The high street and in-town shopping centres are fundamental to our society, yet over the last decade the landscape of retail has shifted dramatically towards online retailing, and industrial developments offering larger outlets and convenience. The Government’s inquiry into the future of the high street has included expert industry figures such as retail guru Mary Portas, who, in 2011, was commissioned to analyse the problems facing the high street and as a result, issue a set of recommendations.

As anticipated, the report received widespread media attention and varied responses, but as more tackle the subject, agreement is on one pivotal point – that the high street needs saving.

In this issue, FC&A considers the retail industry from a design perspective and invites architect practice Child Graddon Lewis to share its recent study on ‘in town’ shopping centres, where by taking a holistic approach to secondary shopping centres, there is huge potential for change. Turn to page 34 to find out more.

Elsewhere, we bring you this year’s last BIM forum – with a timely focus on the future. We asked a number of industry specialists where they see the future of BIM, how the collaboration will evolve and how might BIM affect the relationships of those working within the model. Turn to page 22 to read some interesting responses.

I hope you enjoy this issue. If you wish to comment on any of the focus areas in this month’s issue, then please do not hesitate to get in touch at the usual address. Alternatively you can always interact with FC&A via Facebook (www.facebook.com/fcamagazine) or Twitter (@FCAMagazine).