The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the field of architecture
The Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in The Field of Architecture
Artificial Intelligence(AI) is no longer a distant concept—it has become a daily reality in almost every professional field, including architecture and interior design. Today, AI is not merely a futuristic curiosity but a practical tool that enhances efficiency, accelerates workflows, and opens new creative possibilities. Just as architects once transitioned from drafting by hand with tracing paper and rulers to sophisticated CAD and BIM software, the next leap forward is now defined by AI-driven tools.
In this era, professionals who embrace AI will find themselves ahead of those who resist it. Lifelong learning and curiosity are now essential traits for architects and designers to keep pace with technological evolution. AI should be seen not as a replacement, but as a powerful extension of the human creative process.
1. Brainstorming Concepts and Rapid Research
At the earliest stage of design, AI proves invaluable as a thinking partner. Instead of starting from a blank page, architects can use AI to translate a client’s brief into a structured“direction board” that includes mood, style, material palettes, and keywords. AI can even generate several conceptual narratives—for example, a“warm tropical home,” an“elegant brutalist villa,” or an“organic Japandi apartment”—complete with design values and spatial personas.
Relevant tools include ChatGPT and DeepSeek, both of which excel at structuring ideas, naming material schemes, and creating detailed checklists for proposals. With the right prompts, these systems can output matrices of design drivers, spatial elements, and potential materials. Still, human validation is essential—AI provides ideas, not final answers.
2. Elaborating Ideas into Design Schemes
Once a concept is defined, the next challenge is to turn it into a spatial framework. AI helps translate narratives into zoning diagrams, adjacency lists, circulation flows, and preliminary layouts. Tools such as Autodesk Forma(formerly Spacemaker) analyze environmental factors like sunlight, wind, and views, while apps like Planner 5D quickly generate layout variations for residential or light commercial projects.
Large Language Models(LLMs) can also produce room data sheets, material options, and scope of work lists. A practical approach is to request AI to generate three different layout scenarios, each justified by design reasoning(e.g., one optimized for daylight, another for circulation, a third for budget efficiency). These ideas can then be developed further in BIM or CAD environments.
3. Visualization: From Sketch to Concept Image
Traditionally, visualizing a sketch into a mood-rich concept image required hours of manual rendering. Today, tools such as Stable Diffusion with ControlNet can transform hand-drawn line art into detailed concept images while maintaining the integrity of the sketch. Other platforms like MidJourney or Meshy AI allow exploration of stylistic variations, from materials to lighting.
However, these visuals should be treated as illustrative mood references, not technical drawings. Once a direction is chosen, designers must rebuild accurate 3D models to ensure dimensional integrity.
4. From Still Image to Video Animation
Another breakthrough is image-to-video generation, which brings static renders to life. Instead of presenting only still images, architects can now produce 5–10 second clips that simulate a camera dolly through a space, a transition from day to night, or the movement of sheer curtains in the breeze, make another view from another angle, etc.
Cutting-edge tools like Luma Dream Machine, Runway Gen-3, Leonardo AI and Stable Video Diffusion allow for cinematic previews that capture atmosphere and emotion. While these clips are short and sometimes imperfect, they are powerful for client presentations and marketing.
5. 3D from Real-World Data and Assets
AI also accelerates the creation of 3D assets and models. Applications like Polycam(using LiDAR or photogrammetry) can scan real spaces and generate quick models or floor plans for site surveys. Meanwhile, platforms like Meshy AI allow users to convert text or images into 3D props—chairs, lamps, vases—that can enrich a design scene.
For architectural elements such as walls or ceilings, BIM and CAD remain more reliable. AI-generated 3D is best used for supplementary assets and quick concept iterations.
6. Real-Time Rendering for Design Review and Presentation
For iterative design and client interaction, real-time rendering has become a must. Tools like Enscape, Twinmotion, and D5 Render allow for live walkthroughs, rapid adjustments to materials or lighting, and high-quality stills or videos. When combined with AI-generated video tools, these workflows allow designers to seamlessly move from technical accuracy to atmospheric storytelling.
7. Faceswap and AI Avatars
While faceswap technology has limited use in interior architecture, AI avatars are becoming more relevant. With tools like HeyGen or Synthesia, designers can create virtual presenters for project tours or marketing videos. Ethical boundaries must be observed—using real likenesses without consent is problematic, but licensed avatars or self-created personas can enhance communication.
8. Ethics and Double-Edged Risks
AI in architecture is undeniably powerful, but it is also a double-edged sword. On one hand, it accelerates workflows, democratizes creativity, and enhances storytelling. On the other hand, it raises important concerns about data privacy, intellectual property, and misuse. Hackers, data leaks, or unlicensed use of likeness and assets are real risks.
It is crucial to remember: AI is not inherently good or bad. It is simply a tool. The ethical weight lies in the hands of its users. With proper governance, transparency, and responsible use, AI can become a trusted partner rather than a threat.
Conclusion
AI is transforming architecture and interior design into a more fluid, fast-paced, and imaginative practice. From brainstorming concepts, elaborating ideas, and creating mood visuals, to generating 3D assets, real-time walkthroughs, and even cinematic teasers, AI has embedded itself across the creative workflow.
Yet, amidst this technological revolution, the role of the architect remains irreplaceable. Human judgment, contextual sensitivity, and ethical responsibility are still the foundation of good design. Just like a sword, AI can either be a tool of creation or destruction—depending on the one who wields it.
