engineering.
AKT II joined peers and partners at the CTBUH 2025 Conference in Toronto, contributing to global discussions on the future of tall buildings and sustainable urban development. The week brought presentations, debate, and recognition, with four AKT II projects receiving Awards of Excellence.
Four AKT II projects were recognised with Awards of Excellence across multiple categories, presented by Claire Bamber, Charles Ashton, Rob Partridge and Ricardo Baptista. Central Bank of Iraq received the construction award, 63 St Mary Axe earned the future project award, EDGE London Bridge was recognised for innovation in real-time hybrid piled-raft monitoring, and Chapter London Bridge received an innovation award for its application of modern methods of construction in high-rise residential design. These accolades reflect AKT II’s ongoing commitment to advancing performance, sustainability, and technical ingenuity in tall building design.
Throughout the conference, members of the team led a series of talks and panel discussions, sharing insight and research with an international audience. Ricardo Baptista examined streamlined construction methodologies for the Central Bank of Iraq, while Claire Bamber presented approaches to real-time foundation monitoring at EDGE London Bridge. Charlie Ashton discussed modern methods of construction through Chapter London Bridge, and Rob Partridge presented on bioclimatic strategies for resilient cities, complemented by insights into sustainable high-rise design drawn from 63 St Mary Axe. Together, these contributions helped shape dialogue on the future of tall buildings and the evolving needs of global cities.
AKT II’s growing presence in Canada was also reflected across the conference. Charlie Ashton, who leads the Toronto studio, supported the event through his role on the CTBUH steering committee, while Ricardo Baptista served on the CTBUH facades award jury. Phillip Quach continued his involvement as Chair of the CTBUH Toronto chapter and a member of the Canada chapter board, reinforcing the practice’s engagement with regional design and engineering networks.
The week also provided a valuable opportunity for in-person connection. The entire Toronto studio gathered for an evening together, making the most of the rare occasion when teams from across continents can meet face to face.
