RED Group has won Best Use of Technology at the Construction News Awards for delivering voco Zeal Hotel at Exeter Science Park.
As Europe’s first net zero carbon branded hotel and a BREEAM Outstanding development, voco Zeal Hotel has received significant industry recognition again. This latest award further demonstrates how innovation, collaboration and technical excellence can come together to deliver outstanding outcomes for our clients and the wider industry.
voco Zeal Hotel, showcases how technology can actively shape construction outcomes. From embedded concrete sensors enabling low-carbon structural solutions without programme risk, to façade-integrated photovoltaics and live energy performance monitoring, technology was woven into the build and operation. This approach delivered a net zero operational energy hotel, a 46% reduction in embodied carbon and near-zero waste to landfill, while improving safety, certainty and long-term asset value. It sets a clear benchmark for practical, scalable use of technology in modern construction.
The judges praised the projects “excellent approach and use of technology. Taking the vision of of a zero carbon hotel and being totally focused on achieving this in a way that is economically viable and repeatable”.
Tim Wheeldon, Founding Director of Zeal Hotels said “Having worked closely with the RED team on the delivery of our voco Zeal Exeter Science Park, we’ve seen firsthand how they embrace innovation and technology to improve collaboration, quality and project delivery. It’s great to see that commitment recognised by the construction industry”.
The award formed part of a strong showing for RED Group, which was shortlisted in four categories. Alongside winning Best Use of Technology for voco Zeal Hotel, the business was also named a finalist for Contractor of the Year (under £500m), Project of the Year (£20m – £50m) for The Harrison, and project of the Year (£50m+) for 40 Broadway.
Reflecting on the achievement RED Group CEO Graham Struge said “this award recognises the expertise, collaboration and commitment shown by our teams everyday. Being acknowledged across multiple categories by our industry peers demonstrates the strength of our business and the quality of the projects we continue to deliver”.
Read the project case study here.
