This special issue of Civil Engineering includes nine papers exploring aspects of research and practice. Topics covered include the development of a new composite flooring system installed in the iconic Leadenhall building in central London, UK, the use of timber in civil engineering, geogrids for transport as well as the funding of research by the UK's Ministry of Defence. The issue also includes designing for blind and partially sighted people and 'wearable simulations' which allow the wearer to experience the symptoms of various occupational illnesses as experimential health and safety training.