New year, new you: the evolution of the home. John Downing finds out about new trends for 2026 from The Hill Group, which has been carrying out its own research. New research commissioned by The Hill Group, one of the UK's leading housebuilders, highlights how the role of the home is rapidly evolving. The Hill Group's Evolution of the Home study, which surveyed more than 2,000 UK adults, explored how our homes and living habits have evolved following the Covid pandemic. The findings highlight a significant cultural shift: homes are no longer simply places to reside, but multi-purpose environments that must support every aspect of life, from working and exercising to relaxation. Leading the way in designing futureproof homes that reflect evolving lifestyles, Hill conducted the research to better understand changing priorities in how people use their homes. Hill's design-first philosophy prioritises adaptable, light-filled living spaces that promote health, sustainability and convenience, to meet the needs of today's lifestyles. According to the findings, 72 per cent of UK respondents say smart tech has a positive impact on their lives, and 73 per cent trust AI to manage aspects of daily living. The top reasons for using smart devices include saving energy, improving home security, helping to clean the home, improving sleep quality, managing exercise routines, and making day-to-day life more efficient. One-third of UK respondents use their home more frequently for exercise and 84 per cent say their home supports their mental and physical health. As a result, 73 per cent of people have made home improvements since 2020 to enhance wellbeing, energy efficiency, or access to outdoor space and 40 per cent said a wellness space was important in their home. This shift towards multi-functionality is influencing design across Hill's developments. From open-plan layouts that adapt to different uses, to integrated smart systems that optimises energy and enhances comfort, Hill seeks to help residents make the most of their space. Reflecting the growing appetite for smart tech and home-based fitness, Hill has partnered with fitness technology innovator MAGIC AI to introduce its cutting-edge AI-powered Fitness Mirror at Hill's flagship developments in Cambridge, London and Oxford. Now installed in a selection of show homes, the MAGIC AI Fitness Mirror looks like a traditional mirror, but once activated, it transforms into an interactive personal trainer, offering customised workout programmes and real-time feedback. It can be wall-mounted or free-standing, making it a compact and versatile addition to a modern home. Rebecca Littler, sales and marketing director of The Hill Group, said: "As a forward-looking developer, it's essential we stay at the forefront, anticipating how people want to live and ensuring our homes meet their evolving needs. The rise of multifunctional, tech-enabled spaces is transforming the way homes are designed. At Hill, we are focused on creating flexible, energy-efficient homes that support health and wellbeing and adapt seamlessly to modern lifestyles. "Our exclusive partnership with MAGIC AI is a great example of how smart tech can enhance the homeowner's experience of exercising at home." The MAGIC AI Fitness Mirrors are available in Hill's show homes at Marleigh Park and The Icon in Cambridge.

London, October 27th, 2025 – MAGIC AI, the fast growing London-based AI fitness technology company behind the award-winning MAGIC AI Mirror, today announced that celebrity footballer Jesse Lingard has joined the company as both an investor, brand ambassador, and on-screen trainer taking funds by the British company, raised to $9 million to date. Lingard, with a 15 million […]

Magic AI wins UK StartUp of the Year 2025, amplified nationally by 75Media. 75Media is proud to celebrate Magic AI as UK StartUp of the Year winner and to announce its supporting role in bringing this ambitious brand to a national audience. The award was announced at the UK StartUp Awards during Ideas Fest in September, where judges commended Magic AI's rise from self-funded beginnings to a stand-out player in its sector. Founded by Varun Bhanot, Magic AI started with limited resources and no external backing. Through perseverance, experimentation and a lean startup mentality, the company has since attracted significant recognition, built a growing customer base and assembled a strong team. 75Media's Ignite programme: giving start-ups a platform As part of the winner's package, Magic AI has benefitted from a UK-wide digital billboard campaign, powered by 75Media. They have also been invited to join 75Media's Ignite Programme: a 12-month membership tailor-made membership scheme to help fast-growth challenger businesses scale through: * Access to premium billboard inventory * Amplified media spend * Expert-led events * Networking and community support With over 1,300 digital and classic billboard sites across the UK, 75Media is committed to elevating the visibility of ambitious start-ups. Its partnership with the UK StartUp Awards aims to place entrepreneurial success stories on a truly national stage. "At 75Media, we know start-ups are vital to driving innovation and growth across the UK. Through our Ignite programme, we're proud to give ambitious young companies the visibility and support they need to scale. Partnering with the UK StartUp Awards lets us celebrate entrepreneurial talent, and we're thrilled to showcase Magic AI's success on a national stage." What this win means for Magic AI and UK start-ups For Magic AI, this accolade is more than prestige, it's a powerful validation in the early stages of growth. "Winning an award like the UK StartUp Awards is an incredible moment of validation for us... recognition like this... provides real encouragement... it's the kind of platform that can accelerate our journey." The national exposure, including the 75Media campaign, is expected to unlock doors, generate PR opportunities and raise the company's profile well beyond its immediate ecosystem. "Magic AI is a shining example of how resilience, creativity and sheer determination can build a business of real impact... this recognition, amplified by the national 75Media campaign, will ensure their success story inspires entrepreneurs across the UK." In 2025, the UK StartUp Awards drew over 2,000 applications from across regions and nations. The national final took place at Ideas Fest, capping a rigorous judging process spotlighting the most promising early-stage ventures. Magic AI's win and story was displayed across digital and classic billboards nationwide through the 75Media network. This is more than just celebration, it's a strategic amplification, aimed at helping start-ups scale. As 75Media, 75Media Limited see this as a benchmark moment: its ambition is to use its infrastructure, programmes and partnership networks to give those stories traction, reach and momentum.