Building Futures: A Decade of Diversity

Blueprint for All celebrates 10 years of driving diversity in architecture and the built environment 

Key details

Date: 1st May 2025

Author: Blueprint for All

Type: Press Release

The future of architecture is one of inclusion.

2025 marks a decade since Blueprint for All launched its flagship programme, Building Futures, focused on improving access to the built environment for young people from underrepresented and systemically disadvantaged backgrounds. 

Our journey began with a clear mission of pushing for inclusivity and accessibility into the sector, reflective of the society it serves, but since then we’ve been able to achieve more than we could have initially hoped for. Blueprint for All has provided over 1,000 young people across the UK to exclusive bursaries, mentoring opportunities, workshops, peer networking, and most importantly, access to real world experience. Building Futures has become a model for inclusive talent development within the built environment. 

However, we know the work in this sector is far from complete. According to 2023 FIR data, just 1 in 90 prospective applicants from ethnic minority backgrounds are hired to work across the built environment. Our chair of trustees, Sir Keith Ajegbo, emphasises the importance of not becoming complacent when it comes to prioritising EDI efforts within the sector. “You can’t assume that changes, both positive and negative, to the built environment are forever, and the mission of inclusion is one we must keep working at. The collective change we’ve seen as a direct result of the Building Futures programme has made a genuine difference to the lives of so many, and Blueprint for All will continue to constantly improve options for those looking to break into the architecture sector.” In the following ten years, we must further our focus and commitment to transformation by embedding equity, inclusion, and opportunity at the heart of the industry for all who work within it. 

Join us in marking our 10th Anniversary. There are two exciting ways to celebrate with Blueprint for All: 

10+10: the Future is Inclusion

Expect an evening of inspiration, connection, and celebration, featuring: 

  • Voices, past and present and future as they share their experiences and hopes for a more inclusive industry 
  • A celebration of our talented alumni as they showcase their work, achievements and journeys on the Building Futures programme 
  • Connect and network with like-minded individuals passionate about inclusion in the built environment

Building Bridges, Building Futures fundraising walk

  • Take on our scenic 10-bridge, 10km walk this summer – whether with co-workers, peers, friends, or family. Running throughout the year, this challenge will raise vital funds for the Building Futures programme to support young people from underrepresented backgrounds across the UK to access the profession. The route includes iconic London landmarks like London Bridge, the Golden Jubilee Bridges, Westminster and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Walk with purpose and help us build a more inclusive future. 

Celebrate with Blueprint for All as we look back at what we’ve been able to achieve; creating a roadmap for where we’re going, and how we can work together to ensure the landscape and future of the architecture industry has a foundation of diversity and inclusion for all. 

Learn more about our flagship Building Futures programme here.