Building for the public realm makes very specific demands on the things that shape our experience of buildings. Whether it’s a flagship office, an urban transport hub, modern library or boutique hotel, the choice of furniture, fittings, lighting and fabrics are intrinsic to the way architecture is translated into the human realm. The feel of a door handle, the durability of a carpet, the environmental performance of a light, or the comfort of a sofa all contribute to how a building feels. Far from being the icing on the cake, specifying is intrinsic to the architect and interior designer’s vision.