Since the pandemic, few professions have faced as much change as the field of architecture, construction and real estate. The initial mass exodus of office occupants was followed by a return to work, with a renewed emphasis on in-person connectivity; this was compounded with the latest developments in sustainability and technology, as professionals were also forced to contend with the new reality of the rapidly-evolving real estate landscape.
In the past, the credibility of architecture and the built environment lay in its permanence. Today, transience has become the profession’s new currency — properties that were converted for one use may now only last a short time, and we’re increasingly pushed to drive innovation in space typologies and uses. On all sides of the aisle, the key to navigating this sea of constant change moving forward will be adaptability, from the perspective of not only architects and designers, but also from construction professionals and property owners.
Reimagining the Built Environment
We’re seeing a fundamental rethinking of commercial real estate and its role in the makeup of the modern city. This is particularly relevant to workplaces, as large numbers of workers continue to work remotely or in hybrid arrangements. As such, there has been a massive increase in the number of these spaces being repurposed for alternative uses, whether residential or mixed-use, flouting traditional zoning practices and opening up new opportunities for innovation and creativity through design.
These adaptive reuse projects are practical at their face, because they reposition vacant or underutilized space to prime them for use. But they also present an exciting new frontier in the real estate landscape, allowing owners and developers to diversify their offerings while blending commercial, residential and community spaces to create more dynamic environments for the surrounding community. Each of these spaces comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities, but they ultimately provide new opportunities to reinvigorate unused real estate.
At FCA’s Philadelphia office, we underwent the process of downsizing our office and worked with the developer to convert the rest into “giveback” amenity spaces that are accessible to all occupants. This initiative marks another change we’re seeing nationwide, in which partial renovations or changes present another avenue for revitalizing space.
The Role of Technology
It’s also important to acknowledge the distinct and evolving role of technology in the architecture industry, particularly the use of artificial intelligence. AI tools are rapidly changing the field and adjacent industries. With the potential to automate repetitive tasks and enhance general efficiency during the design and planning processes, these technologies should in theory free up time for professionals to focus on their creative work. This is a delicate balance — while AI presents exciting possibilities for altering workflows, professionals should remain wary of its ability to devalue the role of architects and developers, reducing complex design processes to simple automated functions.
As with any new, groundbreaking technology, professionals are still working out the kinks in determining how AI can be used responsibly. Its introduction mirrors that of the transition to building information modeling (BIM), which initially caused fear among professionals that it would stifle creativity. We now know that hasn’t been the case, as the tool became invaluable in improving design processes, communication and project management. In the same way, we must determine how best to utilize the latest technologies to ensure that they complement, rather than replace, the artistry and expertise that human architects and building professionals bring to the table.
Technology that integrates artificial intelligence is also well-suited to meet the growing demand for sustainable, user-centric design. The use of AI in building controls can make them more responsive and intelligent, allowing minute adjustments of energy use, temperature and lighting based on real-time needs. This technology can be implemented fairly easily in both new builds and retrofits, and will help spaces remain adaptable in the long run even as occupancy uses, and the surrounding environment continue to change.
Challenges and Concerns
Architects and developers today juggle more tasks than ever before, from project management to sustainability compliance, often in exceedingly short time frames. We’re developing ways in which to address this fast-paced architectural landscape and how to train the next generation of professionals to thrive in the ever-changing, tech-driven future. It’s here that the role of problem-solving remains important; the tumultuous current landscape provides a great learning environment for young professionals looking to hone their skills and creativity.
Another facet of the industry to consider is the rising influence of private equity in architecture firms. While this presents opportunities for expansion to drive growth, this development risks turning firms into wholly profit-driven entities, compromising long-term vision in favor of short-term gains. In addition to the reality of workforce shortages, architects and real estate professionals must become more business-savvy to navigate these partnerships and other pitfalls while maintaining design excellence.
In short, adaptability — whether through reimagining how spaces are used, embracing technology or evolving architectural education — is the key to navigating the future of the design industry.
While AI and new materials offer exciting potential, the industry must ensure it continues to prioritize creativity, sustainability and the human element in design. Architects, construction professionals and real estate stakeholders must collaborate to shape a built environment that meets today’s demands while keeping an eye on the future.
Ultimately, we should look to this period of rapid change as an opportunity to drive innovation, laying the groundwork for a future in which architecture, design and the built environment remain a critical and creative force in shaping our world.
