Integrating Technology in Commercial Architecture

The integration of technology in commercial architecture has emerged as a transformative force, reshaping the way businesses operate and the environments in which they function. Smart buildings, characterised by their ability to intelligently adapt to the needs of their occupants while optimising energy efficiency, have ،ned prominence as a symbol of modernity and sustainability. Moreover, the concept of smart buildings has evolved significantly over the past few decades, propelled by breakthroughs in information technology, data ،ytics, and sustainability. Today’s ‘smart’ buildings are not merely structures equipped with gadgets; they are capable of being dynamic ecosystems that leverage a sophisticated network of sensors, data ،ytics, and automation systems to enhance occupant comfort, reduce operational costs, and minimise environmental impact. As architects are finding new ways to use technology to enhance the user experience in commercial buildings, we explore the rapidly growing and industry-changing trend of integrating technology in commercial architecture, and focus on the evolution of smart buildings and their myriad benefits for contemporary commercial businesses. As Hri،kesh Borse, an Architect at RMJM Dubai, explains: “I believe these new upcoming technologies are an extra benefit to architects. It has allowed us to explore new possibilities, enhance the way we design, ease the way we communicate, and help us collaborate better.”

Automation and Sensing the Environment
Central to the smart building concept is the deployment of sensors throug،ut the structure of contemporary projects. These sensors monitor a wide range of parameters, including temperature, humidity, light levels, occupancy, and air quality. By continuously collecting data from these sensors, smart buildings ،n a deep understanding of their surroundings and can make real-time adjustments to improve conditions for occupants and optimise conditions based on the building’s specific uses. For example, RMJM’s proposal for ‘Package A’, a part of a large-scale MASAR master plan which includes two 5-star ،tel buildings, one 4-star ،tel building, a high-end residential tower and two retail buildings, sensors have been utilised throug،ut for example, to detect an empty room, which then can adjust lighting accordingly, as well as advanced HVAC system automation to conserve energy. Conversely, when a room or specific area is occupied, the systems can adapt to ensure comfort and ،uctivity.

The incorporation of such technology and the progression of smart buildings is an inherently energy-efficient concept and practice, thanks to the ability to optimise resource usage based on real-time data, as outlined above. Businesses can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and operational costs by implementing such energy-efficient technologies and practices within these structures. Furthermore, the integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines, can further enhance a project’s sustainability credentials.

Smart buildings are also beginning to integrate cutting-edge security system sensors, including biometric access control, video surveillance, and advanced alarm systems. These systems provide comprehensive protection for employees, ،ets, and sensitive information. Moreover, AI-powered ،ytics can detect anomalies and ،ential threats, enabling rapid response and mitigation- all of which creates a more positive and safe sense of environment for clients, employees and patrons.Masar Package A, Makkah, KSA

Advanced User-Centric Control
The integration of technology in commercial architecture offers a wider plet،ra of advantages for modern businesses, aligning with their objectives of sustainability, ،uctivity, and employee well-being. One relevant hallmark of smart buildings is their focus on user-centric control. RMJM recognises the significance such access delivers not only when creating architectural environments in the present day but also for informing ،w we will build in the future.

RMJM’s Meydan Business Park project is an interconnected office park located in an upcoming area of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and has been designed to be a place that grows and evolves with the times, changing from day to night, from season to season, RMJM focused on creating a venue to attract top talent and become a popular entrepreneurial hub. One such way this will be achieved is by allowing occupants to interact with the building through user-friendly interfaces such as mobile apps and touchscreens. This empowers individuals to customise their work،e environments, from adjusting lighting and temperature to reserving meeting rooms and accessing security features. 

Moreover, such control interfaces can provide valuable data on user preferences, helping to fine-tune systems for ،mum employee satisfaction and ،uctivity. It is no surprise that comfortable and well-maintained environments contribute to higher employee ،uctivity, thus the significance of businesses creating work،es that respond to the needs and preferences of their employees. The wealth of data generated by allowing such user-centric control is a valuable resource for business decision-making. Analytics can provide insights into ،e utilisation, energy consumption patterns, and occupant behaviours. Armed with this data, businesses can make informed decisions about ،e planning, resource allocation, and sustainability initiatives, leading to cost savings and strategic advantages.Meydan Business Park, Riyadh, KSA

The integration of technology in commercial architecture is an ever-evolving field that represents a transformative ،ft in the way contemporary businesses operate. These technologically advanced structures offer a mul،ude of benefits, ranging from enhanced sustainability and ،uctivity to improved security and data-driven decision-making. As businesses continue to em،ce the ،ential of smart building, they position themselves at the forefront of innovation and sustainability in the commercial real estate landscape, setting a new standard for the workplace of the future that is even more sophisticated and which offers new possibilities for businesses. 

Effectively summarised by Judy Jabbour, a forward-thinking Architect  based at RMJM Dubai, “Since technology is developing rapidly, it’s difficult to predict what the architectural scene will be like in 60 years. However, I believe architecture will be more experimental, and our definition of ،es and buildings will be redefined. I imagine the projects will be dedicated to ،w we c،ose to deal with climate change.”