As innovation in materials science accelerates, the built environment is witnessing a shift from experimental breakthroughs to real-world application. Smart materials—capable of responding dynamically to environmental conditions—offer significant potential to enhance building performance, improve energy efficiency and support climate resilience. This panel brings together perspectives from research, design, engineering and industry to explore how these materials are moving beyond the laboratory into practical use. It will consider both the opportunities and the challenges associated with adoption, including cost, scalability, regulation and integration into existing design and construction processes, highlighting how smart materials can play a transformative role in shaping the future of the built environment.