At the recent Digital Construction North Conference in Manchester, our Digital Strategy coordinator Sagal Roobie was invited to join a panel to discuss Building Tomorrow: Technology, Innovation, and the Future of the Built Environment.

The panel brought together thought leaders, practitioners, and academics to explore the intersection of cutting-edge technologies and sustainable, future-ready practices. It explored how technology is reshaping the future of construction and the built environment, with a particular focus on innovations coming from northern England.

The discussion considered how technologies from the transformative impact of AI and automation, to advancements in digital twins and sustainable practices, are influencing the ways we design, build, and manage our cities and infrastructure.

Sagal has summarised key takeaways from the discussion which underscored the importance of blending technological advancements with thoughtful design to foster progress and sustainability in the built environment.  The opening question  'which technology do you believe is most critical to the future of construction, and what impact has it already had on your projects?' - set the tone for a dynamic and thought-provoking dialogue.

Structured Data: A Foundation for Progress

A recurring theme was the critical role of structured data, particularly through BIM. While AI and automation generate excitement, their potential depends heavily on a robust data framework. Without it, leveraging AI effectively is nearly impossible.

AI’s ability to automate repetitive tasks frees us to focus on creative and strategic priorities - a concept that resonated widely during the discussion.

Participants were curious about ensuring a gradual, thoughtful approach to AI integration. The focus must remain on mastering the basics before chasing rapid innovation. The discussion highlighted that AI should serve as an assistive tool, fostering optimism about its role in enhancing, rather than replacing, human input.

Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration

One of the most promising trends discussed was the growing collaboration between construction teams and data experts, such as data scientists and analysts. These partnerships are helping tailor technologies to the construction sector’s unique challenges, paving the way for a more data-driven future.

Addressing AI Concerns

AI’s transformative potential sparked a robust discussion about its implications for the workforce. Key topics included:

• Ensuring data security and protecting privacy.

• Redefining roles rather than replacing them.

• Supporting workforce adaptation to new technologies.

• Balancing automation with human oversight.

The consensus was that while AI may transform certain roles, it also alleviates repetitive tasks, allowing professionals to focus on higher-value work.

Neuroarchitecture: A Personal Highlight

A standout moment for Sagal was the panel’s interest in her research on neuroarchitecture, which examines how spaces influence our emotions and behaviour. The discussion reinforced the importance of designing spaces that are not only functional but also emotionally supportive, aligning architectural innovation with human wellbeing.

Summary

Sagal summarised the first-ever Digital Construction Week North as a tremendous success that demonstrated an inspiring collective drive towards ensuring that technology serves as a tool for positive change in a more innovative and sustainable future for the built environment.

Sagal is a key member of our Works team, driving the digital delivery of projects and leveraging innovative technologies to create sustainable architecture that positively impacts both human wellbeing and the environment. Alongside her professional role, she is pursuing a PhD at the University of Wolverhampton, focusing on emotional responses to architectural design.

Read our latest piece for the NLA on Data Centres and AI here.

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Image: Davide La Guidara

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