High-Rises: Past, Present and Future

IStructE London Young Members Group is pleased to announce a technical talk on the Karlatornet project – Sweden’s tallest mixed-use building.

Join us for an inspiring evening with Dr Karl Micallef, Associate Principal Structural Engineer at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM). Dr Micallef will present a case study of Karlatornet, offering insight into the engineering challenges and innovative solutions behind this landmark tower.

The talk will then explore the future of structural engineering and sustainability, featuring SOM’s pioneering Urban Sequoia concept—an approach to designing carbon-absorbing cities and recent research on integrating renewable energy generation within tall structures.

This session will highlight how cutting-edge structural design and sustainable innovation are shaping the resilient cities of tomorrow.

Whether you are a student, graduate, or industry professional, this event will offer valuable insights into the evolving role of structural engineers in creating a more sustainable built environment.

There will be an opportunity for a short Q&A session following the talk.

The Q&A will be followed by a networking session, during which hot drinks and nibbles will be provided.

About the speaker:

Dr Karl Micallef (Skidmore, Owings and Merrill (Europe) LLP):

Dr Karl Micallef is an Associate Principal Structural Engineer at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), one of the world’s leading architecture, engineering, and urban planning firms. He has over 15 years of international experience delivering complex and innovative projects across Europe and the Middle East.

Dr Micallef's portfolio includes the design of iconic structures such as the Karlatornet—Scandinavia’s tallest mixed-use tower, as well as the redevelopment of the United Nations Offices in Geneva. His expertise spans a wide range of sectors, including commercial, residential, cultural, and governmental projects, where he integrates advanced structural solutions with architectural vision.

He holds both MSc and PhD degrees from Imperial College London and is a Visiting Professor at the University of East London, where he shares his knowledge with the next generation of engineers. Dr Micallef is a Fellow of the Institution of Civil Engineers (FICE) and a Chartered Building Engineer (C.Build E MCABE) through the Chartered Association of Building Engineers.

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Cover Photo Copyright: Skidmore, Owings and Merrill

This is a ticketed event with limited spaces. If your plans change, please let us know on [email protected] to free your ticket or cancel directly on Eventbrite.