5 areas to focus on to future-proof buildings

United Kingdom | 18 June 2025
Reading Time : 3 min

Our world is evolving rapidly, and the architecture, engineering and construction industry is at a critical juncture. It’s facing unprecedented complexities, from resource limitations to changing regulatory constraints and climate risks. This demands a shift from traditional approaches to new ways of thinking to construct the buildings our future needs.

The message is clear: the industry must evolve. Smarter, safer and more sustainable ways of working are no longer optional – they’re essential for long-term resilience and success. So, how can the industry tap into this?

Our ‘Expect Different’ white paper uncovers valuable market insights and recommendations to help stakeholders achieve empowered growth. It showcases expertise and key learnings from our interdisciplinary specialists, based on the successful delivery of various projects across multiple sectors. Together, we can work to build a resilient, sustainable world for generations to come.

Download the white paper

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At WSP, we are passionate about pushing the boundaries of design and helping our clients and partners leverage the latest solutions to shape communities and advance humanity. This white paper is a call to action for the industry to rethink strategies, embrace change and uncover the full potential of projects.

Kamran Moazami Executive Managing Director, Property & Buildings

Kamran Moazami Executive Managing Director, Property & Buildings

The built environment at a glance

Forecast revenue for the UK AEC services industry by 2030 [1]

£10 billion

Projected extra workers needed to meet volume of work by 2028 [2]

251,500

Expected increase in costs of construction products in 2025 [3]

2-8%

Our white paper explores 5 key areas

Reshape the process: Move beyond traditional practices to accelerate progress, focusing on outcomes-based and programme-level strategies to improve project outcomes, productivity, social value, sustainability and supply chain management.
Embrace digital: Leverage AI and technology to enhance building performance, streamline operations and ensure regulatory compliance.
Rethink materials: Prioritise sustainability by reusing and selecting materials wisely, adopting circular economy principles, mass timber construction and optimising existing buildings.
Optimise energy: Explore new ways to reduce energy consumption, such as passive design and heat networks, to achieve substantial reductions in energy usage.
Create resilient places: Incorporate inclusive and wellbeing-oriented features in building designs and construct resilient places that can adapt to climate change.

Download our white paper to uncover how to construct future-focused buildings

Interested in learning more about how you can align buildings to evolving needs? Download our Expect Different white paper to uncover how you can address today’s complexities.

Download the white paper

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