Sign In8 Smart Building Examples: Amazing Ways Technology is Redefining Modern Spaces
Innovation isn’t sitting on the horizon—it’s embedded in the world's most advanced buildings' walls, lighting, and air systems. Smart buildings are self-regulating, energy-efficient, and data-driven powerhouses. They integrate smart building technology such as IoT (Internet of Things) sensors, cloud computing, and automation to create dynamic, self-sustaining ecosystems that adapt to occupants' needs in real time.
For facility managers and AEC professionals, leveraging digital twins, AI-driven automation, and real-time data means smarter energy management, heightened security, and streamlined maintenance. These technologies optimize operations and redefine how buildings function.
This article highlights 8 pioneering smart buildings pushing the boundaries of sustainability, efficiency, and user experience, setting new benchmarks for the future of built environments.
Example #1 Bee’ah headquarters: A vision of sustainability in the desert
Source: Bee’ah Headquarters Bee’ah headquarters is a building that thrives where others struggle to keep up in the harsh environment
In the scorching heat of the UAE, keeping a building cool without burning through energy resources is no small feat. Welcome to Bee’ah Headquarters, an architectural marvel designed by Zaha Hadid Architects. Built in Sharjah, this structure doesn’t survive its environment, it works with it.
How it works:
Optimized design: The undulating form minimizes heat gain and maximizes efficiency.
100% renewable energy: On-site solar panels and AI-driven energy management reduce dependency on external resources.
Advanced waste recycling: A closed-loop waste management system ensures sustainability.
Powered by 100% renewable energy, the underlying form features on-site solar panels, AI-driven energy management, and advanced waste recycling facilities.
The result? Net near zero energy consumption
The headquarters operates at near net-zero energy consumption, setting a global benchmark for sustainable building practices.
In an unveiling of ‘the office of the future’, Khaled Al Huraimel, BEEAH Group CEO, says “The building is not only sustainable and digitally enabled, but it also achieves an unparalleled environment for employee comfort and productivity. It demonstrates that by adopting future-ready systems, we can achieve environmental targets and improve quality of life at the same time.”
Example #2 Burj Khalifa: The tallest smart tower in the world
Source: Burj Khalifa
A facility manager will tell you that managing a 163-floor skyscraper is like orchestrating a symphony in a hurricane. With thousands of daily visitors, hotel guests, and residents, operational efficiency has gone from a luxury to a necessity.
How it works:
IoT-integrated sensors: Optimize building performance, including HVAC and lighting.
AI-powered maintenance: Prevents system failures before they happen.
Matterport virtual tour: Enhances property management and security systems via remote inspections.
The result? Burj Khalifa is a shining example of true efficiency.
The Burj Khalifa integrates cutting-edge IoT sensors, an intelligent HVAC system that adjusts based on occupancy, and a predictive maintenance system that prevents failures before they happen. Matterport’s virtual tour technology even allows for remote inspections and security management.
The building reports a 40% reduction in energy consumption compared to traditional high-rises, while boosting asset availability to 99.95%, significantly minimizing unplanned maintenance. Its intelligent water management system has also reduced wastage by up to 50%.
And to top it off, Matterport’s seamless remote monitoring enhances both security and maintenance, ensuring optimal performance around the clock.
Example #3 The Sinclair Hotel: The world’s first all-digital hotel
Source: Sinclair Hotel - A hotel without switches, wires, or traditional utility headaches
Hotels waste massive amounts of energy, especially in unoccupied rooms. Guests forget to turn off lights, heating systems work overtime, and maintenance issues go unnoticed until they become major problems. The Sinclair Hotel in Texas took a radical approach by removing utility headaches; running almost entirely on Power over Ethernet (PoE), this smart building has no switches and no wiring, creating the ultimate user experience.
How it works:
Power over Ethernet (PoE): Reduces the need for traditional wiring.
AI-driven automation: Controls lighting, climate, and showers based on occupancy.
The result? Efficiency meets the optimal occupant experience
Every room is powered by low-voltage Power over Ethernet (PoE), eliminating the need for traditional wiring. AI-driven automation controls lighting, climate, and even showers based on occupancy.
The hotel reduced energy costs by 30%, while guests enjoy an effortless, ultra-modern experience with voice-controlled amenities.
Example #4 The Edge, Amsterdam: The smartest office in the world
Most offices are static; they don’t adapt to who’s inside, what’s happening, or what you need. The Edge, designed by PLP Architecture for Deloitte, turns that idea on its head.
How it works:
Smart desk allocation: Employees are assigned desks dynamically via an app.
28,000 sensors: Track occupancy, air quality, and energy usage in real time.
The result? Employees finally have control of their workplace
Employees connect to the building via an app that assigns them a desk based on their schedule. AI manages lighting and temperature for individual zones, while 28,000 sensors track occupancy, air quality, and energy usage in real time.
Ron Bakker, founding partner of PLP architecture, states “People, equipment, and 30,000 sensors are connected through a single digital network-like brain of the building. It organizes people and space, balances energy, and learns every day to provide the best conditions for a healthy and happy work life.”
This dynamic approach slashes energy use by 70% compared to traditional office spaces and has earned the title of the world’s most sustainable office, and high occupant satisfaction, with 72% of employees appreciating the control over their work environment via a smartphone app.
Example #5 Tottenham Hotspur Stadium: A futuristic fan experience
Source: Tottenham Hotspur Stadium - A stadium designed for fluidity
Game day should be electric, not a logistical nightmare. Tottenham Hotspur’s stadium in London faced the challenge of handling 62,000 fans, dual-purpose events, and modern security needs. This smart building takes their fan experience to the top of the league.
How it works:
Retractable pitch: Transforms for NFL games in under 25 minutes.
Smart crowd management: Facial recognition and IoT-driven security.
Green initiatives: LEED certification, intelligent waste reduction, and renewable energy sources.
Two data centers with 63 fully-equipped satellite IT rooms and a dedicated mobile equipment room.
100% Wi-Fi coverage with 1,674 wireless access points, and covering all four major UK networks
The result? Seamless events and smart operations reduce costs
The fully retractable pitch transforms for NFL games in under 25 minutes. Smart crowd management, facial recognition, and IoT-driven maintenance ensure seamless operations.
Faster security checks, efficient access control, reduced wait times, and a 15% reduction in operational costs.
Example #6 Torre Reforma: Earthquake-proof and eco-Friendly
Building a skyscraper in Mexico City—a seismic hotspot—is a challenge in itself. Torre Reforma needed to be more than just tall; it had to be resilient and efficient. This smart building was built to withstand the forces of nature.
How it works:
Core-free structure allows the tower to flex during earthquakes.
Smart façade with concrete walls and a double-layer glass façade reduces heat absorption and optimizes natural lighting.
Modern water conservation systems, including rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling, minimize water usage.
The result? Occupants are safe and risk is reduced
Zero structural damage in major earthquakes and a 24% reduction in energy use compared to standard benchmarks, while water recycling systems cut consumption by 30%.
This smart building has received an impressive Platinum USGB pre-certification, reflecting its commitment to high sustainability and energy performance standards—proof that resilience and elegance can go hand in hand.
Example #7 Pasona Urban Farm: Turning offices into greenhouses
Source: Pasona Urban Farm - A workplace where crops grow next to conference rooms
Tokyo’s urban density leaves little room for nature. The Pasona Group tackled this by integrating an entire farm inside its headquarters.
How it works:
Hydroponic systems: Growing rice, vegetables, and fruit indoors using water-efficient techniques.
Automated irrigation: Ensures crops receive the right amount of water, minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency.
Climate-controlled environments: Maintains optimal conditions for plant growth throughout the year.
The result? A well-being workspace that pays in food
A greener, healthier workspace with improved employee well-being and productivity, reducing food costs by 30%. Wouldn't you want to work in a place where you can literally reap the rewards of your labor? Persona Urban Farm has made this a reality.
Fun Fact: Not only do employees get to harvest fresh produce, but some of the vegetables grown in the office are even used in the cafeteria meals! It's a win-win for both health and sustainability.
Example #8 Frasers Tower: A smart space for the future
Source: Frasers Tower
Singapore’s Frasers Tower is more than just a skyscraper—it’s a statement of efficiency, sustainability, and cutting-edge technology. Nestled in the heart of the city’s Central Business District, this 38-story tower is designed to elevate workplace experiences while seamlessly integrating smart solutions that enhance both functionality and comfort.
A hub of innovation and sustainability—Completed by Frasers Property, this Grade A office building offers an urban oasis with its green spaces and a seamless blend of nature and technology. The tower boasts state-of-the-art smart systems that optimize energy usage, reduce operational costs, and create a healthier working environment.
How it works:
IoT-powered HVAC systems for adaptive climate control, reducing energy waste.
Smart lighting that adjusts based on occupancy and natural daylight levels.
Automated building management systems (BMS) that analyze data in real time to optimize efficiency.
Touchless access and facial recognition for seamless security and convenience.
The result? Lower costs for tenants and owners alike
Frasers Tower, with sustainability at its core, has earned BCA Green Mark Platinum and WELL certifications—Singapore’s top eco-friendly and health-conscious building recognitions.
The smart integrations at Frasers Tower have significantly reduced energy consumption while improving occupant comfort. Tenants benefit from lower operational costs, a future-proofed workplace, and an environment that fosters productivity and well-being. In an era where efficiency and experience go hand in hand, Frasers Tower sets the platinum standard for smart commercial buildings.
Your blueprint for the future: The next step for smart buildings
Smart buildings aren’t just a trend; they’re the inevitable future of facility management, building use, and architecture. Whether through AI-driven efficiency, self-sustaining energy models, or immersive digital tools, these structures demonstrate that technology is no longer an enhancement, but a redefinition.
Facility managers and AEC professionals leveraging digital twin technology, IoT integration, and AI-driven automation are future-proofing assets and transforming occupant experiences.
Matterport’s digital twin technology is at the forefront of smart building management, offering real-time insights and remote collaboration tools. Ready to step into the future?
See what digital twins can do for your smart building project – Book a demo!
