The IstructE Awards, spotlight 30 of the most groundbreaking projects from around the globe. Building on the momentum of previous years, this year’s shortlist continues to showcase sustainability, ethical standards, and technical innovation – cornerstones that reflect the evolving responsibilities and contributions of today’s structural engineering community.
Brighton Dome Corn Exchange is a multi-purpose venue which hosts a range of cultural events and performances. The site consists of multiple heritage buildings, including the Grade I listed Corn Exchange, and the Grade II listed Studio Theatre. The complete refurbishment of the venue has created a flexible, accessible space, fit for modern use without compromising its unique heritage. As part of the refurbishment the 200-year-old roof, made of shallow timber arches, was strengthened to allow theatre equipment to be hung directly from the structure.
The awards maintain a focus on the four judging attributes introduced in 2022: Planet (environmental impact), People (social value), Process (technical innovation), and Profession (collaboration and advocacy). These attributes, which have resonated strongly within the engineering community, are shaping a future where structural engineering plays a central role in addressing global challenges.
Judging excellence and innovation
The shortlisted projects were meticulously evaluated by a panel of esteemed judges, chaired by Professor John Orr, Professor of Structural Engineering at Cambridge University and a Chartered member of IStructE. The new judging criteria reflect the profession’s increasing focus on sustainability, social impact, and the transformative use of materials.
The diversity of entries underscores the global reach of the awards, with projects ranging from state-of-the-art railway infrastructure to a picturesque museum on the world’s highest plateau.
Championing environmental and social responsibility
As in previous years, the 2024 Structural Awards place significant importance on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria. The shortlisted projects not only showcase extraordinary engineering prowess but also highlight the profession’s commitment to societal and environmental stewardship.
Building on the foundation laid in 2022, this year’s awards continue to inspire a future where structural engineering is synonymous with sustainability and innovation. All entries were required to provide detailed embodied carbon footprint calculations using the IStructE carbon calculator tool, underscoring the industry’s ongoing effort to reduce carbon emissions and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Commenting on this year’s awards, Professor John Orr said: “The structural engineering profession stands at the forefront of addressing global challenges, whether through innovative designs that minimise environmental impact or through projects that enhance the quality of life for communities.”
He continued: “The awards celebrate the incredible talent and vision within the structural engineering community, setting a benchmark for future projects worldwide. I hope this shortlist continues to inspire current and future generations of engineers, driving the profession forward in our shared mission to create a better world.”
The winners will be revealed at the awards ceremony on 08 November in London, UK. For more details and to book your tickets, please visit https://www.istructe.org/
