Predicting the future is difficult, every year would-be prophets fail to predict major events and over-eager journalists seize on the words of ancient mystics to fill column inches. But there are some people who need to be able to predict what society will need, up to a decade in advance.

Developers of skyscrapers need to anticipate economic cycles, people’s tastes, and professional requirements to make sure their buildings appeal to businesses and sectors that might not even exist yet. 

If they miscalculate, the project may fail. If they succeed, they can shape entire industries and affect the working lives of tens of thousands.

Guests

Paul Hargreaves, Construction Director, Lipton Rogers

David Healy, Mechanical and Electrical Lead, WSP in the UK

Amy Holtz, Director – Head of Sustainability, PLP Architecture

Diego Padilla-Philips, Technical Director, WSP in the UK

Resources

For an earlier episode of Engineering Matters in which we discuss the use of lifts for escaping a fire, click here

Partner

As one of the world’s leading engineering professional services consultancies, WSP brings clarity and vision to complex challenges. Their team of technical specialists and strategic advisers across the UK is part of a talented global family of expertise. Together, they ensure innovative solutions solve complex problems for our clients and the communities we serve, meeting both the needs of today and addressing the challenges of the future.

The post #148 Skyscrapers: Predicting the Future first appeared on Engineering Matters.