Spacious data centre architecture with modern racks and cooling systems in a brightly lit room.

Transforming Data Centre Design: Innovations in the US and Beyond

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Written by Sam Johnson

2026-10-04

Data Centres Expand Across the US, Raising Design and Environmental Concerns

The architecture of data centres is rapidly evolving as artificial intelligence increases the demand for hyperscale facilities in the United States. These vast constructions prompt questions about their impact on local environments and how their design as part of these structures can be enhanced. Marina Otero Verzier, noted for winning the 2022 Wheelwright Prize, highlights that these centres often exemplify poor design.

Exploring the impact of innovation in architecture, celebrated historic buildings showcase bold use of color, highlighting design evolution.

RIBA head office building surrounded by tall trees and a grey sky.
RIBA settled a legal case with Alan Jones

Challenges and Innovations in Data Centre Design

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) resolved a legal standoff with former president Alan Jones, paying £150,000. This settlement concluded a dispute over the handling of personal information and allegations leaked to the media in 2020.

Constructing such centers is not only about creating large-scale facilities but also about considering their ecological footprint. As these facilities continue expanding, the quest for sustainable and efficient design becomes increasingly important. They are vital for supporting the infrastructure of artificial intelligence and cloud computing.

Aerial view of the Rach Chiec Stadium surrounded by lush greenery.
The Rach Chiec Stadium was revealed this week

Vietnam Unveils Design for Landmark National Stadium

In Vietnam, the architecture studio Populous has designed the Rach Chiec Stadium, a monumental 70,000-seat venue near Ho Chi Minh City. This stadium will be nearly twice the size of any existing stadium in the country.

Narrow, modern Kyoto house with wooden exterior set against a clear blue sky.
A skinny house in Kyoto was one of September’s top houses

Noteworthy Residential Designs of September

Celebrating innovative residential projects, September showcased houses like a 30-meter-long narrow dwelling in Kyoto and a lime-rendered abode in Mexico. These unique structures highlight the creativity in contemporary architecture as well as inspirational ideas that can cross over into these large-scale centers.

As residential projects continue to inspire, student-designed pavilion demonstrates innovative uses of plywood in architecture.

Compact pod hotel in London with futuristic design and illuminated windows.
A pod hotel in London was one of this week’s most popular projects

Popular Projects and Podcasts at Dezeen

This week’s most talked-about projects include a London pod hotel, the Skywalker Grill at LA‘s Lucas Museum, and a refurbished 1970s townhouse in Hampstead. Listen to our Dezeen Weekly podcast for insights on major design and architecture stories, including Apple’s new folding phone, and discussions about data centers’ role in the future of digital infrastructure.

Source: dezeen.com

Frequently asked questions

What impact does AI have on data centre architecture?

The architecture of data centres is evolving due to increased demand for hyperscale facilities driven by artificial intelligence in the United States.

What is a concern with data centre design expansion?

As data centres expand, there are concerns about their impact on the local environment and the importance of considering their ecological footprint.

What stadium design is being developed in Vietnam?

In Vietnam, the architecture studio Populous has designed the Rach Chiec Stadium, a 70,000-seat venue near Ho Chi Minh City, which will be nearly twice the size of any existing stadium in the country.