In January this year Building magazine published its six predictions for 2024. Back then, we gave our thoughts on them. As we approach the end of the year, we revisit the six predictions that shaped our outlook for 2024.
These forecasts resonated deeply with our approach, and as we look back, it’s clear that they not only anticipated significant industry trends but also inspired meaningful change in our projects and practices.
1. Technological Advancements in Construction
Prediction: The growing reliance on technology to enhance transparency, collaboration, and trust.
Reflection: Over the past year, we’ve witnessed rapid advancements in digital solutions across the industry. Tools like AI-driven design analysis, advanced project management software, and digital twins have moved from the fringes to the mainstream. For us at b&m, starting to integrate these tools has allowed us to improve project delivery times, reduce errors, and foster a more collaborative client-consultant dynamic. We have been trialing some AI-powered construction software this year, and plan to share our thoughts on this topic in 2025.
2. Sustainability and Timber
Prediction: A growing focus on low-carbon construction and timber as a preferred material.
Reflection: Timber’s resurgence as a versatile, sustainable construction material has been one of the year’s standout trends. Many of our clients have embraced this shift, integrating engineered timber solutions into designs to reduce carbon footprints. Furthermore, this aligns seamlessly with the construction sector’s broader push towards achieving net-zero targets. Discussing this topic with the supply chain has been fruitful, and we continue to collaborate closely with engineers and architects alike.
Lee Evans llp, Spring Lane, Canterbury
3. Climate Resilience
Prediction: An emphasis on creating buildings and infrastructure that withstand climate impacts.
Reflection: Climate resilience has emerged as a core design criterion, driven by frameworks like the green taxonomy and the UK’s net-zero commitments. This year, we supported clients in embedding resilience into projects and developed our own updated Carbon Reduction Plan. Climate risk is no longer a future consideration—it’s a present necessity. Many of our projects are built on the South East coast, and the effects of the weather are very pertinent.
4. Alternatives to Home Ownership
Prediction: A shift in housing models, such as co-living and other rental-based solutions.
Reflection: The demand for alternative housing arrangements continues to grow, driven by affordability challenges and changing lifestyle preferences. Across our residential projects, we’ve collaborated with clients to explore innovative models, including build-to-rent schemes and co-living developments tailored to diverse demographics. These options are transforming the market landscape, especially in urban areas where traditional ownership is out of reach for many. We continue to explore these with a number of our clients, and are excited about will be coming in 2025.
5. Knowledge Economy
Prediction: Recognising the construction sector’s intellectual capital and fostering collaboration.
Reflection: Throughout 2024, our emphasis on training, mentorship, and team collaboration has reinforced our commitment to a thriving knowledge economy. We’ve expanded professional development opportunities for staff and strengthened our engagement with industry partners, ensuring continuous learning and innovation across all project phases. With over 1400 paid training and mentoring hours clocked up by our staff, we are very proud of their commitment to continued learning.
6. The B Corp Movement
Prediction: The rising influence of businesses that prioritise purpose alongside profit.
Reflection: As a B Corp-certified company, 2024 reaffirmed the importance of aligning our projects and operations with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals. This year, we expanded our impact through collaborations with clients who share our values, setting benchmarks for sustainability, inclusivity, and community enrichment. We have found the conversations insightful and continue to welcome businesses of similar values to the movement. We also published our first Impact report, that you can read about here.
Looking Ahead
The themes of 2024 have shaped our year and set the foundation for how we will approach the challenges and opportunities of 2025. By continuing to innovate, collaborate, and act responsibly, we are committed to making a lasting positive impact on the built environment and the communities we serve.
The original insight can be read here.
