AI Architectural Design Screen Test

Take Two of 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 to AI:

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

The Test Takes Off

For our test, we used a photograph of toilet paper and paper towel boxes.

No additional effort was required, as I had already taken the photo for someone else in the household. I didn’t need to draw anything; I simply used the available apps. The iPhone photo-editing tools were used to remove the brand names, after which a highly detailed base drawing was generated. Admittedly, I was boarding a plane at the time and couldn’t devote much attention to the process.

This is not intended as a criticism of the firms or architects who use AI in design. The exercise was simply a test of how quickly—and sometimes imprecisely—images can be generated.

First Flight: 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.

Flight Adjustments: 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!)

Landing: 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.

Home: Lessons Learned

Technology doesn’t stand still; the software used for this test will likely be rewritten or obsolete by the time this is read.

Therefore:

1. Don’t get stuck on one AI tool. The days of mastering software through endless manuals and tutorials are over. Adaptability wins.
2. Take the gains where you find them. Expect surprises. Leverage them.
3. Enjoy the ride.