Finalist at the CMA Awards
We’re proud to share that our work with SDC has been announced as a finalist in the Construction Marketing Awards, in the category of Best Brand Positioning.
Sadly, we’re not winning a Country Music Award. These boots are made for working.
SDC is a 100% employee-owned construction company, known for delivering some of the UK’s most advanced life sciences and technology campuses across the Oxford–Cambridge Arc.
The new brand positioning, Building Progress, speaks to the future of decarbonisation, social value and innovation, while staying true to the company’s straightforward ethos. It’s a platform that puts people at the centre, showing how employee ownership drives real progress in an industry ready for change.
This recognition reflects a hands-on, collaborative process that took us into the heart of the business. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who took part: from the 40+ people who generously gave their time for interviews, to those who welcomed us on site visits, answered surveys, dug through archives and shared their thoughts and aspirations.
We’re delighted to see this work recognised by the CMAs. A huge thank you to the SDC team for your trust, drive and craft. Onwards.
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How emotion works in brand building and why it’s so effective for place brands
Emotions are central to the human experience. They help shape perceptions, guide decisions, and influence what we remember. All essential for effective brand building. But why? Emotions help us make quick, intuitive choices in the moment, by simplifying things (good/bad, approach/avoid, safe/risky). They interact with our core beliefs, opinions, memories and experiences to help us reach decisions rapidly. More often than not, we choose based on feeling rather than methodically analysing features.
Shortlisted at the Transform Awards 2026
Thrilled to start the new year by sharing some good news, our work has been shortlisted at the Transform Awards across four categories 🎉
Humanarium features in Design Week
Humanarium features in Design Week