Forum A+P Vol.27

Call for Papers for Forum A+P Nr.27
Venturing into the Age of AI: Insights and Perspectives

In recent times, the term “intelligence” has gained considerable popularity, permeating numerous spheres encompassing actions, practices, processes, and products. This pervasive presence within contemporary discourse can be attributed to two pivotal factors. Primarily, there has been a paradigmatic shift in our comprehension of intelligence, transcending the notion of it being exclusively confined to humans, but rather acknowledging its manifestation in diverse emerging properties and conditions present in both human and non-human entities. Secondly, intelligence is now perceived as a multifaceted nexus, interlinking a ‘brain’ (whether human or non-human), a corporeal form, and the complex environmental contexts in which this embodiment exists. Within architectural circles, there is an ongoing exploration of various “intelligent” tools, encompassing diverse AI languages, generative adversarial networks, and text-to-image tools. These endeavors seek to comprehend how non-human intelligence can be harnessed to address contemporary urban challenges and concerns. Simultaneously, careful consideration is being given to the potential benefits and risks that arise from the utilization of such tools in urban centers and cities. The field of architecture is undergoing rapid transformation due to the incorporation of cutting-edge digital technologies, particularly the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into various aspects of design, representation, and production. Considering the already substantial impact of AI in fields such as engineering, social sciences, and political sciences, it becomes imperative for architecture to adopt a critical approach in understanding and evaluating the implications of these transformative technologies within its own domain. By doing so, architecture can effectively navigate and harness the potential benefits while addressing any challenges that may arise from the integration of AI in its practices.

The application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques has witnessed widespread use in the realm of architecture, particularly within design-related domains. The emergence of AI-based design methods has led to a growing trend among researchers and architects, who are now actively engaged in training machine learning models or leveraging pre-trained models to augment the architectural design process. This integration of AI technology encompasses a wide array of functionalities, ranging from generating design renderings based on images to optimizing design solutions through vector-based approaches. By leveraging AI, the early-stage design inspiration phase is enriched with heightened creativity, while the efficiency of the overall design process is significantly enhanced. The fusion of AI with architectural practices thus paves the way for innovative and streamlined design solutions, fostering a promising outlook for the future of architecture. In his seminal work, the Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus (1922), Ludwig Wittgenstein put forth the notion that the boundaries of one’s language mark the boundaries of one’s understanding of the world. This perspective suggests that if we lack the linguistic capacity to articulate something, then it is deemed nonexistent or incomprehensible. However, in the contemporary landscape, Wittgenstein’s statement acquires a new dimension as we witness the emergence of natural language text-to-image applications driven by artificial intelligence algorithms. This development prompts profound reflections on the concept of a post-digital sensibility in architecture. The exploration of a post-digital sensibility in architecture involves investigating how natural language-based AI applications can transcend traditional boundaries, and through theoretical and practical approaches, delve into the realms of creativity and intelligence within a post-human design ecology. By utilizing Neural Network processes in design, this discourse seeks to dispel the perceived ‘risks’ associated with such technological advancements and unlock new possibilities for architectural expression and exploration. Through the convergence of AI-driven text-to-image tools and architectural practice, this inquiry into a post-digital sensibility envisions a future where the conventional barriers between language, creativity, and design are dismantled. By embracing and demystifying AI’s potential, architects can forge innovative paths to shape the built environment in ways previously unimagined.

In light of these foundational ideas, FORUM A+P is calling for contributions from academics, researchers, and PhD students who have explored these concepts in their doctoral theses as solo authors. We invite essays that center on any field related to the emergent transformative possibilities, projects, and research that not only push the boundaries of design and production but also redefine the discipline through the integration of AI and robotic technologies. The focus of these essays should be on critically examining the inherent social, cultural, and racial biases that are often intertwined within the data fueling this new field. As AI and robotic technologies increasingly influence architectural practice, it is crucial to address the ethical implications and potential biases that may emerge from their implementation. We seek contributions that engage in a thought-provoking and in-depth analysis of how these transformative technologies impact the discipline of architecture and its broader societal context. Researchers and scholars are encouraged to submit essays that shed light on the novel perspectives and approaches these technologies bring to architectural design, exploring their potential to revolutionize the field while remaining mindful of the ethical considerations that arise. By fostering a critical dialogue, this issue aims to foster a deeper understanding of the implications and challenges posed by AI and robotic technologies within architecture, and to advance a more inclusive and socially conscious architectural practice.