and expectations of students and how PBSA can adapt to provide a holistic living experience. Moderator: Aceil Haddad, founder, MATT PR Panellists: • Hannah Chappatte, fou...

2:30 PM - 3:00 PM

DAY 2 - LATER LIVING : Panel: Ageing in place: creating inclusive


A focus on the design principles that create successful later living communities, emphasising inclusivity, adaptability, and accessibility. Moderator: Anne-Marie Nicholson, founder, amn architects ...

2:30 PM - 3:00 PM

DAY 2 - HOSPITALITY : Roundtable: Scaling lifestyle brands


A discussion which explores how lifestyle brands are navigating the complexities of expansion. Moderator: Eloise Hanson, editor, Boutique Hotel News Key considerations: Financial strategies to su...

2:30 PM - 3:00 PM

DAY 2 - SHORT TERM RENTALS : Deconstructing STR regulations


As cities tighten rules on short-term rentals, how can the sector adapt responsibly? This panel unpacks the latest regulatory trends, explores strategies to combat overtourism, and discusses the path...

3:00 PM - 3:30 PM

DAY 2 - Afternoon Break


A chance to enjoy afternoon tea, networking, and explore the expo space.

3:30 PM - 4:00 PM

DAY 2 - AI LOUNGE: Built for intelligence: AI’s role in urban living desigN


Roundtable discussion How machine learning and predictive analytics are shaping smarter buildings, resident services, and sustainability. Moderator: Justin Harley, Yardi and one other (tbc)

3:30 PM - 4:00 PM

DAY 2 - COLIVING : Presentation: Achieving long-term value in coliving


A deep dive in to the coliving investment landscape, moving beyond the hype to focus on long-term value creation. • Ewa Scott, associate, residential investments, Knight Frank

3:30 PM - 4:00 PM

DAY 2 - PBSA : Presentation: The future of student living: trends


A look to the future of the PBSA market, exploring emerging trends and potential disruptions that could shape the sector. Presenters: Sarah Canning and Deenie Lee, The Property Marketing Strategists

3:30 PM - 4:00 PM

DAY 2 - WORKSPACE : Presentation: Investing in flex: navigating the market


A deep dive in to the investment landscape for flex workspace, examining market trends, opportunities, and risk mitigation strategies. Presenter: John Williams, director, B&E Consulting

3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

DAY 2 - HOSPITALITY : Workshop: Understanding the guest of tomorrow


Audience members will be divided into groups, each assigned a guest persona. Groups will brainstorm the travel requirements and habits of each demographic before feeding back to the room. Profiles:...

3:30 PM - 4:00 PM

DAY 2 - SHORT TERM RENTALS : Branded STR: The New Face of Urban Hospitality


Branded short-term rental concepts are reshaping urban hospitality. We’ll look at how operators and developers are using design, technology, and brand experience to differentiate their offering and ...

3:30 PM - 4:00 PM

DAY 2 - BTR : Panel: Strategies to drive occupancy, retention and resident


As the UK multifamily sector matures, what can operators to do ensure guest satisfaction and tenant retention in an increasingly competitive market? Panellists: Damon Gacicia, director, Airbnb for ...

4:00 PM - 4:30 PM

DAY 2 - AI LOUNGE: The bottom line: AI’s role in real estate investment


Roundtable discussion From deal modelling to tenant retention, how AI is influencing property valuations and investor decisions. Moderator: To be confirmed

4:00 PM - 4:30 PM

DAY 2 - BTR : Panel: The rise of single-family rentals



Analysing the rise of the SFR market - why has it been so successful and where does it go from here? Moderator: Richard Berridge, founder, Blackbird RE Panellists: • Justine Edmonds, head of BTR, LR...

4:00 PM - 4:30 PM

DAY 2 - COLIVING : Panel: Beyond the city: new markets, new demographics


Exploring the potential for coliving beyond major urban centres, including suburban areas, smaller towns, and even rural locations. Moderator: Bart Sasim, co-founder, Coliving Ventures Panellists: •...

4:00 PM - 4:30 PM

DAY 2 - WORKSPACE : Panel: The future of flex and coworking


A look to the future of the market, covering trends, challenges and potential disruptors. Moderator: Michael Dubicki, founder, Flex Engine Panellists: • Jane Sartin, executive director, FlexSA • Jos...

4:00 PM - 4:30 PM

DAY 2 - HOSPITALITY : Panel: Sustainability in business travel


A panel discussion exploring how travel programmes are evolving to incorporate sustainability. Key topics will examine the changing roles of travel buyers, agents and operators in developing responsi...

4:00 PM - 4:30 PM

DAY 2 - SHORT TERM RENTALS : Why the tech landscape needs urgent consolidation


The short-term rental sector is flooded with tech solutions — from PMS and channel managers to dynamic pricing tools and guest experience platforms. But is too much choice creating confusion, ineffic...

4:30 PM - 7:30 PM

DAY 2 - COURTYARD: Drinks reception and networking


Grab a drink and network with your new connections.

Good to know

Highlights

  • 1 day, 4 hours
  • In person

Refund Policy

Refunds up to 30 days before event

About this event

Travel & Outdoor

Spark your innovation, challenge your perspective at the festival of ideas - welcome to the only leadership and investment event for urban innovators and investors to collectively define the future of how and where people stay, live and work.

The Urban Living Festival (ULF) 2025 connects the global community of contemporary hospitality and real estate “urbanites” to collectively define the evolution of how and where we stay, live and work.

ULF welcomes urban innovators at the cutting edge of contemporary hospitality and real estate to explore the macro and micro drivers behind this growth and the challenges, opportunities and solutions in each market segment.

Changing demographics, social and economic drivers are fuelling investment decisions as investors put a greater focus on Urban Living asset classes. Curated with an intense focus on collaboration and debate, ULF brings CEO’s, ‘best of breed’ speakers, sponsors and service providers to collectively share best practice, network, map the industry’s future and do business within:

• Hotels and Serviced apartments • Aparthotels / Extended stay hotels • Hostels, Co-Living and Co-Working • Build to rent (BTR) and Student accommodation • Short Term Rentals • Senior Living • ‘Healthy Buildings’, sustainability and wellness • PropTech

Hosted over two days, London will have the opportunity to showcase it's status as a “living and breathing” world-class metropolitan hub for property investors, developers, owners and operators.

Who Attends?

  • Government - central and local
  • Investors/fund managers/charities
  • Property companies
  • Planning professionals
  • Developers
  • Academics
  • Operators
  • Landlords
  • Designers/architects
  • Economists
  • Hospitality and real estate professionals
  • Technology companies

For more information see www.urbanlivingfestival.com

Location

MARY WARD HOUSE, 7 TAVISTOCK PLACE, LONDON, ENGLAND, WC1H 9SN, UNITED KINGDOM

Google Maps Link Below

https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Mary+Ward+House,+Tavistock+Pl,+London+WC1H+9SN/@51.5250828,-0.1299411,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x48761b30769f697f:0xd71cd6edc659c930!8m2!3d51.5250828!4d-0.1273662!16s%2Fg%2F11bw3h26k3?entry=ttu

Terms and Conditions;

Attendees and companies attending URBAN LIVING FESTIVAL 2025 (ULF 2025)

1. ULF 2025 reserves the right to refuse entry to any person seeking to attend the event.

2. ULF 2025 may take payment from people who it is then deemed are not suitable or do not qualify for attendance of the event. In such instances the full money of the applying attendees will be refunded inside 30 days.

3. Any attendee demonstrating loud, rowdy or disruptive behaviour at any time during proceedings on September 22-23rd 2025 may be asked to leave the festival and the venue. If this happens no refunds of the event fees will be given.

4. Except in the case of non-qualifying attendees (as detailed in clause 2 above) once a qualifying attendee has registered to attend, refunds/compensation will only be given in the following circumstances;

a) Visitor Refund Policy

We fully expect to hold a safe and enjoyable Urban Living Festival 22-23rd 2025. However, in the event of cancellation due to government restrictions, your registration fees will be transferred/offered as a credit towards Urban Living Festival 2025 in London.

If requesting a refund due to changing travel arrangements, and travelling from a country which is put on the UK government quarantine list within 14 days of the event, a full refund will be rewarded.

b) Book With Confidence

If you're sick with COVID-19 symptoms or test positive with COVID-19 within 14 days of the event, you can cancel by emailing our events manager eme@internationalhospitalty.media. You'll be asked to verify this with documentation, and at that point a full refund will be rewarded.

If an attendee has booked and then chooses not to attend, the place can be re-allocated to another person without any administration fee.

5. International Hospitality Media Ltd is the organiser of the event. They are not responsible for the individual comments, remarks or presentations made by the speakers or any other public comments made by delegates attending the event. International Hospitality Media Ltd hereby indemnifies themselves from any liability for any of the content (including inaccuracies) of the speeches and presentations made.

6. ULF 2025 has made every effort to ensure the information provided about the speakers addressing the event is accurate. In the event that any one of the speakers cannot honour their commitment to speak and attend the event, no refunds will be given. However, International Hospitality Media Ltd will use their best endeavours to find suitable replacements.

7. Attendees taking accommodation close by to the ULF 2025 will be allocated a room by the provider. Any complaints about the room or the associated service should be directed to the accommodation manager

8. ULF 2025 will make every attempt to ensure the agenda progresses to time and the subjects promoted get fully covered.

9. Event hosts IHM, suggest that attendees purchase travel insurance to cover pre-paid, non-refundable travel expenses, such as airfare and conference registration fees in the event of flight delays caused by severe weather; illness or family emergencies; and other unforeseen circumstances that may prevent you from attending.

Organized by

International Hospitality Media Limited

Followers

--

Events

--

Hosting

--

From £512.78
Sep 22 · 2:00 PM GMT+1