Urban Living Festival 2026 is a leadership and investment event focused on the convergence of contemporary hospitality, real estate, and living concepts in urban environments.1 It takes place in London, United Kingdom, on 14–15 September 2026, and is organised by International Hospitality Media (IHM), a media and events company specialising in hospitality and real estate sectors.1
The festival targets urban innovators, investors, developers, owners, operators, and advisors operating at the intersection of accommodation, residential, and workspace models.12 Positioned as “the only leadership and investment event” for this community, it aims to connect a global network of professionals to define how and where people stay, live, and work in cities.12
Key topics span a wide spectrum of urban living asset classes and operating models. These include short-term rentals, serviced apartments, extended-stay and hybrid hospitality, co-living, build-to-rent, student housing, later living, and flexible workspace, alongside broader themes such as sustainability, ESG, and proptech innovation in the built environment.23 The event’s emphasis is on the “blurred lines” between hospitality and residential real estate and the operational, investment, and regulatory implications of this convergence.23
The speaker line-up reflects this cross-sector focus, featuring senior figures from investment firms, advisory businesses, operating platforms, and industry associations. Named participants include CEOs, managing directors, portfolio and investment managers, and heads of operational living and sustainability from organisations such as Brookfield, Legal & General, Airbnb, Bidwells, Octopus Investments, and various innovative living brands.1 This breadth positions Urban Living Festival 2026 as a specialised forum for deal-making, market intelligence, and strategic dialogue around the future of urban living.