Earlier this year, Chaos, in collaboration with Architizer, conducted a comprehensive survey to understand the current state of AI in architecture. We aimed to uncover how designers are utilizing AI, the results they're achieving, and the challenges they face.
Survey overview
We surveyed over 1,200 AEC professionals, primarily architects and designers, from more than 70 countries, with a significant number of respondents based in the US. Here are the key findings 👇.
Unsurprisingly, the use of AI in architecture is rapidly increasing
Almost half of the surveyed architects are already incorporating AI into their workflows, particularly during the early design stages. An additional 23% are planning to adopt AI soon. And out of those who are using AI tools, 60% have yet to receive formal training; they're trying to get to grips with these tools on their own. Not too surprising, given the speed at which AI tools and functionality have developed in the past 12 months.
AI is mostly used for image generation and editing
Of those using AI tools in architecture, two-thirds have experimented with AI to create imagery from text prompts (74%). A large proportion has also tried editing images (61%) and creating images from model inputs (50%).
Beyond image generation, AI is being used for specialized tasks like layout generation, feasibility studies, and energy efficiency analysis.
Design workflows are more efficient and creative with AI
When asked about the impact of AI on their design workflow, respondents reported significant benefits. Improved efficiency (60%), enhanced creativity (57%), and unlocking new creative workflows (53%) were seen as the most beneficial outcomes. Only 12% said that they've not seen any significant impact.
AI has the most potential in Conceptualization and Pre-Design
68% agreed that the Conceptualization and Pre-Design project stages have the most potential to be improved or enhanced by AI technology. This was by quite a margin. Designers think that there is less of an opportunity at this time to use AI to help with Design Development (34%), Construction Documentation (29%), Planning and Review (19%), and Construction Administration (13%).
Limited AI functionality is a challenge
The top three biggest challenges faced by architects in adopting AI tools include:
- Limited AI functionality for architecture (50%).
- Integration issues with existing software (38%).
- Lack of suitable training resources (37%).
Usage will increase in the next 12 months
Looking ahead, over two-thirds are likely to increase their use of AI tools in the next 12 months. Even more telling is that 86% of respondents believe that AI tools will play a significant role in the future of architecture practice.
Uncover more in the full report
To explore all the insights and results from the 2024 State of AI in Architecture survey conducted by Chaos and Architizer, download the full report 👇.
