Robotics in data centers, $55M raised by Runwise and Building automation deal

Snapshot

Here is what happened in the AEC world:Singapore completed its first fully 3D-printed house, while Qatar installed the world's largest 3D construction printer to build a school. Runwise raised $55M Series B to expand its smart building platform across 10,000+ properties. A building automation company was acquired for £43M by private equity. Construction costs are rising 5-15% due to proposed steel and aluminum tariffs.

AEC Tech in Action

Singapore unveils its first fully 3D-printed house: The QR3D house, designed by Lim Koon Park, is a 6,130-sq-ft 3D-printed concrete structure that addresses construction challenges in Singapore. (wallpaper.com)

World's largest 3D construction printer installed in Qatar: COBOD International's BODXL printer, measuring 50x30x15 meters, has been installed in Doha in partnership with UCC Holding to build a large school. (voxelmatters.com)

New Innovations and Partnerships

Robotics enhance efficiency in data center construction: Data centers are increasingly utilizing robotics and automation to streamline delivery processes and improve construction efficiency. (datacentremagazine.com)

Funding Rounds and M&A Activity

Building automation specialist acquired for £43 million: A building automation company with £43 million in turnover has been acquired by funds advised by a private equity firm. (insidermedia.com)

Runwise Raises $55M to Scale Smart Building Operating System: Series B round led by Menlo Ventures to expand its platform that automates building systems across 10,000+ properties, delivering 30% energy savings with sub-five-month paybacks for operators like Related and Equity Residential. (prnewswire.com)

Opinions

Construction faces tariff shock and labor crisis reality: On the latest Bricks, Bucks & Bytes, Patric Hellermann, Dustin DeVan, Owen Drury and Martin Piekarz break down how 50% steel and aluminum tariffs are driving 5-15% project cost increases while deepening labor shortages reshape construction economics. (bricks-bytes.com)