Architectural design is the imprint that each era leaves on time. Whether it's a megalithic construction dating back thousands of years or the latest avant-garde skyscraper, it embodies human beliefs, ambitions and fears. Today, the integration of AI in architecture and construction is revolutionizing the way we conceptualize and build housing and infrastructure. In fact, a recent article in Building magazine suggests that machine learning technologies are poised to replace 37% of tasks traditionally performed by humans in this sector.
In this article, we look at how this transformation will manifest in various areas:
From mind to screen: image modeling
One of the main areas in which AI which complements human intelligence is in the initial design proposal phase. This extends beyond functional architecture firms to include major industry players, often recognized as “signature” architecture firms. A good example is Zaha Hadid Architects, a leading firm responsible for iconic projects such as China's Guangzhou Opera House and Beijing Daxing International Airport.
During a recent discussion, current director Patrik Schumacher revealed the studio's use of text-to-image conversion AI tools like DALL-E 2 and Midjourney in the early stages of projects. Schumacher stressed that this approach makes competitions easier and provides starting ideas to clients. In particular, they managed to ensure that artificial intelligence generates images consistent with the company's distinctive style, even if they are not initially functional. Subsequently, 3D modeling begins based on 10 to 15% of the initial images.
Project planning and documentation management
Beyond proposition visualization, AI in architecture plays a less visually impactful but crucial role in data management and security compliance. This includes:
- Data management. From summarizing tender specifications to classifying all documents generated during construction, AI dramatically streamlines data processing.
- Project planning. AI helps integrate all elements, such as plumbing, ventilation systems or electrical installation, ensuring compliance with the client's specifications and legislation. It also plays a crucial role in financial planningcosting and optimization of the quantity of raw materials for sustainable construction.
Both features are already integrated into major software tools used in modern architecture.
Support in construction and safety
As construction Adopting advanced technologies like exoskeletons and augmented reality glasses, AI is proving its capabilities in real-world projects. Promising applications include:
- Calculation of construction deadlines and anticipation of delays. AI processes vast data from IoT sensors, machine vision systems and material consumption to detect potential bottlenecks and delays, as demonstrated by ACCIONA on the Broadway subway project in Vancouver.
- Operator monitoring for improved safety. Using data from cameras and wearable devices helps monitor the presence of operators near dangerous machines and ensures safety protocols are followed. This approach facilitates faster intervention in the event of an accident.
- Building maintenance. AI helps anticipate material wear or detect damage early, integrating with Building Information Modeling (BIM) models to optimize building maintenance throughout its lifespan.
Generative design: the final frontier of AI in architecture
Looking ahead, a future is emerging in which generative design applications will be able to create entire buildings with AI, influencing not only decision-making, but also initial design, material selection, and problem-solving in areas such as window layout and ventilation ducts.
A recent Guardian article explained how an architect presented AI software. On the screen, furniture, hallways and rooms were rearranged in real time as the proportions of a hotel project changed. Once the demonstration was completed, the journalist praised the potential of the software. The architect immediately qualifies: this hotel with five hundred rooms is already built; the whole process was completed in four and a half months. This tool is not part of the distant future: it already has more than 50,000 users in China alone.
In the words of Neil Leach, author of “Architecture in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” AI frees architects from routine computing tasks, allowing them to focus on creativity and overall project strategyalongside trends in other disciplines.
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