As 2024 comes to a close, we’re taking a look back at some of the year’s most compelling stories from the world of design and construction. From adaptive reuse to cutting-edge technology, these stories spotlight the challenges, triumphs and innovations shaping the built environment. Join us as we revisit the top 10 stories that defined 2024.
1. Office-to-Housing Conversions: Challenges and Opportunities
The COVID-19 pandemic’s legacy continues to shape urban landscapes, with office-to-housing conversions becoming a hot topic in cities across the globe. This piece dives into the structural and financial hurdles developers face when reimagining commercial spaces for residential use—while uncovering the potential benefits for housing shortages and urban revitalization.
Read the full story: Office-to-Housing Conversion Challenges
2. Build Out Alliance: Building a More Inclusive Industry
Diversity and inclusion took center stage in 2024, with advocacy groups like Build Out Alliance championing LGBTQ+ representation in construction. Learn how this nonprofit is fostering a culture of belonging across job sites and boardrooms alike and why inclusion is key to a thriving industry.
Read the full story: Build Out Alliance Construction
3. Prioritizing Mental Health in Construction
With rising awareness of mental health issues in the workplace, the construction industry is stepping up. This article explores how companies are implementing new policies, support systems and technology to better address workers’ mental health, paving the way for a healthier workforce.
Read the full story: Mental Health in Construction 2024
4. Church Conversions: A New Era of Adaptive Reuse
Historic churches are finding new life as apartments, cultural centers and even offices. This story explores the architectural ingenuity and community impact behind these transformations, proving that adaptive reuse can preserve history while meeting modern needs.
Read the full story: Church Conversions Adaptive Reuse
5. Geothermal Heat Turns Up the Energy Efficiency in Nightclubs
Sustainability reached new heights (and depths) this year, with a spotlight on a nightclub that harnesses geothermal heat to stay eco-friendly. Discover how this innovation could inspire broader adoption of renewable energy solutions across industries.
Read the full story: Geothermal Heat Nightclub Innovation
6. The State of Artificial Intelligence in Construction
AI continued to revolutionize construction in 2024, streamlining workflows and optimizing decision-making. From generative design to predictive maintenance, this article breaks down the latest advancements and what they mean for the future of the industry.
Read the full story: State of Artificial Intelligence in Construction 2024
7. Washington, D.C.’s Sewer System: An Underground Marvel
Beneath the bustling streets of the nation’s capital lies an engineering marvel: an intricate sewer system designed to tackle stormwater challenges. This deep dive showcases the ingenuity and resilience behind this essential infrastructure.
Read the full story: Washington DC Sewer System
8. Liz Larsen: Structural Engineer and Trailblazer
Meet Liz Larsen, a structural engineer who is reshaping the industry with her groundbreaking projects and advocacy for young women in STEM. Her inspiring journey and dedication to innovation make her one of the year’s standout leaders.
Read the full story: Liz Larsen Structural Engineer
9. Detroit Design Core: Creativity at the Heart of Urban Renewal
Detroit’s design scene flourished in 2024, thanks in part to Design Core Detroit’s initiatives. This story highlights how the city’s creative community is driving economic growth and shaping a new narrative for the Motor City.
Read the full story: Detroit Design Core
10. WELD: Supporting Second Chances in Construction
Seattle-based nonprofit WELD made waves this year by empowering formerly incarcerated individuals with training and job opportunities in construction. This story highlights how the organization is addressing labor shortages while offering participants a new path forward, proving that second chances can build stronger communities.
Read the full story: WELD Seattle Construction
Building a Better Future: How Construction Innovation and Community Impact Defined 2024
From cutting-edge technology to inspiring personal stories, 2024 was a year of transformation and progress in the built world. As we look to the future, Bluebeam remains committed to sharing the innovations and ideas driving the industry forward.
Here’s to 2025 and beyond!
