I recently attended the Inclusive Design Festival 2026 in Cambridge, an event dedicated to shaping places that are accessible, connected and designed for everyone. As a graduate entering the built environment sector, it was an incredibly valuable opportunity to learn more about how inclusive design principles are being embedded into policy, practice and delivery, and to hear directly from those working at the forefront of this change.

Held at The Fellows House in Cambridge, the festival brought together professionals from architecture, planning, local government, development and education. The programme struck a thoughtful balance between strategic discussion, technical insight and real-world case studies, creating space for both learning and meaningful conversation.

The day opened with panel discussions exploring how adult decision-makers can influence policy and practice to promote inclusive design, followed by a second panel focused on how youth and hard-to-reach groups can meaningfully shape the environments designed for them. A key takeaway from these sessions was the importance of lived experience; inclusive design cannot be achieved through good intentions alone, but must be informed by those who are most often excluded from decision-making processes.

Alongside these discussions were timely and informative talks on Building Regulations Part M and Biodiversity Net Gain, highlighting the need to consider accessibility, compliance and environmental performance together, rather than as separate or competing priorities. As a graduate, I found it particularly valuable to gain clarity on how these regulatory frameworks intersect with inclusive design thinking.

The case studies presented throughout the afternoon grounded the conversations firmly in practice. Topics ranged from preparing design codes with youth engagement to inclusive playscapes, community-led architectural engagement, and the regeneration of Cambridge’s Civic Quarter. These examples demonstrated how inclusive design can take many forms, but is most successful when it is embedded early, approached collaboratively, and treated as a core design principle rather than an afterthought.

Beyond the formal programme, one of the most rewarding aspects of the festival was the opportunity to connect with so many people across the industry. The atmosphere was welcoming and open, making it easy to engage in conversations, share perspectives and learn from others’ experiences. For someone at the beginning of their professional journey, this kind of environment is both encouraging and motivating.

The festival also raised funds for YoungMinds, reinforcing the social value at the heart of the event and reminding attendees of the wider impact that thoughtful, inclusive design can have beyond the built environment itself.

Overall, the Inclusive Design Festival 2026 was an inspiring and thought-provoking day that reinforced the importance of designing with care, empathy and inclusivity. It left me with a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the sector, and a renewed motivation to carry these principles forward as I continue to develop my practice.