Get set for the 5th Industrial Revolution

Just as the development of motor transport and e-commerce dramatically changed demand for preferred locations, asset types, investment strategies and design, so will technology advances such as artificial intelligence (AI), generative AI and robotics. 

Through 2030 and beyond, the human-machine interactions of the 5th Industrial Revolution will alter how and where we work, live, play and invest with profound implications for real estate owners and occupiers. It means we must all now consider what success looks like for real estate in a scenario where AI is part of every aspect of our life. How can we turn the transformation into opportunity and stay competitive?

We're already witnessing the growing influence of advanced computing and AI across all aspects of life, a trend that is expected to accelerate in the coming decade. Here are 6 key components that signal the direction and scale of how this change could play out.

This work product was created with assistance from generative AI.

Design: new patterns for creation, construction and operation

Architects will augment human creativity with AI to help visualize new schemes based on their back catalogue of designs, their design approaches and stylistic methods. 

AI will also be integrated into building Digital Twins to make designing models faster and more accurate. These technologies together will improve operational effectiveness, and enhance building sustainability by prioritizing reductions in energy and water consumption, so performance is optimized at the design stage by simulation. Portfolio data interactions will be through a more intuitive interface, such as a conversation.

Automation and robotics will reach the tipping point in the construction sector to meet labor shortages, enhance on-site safety and reduce costs through streamlined processes which speed up construction and reduce waste. Robotics will similarly enhance maintenance and facilities management.

When combined with a mindset which prioritizes sustainability, these advances will drastically reduce the environmental impact of buildings by improving and adjusting operational performance in real time and more effectively fulfilling the growing demand for the renovation and repurposing of existing assets.

Imagine a world where real estate owners can access building performance data for their entire portfolios, from anywhere; where tenants can track carbon emissions, and progress against sustainability targets, in real time.