HLW HLWeen 2024

As London’s AEC industry gears up each year for a bit of October mischief, there’s one event that stands out from the crowd—HLWeen! This annual HLW celebration has become the stuff of legend. Known for blending festive flair with networking flair, this gathering is an electrifying, spirited bash that unites clients, vendors, and colleagues to dance, eat, drink, and showcase their inner Halloween creativity. One highlight that always has us on the edge of our seats is the costume competition.

This year, the excitement was palpable. From the very start, guests knew they were in for a treat (or was it a trick?) as ghoulish decor transformed the venue, and costumes took on a life of their own. After rounds of lively voting, our competition winners emerged, dazzling the crowd with their winning combinations of creativity, wit, and craftsmanship.

Winner: Adrian Defendi as Terminator – BW Workplace Experts

2nd place: Paul Osborne as Old Woman with Spider – Introba

3rd place: Cushman & Wakefield Team as Tube Stations

With this year’s “Trash Tiara” theme, the HLW team took things to new levels of ingenuity and fun. Inspired by the idea of upcycling, our designers turned unexpected items like scrap metal, old computer parts, and even recycled CDs into incredible headpieces. The result? A series of whimsical, elaborate creations that sparked pure admiration and awe.

First-time HLWeen-goer and HLW Interior Designer, Claire Hunt, couldn’t believe her eyes at the sheer effort everyone put into their costumes—our team included! ‘We went all out to surprise with this year’s theme, and the creativity was simply delightful to bring to life!’ she shared. ‘I’m already counting down to next year’s big reveal from the HLW team!’

Meanwhile, our Senior Interior Designer, Shelly Quinn, a near-veteran of our HLWeen events, shared her own fond reflections. ‘The absolute best part of HLWeen,’ she laughed, ‘is seeing the artistry our guests bring to the table. Every year they outdo themselves, pouring heart and soul into creations that leave us all gobsmacked! It’s always a delight and a surprise—can’t wait for next time!

To all who joined us, a massive thank you! The magic of HLWeen wouldn’t be possible without your commitment to making it an unforgettable evening.

And with that, we look forward to what next year has in store—until then, cheers to another year of HLWeen memories!

Photography by Dom Martin.