The second edition of Tomorrow.Building World Congress has concluded in Barcelona, gathering leading experts and innovators in construction to explore how digital tools are shaping a more sustainable and efficient future for the industry. Organised by Fira de Barcelona under the slogan “Build Better,” the event ran from 5 to 7 November at the Gran Via venue, showcasing advancements in construction technology from Building Information Modelling (BIM) to Digital Twins, 3D printing, the Internet of Things (IoT), drones, and virtual reality (VR).
The congress focused on key challenges the sector faces in its transformation toward sustainability, including urban planning, decarbonisation, construction technology, and design innovation. With more than 100 speakers participating in over 30 sessions, industry leaders shared insights on how new technologies can make buildings and infrastructure more resilient, efficient, and eco-friendly.
Among the featured speakers was Majora Carter, an urban strategist from New York known for her efforts to revitalise the economically struggling neighbourhoods of the South Bronx. Architect Melike Altinisik, recognised for her work on Istanbul’s new telecommunications tower, also addressed the audience, as did Liselott Stenfeldt, R&D director at the urban research consultancy Gehl.
The event’s exhibition space spanned over 2,000 square metres and highlighted companies renowned for their innovative approaches, including BIOO, New Murabba, Roshn, Samsung C&T Corporation, and Siemens. The companies presented developments that aim to create more circular, sustainable construction practices. Additionally, the event showcased digital startups in construction technology (ConTech) and real estate management (PropTech) through the Innovation Playground area, where cutting-edge solutions for construction and property management were on display.
Tomorrow.Building’s focus on innovation and sustainability was further supported by partnerships with international and Spanish organisations, such as Build Up, the EU’s official portal for promoting energy efficiency in construction, and Women’s New European Bauhaus (WNEB). Spanish institutions, including the Spanish Construction Technology Platform (PTEC) and the Higher Council of Architects’ Associations of Spain (CSCAE), also lent their support to the event.
Tomorrow.Building took place as part of the larger Smart City Expo World Congress 2024, the world’s leading event for cities and urban innovation. Smart City Expo brought together over 1,100 exhibitors and representatives from 850 cities and 140 countries, offering insights into the latest in urban planning and sustainable technology. This year’s expo attracted more than 25,771 attendees from over 130 countries to Fira de Barcelona’s Gran Via venue.
Reflecting on the event’s success, organisers and participants emphasised the importance of collaborative innovation to meet the challenges posed by urban growth and climate change. By leveraging new technologies and fostering an ecosystem of innovation, the congress aims to continue shaping a future where construction is not only more efficient but also contributes to a healthier planet. As the construction sector navigates its path to decarbonisation, Tomorrow.Building World Congress demonstrated that technological advances and sustainable practices go hand in hand in building the cities of tomorrow.
