About Chris Irwin
Involved in the smart buildings market for 30+ yrs. Passionate about the need to improve energy & operational efficiency in buildings.

I have been involved in the smart buildings market for over 30 years, working for the most innovative companies in the building automation market, including Trend Controls (1987-95), Tridium (2002-11 and 2015-17), Distech Controls (2012-13 and 2017-18) and now J2 Innovations . I am passionate about the need to improve the way be design and operate our buildings. Originally a trained as an electronic engineer I closely follow the technology trends and have write and speak frequently about the issues in the automation and smart buildings markets. Now is the most exciting time due to the rise of IoT technologies and the convergence of IT and OT. FIN Framework which I am now involved with is at the leading edge of these changes.
Featured articles and news
Classroom electrician courses a 'waste of money'
Say experts from the Electrical Contractors’ Association.
Wellbeing in Buildings TG 10/2025
BSRIA topic guide updates.
With brief background and WELL v2™.
From studies, to books to a new project, with founder Emma Walshaw.
Types of drawings for building design
Still one of the most popular articles the A-Z of drawings.
Who, or What Does the Building Safety Act Apply To?
From compliance to competence in brief.
The remarkable story of a Highland architect.
Commissioning Responsibilities Framework BG 88/2025
BSRIA guidance on establishing clear roles and responsibilities for commissioning tasks.
An architectural movement to love or hate.
Don’t take British stone for granted
It won’t survive on supplying the heritage sector alone.
The Constructing Excellence Value Toolkit
Driving value-based decision making in construction.
Meet CIOB event in Northern Ireland
Inspiring the next generation of construction talent.
Reasons for using MVHR systems
6 reasons for a whole-house approach to ventilation.
Supplementary Planning Documents, a reminder
As used by the City of London to introduce a Retrofit first policy.
The what, how, why and when of deposit return schemes
Circular economy steps for plastic bottles and cans in England and Northern Ireland draws.
Reporting on Payment Practices and Performance Regs
Approved amendment coming into effect 1 March 2025.