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XPS 103

AI Basics for Architects and Designers

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AI for Architects and Designers
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Description

"Technology is best when it brings people together." – Matt Mullenweg

Discover the fusion of AI with architecture and design in this dynamic four-week course. Engage hands-on with tools like ChatGPT, MidJourney, and DALL-E, and transform traditional design practices with the power of AI. Propel your creativity to new heights, learn to navigate the rapidly evolving digital landscape, and prepare to lead in the AI-driven future of design. Join us to equip yourself with the AI literacy needed for the present/future of architecture and design.

Program

Elective course in the Weitzman Executive Professional Series (XPS) or as a Stand-Alone Course.

Cost

$699

Duration

4 weeks

Effort

8 hours per week to complete all aspects of the course.

CEUs

8 AIA LUs

Location & Delivery

Four 2-hour sessions once per week live online.

Who should attend?

This course is ideal for Architects, Interior Designers, and landscape architects at all levels of experience.

Level of Instruction

This is a non-credit course for working professionals taught at the graduate level.

Software
  • MidJourney (Basic $10/mo)
  • ChatGPT (Pro $20/mo)
  • NightCafe (Beginner $5.99/mo)
  • StableDiffusion(1000 credits/$10)
  • Adobe Firefly ($5.99/mo for 100 credits)

Free trials may be available for some of these software packages. 

Course Schedule and Learning Objectives

Week 0

Optional Introduction and Meet and Greet

  • Familiarize with course structure, objectives, and expectations, establishing a foundation for the weeks ahead.
  • Understand the course's tech requirements, including accessing the necessary software platforms.
  • Begin building a community with fellow participants, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
     
  • Pre-Requisite: Tech Toolkit Setup - Install all necessary tools, create profiles, and ensure access to all required platforms. This foundational step will prepare participants for the hands-on nature of the course, allowing them to hit the ground running in Week 1.

Week 1

Introduction to Fundamental Concepts in AI

  • Understand and articulate AI's fundamental concepts and terms, including its potential applications and future implications in design & architecture.
  • Acquire knowledge of the basics of prompt engineering and how it can be used effectively to guide algorithm-generated results.
  • Recognize AI’s role in accelerating innovation and empowering designers in various creative fields.
     
  • Assignment: Storytelling with AI - Create a narrative or story using AI tools, focusing on integrating AI-generated content to enhance the storytelling process.

Week 2

Directing and Experimenting with Generative Models

  • Acquire skills in using natural language processing (NLP) tools like ChatGPT and Google Bard for creative applications.
  • Learn to approach and effectively guide generative models for tailored outcomes in design projects.
  • Experiment with AI-driven image generation tools like DALL-E and NightCafe, understanding their functionalities and creative potential.
     
  • Assignment: Image Generation Basics - Utilize a combination of AI tools to generate images based on specific prompts or themes, exploring the creative possibilities of AI in visual design.

Week 3

Combining Complex Generative Models for Design Development

  • Explore the integration of complex generative models like MidJourney, RunwayML, and Stable Diffusion for advanced design development.

  • Understand the ethical considerations in using AI in design, focusing on responsible and sustainable practices.

  • Analyze different workflow alternatives to meet complex project goals using advanced AI tools.
     

  • Assignment: With the content from previous assignments, develop a refined
    storyboard and a video reel pitching your project.
     

Week 4

Project Review and Discussion Regarding the Future of AI

  • Assess the near-term impacts of AI on design education and traditional business models in the creative industry.
  • Engage in a critical analysis and discussion of attendee projects, focusing on the applied use of AI in these designs.
  • Participate in mentoring and professional development discussions, reflecting on the evolving role of AI in future design practices.
     
  • Final Project Presentation: Present the design projects developed during the course, showcasing the application of AI in design and discussing insights, challenges, and learnings from the process.

Full Course Description

This four-week course, "Architectural Intelligence - AI in Design," delves into the transformative role of AI in architecture and design. Participants will engage with various AI tools through lectures and hands-on projects, including ChatGPT, Google Bard, DALL-E, NightCafe, MidJourney, and Stable Diffusion (amongst others). The course will equip participants with foundational AI literacy, references, and practical experience applying AI in creative contexts.

  • Week 0 (Optional) - Introduction and Community Building - An introduction to the course, emphasizing structure, objectives, and tech requirements. This week also focuses on fostering a collaborative learning community. Assignment: Tech Toolkit Setup.
  • Week 1 - Fundamentals of AI in Design - Covers the basics of AI, machine learning, and their implications in design. Participants will delve into the role of AI in enhancing creativity and innovation. Assignment: Storytelling with AI.
  • Week 2 - Generative Models in Creative Applications - Participants explore natural language processing and AI-driven image generation tools. The focus is on understanding and utilizing these tools for creative design outputs. Assignment: Image Generation Basics.
  • Week 3 - Advanced Generative Models for Design - Introduces complex AI tools for sophisticated design projects and ethical considerations. Participants will learn to integrate these tools into their design processes. Assignment: Refined Storyboard and Video Reel.
  • Week 4 - Project Review and Future of AI - The course concludes with a review of AI's current and future impact on design industries. Participants will share and discuss their projects, reflecting on their learning journey. Final Project Presentation.

This course is designed to empower participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to apply AI tools in architecture and design, pushing the boundaries of traditional practices. At the end of each class, there will be an optional "AMA" (Ask Me Anything) session, allowing participants to clarify doubts and receive additional support from the instructor.

2024 Learner Testimonials

Ashley Biren 
Director of Talent, Northern Impact

"Ricardo delivered an exceptional introduction to AI tools for the architecture & design industry. The course was enlightening, providing designers and architects with fundamental tools for our work. I'm eager to delve deeper into these tools for my independent design work!"

 

Luke Davis
Architectural Designer, Lord Aeck Sargent

"Jumping in and immersing myself within programs such as Midjourney was an absolute joy. This class was extremely helpful in establishing a base for future studies! Ricardo was an excellent instructor and extremely knowledgeable in the subject, providing a deep understanding of AI practice and concepts."

 

Christopher Hall
Director, Process Architecture, Integrated Project Services

"Fascinating material, exploring AI's evolving role within the profession. The course provides a broad framework for considering how generative platforms will augment current design strategies." 

 

Hannah Irby
Senior Architect - Wish You Were Here Group

"This was a great course! If you are intimidated by AI and not sure where to start, this class will help get you through that initial trepidation."

 

Larry Wiese
Interior Designer and Director of Design, Masserano Practice Design and Development, L.L.C.

"I signed up for this course with any understanding of what AI was. Never used it prior to the class. I now have a vocabulary and can discus it potential for use within or company. The are certain instances where I will be using some of what I learned immediately. This course had a real impact on me."

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