Advanced Technologies
The distinction between design and delivery is gradually disappearing. Contractors and subcontractors now participate in the design phase through a variety of delivery methods and contract types, including design-build, design assistance, and component assistance. Previously, architects and engineers would render their plans on 2D drawing mockups. Now, all design documents are 3D. Most components are downloaded in 3D, along with parametric data on performance, maintenance schedules, and infrastructure requirements. This allows designers to benefit from the detailed expertise of product manufacturers.
Buildings and interiors can now be built entirely virtually, with architects collaborating with contractors, subcontractors, and manufacturers. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies can blur the line between visualization and documentation, creating environments as compelling as those used in the gaming industry.
Manipulating coded mathematical algorithms to automatically generate complex forms allows for the exploration of every possible solution, not just the few that designers and contractors could draw. Multiple plans can be tested for appearance, fit, performance and cost. Collaborative technologies allow every professional to refine this beautiful building model before the actual construction begins. Advances in innovation, communication, cost control, risk reduction and outcome assurance are of utmost importance.
Improved Products
Modularity is increasingly replacing field assembly. More and more building components are delivered to the construction site ready for placement. The size and complexity of these components can range from lighting fixtures and integrated facades to entire buildings.
Advanced technologies are also facilitating CAD/CAM production directly from design drawings. For example, sprinkler pipes can be manufactured to precise dimensions in the factory rather than measured and cut on site and delivered to the exact location intended for installation.
Mass customization is on the verge of becoming routine. Why do all bricks have to be rectangular? What if, instead of using rectangular molds, molds could be easily and cheaply created via a software/robot interface, so that bricks could be any shape we wanted? As printers and printables improve and designers explore more opportunities, materials can often be 3D printed.
Improved Processes
Today, clients want to work with construction teams that focus on delivering the best product at the best price. More innovative contracting models, such as integrated project delivery, create a relationship where the owner, designer, and contractor are the legal clients of the project, sharing responsibility and reward. There are many other team formats that create highly collaborative and mutually respectful relationships. Examples include “design-build” or “design-assist.” Traditional roles are being turned on their head. Some companies are even taking on everything from building leasing to furniture delivery, in addition to design and construction.
Architects are wondering about the future of the profession. The adoption of innovative technologies, the inclusion of specialty products, and more collaborative processes will either help the discipline grow or relegate designers to the secondary role of façade decorator. Creating unique, one-of-a-kind buildings may be inefficient, risky, and expensive, but construction remains one of humanity's greatest and noblest creations.