Mustafa Sherif

Urban design profoundly affects wellbeing and social connection. However, standardized metrics often overlook local cultural and contextual nuances, such as climate or inequality, which shape urban experiences. The Norman Foster Institute (NFI) develops participatory methodologies to create wellbeing indicators tailored to each city, guiding practical urban design strategies that respond to communities’ real needs and priorities.

Securing buy-in into citywide transformation requires compelling stories that inspire citizens, planners and funders with a vision of potential future possibilities. Advances in technology such as digital twins, simulation and AI can produce interactive visualisations that can unlock better conversations that ultimately lead to better decisions. Through real city examples, KPMG and Augment City will show the art of the possible to unlock the insights in your data and help decision makers reach clarity and consensus.

As urban populations grow, the need for affordable, scalable, and sustainable housing is more urgent than ever. From modular construction to smart housing and regulatory innovation, new approaches are reshaping how cities house their residents. How can cross-sector collaboration turn these innovations into lasting, inclusive solutions?