Towards an intelligent digital ecosystem - sustainable data-driven design futures

This chapter explores the transformational potential of embedding computation, big data, artificial intelligence and real‐time connectivity into the conception and realisation of buildings for a sustainable built habitat. The chapter identifies the crucial role technology plays for the emergence of new values both for the architectural profession and for a revised understanding of ‘sustainability’ in the context of built environment. Through various best practice examples and future‐oriented scenarios, the chapter identifies technology as an enabler and provider of the necessary infrastructure to drive design innovation at three levels: product, process and operational – through the design of better performing, better informed and better managed buildings within a connected digital ecosystem.