AI Will Not Destroy Architecture; It Will Transform It

Prof. Dr. Cemil Atakara, Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts, Design and Architecture at Cyprus International University (CIU), assessed the impact of artificial intelligence on the architecture profession and education. Atakara stated that, rather than replacing architects, AI is a powerful tool that, when used consciously, can accelerate the design process and increase production capacity.

“Artificial intelligence is not destroying architecture; however, it is fundamentally changing how architecture is practiced,” said Prof. Dr. Atakara. He noted that architecture has undergone significant transformations in the past, such as the transition from tools like T-squares, set squares and sketch paper to computer-aided design software, and stated that AI is similarly changing the way the profession operates.

Pointing out that AI can be used in areas such as concept development, generating alternative designs, visualization, materials research and project analysis, Atakara said that the technology makes it possible to perform tasks that previously required long periods of time in a much shorter period. He noted that this transformation could also affect the organizational structure of architectural firms, but emphasized that the fundamental change would be less about the complete elimination of human resources and more about increasing architects’ capacity to produce and develop designs.

Emphasizing that architectural thinking consists of more than alternatives generated by AI, Atakara said that evaluating context, understanding human needs, interpreting cultural values and taking responsibility for design decisions are among the architect’s responsibilities. For this reason, he stated that AI should be used not merely as a visualization tool, but also in the processes of researching design problems and developing different scenarios.
Atakara also stated that architectural education must adapt to this transformation. He emphasized the importance of students not only learning how to use AI tools, but also developing the ability to question and analyze the results produced by these tools and to guide them through architectural knowledge. Atakara concluded that the architect of the future should not only be proficient in technology, but should also be capable of critical thinking, able to direct AI effectively, and possess a design approach that places the relationship between people, space, the environment and culture at its center.