Tools to aid Architectural Design Education (1)

Explore how Generative AI tools are aiding conceptualisation, 3D modeling, and AR visualisation in architectural design curriculum.

GenAI in Practice > Timo Kapsalis, Ph.D., Design Studio Tutor (Architectural Technology); Mrs. Valeria Carnevale, the Programme Lead for Architectural Technology; Prof Chris Bussell, Pro Vice Chancellor and Dean of the College of Science & Engineering; Prof Ian Turner, Professor of Higher Education & Learning

Integrating AI in Architectural Design Education at University of Derby

I teach Architectural Design at the University of Derby (College of Engineering) and am excited to share how we've progressively integrated AI into our Architectural Technology curriculum. Drawing on my PhD research, we've developed a suite of generative AI tools, including the AI Design Illustrator and AI ModelCraft. The AI Design Illustrator employs the Stable Diffusion model to transform text into images, while AI ModelCraft uses neural radiance fields (NeRF) technology to convert images into 3D models. These tools are specially tailored with a dataset of built environments and various furniture designs to fit design-oriented applications.

The use of these AI tools has significantly enhanced our students' ability to convert abstract concepts into tangible visual representations. Subsequently, these visuals are transformed into vectorised 3D models, which are then incorporated into augmented reality (AR) environments, enriching the learning experience by allowing students to interact with their designs in real-time. Below are images of these tools in action within a design studio setting at our university, where students visualised a random object.

This image is a screenshot of a text to image generator. The text inputted is ‘Create an image of a stylised, sculptural representation of a mushroom. The mushroom should be situated on a simple, circular wooden base, making it clear that this is an artist piece rather than a natural organism. The background should have a soft, neutral gradient to keep the focus on the intricate details and craftsmanship of the woodwork.’ The output shows a digital 3D rendering of a stylised mushroom. The mushroom has a distinct, exaggerated form with pronounced, swirling ridges running vertically along its stem and cap. The texture resembles ribbons or folded fabric, adding a sense of movement to the image. The colour palette is warm, with varying shades of brown and orange that give it an organic feel. It sits on a flat, simple base that contrasts with the intricate design of the mushroom itself.

The image shows 8 different ‘retry views’ of the output for the user to choose from. Each image of the mushroom is showing a slightly different angle and the colours shades vary ever so slightly.

The image features the AI image-generated model that the student created in an augmented reality (AR) environment. It is on top of a white chest of drawers placed against a plain wall. To the left of the object are two black pens. To the right lies an open map with green areas and streets, with the word “BERGEN” suggesting it may be a hiking or touring map.

University of Derby (HE)

Timo Kapsalis, Ph.D., Design Studio Tutor (Architectural Technology); Mrs. Valeria Carnevale, the Programme Lead for Architectural Technology; Prof Chris Bussell, Pro Vice Chancellor and Dean of the College of Science & Engineering; Prof Ian Turner, Professor of Higher Education & Learning

Lesson planning & materials