Click here to learn about 5 of the construction trends to be aware of in 2024.

2024 is here. Construction continues to expand the UK rapidly – from new housing projects to new motorways, we’re filling every space we can. The latest figures by Statistica show the UK construction industry should increase to a revenue of £476.6 billion by 2027. The growth of the construction industry links to evolving trends that facilitate more cost-effective and strategic construction.

Below, we’ll explore five key construction trends shaping the industry in 2024.

Green Building and Sustainable Practices

Green building is a big trend – the drive to achieve Net Zero targets means companies of all industries are finding ways to go green. In the UK, 30 of the UK’s FTSE100 companies have agreed to follow the Net Zero campaign.

As a result, in 2024, we’ll see a significant shift towards green building practices. More companies will source eco-friendly materials, and energy-efficient designs, and focus on waste-reduction techniques.

Green buildings are more cost-effective in the long run, appealing to a growing eco-conscious market. The only drawback is sometimes green materials and construction methods are slightly more expensive than the traditional.

Advanced Building Materials

Advanced materials that facilitate smooth construction will be a focus in 2024. The industry needs enhanced durability, sustainability, and functionality. There are already advanced materials on the market, from diamond concrete core drills and retaining wall systems, but the industry is calling for more tools to streamline manual processes.

Smart Construction Technologies

Smart construction technologies, including AI, IoT, and 3D printing, are becoming more prevalent. These technologies support planning, real-time monitoring, and even automated construction processes. Generative AI, in particular, is expected to profoundly impact the construction industry, particularly planning. 3D printing has already made massive strides in facilitating design and construction.

The future is harnessing technology to make everything from planning to construction seamless – that doesn’t always mean tools. Technology will be at the forefront.

Modular and Prefabricated Construction

Modular and prefabricated construction methods are a way of saving time and money. These methods allow for components of a building to be manufactured off-site and then assembled on-site, reducing construction time and waste. Some flaws need ironing – sometimes, the quality of prefabricated construction isn’t as good.

This trend is particularly beneficial in urban areas where minimising disruption and maximising efficiency are paramount.

Emphasis on Resilient Design

Resilient design has become a key focus in construction. Recently, a change in climate has resulted in unique weather systems heading to the UK – we’re experiencing more severe storms. Buildings are being designed to withstand various environmental stressors, from extreme weather to seismic activities.

There are many videos online of houses and buildings partially or totally collapsing because the structure couldn’t withstand the weather.

Construction in the UK is a massive contributor to the economy, marked by advancements in sustainability, technology, materials, and design philosophy. These trends reflect the industry’s response to current challenges and its commitment to shaping a resilient and efficient built environment.

As these trends continue to evolve, they offer exciting possibilities for the future of construction.