Future Proofing Architecture: Intelligent design processes of an AI-Innovation center in Newtown
Date
2024-02
Authors
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Publisher
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg
Abstract
In the ever-evolving realm of architecture, tools used by architects and related professionals have transitioned from rudimentary sketches to sophisticated digital simulations. Today, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands to redefine this lineage of tools, offering both challenges and opportunities. This thesis delves into AI’s transformative potential in architectural design processes specifically within a South African context, exploring its influence from conceptualization to the final design stages. Through a systematic methodology, the research herein investigates and compares the conventional architectural design stages, the current state of AI and its practical applications in architecture. I have carefully selected a handful of AI-driven software tools that have been instrumental in forging a generative design process. Central to this exploration, is the design of an AI Innovation Centre for Witwatersrand University in Newtown, Johannesburg. This Centre is not just a building but a manifestation of my core argument: that AI, when understood as a tool in the architect’s evolving toolkit, can profoundly influence design outcomes in a manner that far outreaches human capabilities. This study further importantly addresses the ethical implications of AI in architecture, advocating for a collaborative approach that not only complements human expertise, but that illustrates the pitfalls and certain biases inherent to AI. Through this comprehensive exploration, this thesis underscores the need for architectural spaces to evolve in response to AI-driven operational changes, while ensuring designs remain rooted in human-centric principles.
Description
A research report submitted to the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Masters in Architecture (Professional)in 2024.
Keywords
Artificial Intelligence (AI), Generative design, AI tools, Typology optimisation, Newtown, AI Innovation Center, Optimising architectural design, Newtown local context, Ethical considerations in AI, Bias in AI, GANs, UCTD
Citation
Wilson, Liam Robin. (2024). Future Proofing Architecture: Intelligent design processes of an AI-Innovation center in Newtown. [Master's dissertation, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg]. WIReDSpace. https://hdl.handle.net/10539/38849