Here's how you can incorporate creativity into structural engineering practices.

Structural topology optimization, Pre-engineered buildings (PEBs), tensegrity are structural forms that helps with best material optimization. Save for the cost of fabrication, PEB is an excellent design geared towards material savings in an innovative way. Materials are only allowed to cater where stresses would be on the section. However, cost of design and fabrication should be factored into choice of PEB designs. The overall cost should be juxtapose with having to use normal section before the use of PEB is justified. Structural topology optimization, PEBs, tensegrity etc are testaments to the fact that embracing design can lead to a paradigm shift from traditional thinking and that's innovation.

Thorough understanding of structural behaviour of various materials could be a good advantage in choice a very suitable material for your design. Also, your knowledge of materials could lead to an innovative composite material for your project thus leading to great cost saving. Choice of suitable materials or development of composite material that helps resolve challenges on a structural engineering project is highly innovative.

To my knowledge :Generative Design and AI: Imagine software that can automatically generate multiple structurally sound and sustainable design options. This exists! Generative design algorithms can take your design goals (e.g., minimizing material use, maximizing natural light) and building constraints and creatively propose a variety of solutions. This allows engineers to explore a wider range of possibilities than traditional methods and identify highly sustainable options they might have missed. Building Information Modeling (BIM): BIM software isn't just for creating 3D models. It can integrate environmental analysis tools to assess the sustainability impact of different design choices.

In My opinion :Design for Disassembly and Reuse: Typically, structures are designed for a specific purpose and lifespan. Creative solutions involve thinking beyond the initial use. Can components be modular and designed for disassembly and reuse in future projects? This reduces demolition waste and embodied energy in new materials. Biomimicry and Natural Inspiration: Nature has perfected structures for millions of years. Studying natural forms like honeycombs, spiderwebs, or seashells can inspire lightweight, strong designs using less material. Adaptive Reuse of Existing Structures: Instead of demolishing old buildings, creativity can be applied to revitalize them. This saves on embodied energy in new materials .