In an article published in Building Design, 41% of UK architects are using AI. Most architects surveyed are using AI occasionally, but this RIBA AI report is the first I have seen giving any numbers on how much AI is gaining ground in the Architecture industry.
As part of this comprehensive and wide-ranging report, the RIBA surveyed UK architects on AI, their current use, and other questions about the emerging technology. Below are some highlights.
- Overall, 41% of participants are using AI in some form.
- 57% of participants believe AI will increase work efficiency.
- 36% of architects surveyed see AI as a threat.
- 34% of architects surveyed see AI as no threat.
- 30% of architects surveyed were neutral.
RIBA president Muyiwa Oki said:
“AI is the most disruptive tool of our time, and we cannot overstate its role in shaping the future of architecture – from the character of our cities to the quality of our built environment. Our findings show architects are curious and open-minded about AI, and some of us are true pioneers. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and a culture of responsible innovation, we can harness the power of AI to create a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable built environment. There’s no turning back. RIBA’s new Expert Advisory Group on AI is building on the findings of this report to look at the broader ethical, professional, and competitive implications of the widespread integration of AI.”
The surveyed architects also have some interesting perspectives on AI.
- “Harness it, learn it, shape it, and use it. It’s coming and be on the wave rather than behind it. It’s just another tool to use to generate better architecture. It doesn’t take away the vision of the designer but assists it.”
- “I generally don’t think AI can replace our professional integrity nor creativity, but I believe AI can help us to advance our design much ‘quicker’ rather than ‘better’. I believe we are still the driver and what comes out of AI can only be as good as what has been put in it.”
- “There are no real regulations in place and the ethical risks are very significant, from intellectual property, design creativity, employment, and potential risks on the built environment too (if things go wrong).”
It is this last point, regarding intellectual property, that has piqued my interest. The RIBA report is a fantastic read and offers much more data that I can share in a simple blog post. Over the coming weeks I am dissecting the report and posting on the many aspects of AI the report covers. There is a lot more to come.
