SS26-Talk1: Pierre Chevremont, Can machines 'think' architecture скачать в хорошем качестве

SS26-Talk1: Pierre Chevremont, Can machines 'think' architecture

Abstract: The current wave of Artificial Intelligence has begun to profoundly impact the Architecture, Engineering and Construction industry. Generalist Large Multi-modal Models and advanced image-generation pipelines, alongside AI-based building cost and performance simulations, are increasingly adopted in daily practice among architects. To what extent does this technology transform the design and planning process today? What will be possible soon? What are the real risks and opportunities, and how do they differ from those induced by previous technological shifts? We will address these issues through case studies of AI implementation within architectural practice. Beyond professional utility, we will explore the cultural implications of generative AI in architecture and the visual arts. As LLMs mimic the discourses of architectural theory and image-generating models embed reminiscences from the entire history of visual culture, they have the potential to act as powerful engines of synthetic imagination. Examining the current performance and limitations of these systems leads us to pose questions of a more critical nature: What does AI understand about architecture? To what extent are language and vision models able to represent architectural concepts? How do these models comprehend space? And how creative can generative AI really be? In short - can machines now 'think' architecture? Short Bio: After graduating in Architecture from ETH Zurich, Pierre honed his skills as an architect at Caruso St John Architects and further integrated digital methodologies at Pascal Flammer Architekten. Prior to his architectural career, he earned a master's degree in Cognitive Science in Paris (ENS, EHESS and University of Paris, master thesis at École Polytechnique), gained programming experience as a data visualization engineer at the French National Centre for Scientific Research and participated in an international health data exchange project for the European Commission. Drawing on his combined expertise in architecture, cognitive science, and technology, Pierre joined Itten+Brechbühl in 2023, where he became an associate partner and leads the office's AI-Community. In this role, he advances the use of artificial intelligence within the design, planning and management processes of architectural projects. He has led several AI workshops at USI Mendrisio, TU München and ETH and co-founded with Nora Walter the art project Constructed Visions, which explores the potential of AI to visualize possible architectural worlds.