In an era where cities are more than mere structures, a pioneering partnership is set to redefine urban landscapes. **AtkinsRéalis**, a global design and engineering consultancy, and **Futurecity**, a leader in cultural placemaking, are joining forces to elevate cultural strategy within major urban development. This innovative collaboration will be formally launched at **MIPIM Cannes 2026**, marking a significant milestone in the Middle East’s urban transformation journey.
The Heartbeat of Urban Development
As urban centers evolve, the need for a distinctive cultural identity has never been more pressing. Governments and developers are increasingly prioritizing creativity and livability, ensuring that these elements are woven into the fabric of their long-term urban agendas. The strategic partnership between AtkinsRéalis and Futurecity aims to embed cultural value and social impact from the very outset of planning and design processes.
Through this collaboration, both organizations will act as catalysts for change, collaborating with governments, master developers, and city leaders to create environments that resonate with community identity. The initiative goes beyond mere aesthetics, focusing on developing spaces that foster a sense of belonging and purpose. As Matthew Tribe, Senior Vice President of Buildings and Places at AtkinsRéalis, aptly stated, “Cultural intelligence is essential to shaping the next generation of urban environments.”
The Futurecity Lab: A Catalyst for Innovation
At the core of this groundbreaking partnership lies the **Futurecity Lab**, an innovative platform dedicated to cultural foresight and people-centered design. This lab will explore new ideas and methodologies, ensuring that cultural considerations are at the forefront of urban planning. With pilot projects already underway, the first outputs from the lab will be showcased at MIPIM Cannes 2026, paving the way for the next phase of this transformative partnership.
According to Mark Davy, CEO and Founder of Futurecity, this collaboration offers a unique opportunity to integrate cultural thinking into the masterplanning process. By leveraging their extensive experience in over **400 placemaking and cultural projects**, the partnership promises to deliver insightful strategies in cultural masterplanning, public art, and destination development. As they engage with leading global platforms such as **Cityscape** and the **Future Investment Initiative**, AtkinsRéalis and Futurecity position themselves as pivotal players in the realm of culturally-led, human-centric urban development.
As we stand on the cusp of this new era in urban planning, the partnership between AtkinsRéalis and Futurecity heralds a future where culture is not just an afterthought but a foundational pillar of urban development. Together, they are set to transform the way we envision our cities, creating spaces that are not only functional but also vibrant and deeply connected to the communities they serve.
