For decades, the mantra of real estate has been “location, location, location”. But as artificial intelligence (AI) and automation reshape how people live, work and age, industry experts believe a new factor may increasingly determine long-term property value: adaptability.

According to Tony Mak, director of SA Architect, future-ready buildings will be those designed to evolve alongside technology rather than simply adding smart devices after construction.

Mak said this thinking underpins the AI Living concept at i-City in Selangor, where homes are designed as adaptable environments capable of accommodating technological changes.

The rationale is straightforward; buildings that evolve with technology are far more likely to remain relevant, and that helps preserve long-term value, he said.

Mak said the key challenge is that buildings typically last for decades while technology evolves rapidly, creating a mismatch that architects must address.

i-City’s structure as a coordinated freehold township is an advantage, where infrastructure and services can be managed at a district level. This allows AI and robotics to support not just individual buildings but also township services such as security, maintenance, logistics and public space management.

Source: https://www.nst.com.my/property/2026/03/1397323/its-now-adapt-adapt-adapt-real-estate-industry