Podcast
What makes a truly 'smart building' in 2025?
Hosted by Robert Hopkins
In this episode, we explore the future of smart buildings, from connected systems and workplace technology to data-driven design that improves comfort and energy performance.
Smart buildings have become a big talking point in recent years, but with so many interpretations of the term, it can be hard to understand what genuinely adds value.
In this conversation, AHR director and head of sustainability Robert Hopkins is joined by David Porter from Knight Frank, Paul Bamber from AVM Solutions and AHR regional director Adam Spall to unpack what ‘smart’ really means today. Together, they discuss how open, integrated systems, clear stakeholder objectives and early collaboration can transform how workplaces operate and how people experience them.
The conversation also touches on the benefits of smart retrofit strategies, including IoT sensors (devices that detect environmental changes and collect data), improved building management systems and energy-efficient upgrades that support ESG (environmental, social and governance) goals and reduce operational costs.
For anyone starting their smart building journey, the group shares practical advice, focusing on real use cases, defining measurable outcomes and creating scalable, future-proof solutions.
Listen now to hear the full conversation and explore what smart could mean for your next project.
You can subscribe to our podcast series featuring a wide variety of topics, available on your preferred podcast platform.
Frequently asked questions
A smart building uses connected technology, integrated systems and real-time data to improve how a space is operated, maintained and experienced. This includes intelligent energy management, digital workplace tools, IoT sensors and seamless user services that support comfort, wellbeing and efficiency.
Smart design helps people feel more comfortable and in control of their environment. From personalised lighting and temperature settings to intuitive access and room-booking systems, these features streamline day-to-day tasks and create a more welcoming, inclusive workplace.
Smart systems can reduce energy use, support low-carbon design strategies and help clients track performance against ESG targets. Real-time insights highlight opportunities for efficiency, from optimising heating and cooling to identifying underused areas of a building.
Yes. Retrofit-friendly technology such as IoT sensors, open building management systems and improved digital infrastructure allows older buildings to benefit from smart features without major disruption. This makes retrofit a cost-effective way to boost energy performance and user experience.
It’s helpful to begin with clarity. Define the problems you want to solve, engage key stakeholders early, including building managers and IT teams — and set measurable objectives. From there, you can build a scalable smart strategy that evolves as your needs change.
By collecting and analysing performance data, smart systems help organisations improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and monitor indoor environmental quality. These insights support transparent reporting and create healthier, more sustainable places for people.
We help clients identify what 'smart' should achieve for their project, whether that’s better energy performance, more intuitive user experiences or future-ready digital infrastructure. By understanding priorities early, we shape solutions that are purposeful, achievable and aligned with long-term goals.
Posted on:
Jan 24th 2026
Topics:
Share on
Related Projects
The Spine
Our design utilises pioneering research in innovative ways, creating an exceedingly positive and responsive workplace that will be one of the healthiest workplace environments in the world.
HEMISPHERE One
Located on the new Paddington Village development next to our recently completed The Spine, our new Grade A office building is designed with health and wellbeing at the fore.
Brabazon
This vibrant, mixed use project sits at the heart of Brabazon, seamlessly bringing together transport, workplaces and public spaces to create a place that connects people.
