As we enter a new decade, design and development practitioners are tasked with creating buildings and urban spaces that are responsive to ongoing challenges like climate change and disruptive technologies. From rising sea levels affecting waterfront neighborhoods to transit improvements driven by autonomous vehicles and the shared-economy, how should developers and architects “future proof” spaces while balancing the needs of diverse stakeholders?

On January 28th ULI Washington’s Young Leaders Group held a panel discussion with architects, developers, and policymakers who are talked on the challenge of balancing costs and adaptability.  The Panelists provided insight into how they’ve tackled rising sea levels, transportation improvements, timber structures, and solar/net-zero modular building.  As well as strategies on how changes to construction, climate, urban design, mobility, and land use can provide opportunities to future-proof the built environment.

Panelists:

• Andrew McIntyre, Executive Vice President, Combined Properties
• Katie Rothenberg, Managing Director, Paladino and Company
• Pedro Sales, Principal, BCT Architects
• Holly Lennihan, Director of Sustainable Design, Hickok Cole
• Justin Schor, Principal, Wells + Associates