AI is the new design tool, not the next architect
AI becomes beneficial when it supports the architect’s thinking, not when it replaces it.
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AI becomes beneficial when it supports the architect’s thinking, not when it replaces it.
AI is transforming architecture, from concept to creation.
Photo courtesy of Unsplash/Gor Omilaev
PHILIPPINE Institute of Architects (PIA) vice president for Public Affairs Ma. Cynthia Naval.
Photo courtesy of PIA
THE architect must still think about the client, the site, the purpose of the building, and the experience of the people who will use it.
Photo courtesy of Dezeen
WITH the increasing availability of AI design tools, there is a temptation for students and young architects to rely entirely on technology.
Photo courtesy of Medium.com
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming part of many professions, and architecture is no exception.
As AI-powered tools become more accessible, architects are discovering new ways to explore ideas, visualize concepts and improve their design process.
However, according to architect, businesswoman and PIA national secretary Ma. Cynthia Naval, AI should not be viewed as a replacement for the architect. Instead, it should be understood as a tool that enhances human creativity and brings ideas to another level.
“AI is only refining it. AI is only taking it to another level. But it still comes from me,” she told DAILY TRIBUNE.
This distinction is important. AI can generate images, suggest forms, explore layouts and help architects visualize possibilities, but the original intention and concept should still come from the architect.
Rather than allowing technology to dictate the design, architects should use it to expand their creative horizons.
Naval sees AI as something that can open new possibilities. It can help designers explore ideas that they may not have considered before and transform an initial concept into something more versatile and dimensional.
However, she emphasizes that architects should remain in control. AI becomes beneficial when it supports the architect’s thinking, not when it replaces it.
Keeping the human element in design
One of Naval’s strongest points is the importance of authenticity.
With the increasing availability of AI design tools, there is a temptation for students and young architects to rely entirely on technology.
For Naval, this should not be the way architecture is practiced.
The architect must still think about the client, the site, the purpose of the building and the experience of the people who will use it.
Technology can assist with the process, but it cannot replace the architect’s responsibility to make thoughtful design decisions.
Naval continues to sketch by hand. For her, drawing is not simply about artistic talent.
It is part of how she processes and develops ideas. “I still do pencil. I still sketch because I like doing it.”
Her experience demonstrates that traditional skills and modern technology do not necessarily have to compete.
The future architect must be digitally savvy
Although Naval does not see AI as a threat that should discourage aspiring architects, she acknowledges that it will significantly affect the profession.
Young architects, she explains, are increasingly being hired because of their digital knowledge.
This means future professionals need to understand emerging technologies and remain updated with developments in the industry.
Being technically and digitally savvy is no longer simply an advantage. It is becoming an important part of staying relevant.
Naval’s message to future architects is straightforward: “Do not be left behind.”
Architects need to adapt to changes in technology while maintaining the fundamental principles of design.
Architecture beyond business
Naval’s work also extends beyond professional architecture.
She describes herself as a businesswoman involved in real estate, where her architectural knowledge gives her an advantage in managing construction and design for her own projects.
As she moves toward life, her relationship with architecture is gradually becoming more focused on service and contribution.
She participates in community projects, helps maintain and improve facilities in her village, and volunteers her expertise for organizations and sports clubs.
For Naval, architecture is no longer solely about business. It has become a way of contributing to her community and sharing what she knows.
