AI Gone Wild

Take Two on our AI Test

Our second test of AI in architectural design delivered some unexpected results and insights. Here’s what we discovered. See here for the first test: https://www.swiftenvirons.com/2024/07/05/adventures-in-ai-and-design/

AI Technology

Check all that apply:

1. Sucks
2. Keeps changing
3. Is inevitable
4. Has great potential

The Test

For our test, we used a photo of toilet paper and paper towel boxes. No effort was wasted since I had already taken a picture of the boxes for someone in the household. The iPhone photo editing feature removed the brand names. From there, a highly detailed base drawing was created. Admittedly, I was boarding a plane at the time so couldn’t really spend a lot of effort on it.

First pass: Not United, American or Southwest

Below are a few images of the first generation, mostly taken at airports and on planes. It didn’t help that I was traveling during the longest shutdown (yet) in U.S. history, which provided a great escape from reality.

Second Pass: North by Northwest

I have to admit I was watching television during this session. But who can resist a classic Hitchcock like North by Northwest? Hitchcock basically engineered that film to hijack your attention: cross-country chases, mistaken identity, Cary Grant in full charm mode, and of course that Mount Rushmore finale (or… the giant fake one he had to build!)

Assessment

I’ve heard it throughout my career: ‘Don’t trust the architect—get a second opinion.’ A reminder that good design is always a conversation.

I trusted the in-house planner—someone steeped in visual, cultural, and design assessment. Her reaction? Well… see for yourself below.

Lessons Learned

Don’t expect technology to be static. I’m certain that the program used on this test will be rewritten or obsolete by the time you read this.

Therefore:

Don’t get stuck learning one specific AI technology. The days of architects grinding through manuals and tutorials to learn the latest technology (eg Autocad, Revit, etc) are long gone. Today, adaptability wins.

Gain benefits where you can, expect surprise and leverage it.

Enjoy the Ride