Preparation of α-oxo derivatives of spiro [4.4] nonane, spiro [4.5] decane and spiro [5.5] undecane derivatives is described. An efficient method for spiroannulation by Rh (I)- catalysed intramolecular hydroacylation provides α, α′-difunctionalised spiro [4.5] decanes. The α, α′-dioxo groups have been converted into vinyl triflates for arylation by Pd-catalysed cross-coupling reactions under Stille, Negishi or Suzuki conditions depending on relative ...