AI-Driven Transformation in Data Center Design and Construction  

Adapting Infrastructure, Energy, and Innovation for the Next Generation of Facilities

Sponsored by Construction Specialties

Live Webinar Airing on October 7, 2025 at 02:00 PM ET

Artificial intelligence is driving a fundamental shift in how data centers are designed, built, and operated. The rise of AI workloads, ranging from machine learning to generative AI, is reshaping infrastructure needs, pushing facilities toward higher power density, advanced cooling solutions, and modular, edge-based architectures. At the same time, AI is enabling new efficiencies through design and construction.

This webinar examines how these trends are redefining the modern data center. Participants will explore strategies for managing increased power and cooling demands, integrating consumption, grid availability, sustainable sourcing, new technologies (i.e., small modular reactors), and on-site generation. Leveraging AI to improve operational efficiency and resilience. Through current examples and forward-looking strategies, attendees will gain insights into how architects, engineers, and contractors can design data centers that meet today's demands while anticipating the rapid growth of AI technologies.

Image courtesy of Adobe

Modern data center with illuminated server racks, advanced networking, and cloud computing infrastructure.

Originally published in Architectural Record

Originally published in August 2025

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
  1. Explain how AI-driven workloads are influencing the design and construction of data centers, including the need for higher power density, cooling systems, and modular designs
  2. Identify strategies for integrating sustainable energy solutions, including on-site generation, grid coordination, and emerging technologies such as small modular reactors, into data center planning and construction.
  3. Discuss design and construction considerations, such as airflow control, acoustics, vision screening, contaminant mitigation, and damage prevention, to enhance facility performance.
  4. Evaluate how innovative construction techniques and forward-looking design strategies can help data centers adapt to rapid technological advancements and increasing energy demands.