Artificial intelligence adoption, sustainability and skills development across the built environment are among the topics that will be discussed at the Singapore event from 2–4 Sep 2026.
Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used to change how buildings are designed, constructed and operated, with potential implications for productivity, sustainability and resilience across the built environment.
These developments will be a key focus of International Built Environment Week (IBEW) 2026, which will bring together industry leaders, policymakers, developers and technology companies to discuss the use of emerging technologies and the challenges facing the sector.
Held under the theme “Empowering People, Accelerating Intelligence”, IBEW 2026 is organised by BCA International, a subsidiary of Singapore’s Building and Construction Authority (BCA), in partnership with RX Singapore.
The conference will focus on three areas: the adoption of AI and digital technologies, environmental sustainability across the built environment lifecycle, and workforce and skills development.
“As our sector navigates rapid technological change and growing sustainability demands, IBEW 2026 is an essential platform for industry leaders to exchange insights and shape what comes next,” said Heng Teck Thai, deputy chief executive of the BCA and chair of the IBEW steering committee.
“By combining AI and digital tools with deep human expertise, we can drive the next bound of transformation towards a more collaborative, sustainable and future-ready built environment,” he said.
AI takes centre stage
A key focus of the IBEW Conference 2026 will be the use of AI across the built environment value chain, from design and engineering to construction, operations and asset management.
The programme will include case studies, keynote presentations, executive dialogues and panel discussions examining how organisations are combining AI with digital, workforce and sustainability strategies.
Topics will include the use of generative AI in design, planning and project delivery; AI-powered project management, predictive analytics and risk mitigation; robotics and autonomous technologies for worksites; digital twins and intelligent building operations; and preparing the workforce for an increasingly AI-enabled industry.
“AI is fundamentally changing the way we conceive, design and deliver buildings. The greatest opportunity lies not simply in adopting new technologies, but in empowering people to use them effectively to create better outcomes for our industry and society,” said Prof Phillip Bernstein, deputy dean and professor in the practice at Yale School of Architecture.
The conference will also cover modern methods of construction, resilient project delivery, green building, sustainable data centres, and the policies, partnerships and workforce capabilities needed to support the sector.
Industry leaders to share perspectives
The conference programme will feature speakers from across the built environment, including Bernstein; Er Emily Tan, president of the Association of Women in Construction Singapore; Monica Kong, managing director of KONE Singapore; and Chris Williamson, president of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).
“As part of IBEW, I’ll be discussing how AI can move beyond visualisation and generative design to reshape technical delivery and construction,” Williamson said. “This is where the real opportunity for our profession lies: in using AI not simply to work faster, but to work in ways that benefit the industry as a whole.”
Programme highlights
IBEW 2026 will also include exhibitions, forums, site visits and networking activities focused on innovation, skills development and international collaboration.
Curated Learning Journeys will offer visits to developments and innovation precincts across Singapore, with a focus on sustainable design, advanced construction, smart facilities management and urban solutions.
BEX Asia 2026 will feature more than 200 local and international exhibitors showcasing technologies, materials and solutions for the built environment. Its special features will include the Build with AI and Co-botics showcases.
The BuildSG Pavilion at BEX Asia will highlight initiatives and case studies supporting Singapore’s built environment transformation, while the ConTech Exchange Pavilion (CTx) will feature demonstrations of construction technologies, including generative AI workflows, autonomous robotics, real-time safety technologies and low-carbon materials.
The IBEW Industry and Awards Dinner will recognise achievements in transformation and innovation, universal design, engineering safety and quality performance.
The CORENET X Industry Seminar will examine stakeholder needs and developments in Singapore’s regulatory transformation, including experiences from early adopters of the CORENET X system.
The ConTech Summit, by invitation only, will provide a platform for knowledge exchange and partnership-building in construction technology. It will include the inaugural Asia-Pacific Pitch Day of the Construction Startup Competition.
The BCAI International Business Forum, also by invitation only, will bring together BCA International’s overseas partners to explore Singapore construction methodologies, technologies and opportunities for international collaboration.
IBEW 2026 will take place from 2–4 Sep at Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore. Conference tickets are available through the event website.
