Smart Buildings: 7 keys to building better cities for all

By Manu Fernández & Tatiane Martins Carrer

What are we talking about when we talk about smart buildings?

We share some practical guidelines to improve our cities through architecture.

What you will find in this insight

Smart Buildings beyond technology: Discover how smart buildings extend beyond gadgets and automation to deliver social value, sustainability, and urban integration.

Seven strategic dimensions: A clear framework of seven key aspects — from function and context to flexibility and social inclusion — that together make buildings smarter and more responsive to city needs.

Designing for impact & longevity: Insights on how smart buildings enhance quality of life, address diverse community needs, integrate seamlessly into their urban environment, and adapt to future changes for lasting value.

‘Smart buildings are typically linked to specific technological innovations in the design and construction process. However, in the same way the smart city concept has evolved to include more comprehensive and complex urban visions, the ideals of smart buildings could be broader and more complex, with the potential to rethink the role of architecture design in our cities.’