It’s no news that the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry is in constant evolution. Over the past few years, digital transformation has dominated the landscape, with technologies like Building Information Modelling (BIM), virtual reality, and interactive virtual tours becoming widely adopted. In 2025, digital advancements will progress further as established trends solidify, and innovations appear.
This article highlights three key trends the 3DDB team predicts will lead the way in 2025. While design remains at the heart of the AEC sector, this year’s advancements are heavily influenced by data-driven insights and a steadfast commitment to sustainability.
Artificial Intelligence
AI is no longer just a buzzword. It was a major trend in 2024, and its influence is set to grow further in 2025. In design, AI-powered software is changing how computer-generated imagery is created, offering solutions that range from fully AI-generated visuals to tools that upscale image quality or refine specific characteristics. The landscape has been evolving fast.
3DDB tested AI on a commercial project in Germany to enhance images of people.
At 3DDB, our ongoing experiments still show that AI is more suitable for slight changes, or early design inspiration. We’ve tested tools like Veras, GenWay, and Photoshop, and while the results have been impressive, achieving consistency remains a challenge.
A recent study by the American Institute of Architects found that in 2024, one-third of firms of all sizes incorporated AI into their daily workflows. AI adoption has increased, and it’s clear that it will stay an important trend in 2025.
Sustainability
Far from being a new trend, sustainability has long been a focus of discussions in the sector. With global efforts to reduce emissions across industries, it remains a trend in 2025. In Ireland, the Climate Action Plan sets ambitious goals, including a 50% reduction in overall greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. According to the plan, the built environment contributed 11.1% of the country’s total emissions in 2022, emphasising the importance of sustainable practices in the industry.
Sustainability is already deeply considered in property development, and its influence is set to expand further. Solutions such as BIM, Daylight and Sunlight Assessments, LVIA and TVIA reports become more important in that scenario.
CGI of Cooper Square, Cairn’s Passive Development in Clonburris
Ultimately, BIM is also expected to grow further in 2025 as companies continue to integrate it into their workflows. As highlighted in the 2024 AIA Firm Survey Report, BIM has become standard practice for 88% of mid-size firms and 95% of large firms, while 51% of small firms have also adopted it.
Digital twins, virtual models enriched with real-time, accurate data from their physical counterparts, are seeing growing adoption across the industry. These models enable scenario simulation, predictive analysis, and data-driven decision-making throughout the entire lifecycle of a project, establishing them as an invaluable tool for the sector.
Notably, there is an interesting synergy between the three trends listed in this article. The sixth (6D) and seventh (7D) dimensions of BIM, which focus on sustainability and lifecycle management, are essential for addressing environmental concerns during property development. Additionally, AI serves as a powerful tool for analysing the rich data provided by digital models, further accelerating decision-making processes in projects.
At 3D Design Bureau, we support our clients in navigating these trends and achieving their project goals. If you’d like to explore how our solutions can enhance your current or future projects, don’t hesitate to book a free consultation or visit our contact page. We would welcome the opportunity to collaborate with you.
Author:
Lucas Imbimbo Digital Marketing Specialist at 3D Design Bureau lucas@3ddesighbureau.com
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