With the rapid advancement of technology, many creatives are questioning whether artificial intelligence poses a threat to their industry.

Architecture is no different as individuals debate whether artificial intelligence will ever become advanced enough to replace architects and visualisation artists

Recently news broke about Google DeepMind's groundbreaking AI system, GraphCast, which has revolutionised weather forecasting by beating conventional methods for the first time. Utilising a vast dataset of historical weather data, GraphCast surpasses the world's leading forecasting system in 90% of metrics.

Each day news articles of a similar stem seem to flood the arch world listing new jobs in which technology is set to outperform us in, but to what extent? This article discusses the impacts and benefits of AI within architecture and its threat to creative’s jobs.

In this article, we will get into the details regarding AI image production and the pitfalls it can lead to and also how Glass Canvas is using AI in research & development but also production stages.

The Impact of AI in Architecture

With over 1.3 billion related search result queries related to AI and architecture, the impact this emerging technology has had on the industry - especially over the last 2 years, has been hard to ignore.

Discussions about the future of technology have been a prominent topic on architecture and design websites. These websites have provided a platform for experts and enthusiasts to share their insights and predictions about the potential impact of AI advancements on the built environment. Recent discussions have centred on the integration of artificial intelligence into schematic design and rendering, the increasing use of digital fabrication techniques, and the development of sustainable building practices. These discussions have helped to shape the conversation about the future of technology and its role in shaping our cities and buildings.

Discussions around the rapid advancement of this technology have left many sceptics unnerved at its efficacy in the design field, with many text-to-generative design websites becoming increasingly, understanding and learning how to improve designs and understanding how to develop semi-detailed 3D renders.

AIA says; “90 percent of architecture firms anticipate they will be using or increasing usage of AI over the next three years.”

AI has also helped move other technologies along for architects. For example, AI-powered design tools are now being used to create more efficient and sustainable buildings. These tools can analyse a wide range of factors, such as climate and site conditions to generate optimised designs that meet specific regulations.

AI is also being used to develop new materials and construction methods, such as 3D printing, which can be used to create complex and customised structures. Additionally, the technology is being used to improve the efficiency of construction processes, such as by automating tasks and optimising scheduling. As a result of these advances, AI is ridding architectural firms and visualisation studios of basic, time-consuming tasks and generating consistent alternate 3D views.

Example tool:

HuggingFace and Zero1to3 is an image-conditioned diffusion AI tool which can generate 3D-consistent multi-view images from a single input view. The AI tool reads the AI-generated image and creates various angle perspectives.  You can see how this form of multi-image creation will then lead to a 3D model being constructed eg. using Autodesk Recap.

(Images by Tim Fu)

The Benefits of AI in Architecture

AI is an ever-developing tool with a seemingly unlimited area for advancement.

AI-powered generative design tools are revolutionising the architectural design process by enabling architects to explore a vast range of design possibilities and optimise their designs for various parameters, such as structural performance, energy efficiency, and spatial functionality. These tools can analyse and process vast amounts of data, including site conditions, building codes, and user preferences, to generate multiple design iterations that meet specific criteria.

AI is also transforming the architecture industry by optimising construction processes, reducing waste, and enhancing cost management. AI-powered tools can analyse construction schedules, resource allocation, and material procurement, identifying potential obstacles and inefficiencies.

Example tool:

Skema is a conceptual AI design tool. With its intelligent suggestions, Skema accelerates the design process, providing insightful guidance on various aspects, including site considerations, contextual factors, massing strategies, sustainability principles, blocking and stacking arrangements, and proforma metrics.

The tool seamlessly integrates AI into the design workflow, connecting to a range of different software, effectively streamlining projects by speeding up various tasks with helpful suggestions.

Artificial intelligence has the power to process both historical and real-time data through machine learning, generative design, and expert systems, helping architects, project managers and developers leverage ideas for data-driven design in the future. This means that professionals will spend fewer hours designing a building and instead focus on meeting the clients needs and requirements in the best and most efficient manner possible.

The Flaws of AI in Architecture

Although AI is a powerful tool, it does have its limitations. AI has the potential to automate certain aspects of creative jobs, such as generating basic designs or music compositions. However, it is unlikely that AI will completely replace creative jobs in the near future.

The process of creativity is intricate and multifaceted, relying on human qualities like imagination, intuition, and thinking outside of conventional boundaries. Although AI can be trained to generate new ideas and produce creative outputs, it lacks the emotional intelligence and life experiences that are essential for truly replicating human creativity.

Moreover, many creative professions necessitate skills beyond purely innovative thinking. Effective communication, teamwork proficiency, and problem-solving abilities are integral components that cannot be easily replicated by AI systems.

Therefore, while AI can undoubtedly enhance and streamline certain facets of creative work, it is improbable that it will fully supplant human creatives. Instead, AI will likely function as a valuable tool to complement and augment human ingenuity rather than rendering them obsolete.

Quotes From Architects

“Over-reliance on AI tools for architecture like floor-plan generators could result in boring buildings”, Online Lab of Architecture co-founder Daniel Escobar tells Dezeen in an interview.

"I have been around long enough to see multiple waves of technological change in the industry and this argument happens every single time," Bernstein told Dezeen. "It happened during CAD, it happened during BIM, and now it's happening with AI," he added. "We somehow always seem to survive these things.”

“It is important to acknowledge that AI technology is currently nowhere close to possessing true intelligence and feelings comparable to human consciousness. It is limited in the types of tasks it can complete, but there is a general consensus that the technology that already exists has the potential to be extremely powerful.”, Kåre Stokholm Poulsgaard, Head of Innovation at GXN

So What’s The Argument?

Each of the impacts and benefits discussed in the article demonstrates how AI has already proved to be a great tool in aiding workflow, however, AI does not have the intelligence to perform as an architect, as the tool is only set to create superficial designs without further consideration to technical elements. 

Architects are trained to consider multiple factors such as cultural, social, and environmental contexts when designing buildings. They possess a unique ability to create spaces that evoke emotions, engage users, and contribute to the overall well-being of communities. While AI can assist in certain aspects of the design process, it lacks the human touch and creative intuition that architects bring to their work.

Furthermore, the role of architects extends beyond design. They play a crucial role in project management, client communication, and coordination with various stakeholders. Architects are responsible for translating the needs and desires of clients into tangible architectural solutions. This requires a deep understanding of human psychology, cultural sensibilities, and the ability to navigate professional relationships. These interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence cannot be replicated by AI.

Architects have already been able to leverage AI in great ways to streamline tasks and proof detailed areas of work. We can expect that architects, engineers and designers will still have their place in the industry for a long time, if not indefinitely.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while AI has the potential to greatly enhance the architectural profession, it is unlikely to completely replace human architects. The field of architecture requires a unique blend of technical expertise, creative intuition, and interpersonal skills that are intrinsic to human beings. Instead of worry, architects should embrace the opportunities that AI presents and utilise it as a powerful tool to augment their abilities and allocate more time creatively to push architectural innovation. By harnessing the power of AI, architects can create more sustainable, efficient, and user-centric designs that contribute to the betterment of society.