Agriculture is evolving, and the infrastructure supporting it needs to keep up.

From smarter builds to more sustainable materials, the future of agricultural construction is about more than just putting up barns and sheds. It's about long-term value, flexibility, and durability.

As agricultural building contractors in Alberta, we'll unpack what we're seeing as the top trends shaping agricultural construction in 2025, and what they mean for agribusiness shareholders across the province.

Smarter Buildings for Smarter Operations

The future of ag buildings is tech-forward but not complicated. It's about integrating AI and practical automated systems that make daily operations easier, faster, and more efficient.

• Automated ventilation and climate control: Livestock operations are embracing systems that monitor and adjust airflow, humidity, and temperature in real time.
  
  
• Machine farming support: Automated planting, tractors, and other machinery will help reduce labour costs and boost efficiency.
  
  
• Sensor-based monitoring: To track and streamline soil health levels and preserve water, more producers are integrating sensors that track moisture, weather, and crop health.
  
  

We build structures that support this tech, so you're not trying to retrofit critical systems down the line. The trend that we are seeing, is that as the technology evolves, so does the size of the machinery, so this is a critical consideration at the building design stage for things such as amount of Door openings, Type of door (ie. OHD, Powerlift, Bi-fold), header sizing, and clear height on the inside of the building.



Durable Materials for Prairie Conditions

2025 is all about builds that hold up through Alberta's toughest seasons.

• Pre-engineered steel buildings are still leading the way, and for good reason: they're fast to construct, cost-effective, and built to last.
  
  
• Precast concrete/tilt-up panels are seeing a spike in use, especially for operations that need low-maintenance exteriors and solid long-term return on investment.
  
  
• Insulated metal panel systems are becoming the go-to in high-efficiency spaces like shops and food storage facilities.
  
  

At SWMW, we're constantly evaluating new materials, but we only recommend what's proven to perform in real-world conditions—snow loads, wind, sun, hail and all other weather types we experience here in Western Canada.

Sensible Sustainability

Sustainability isn't just about optics. It's about long-term cost savings, government incentives, and ensuring we're all doing our part to support our planet.

• Energy-efficient lighting and heating systems are now a baseline, not a luxury. Additionally, the client benefits from the realization of operational cost savings through these items.
  
  
• Using AI and remote-controlled operations to monitor crop moisture helps reduce waste and water.
  
  

We're ready to integrate those features into your project by working with specialized suppliers, with as minimal impact as possible to timelines or budgets.

Flexible Multi-Use Structures

Producers need spaces that can grow with them. That's why the trend toward multi-purpose builds isn't going anywhere.

• Think machine storage that doubles as a workspace, or livestock shelters that can convert into equipment sheds as operations shift.
  
  
• We're also seeing demand for buildings designed with future expansions in mind, whether it's additional bays, mezzanines, or feed systems.
  
  

We design with flexibility built in so your structure doesn't limit your growth.



Turnkey Design-Build for Faster Results

Agricultural design-build is a no-brainer for the motivated producer. Time is money in agriculture. More producers are opting for an all-in-one design-build approach to speed up construction without sacrificing quality and meeting harvesting deadlines.

• One team handles everything from permitting to project completion
  
  
• Faster coordination means fewer delays
  
  
• Better communication, fewer surprises, and a smoother experience from start to finish
  
  

This is the model we've been championing for years, and 2025 is proving it's the way forward for agricultural businesses.

Let's Build! Connect with SWMW Today

If you're planning a new agricultural build in 2025, it's worth looking beyond the basics. From technology integration to better materials and smarter timelines, there's a lot more on the table than there used to be.

With over 45 years of experience, when you partner with us, you're choosing a team committed to your success. We use innovative processes and adopt a client-first mindset.

Use our handy online quote request tool or fill out our convenient contact form and a member of our team will be in touch as soon as possible!

Get in touch with the SWMW team for an unmatched customer experience and efficient and timely project execution. We'll help bring your project to life!