New research shows architects are taking a more integrated approach to safety and security as demand grows across key building sectors.
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) has published Safety & Security in Design, a new research report examining how architects are incorporating safety and security considerations into project planning, design, and product specification.
Developed with support from AIA Strategic Partner Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope, the report finds that security has evolved from a specialized consideration into a baseline expectation across the profession, driving more integrated approaches that balance protection, accessibility, transparency, and occupant well-being. The report also explores how architects are responding to increasing client expectations, evolving risks, and changing regulatory requirements while continuing to meet design, operational, and budget objectives.
“Protecting the health, safety, and welfare of the public is a core responsibility of the architectural profession,” said Carole Wedge, FAIA, NOMA, LEED AP, EVP/Chief Executive Officer of AIA. “This report demonstrates that safety and security are no longer standalone considerations. They are increasingly integrated into the design process, shaping decisions about building performance, occupant experience, and long-term resilience.”
Architects report that safety and security measures are being incorporated beyond minimum code requirements and are increasingly viewed as essential components of good design. Rather than relying on isolated or heavily fortified solutions, practitioners are adopting layered strategies that combine access control, visibility, operational planning, and material selection.
Among the report’s key findings:
- Security is now a baseline expectation. Architects across firm types report incorporating safety and security measures beyond minimum code requirements.
- Layered strategies are becoming the norm. Firms are increasingly combining access control, visibility, operational planning, and material solutions instead of relying solely on hardened defenses.
- Project sector influences security integration. The highest levels of integration are reported in data centers, education, healthcare, and institutional projects, where risk and operational complexity are greater.
- Budget and stakeholder challenges remain. Architects continue to navigate budget pressures, value engineering, evolving codes and testing standards, and fragmented decision-making among project stakeholders.
- Experience shapes decision-making. Less experienced architects often rely on outside specialists, while senior practitioners are more likely to lead safety and security strategy and integration efforts.
The report also signals growing demand for security-focused solutions in education and data center projects over the next three years, reflecting increasing concerns about safety, operational continuity, and facility performance.
“Architects are moving away from isolated ‘hardened’ solutions and toward holistic strategies that balance security, transparency, and occupant well-being,” said Mark Adamson, CEO of Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope. “As design teams navigate changing standards, tighter budgets, and evolving expectations, our role as a manufacturing and technical partner is to make achieving that balance easier, delivering performance-tested glass, metal, and hardware systems that support both security and innovative design.”
The report includes additional analysis of how security considerations vary by project type, risk profile, and practitioner experience, offering insights for architects, manufacturers, educators, and policymakers working to create safer, more resilient built environments.
Click here for the “Safety & Security in Design” report.
About the American Institute of Architects
Founded in 1857, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) consistently works to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings, neighborhoods, and communities. Through more than 200 international, state and local chapters, AIA advocates for public policies that promote economic vitality and public well-being. It provides members with tools and resources to assist them in their careers and business as well as engaging civic and government leaders and the public to find solutions to pressing issues facing our communities, institutions, nation, and world. Members adhere to a code of ethics and conduct to ensure the highest professional standards.
About Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope, Inc.
Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope, Inc. (OBE) is North America’s leading vertically integrated manufacturer, fabricator, and distributor of architectural hardware, glass, and glazing systems. Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, OBE operates a world-class network that supports architects, glaziers, and developers across every major market in the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Australia. By combining the specialized expertise of its award-winning brands—including CRL, the premier manufacturer of hardware and supplies, and Graham Architectural Products, a leader in high-performance window systems—with massive international scale, OBE provides the technical excellence and integrated supply chain required for the most complex residential and commercial construction projects.
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