Can Technology And Ai Ever Replace Architects?

By Author: Milind Pai
Total Articles: 5
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The beginning of 21st century witnessed the entry of automation in a big way, seeping into every sector, every industry and a darling of architects. Two decades later, the same technology has evolved dramatically. Where once it was a perfect tool to perform a set of repetitive programmed tasks, it now exploits built-in algorithms to not just decide the sequence of tasks but analyse the system fed data for initiating and executing processes which are highly dependent on several input parameters.

Assistance versus Truly Intelligent Automation

Due to the limited amount of system data AI based systems still need human intervention. It is because of its inability to “Think” and provide “Human-like” solutions it remains just an intelligent and obedient assistant.

So, the question is "Can Technology and AI Ever Replace Architects?"

Even “Best Architects India” are unanimous in their belief. And their answer is no!

Architects do not need to perform redundant and regular chores. In most of the cases, the use of real life materials like pen, paper, graph paper and drawing board has become ...
... obsolete. These actions are now accomplished on computing machines and complementing software. Architects use AI powered machines and computers for project / design development, analysis of various parameters, building mock spaces complete with furnishings and fittings. In spite of this, architects will continue to be an integral part of interior design domain. Mentioned below are some of the reasons -

1. No two projects are the same -

As mentioned above, AI based tools and technologies are fed with limited data or design variables. This results in unemotional, banal creations. Unlike real life architects who update themselves perpetually and in sync with the latest trends, an AI generated space will lack this touch of modernity and functionality. Top architects across the globe will vouch for it.

2. Conceptualization -

Yet another area where AI has a difficult time is interpreting customer needs. Human wants at times can be asymmetrical, illogical and therefore in such a scenario asking an AI equipped machine to oblige can be a daunting task.

3. Ground realities differ from drawing board -

Architectural firms encounter design projects which are unique in nature. It simply means that the plan and purpose is also distinct. However, AI powered systems are not programmed for customized tasks. It will simply analyse the design needs and match it with the closest built-in data and then offer a complementing option or execution path. In short, AI will not offer bespoke alternatives.

4. Cross industry and cross expertise -

Architectural and interior design domain is dependent on a wide range of professionals and materials. AI and data driven systems typically specialize in a single niche. For example, AI can help reduce documentation; offer computer simulated mock designs or immersive experience via virtual reality. However, when it comes to execution, most of the calculations and parameters are tweaked by humans, namely architects or their assistants. This will continue till Artificial Intelligence is brought under a single window and synchronised for a bouquet of operations synonymous with interior design.

AI & Zero Deviation Projects

Dataset based computational models ( AI ) are good for standard projects or designs that boast zero deviation. However, the scenario changes when contradicting parameters or nonstandard inputs are made. This is where AI stutters and turns into an artistic retard.

Summary -

In their study, two researchers from Oxford have concluded that architects have an extremely low chance of getting replaced because of AI. In percentage terms, only 1.8 will be impacted. Meanwhile, the search terms “Interior designer India” and “Architects Mumbai” will continue to keep our friend, the search wizard Google busy.

Another interesting number provided by this study is the position of architects in the list of affected professionals’ vis-à-vis AI. From more than 700 different professions, Architects are listed at 82nd in terms of getting substituted by technology. The numbers and ground reality proves that for the time being architects can heave a sigh of relief as their jobs will not be taken over of AI ... in the form of robots, computing machines or even handheld devices.