Architecture in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

Text: András Csiszér

While social and technological frameworks have undergone significant changes over the past century, architectural studios continue to operate in the very same way as they did a hundred years ago in terms of the basic methods applied and the services they offer. Initially, with the development of construction technologies, and later on with the advent of CAD and BIM, there was an opportunity to reconsider the tasks of designers and their positions within the construction industry, but the potential of these technologies has not yet been fully exploited ever since. Phil Bernstein’s volume is particularly relevant in light of the swift developments of artificial intelligence and its growing impact on the architectural profession. In the midst of the digital transformation of architecture as well as that of the construction industry, the rise of AI is fundamentally re-shaping design and construction processes, while creating new professional roles and challenges. The author of the book takes a complex view of this topic, not only presenting the technological possibilities, but also critically analyzing the decisions that architects and construction professionals have to face, as well as how AI can be effectively and ethically integrated into design processes as of today. In doing so, he does not only call for action, but also outlines possible directions for the future.