<p>Nanocellulose (NC) has emerged as a multifunctional, renewable nanomaterial with immense potential to advance the performance, sustainability, and functionality of next-generation construction systems. This mini review critically examines recent developments in the integration of NC into a broad range of construction materials including clay bricks, cementitious binders, geopolymers, gypsum, and polymeric composites with a focus on eco-efficiency and multifunctionality. We explored domains such as thermal insulation, mechanical resilience, fire resistance, moisture regulation, and fresh-state rheological properties, alongside functionalities including self-cleaning, antimicrobial efficacy, and passive climatic modulation. Particular emphasis is placed on hybrid systems that combine NC with materials such as MXenes, TiO₂, nanosilica, and ZnO for synergistic effects. Challenges including dispersion in mineral-rich matrices, long-term durability, cost-effective scale-up, and the absence of regulatory standards are also critically discussed. This mini review is concluded by outlining key future directions, including lifecycle assessment, pilot-scale testing, and multifunctional surface engineering, to accelerate the adoption of NC in sustainable, smart, and climate-resilient infrastructure.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>