Purpose

Why the Built World Summit

The Built World Summit brings together leaders from across the built environment to explore how cities can adapt and thrive through long-term transformation.

The Built World Summit brings together the global community shaping the future of cities.

Across architecture, engineering, planning, development, investment and public leadership, the built environment has a critical role to play in addressing the challenges facing cities today — from climate resilience and infrastructure delivery to housing, growth and economic opportunity.

Hosted in London, one of the world’s leading hubs for city-making expertise, the Summit creates a space for leaders from across the industry to exchange ideas, share knowledge and build the partnerships needed to deliver better cities.

The programme is designed not only to showcase innovation and best practice, but to drive meaningful collaboration across sectors and geographies — connecting the people shaping the built world today with those defining what comes next.

Resilient Cities

Cities are facing unprecedented pressures. Climate change, population growth, economic uncertainty and ageing infrastructure are reshaping how urban environments must evolve.

Resilient Cities is the central theme of the Built World Summit 2026, exploring how the built environment can respond to these challenges while continuing to support growth, prosperity and quality of life.

Across the programme, speakers and participants will examine how resilience can be embedded into the planning, design and delivery of cities — from climate adaptation and sustainable infrastructure to housing, mobility, energy systems and inclusive urban development.

By bringing together global perspectives and practical expertise, the Summit will highlight the solutions, partnerships and commitments needed to build cities that are more sustainable, adaptable and prepared for the future.