Visualize a future where you can evaluate the impact of sunlight across a building's corridors, track sound propagation in office spaces, or predict pedestrian movement throughout a structure—all before construction ever begins.
This future is becoming reality as architects increasingly leverage AI as a powerful enhancement to their design processes.
Three years ago, Gensler, a leading architecture firm, embarked on an innovative initiative dubbed the "AI sandbox." This program encouraged the exploration of generative artificial intelligence with an emphasis on curiosity and experimental learning—completely free from the hesitation often associated with new technologies.
"It marked a pivotal moment for our company," said Jordan Goldstein, co-CEO of Gensler, in an interview with Business Insider. "We realized we couldn't just react to AI developments; we needed to proactively engage with it."
While the architecture sector has traditionally been slower to adopt AI, experts are now recognizing its potential to assist designers in evaluating multiple options, enhancing communication, and unlocking new creative avenues.
For Gensler, the focus is not on replacing human talent but rather on expanding the firm's capabilities. Goldstein noted, "Our experience has shown that AI significantly boosts the number of ideas in the creative process, allowing teams to explore concepts more thoroughly. It acts as a catalyst for higher-level creative thinking."
From innovative designs to compelling storytelling
Gensler manages around 3,000 projects annually, and today, AI is utilized across the majority of these endeavors.
During the sandbox phase, Gensler experimented with various generative AI tools offered by vendors, integrating some into its own unique platform. This allows architects to more easily envision design concepts, such as optimizing natural light in spaces or analyzing acoustic movement within buildings. In one notable project for Under Armor's new headquarters in Baltimore, the Gensler team utilized AI to model employee interactions with the building throughout the day, monitoring how occupancy impacts environmental performance metrics like ventilation and energy use.
Additionally, Gensler has begun employing RunDiffusion, a web-based platform for creating AI-generated videos and images. Introduced to staff just six months ago, over 3,000 team members were trained on the system in only four days. With a bit of prompt engineering training, Goldstein shared that he could generate conceptual visuals in mere minutes.
The integration of AI has greatly enriched the creative pool, enabling architects to articulate their visions effectively before construction. For example, before securing a project for a new mixed-use development near a forthcoming stadium, AI played a crucial role in shaping their pitch to the project’s stakeholders. "The greatest advancement has been in the realm of storytelling," Goldstein explained. "We've realized we can transform AI-generated designs into engaging cinematic narratives."
Gensler additionally deployed AI in its work on the Baghdad Sustainable Forests initiative, utilizing it to conceptualize the largest ecological project in Iraq's history.
Exploring and expanding the possibilities
A 2025 report by the American Institute of Architects reveals that approximately 90% of surveyed architects voiced concerns about the accuracy of AI, security vulnerabilities, and the challenges of distinguishing AI creations from human-produced work.
Jason Vigneri-Beane, an architecture professor at Pratt Institute, noted that some architecture students share these concerns. "While many are enthusiastic about AI, just as many fear losing control over their work and the implications for resource consumption," he stated.
Vigneri-Beane recognizes the potential of AI during the preliminary stages of design, a context in which he has largely harnessed its capabilities. "I am particularly excited about using it for experimental aesthetics," he added. "AI offers valuable insights into conceptual exploration."
Sabri Gokmen, an architecture assistant professor at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, employs AI in various projects. He has utilized the technology for data analysis concerning cultural heritage preservation and finds it beneficial for everyday tasks, like drafting grant proposals. Gokmen also instructs students on using AI for visual design tasks.
He expressed enthusiasm for a collaborative research project with the computer science department at his university, aimed at developing an AI model capable of generating three-dimensional geometric shapes—an area where commercial large language models typically fall short. "We are working to ensure that an architect or designer can provide prompts or images and receive a 3D model in return," he explained. Currently, his team is refining AI with models of various types of towers, including both residential and commercial structures.
Despite some firms employing AI for design conceptualization and operational needs, Gokmen observed that "the overall adoption rate in the industry remains gradual."
Nevertheless, Gokmen remains optimistic about AI's role in the future of architecture. "While design will continue to depend on human decision-making and societal considerations," he concluded, "this technology promises to pave the way for new growth opportunities."
