How the World Got Smaller: Architecture, Tech, and Keeping Design Real

Architecture has always been shaped by its surroundings—its materials, climate, and cultural influences. But as the world becomes increasingly connected, design is no longer bound by geography. Today, architects draw inspiration from across the globe, seamlessly blending styles, materials, and techniques from different regions. The question is, how do we maintain authenticity and regional identity in a world where design is becoming more globalised?   Tech is Changing Architecture—For Better or Worse?   Look, tech has completely changed the way we design. We can work with teams halfway across the world, share ideas instantly, and even get AI to spit out design suggestions. But with these advancements come challenges. One of the biggest is software compatibility. "Creating a platform that all formats can use at the same time would be a game-changer. Right now, if you're not using a specific software, you can't always work with someone using another. And not everyone has the budget for high-end design programs. But that shouldn't exclude them—experience and skill should matter just as much." The industry must move towards more inclusive, interoperable tools that allow architects to work seamlessly, regardless of the software they use. Until then, we risk limiting creativity to those with access to the right technology.   Are We All Just Designing the Same Buildings Now?   Looking back at architectural history, styles have always reflected the times—modernism, brutalism, postmodernism, and so on. But today, there’s a concern that globalisation is leading to architectural homogenisation. Will cities start looking the same, regardless of location? "I had a university lecturer who called it 'Revitism.' Because so many architects design using Revit, buildings tend to follow the same patterns—square structures, standard windows—because that’s what’s easiest in the software. Instead of sketching first and designing with intent, many go straight into digital tools, shaping buildings to fit the program rather than the other way around."   Why Materials Still Keep Design Local   No matter how global architecture gets, materials still keep things local. Concrete, for example, takes on unique characteristics based on where it’s made. "I was listening to a podcast this morning about how the colour of concrete changes based on where the sand and stone come from. Some regions produce a purplish hue, while others have a sandy clay tone. Historically, materials were sourced locally, meaning architecture naturally reflected its environment." This principle remains true today, especially with the shift toward sustainability. Energy-efficient architecture benefits from using locally available materials, reducing transportation emissions and ensuring buildings fit within their natural settings.   Where Do We Go from Here?   So, where’s all of this heading? Will regional identity persist, or will we end up with a universal design language where every city looks the same? "I think styles will always evolve based on what's fashionable at the time. But the way we build—the fundamentals like columns, slabs, and structures—will stay the same. What will change is the materials and the techniques we use, as technology advances and sustainability becomes more important." As architects, we’ve got to find that balance—taking in inspiration from all over the world while still keeping things true to where a building actually is. Technology, AI, and digital design tools are incredible enablers, but they should never replace the instinct and creativity that come from truly understanding a space and its history. The world may be getting smaller, but architecture still has the power to tell the stories of the places we design for. And that, ultimately, is what keeps our work meaningful.