Ahead of the Curve: Engineering a Greener Tomorrow, ft. Chris Atkins from Symmetrys

Good engineering is central to sustainable architecture. It shapes how buildings stand up, how teams collaborate and how design decisions perform over time.

Stephen Drew speaks with Chris Atkins of Symmetrys about structural and civil engineering, international career lessons, sustainability, landmark projects, AI and how architects and engineers can work together more effectively.

The conversation covers:

• What structural and civil engineers bring to the design team
• How Chris's international experience shaped his approach
• Why sustainability depends on better collaboration across disciplines
• What landmark and unusual projects teach about engineering judgement
• How AI and software changes may affect engineering practice

Read the episode on Architecture Social: Engineering a Greener Tomorrow with Chris Atkins

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Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to engineering and greener buildings
• 05:00 Chris Atkins' early career and international experience
• 10:00 What structural and civil engineers bring to the design team
• 15:00 Symmetrys projects, awards and the Ferris wheel discussion
• 20:00 Sustainability, collaboration and sharing knowledge
• 25:00 AI, report writing and how engineering tools may change
• 30:00 Practice life, software shifts and closing reflections

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