Press Release: The role of AI in architectural practice

On Thursday 12 November Architecture and Design Scotland (A&DS) brought together leading academics, practitioners and industry experts for a discussion on the opportunities, challenges and implications of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) across the architecture and design professions in Scotland. 

Taking place at the A&DS:SpACE at Edinburgh Futures Institute, the event explored how rapidly evolving AI technologies are beginning to transform design practice, professional roles and creative workflows. As interest in GenAI continues to grow, the event provided an opportunity to examine both its potential benefits and its limitations, while fostering informed debate about its future impact on the built environment sector. 

The programme featured presentations from researchers at The Bartlett Faculty of the Built Environment, University College London (UCL), led by Dr Juliana Martins and Dr Bahar Durmaz-Drinkwater, alongside practitioners Pei-Chin Lin and Kathryn Firth from Arup. Speakers shared insights into the emerging landscape of AI tools in architectural and urban design practice, highlighting how these technologies are being adopted, tested and integrated into professional workflows. 

Discussions considered a range of critical questions facing the sector. To what extent will AI reshape the design process and the role of designers? How might it affect employment, skills development and professional practice? What are the implications for intellectual property, authorship and accountability?  

The event also examined how AI can support innovation and productivity within Scotland's architecture and design sector, particularly among small and medium-sized practices seeking to enhance capacity and competitiveness.

A panel discussion explored the opportunities and challenges presented by AI within a Scottish context. The conversation encouraged participants to share experiences, raise concerns and consider how the profession can respond collectively to technological change. 

As part of the wider work of Architecture and Design Scotland, this event aims to support a balanced and informed understanding of AI's role in shaping the future of architecture, placemaking and design. Use of digital tools is a key focus area of A&DS’ work, including a Digital Hub at Edinburgh Futures Institute aimed at helping designers optimise sites.  

ENDS
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