Considering Artificial Intelligence for design scrutiny
Since Thomas Edison introduced us to electricity in the 19th century, there’s been a constant evolution of technology sweeping across all fields — including architecture. One of the latest technologies to make a splash is artificial intelligence (AI), promising to revolutionise the way architects think and work. You may well wonder how, precisely, artificial intelligence can impact the architectural industry. Buckle up, because we’re about to take a ripper trip into tomorrow.
Now, AI-empowered design tools can help architects conceptualise and refine their designs, bringing them to life with unprecedented speed and accuracy.
“AI can empower architects to think outside the box, to conceptualise and design in ways never thought possible,” explains Principal Architect at Studio Leith.
AI’s ability to analyse and synthesise vast amounts of data also opens the door to generative design. This allows architects to input design goals and parameters, and the AI proposes optimised design solutions^1. Generative design can lead to innovative concepts that may not have been conceived with traditional design methods.
3D Rendering Ability
What if a client could virtually step into their building before it is built? Strap yourself in, because this is now possible. The field of architectural visualisation has seen vast improvements with the development of AI. 3D renderings created with AI are so realistic they border on the uncanny. They allow clients to experience a space as close as possible to reality before ground is even broken^2 — minimising the chance of costly changes late into the project.
Documentation Production
In this breakneck pace era, who fancies spending countless hours producing mundane technical drawings and specifications? No one, that’s who. AI has you covered. It’s capable of automating this tedious process, reducing errors, and freeing up architects to focus on more creative and critical thinking tasks^3.
Targeting Client Ideas
As architects, our job is to translate a client’s vision into a tangible design. However, this can sometimes turn, through constant revision for perfection, into a game of architectural charades. Enter advanced AI algorithms, capable of scrutinising and interpreting clients’ ideas, preferences, and feedback. The potential result? A more accurate translation of a client’s vision into design^4.
Disruption to Traditional Architectural Principles
Fancy a bit of dystopia? Well, now, hold your horses. While it’s true that AI can fundamentally transform architectural methods, it’s not predicted to replace architects^5. Instead, AI is anticipated to be a powerful tool in the architect’s arsenal, helping create designs that are more sustainable, efficient, and tailored to clients’ needs.
“AI is emerging in the design space and all architects need to research it’s potential impacts on future collaboration”
Wrapping It Up
The future is here, and AI is a part of it. And like a good Vegemite sandwich, it’s an acquired taste. For architects, it’s time to embrace this tech. Let’s welcome AI not only as a tool but a partner, as we continue building spaces that are not only visually beautiful but also sustainable and effective for our changing world.
Sources:
^1: https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.4324/9780367824259-27/ai-architecture-stanislas-chaillou
^2: https://medium.com/@mimahmetavcil/the-rediscovery-of-architectural-spaces-in-the-digital-age-the-role-of-computer-aided-design-and-aee386b0454a
^3: https://www.epcworld.in/p/post/threat-or-opportunity-artificial-intelligence-in-architecture
^4: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0926580521000017
^5: https://www.archdaily.com/1007802/will-artificial-intelligence-replace-architects