Choi Hung Estate set to be redeveloped in stages expected by end of year.
One of the first public housing estates built by the former Hong Kong Housing Authority
Overly focus on conceptual novelty creates typological fixations. The industry's rigid design norms limit creativity.
AI&LLM are mediators between low-dimensional and high-dimensional information. The text-2D-3D dimentionality increase represents a leap into a new language.
THOUGHTS
0D LANGUAGE 3D VISUAL DATA
TEXT/PROMPT
1D
2D
NARRATIVE
4D
Can LLM's thought process of dimensionality divert architecture from typological fixation?
Overcome the meaninglessness of repetition and mediation, fostering new meanings.
DESIGN METHODOLOGY
NESTED UPWARD CYCLE
THE HARP
1D TEXT
EMBEDDING MEANING
WITH GPT-4, MID JOURNEY
Existing Condition (IMG Chat w/ GPT4.0)
GPT4.0
You've shared two images depicting urban residential environments.
The first image captures the exterior of a high-rise residential tower. The facade displays a mix of opened and closed windows, some with air conditioning units, and laundry hanging to dry. This is a common scene in many dense urban areas where space is at a premium, and it reflects the practical use of available space in a community living environment.
The second image shows an indoor corridor of a residential building. It features security gates on the doors, exposed utility piping along the ceiling, and appears slightly worn, suggesting a dense, utilitarian living space that prioritizes function over aesthetics.
These settings could provide a practical context for discussions about urban housing solutions, the effects of high-density living on architecture, and potential areas for architectural innovation in residential designs.
Existing Condition (TXT Chat w/ GPT4.0)
ME
They are the same building, what do you think about the contrast between the two?
GPT4.0
The image displays a close-up view of a multi-story residential building. The building is characterized by a repetitive pattern of balconies and windows, showcasing a common architectural style in dense urban environments.
GPT4.0
ME
GPT4.0
This photo shows the facade of a high-rise residential building, highlighting the repetition and rhythm of balconies and windows, a common feature in mass housing projects. The greenery and the cityscape in the background provide a contrast to the structure.
Each balcony seems to have unique elements, such as different colors of laundry hanging to dry, various items of furniture, and an assortment of window dressings. This variety adds a personal touch to each unit within the uniform structure of the building. The facade alternates between segments of plain exposed concrete and colorfully painted sections in hues of purple, blue, and green, which breaks the monotony and adds vibrancy to the structure. This kind of building is typical in many cities around the world where housing demands and space constraints require vertical living spaces.
This contrast might reflect different priorities in the design of public versus private or semiprivate spaces within the same building. The exterior is designed to contribute to the city's skyline and has to withstand the external environment, while the interior is more about the practical movement and access of residents. The corridor's design might also be a result of budget constraints or specific building codes.
From an architectural perspective, these images could lead to discussions about how design can impact residents' quality of life or how new technologies might allow for more personalized and aesthetically pleasing living spaces even within the constraints of high-density urban housing. Additionally, it highlights the challenges of retrofitting older buildings to meet contemporary standards for living space, natural light, and community building.
Here's another image of the facade, the color contrast of the colorful facade and the monotone interior is a bit ironic right? Also the rigidness of the facade becomes quite dictating when it comes to interior environments right? I wonder if there can be a harmonic balance of this "grating" formal language?
GPT4.0
The image you've shared indeed presents an interesting juxtaposition The facade of the building is quite vibrant with its various colors, which can add a bit of liveliness to the urban landscape. This kind of color variation on the exterior is often used to inject character and visual interest into what might otherwise be a monolithic block.
The colors can also help to break down the scale of the building visually, making it appear less imposing.
On the other hand, the interior corridor you showed earlier is quite monochrome and utilitarian, reflecting perhaps the functional aspect of these spaces and the economic constraints during the construction phase. Such a stark difference between the exterior and interior can be ironic as you mentioned, especially
considering that the residents spend most of their time within the more monotonous internal environment.
The "grating" formal language of the facade with its rigid geometry does dictate to some extent the interior environments. The repetitiveness and uniformity might make for efficient construction and maintenance, but they can be at odds with creating a varied and engaging living environment.
Finding a balance between the formal language of the facade and the interior environments can be challenging. However, it's not impossible. The use of materials, textures, and even architectural elements like balconies and windows can be designed to allow more personalization by the residents, which can help make each space feel unique while still maintaining a cohesive external appearance.
Incorporating AI and generative design into architecture can further this goal by creating more individualized living spaces that still adhere to a unifying aesthetic. It can also help in optimizing the use of space and resources, improving the sustainability of the building, and enhancing the living conditions for the residents. This is where the future of architecture could be directed, with a balance of aesthetic appeal, personalization, and functional design.
https://s.mj.run/74bK2-2mWZc A residential building with vibrant walkway spaces in which people talk and banter with each other through interior windows, and children laugh and play in and out of the rooms in Hong Kong, in the style of george ault, paul delvaux, realistic chiaroscuro lighing, imaginative scenes, monochromatic masterpieces, solarizing master, Backlighting, life-like, realistic --iw 2 --s 1000 –style raw --r 10
Following the initial conditioning and priming of the machine, we can effectively engage with abstraction in a targeted and meaningful way. This process essentially acts as a reorganization of materialistic information.
Output (1.1d)
DIMENSIONALITIY INCREASE
NESTED UPWARD CYCLE
(1D.3d)
2D SEMANTICS
EMBEDDING VISUAL
WITH GPT-4, MID JOURNEY, STABLE DIFFUSION
Conceptual Condition (TXT Chat w/ GPT4.0)
ME, POEM 1
When I see a rainbow, I see the disappearance of the past, the disappearance of the mark.
The spirituality of the past is now carried by the memories of the old, and the buildings are going away into the sunset.
The beauty of the past is gradually being sealed. Visions of the future can only be seen in the clouds.
If the old trees could return to spring, would new branches and leaves flourish? If the old building could speak, what would it tell us about the past? If a rainbow could come back to life, what would it reflect?
GPT4.0
The observations you’ve made about the social dynamics and multifunctional use of space in Hong Kong public housing provide a rich foundation for design considerations. Here are some suggestions that could align with your design philosophy:
• Multi-Use Balconies: Consider incorporating versatile balcony designs that can serve as extensions of the living space, areas for social interaction, or places for residents to engage in activities like drying foodstuffs, as per local customs.
• Modular Facade Elements: Introduce modular elements that residents can customize according to their needs or preferences, providing a sense of individuality and ownership while maintaining the cohesive look of the building.
• Green Integration: Incorporate vertical gardens or green walls that not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also contribute to the residents’ well-being and environmental sustainability.
• Community Spaces: Designate areas that can be adapted for multiple uses, such as communal rooftops or ground-level spaces for social gatherings, markets, or local festivities.
• Visual Connectivity: Create visual corridors or open areas within the building that allow for mutual watchfulness and foster a sense of community while maintaining privacy.
• Responsive Materials: Use smart materials that respond to environmental conditions, such as heat or light, to regulate the interior climate and provide dynamic interactions with the facade.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Embed elements that reflect local cultural narratives or motifs, forging a deeper connection between the residents and the architecture.
• Technological Integration: Utilize AI-generated layouts that optimize natural light and airflow, enhancing living conditions within the small units.
• Inter-Generational Design: Acknowledge the varied needs of different age groups within the housing units and design spaces that are accessible and enjoyable for all, from playgrounds to quiet sitting areas.
• Flexibility for Future Adaptations: Design with the foresight for potential future changes in lifestyle, technology, and environmental conditions, allowing the space to
evolve without extensive overhauls.
These suggestions aim to foster a balance between uniformity and individual expression, community engagement and privacy, functionality, and aesthetic value—ultimately leading to a harmonious living environment that resonates with the unique context of Hong Kong public housing.
https://s.mj.run/74bK2-2mWZc Hong Kong public housing transformation, adaptive reuse, poetic integration of old and new, sustainable design” --content “combination of old pillars and new strings, modern sustainable materials, community-centric spaces, energy-efficient systems, green roofs, AI-assisted design visualization, blending traditional architecture with contemporary aesthetics, interactive public art that reflects community history, flexible and adaptive urban spaces, revitalization of cultural and social aspects. Backlighting, life-like, realistic --iw 2 --s 1000 –style raw --r 10
This prompt is designed to generate imagery that encapsulates the balance between preserving heritage and embracing modernity in architectural design, with a specific focus on the sustainable and community-oriented transformation of Hong Kong’s public housing. The chosen style and content parameters aim to reflect the nuances of our discussion, including the metaphor of old pillars and new strings, the integration of sustainable materials and technologies, and the importance of community engagement and cultural revitalization in the design process.
Conceptual Condition of Choi Hung
Rhino Test (2.3d) Modeling of Cluster Triple Height Spaces
MJ Output (2.3d) Interior, Shared Space Decorated Shear Wall
Hand Sketch (2.3d) Void Deck, Internal Atrium
Hand Sketch (2.3d) Massing, Demolition Strategy
Rhino Test (2.3d) Modeling of Cluster Triple Height Spaces
DIMENSIONALITIY INCREASE
NESTED UPWARD CYCLE
(2D.3d)
3D LANGUAGE
EMBEDDING FORM
WITH GPT-4, MID JOURNEY, STABLE DIFFUSION
Schematic Condition of Choi Hung
Schematic Condition (TXT Chat w/ GPT4.0)
ME, ESSAY 1, POEM 2
I think your judgment about the grating is correct. This kind of formal language is a continuation of the life inside Hong Kong public housing: the mutual watchfulness between neighbors, the very harmonious neighborhood relations.
The design of the public cemetery itself is actually very neat and orderly, and the effort is apparent. The basketball courts and other spaces in the village are not only for playing basketball or their designated functions. The elderly can fully and flexibly use these spaces to sun-dry fruit peels and salted fish, which also breaks through some framed attitudes towards life.
It achieves a state where, although the units are small, there is an abundance and flexibility in the outdoor public spaces. This shows that we need to generate some subtle changes within a neat and harmonious framework on the second layer, which is the mark of a layered design concept. What are some of your suggestions for my design?
These structures, like harps of life, echoing the songs of time. Their shear walls, like pillars - strong and long-lasting.
The DNA of spatial strategies and experiences that Waiting to be reborn in a rapidly changing world.
Imagine this DNA in a new spatial realm. A re-born, yet clearly unique legacy.
Can an old piano play the song of new life with new strings?
My metaphor for these buildings is a look back in time.
Strong pillars, while the old strings have worn out. Re-strung, reorganised, ready to sing again.
GPT4.0
Your poetic interpretation and the metaphor of old pillars (representing the enduring structural elements of 彩虹村) and new strings (symbolizing the potential for renewal and new spatial experiences) align well with the brief’s focus on adaptive reuse and transformation of existing structures. This approach resonates with contemporary architectural strategies that emphasize sustainability, heritage preservation, and community-centric design. Here are some specific strategies that align with your poetic interpretation:
• Structural Integrity and Adaptive Reuse: Emphasize maintaining the core structural elements (“old pillars”) of the building. Investigate ways to adaptively reuse these structures while ensuring they meet current safety and functionality standards. This could involve reinforcing the existing framework or creatively integrating new elements without compromising the original structural integrity.
• Spatial Reconfiguration with New Elements: Introduce new architectural elements or “strings” that redefine the building’s spatial experience. This could involve adding new facades, interior layouts, or communal spaces that reflect modern needs while respecting the building’s historical context.
• Blending Old and New Aesthetics: Design interventions that harmoniously blend the old and the new. This could include using contemporary materials and design techniques that complement the existing structure’s aesthetic, creating a dialogue between the past and present.
• Community Engagement and Memory Preservation: Engage with the community to understand their connection to the space. Incorporate elements that preserve and celebrate the collective memory associated with 彩虹村, such as public art installations, historical exhibits, or design elements that reference the site’s history.
• Sustainability and Innovation: Implement sustainable design practices, such as energy-efficient systems, green roofs, or use of recycled materials, aligning with the concept of giving new life to old structures. Explore innovative technologies like AI-assisted design to conceptualize and visualize these new interventions.
• Cultural and Social Revitalization: Create spaces that revitalize the cultural and social aspects of the community. This could involve designing multifunctional areas that serve various community needs, from recreational spaces to cultural centers, reflecting the vibrancy and diversity of the inhabitants.
• Narrative-Driven Design: Allow your poetic narrative to guide the design process. Each architectural decision can be a reflection of the story you want to tell about 彩虹村’s transformation, from the preservation of old elements to the introduction of new concepts. Flexible and Adaptive Spaces: Design spaces that are adaptable
and can evolve over time. This aligns with the idea of “new strings” being able to adapt and change, providing flexibility for future modifications or uses.
By integrating these strategies, you can create a design that is not only architecturally innovative but also deeply connected to the historical and cultural essence of 彩虹村, echoing the sentiments of your poetic interpretation.
Schematic Condition of
Spatial Syntax (2.3d) Dynamic of The Cluster
Spatial Syntax (2.3d) Dynamic of The Cluster
Schematic Condition of Choi Hung
EMBEDDING 3d INFO - THE ATRIUM SCHEME
Condition of Choi Hung
Spatial Syntax (2.3d) Organisation of Massing
Spatial Syntax (2.3d) Dynamic of The Cluster
Schematic
EMBEDDING 2d INFO - PLAN & SCHEME
THE THIRD PLACE ATRIUM VOID DECK
An architectural feature common in many public housing complexes, it refers to the ground floor being left open, creating a versatile, sheltered communal space. Often used for various community activities, social gatherings, and sometimes houses amenities like shops or childcare centers. The void deck fosters community interaction and provides functional, flexible space for residents’ use.
Combining a corridor with an atrium, creating a multifunctional space. It serves as a passageway and a communal area, enhanced by natural light and openness from the atrium. This design is often used in modern buildings for improved aesthetics, lighting, and ventilation, making spaces more inviting and conducive to social interactions.
A term coined by Ray Oldenburg, describes inclusive, neutral public spaces outside of home and work. Examples include cafes, parks, and libraries. These settings foster community, conversation, and a sense of belonging, regardless of social status. Accessible and informal, they are essential for social health, acting as communal hubs for relaxed, playful interaction.
Can an old piano play the song of new life with new strings?
My metaphor for these buildings is a look back in time.
Strong pillars, while the old strings have worn out.
Re-strung, reorganised, ready to sing again.
Give me a mid journey prompt based on our previous conversation
Here is the right way of writing a midjourney prompt: https://docs.Midjourney.Com/docs/prompts
GPT4.0
Your poetic interpretation and the metaphor of old pillars (representing the enduring structural elements of 彩虹村) and new strings (symbolizing the potential for renewal and new spatial experiences) align well with the brief’s focus on adaptive reuse and transformation of existing structures. This approach resonates with contemporary architectural strategies that emphasize sustainability, heritage preservation, and community-centric design. Here are some specific strategies that align with your poetic interpretation:
To create a Midjourney prompt that aligns with our previous conversation, focusing on the concept of blending historical architectural elements with modern innovations and addressing the idea of “accelerated obsolescence” as mentioned in Pope’s “Accelerated Obsolescence,” you could use the following:
https://s.mj.run/74bK2-2mWZc Hong Kong public housing transformation, adaptive reuse, poetic integration of old and new, sustainable design” --content “combination of old pillars and new strings, modern sustainable materials, community-centric spaces, energy-efficient systems, green roofs, AI-assisted design visualization, blending traditional architecture with contemporary aesthetics, interactive public art that reflects community history, flexible and adaptive urban spaces, revitalization of cultural and social aspects. Backlighting, life-like, realistic --iw 2 --s 1000 –style raw --r 10
This prompt is designed to generate imagery that encapsulates the balance between preserving heritage and embracing modernity in architectural design, with a specific focus on the sustainable and community-oriented transformation of Hong Kong’s public housing. The chosen style and content parameters aim to reflect the nuances of our discussion, including the metaphor of old pillars and new strings, the integration of sustainable materials and technologies, and the importance of community engagement and cultural revitalization in the design process.
Facade Module
Facade Division 1 (4.2d)
Blank (No Decorations)
Massing Only
Blank (No Decorations)
Massing Only
Precedent Training Stylization Matrix
Facade Option Test (4.3d)
Transformation of 530 dwellings
Facade Option Test (4.3d)
Canal Court Codan Block 3 Kengo Kuma Associates
Facade
Lacaton & Vassal
Facade Division 2/3 (4.2d)
Facade Sketch
Facade
4D.2d
EMBEDDING 2d INFO
4D.3d 4D.2d
Architectural Condition of Choi Hung
4D.2/3d
EMBEDDING 2/3d INFO - FDD & MATERIALITY
Spatial Syntax (4.3d) Unit Facade Fabric Glass
MJ Facade Materialisation (4.2d) Metaphore of ‘String’ Membrane/Fabric Lamination
Each stage of design is considered as a distinct 'dimension' of complexity
Much like the layers of understanding and generation in language models, enabling a dynamic and innovative approach to architecture.
DIMENSIONALITY RECOGNITION CURATED OPEN-ENDEDNESS
THOUGHTS TEXT SEMANTICS LANGUAGE NARRATIVE
Design is transitioning from labor-intensive to an information-intensive process.
With the advent of large language models (LLMs) and AI tools, the exhaustive aspects of design can be broken down and handled more efficiently, allowing architects to focus on creating meaningful work.
Facade Option Test (4.3d)
Facade Option Test (4.3d)
(4.3d)
Lacaton & Vassal
Facade Option Test (4.3d)
Facade Option Test (4.3d) Gifu Kitagata
Facade Option Test (4.3d)
La tour Albert
Albert
Facade Option Test (4.3d)
Canal Court Codan Block 3
Kengo Kuma Associates
APPENDIX
Writings, Drawings, Models & Other Deliverables
TYP CLUSTER GF PLAN
VOID DECKS ON GF OF EACH CULSTER
TYP CLUSTER 1F PLAN
EACH CLUSTER HOUSES 38 UNITS
SECTION & DEMOLITION PLAN
PHOTO ESSAY 1
1D: TEXT --AI BATTLEMAP: AI AS ABSTRACT MACHINE
AI BATTLEMAP: AI AS ABSTRACT MACHINE
AI as information understanding diagram and ideograms:
Today’s there’s a high degree of interaction between space time and information, based on high degree of change and diversity of conditions: social, urban, and territorial elements. Defines design conditions architecture and its process. The implication is that users’ not looking at or experiencing the same building. Blind man touching the elephant, we pay attention to architecture through the different mediums we use. & AI would only enhance that proclivity because of how it’s trained and it’s a 2D representation I call this stylization of things “-c c o r e ” (you’d see it in MJ prompts it spits out concrete-core, jungle-core, tech-core) — it’s a reflection of the a b s t
that
literally generating an all-encompassing abstraction of the style trajectory.
So, if we are looking at
e ’ s t s s e m i n a l c o n d i t i o n : on one hand it has a way of notating reality, and understanding what’s around. On the other hand, it is also a g e n e r a t i v e m a c h i n e with properties like and these are commonly used in programming or contemporary musicology)
• Synthetic and productive {taking an idea and make it complete and detailed}
• Registration and instruction {follow certain steps or rules to make these changes happen}
• Analysis and synthesis {describe the input}
• Diagnosis and response {figure out what's missing or what could be the prediction.}
• Trajectory and 'map' of paths {variations}
S o t h e m a c h i n e ' s s y n t h e t c p a t h c a n
i o n o f i n f o r m a t i o n t s a s t a r t n g p o n t a n
AI as Battle maps:
How do we control AI's own dynamics and evolutionary movements by
So, unlike classical theories based on imitation, now we’re using AI as a g r a p h i c a s s e m b a g e that specifies relationships between activity and form, organizing structures and function distributions. It’s not used to represent existing objects but to anticipate new organizations, it’s an a b s t r a c t m a c h n e Just like how diagram became a tool in architecture, AI should be another vector for logical evolution in design
How to t r g g e r this machine? Project Is set on its course. Before the work diverts into typology ready-made things such as commercial buildings, stylistic architecture, etc.), a diagram, rich In meaning, full of p o te n t a m o v e m e n t , and l o a d e d w t h s t ru c t u re (which connects to some important aspect of the project), Is found. it shines a new light onto the work and make it u nfi x e d t r g ge r n g n e w d re c t o n s a n d n e w m e a n i n g s . AI is like a black hole, radically changing the course, transforming and liberating architecture.
01 The passage delves into AI’s role in architecture, portraying it as an abstract machine influencing design through information understanding and generative processes. It highlights AI’s capacity for synthetic productivity, registration, analysis, and trajectory mapping. Emphasizing AI as a tool to create beyond typologies, the text proposes controlling its dynamics through triggers and initial flows, akin to a black hole transforming and liberating architecture. The author suggests using AI as a graphic assemblage to anticipate new organizations, triggering novel directions and meanings in design. The process involves identifying rich diagrams connecting to project aspects, steering away from typological fixation.
have different folders and they each contains something of interest to me which are full of p o te n t a m ov e m e n t that connects to important aspect of the project or Hong Kong in general.
Namely
• Circulation/Architecture styles/Massing,
• Residents living condition/Interior
• Poetry and legacy/Internal
• Text, • Images, • Drawing •
This is to create the "t t h re a d n c o n t ro l " flexible vectors for our logical evolution. This has nothing to do with one’s technical expertise in AI it is about a fundamental understanding of operation, a designer user manual or training log.
PHOTO ESSAY 2
2D: SEMANTICS --[RE] REFERENCE: AI AS [META] METAPHOR
Chapter II
(RE) REFERENCES: AI AS (META) METAPHOR
Reference: Image, and perpetual motion:
Last chapter we discussed AI as the abstract machine. With that understanding we look at the t e c h n q u e o f r e f e r e n c i n g in architecture: how we use image and archiving, to create evolution and originality, and how can AI industrialize this process.
Referencing in the context of architecture has the unique potential
t h o u g h t f u l y d e r v a t v e Referencing, proportion of originality and re-production are common practices in our profession. The relationship between a r c h t
always played a part in design work.
An objective assessment of r e f
r
:
c
C o e c t o n intentions and means of gathering; • E d describe, explain and classify
R e - p r e s e n t digest, manipulation and generating original work
Deconstructing reference
Image comes from “imitation”. Architecture is an mage-oriented field of design (cartography drawings, ref img), When talking about image reference, t’s about
• Form, • Archetype • Image,
• Configuration
• Schema,
• Figure
There are d i f f e r e n t a t t i t u d e s t o w
Chapter II
Perpetual Motion
Reference language is no longer architecture, but the richness of the reference is deep enough to form a symbiotic relationship. Reference becomes anticipatory and associative correlation. Moving outside of architectural paradigm of form and geometry to image-based, situational based predictive language.
Based on AI's ability for recreation and reproduction, a relationship forms between the tool and the person using the tool. While AI can extract elements, it requires humans to m b u e t s c r e a t o n s
s
d e c s i o n
c
i t
r a n d d e s i g n m a n a g e r The aim is to quickly extract an 'intermediate product' that aligns with human imagination, which can then be further refined to 'erase the traces of stitching.' In other words, in addition to manually integrate references and architecture and ideate; we need the capability to handle AI-generated content (AIGC) while ensuring that the end product retains a human touch
In comprehending the methodologies architects employ for case referencing, we delve into an understanding that our engagement with cases transcends mere observation of the projects.
E s s e n t a l y , w e a r e d s c e r n n g t h e u n d e r y i n g e e m e n t s s u c h a s p e r s p e c t v e s , s c e n o g r a p h y a n d a n a r r a y o f d r a t n g e c h n q u e s a n d u n w r t t e n r u e s These components, somewhat autonomous from the scrutinized projects, assume paramount significance within the realm of AIassisted drafting.
• Formal/pictorial
• Paradigm,
• Materiality/scene
• Geometrical
• Sense of Order
• Storytelling
m a g e s a n d r e e r e n c e s p c t u r e s And how we can correspond these visual cues to parts of design. From left to right, as work mature it becomes
where we see reference can break away from conventional architecture ontology. This is the evolution of a ‘reference system’. Within such system, references can be edited and digested in different ways, ranging from a r c h i t e c u r a q u a l t y t o t h e o r d e r s e b e h i n d t h e m t o h e s p r t s o f t h e m
1. Orthodox, functional, formal
2. Not a building, but space and form can be referenced 3. Structural, arches, domes, truss etc.
4. Construct
5. Decorative, façade, repetition and order of surface, 2D
6. Collection of life
The interpretation of these findings is broken down into editable parts and extracting architectural schemes. Analogue architecture Aldo Rossi) expands on this technique of transferring experience images) to production (space).
01 The passage delves into the role of references, particularly images, in architecture and the influence of AI on this process. It explores the dual nature of referencing as both derivative and original, emphasizing the evolving dynamics over time. The concept of a ‘reference system’ is introduced, showcasing different attitudes toward images in design. Perpetual motion in reference language is discussed, extending beyond traditional architectural paradigms. The conclusion emphasizes AI’s transformative impact on architectural thinking and practice, portraying it as a pivotal tool in reshaping how architects conceive, perceive, and realize architectural forms, marking a new epoch in architectural thought.
Th h e i n t r i n s c c h a r a c t e r i s t c s o f A I i n d r a t n g n o o n y s e r ve a s a p o t e n t g u i d e b u t a l s o p r o v d e a f r a m e w o r k f o r i n t e r p r e t n g a n d a p p l y n g t h e s e d r a f t n g s t a n d a r d s a n d m a g e e v a u a t i o n c r i t e r a , t h e r e b y a c i i t a t n g t h e c u r a o n o r t r a n n g o A o u t p u t s n s c e n a o s d e v o d o f c e a r p r e c e d e n t s h s a p p r o a c h e m p o w e r s u s t o d e n t i f y a n d s u b s e q u e n t l y g e n e r a t e t h e r e q u s i t e v i s u a e e m e n t s t h r o u g h A I a l o w n g o r a p r o c e s s o f r er e f e r e n c n g ” C r u c a l y t h s m e t h o d p r e s e r v e s h e a b s t r a c t c o r e o f m e t a p h o r m a i n t a n n g t h e m e t a a s p e c t w t h i n t h e a r c h t e c t u r a l n a r r a t v e T h s p o c e s s s y m b o l z e s a p a r a d g m s h i f t i n t h e u n d e r s t a n d n g a n d a p p i c a t o n o f A I w h n a r c h t e c t u r e I t u n d e r s c o r e s A
This shift heralds a new epoch in architectural thought and practice, where AI is leveraged to distill and transform conceptual metaphors into tangible architectural elements. The conclusion thus situates AI as a transformative agent in the field of architecture, instrumental in the evolution of design thinking and practice. It's a testament to the fusion of technological advancement with architectural creativity, ushering in an era where AI becomes an integral part of the architect's toolkit, reshaping the way we conceive, perceive, and realize architectural forms.
PHOTO ESSAY 3
3D: LANGUAGE --PERPETUAL DESIGN: ARCHITECTURE REIMAGINED
Chapter III
Perpetual Design: Architecture
Latency to Pixel: Principles in Image Generation & Machine Learning:
The dawn of AI image generation marks a transformative era in design thinking, particularly in architecture.
of design are not just pushed but completely redefined, ushering in a new way of conceptualizing and visualizing architectural spaces.
AI image generation serves as a
shift has profound implications for the architecture industry, redefining the roles of practitioners as they adapt to these tools.
The fundamental principle of image generation in AI, discerning each pixel's placement to create realistic images, parallels the architectural design process. The AI-driven design process addresses one of the longstanding debates in architecture - the
continuously generate novel designs is what makes AI image generation akin to a perpetual motion machine in design thinking.
Effectively, AI reinterprets architectural processes as an exhaustive exploration of possibilities, allowing for quicker convergence of 2D design thinking and 3D representation. This doesn’t replace the necessity of three-dimensionality in architecture but bridges the gap between conceptualization and realization.
At the core of this transformation is the idea that with AI, specifically through models like the diffusion model, architects now have the capability to generate images and designs that were once thought impossible. This technology does not just replicate or slightly modify existing designs; it enables the creation of entirely new forms, styles, and structures.
r s o n f r o m t e x t a n d m a g e s t o r e a l - w o r l d d e s i g n s
In the future, high-quality references, computing power, and algorithm optimization will be crucial.
AI demystifies the individual genius in space creation, reflecting virtual space onto physical reality through computing power and spatial translation efficiency.
AI's influence on architectural design is a testament to the industry's dynamic nature. By embracing AI, architects can navigate the complexities of design more intuitively and efficiently, heralding a new era of perpetual innovation in architecture.
In essence, AI image generation is revolutionizing the field of architecture. t
The implications of this are profound. In traditional design paradigms, architects often draw nspiration from existing structures, styles, or natural
is inherently limited by the architect's exposure, experience, and ability to reinterpret these inspirations into something new.
01 Chapter III discusses the transformative impact of AI image generation on design, likening it to perpetual motion. AI redefines design boundaries by serving as a perpetual visual programming tool, using visual prompts instead of data. This alters the architect’s role, emphasizing adaptation to AI tools. The principle involves pixel placement to create realistic images, addressing the fine line between inspiration and plagiarism. AI enables continuous generation of novel designs, bridging 2D and 3D representation. The diffusion model facilitates the creation of unprecedented forms, freeing architects from traditional constraints. AI’s influence reflects architecture’s dynamic nature, navigating complexities for perpetual innovation without replacing human creativity.
PHOTO ESSAY 4
4D: NARRATIVE --FROM CONCEPT TO SCHEME: REWEAVING CHOI HUNG
Chapter IV
From Concept to Scheme: Reweaving Choi Hung
Model Training, Scheme Development, and Production:
The focus of my research in the studio centers on integrating large language models (LLMs) and AI technologies into architectural design processes. This essay explores a novel workflow, utilizing AI tools to reimagine the redevelopment of Chui Hong. The purpose is to investigate how these technologies can augment traditional design methodologies, offering an alternative approach to architectural creativity and problem-solving.
Methodology and AI Integration
My methodology involves a design system analogous to LLMs, emphasizing the importance of complexity in design. In architecture, complexity often arises from the e n c o d n g o f n f o r m a o n which liken to the concept of “ n c r e a s n g d m e n s o n a i t y in AI. By applying this principle, the project aims to transform plain text into a narrative rich in structure and movement, enhancing the clarity and depth of the design.
The initial phase of the project utilized AI to analyze and interpret the existing conditions of Choi Hong. This involved engaging in textual dialogues with AI models, like GPT-4.0, to understand the utilitarian aspects and the impact of repetitiveness in architecture. Following this, the AI-generated insights were visualized using tools like Mid Journey, leading to the development of concepts like the 'chiaroscuro corridor'. This marked the culmination of the 1D dimension phase, maximizing the potential of AI in embedding relevant information into the design.
Enhancing Dimensionality and Conceptualization
The subsequent phase embraced a more subjective, n e u r o d ve r g e n t approach, overlaying a second dimension onto the existing data. This stage moved beyond the existing conditions, delving into conceptual possibilities. I employed AI to interpret poetic and photographic expressions about Choi Hung, translating these into spatial narratives. This process led to the conceptualization of ' t h r d s p a c e s '
suggestions influenced the structural modifications in the design, like creating triple-height spaces and forming community clusters, aligning with the estate's existing architecture.
Schematic Development and Detailing
Further discussions with AI in the schematic phase brought forth new spatial strategies. AI interpretations of poems about the estate’s shear wall structure provided innovative ideas like extended balconies and flexible program insertions as vo i d d e c k s This stage focused more on the schematic possibilities of the project, visualized through tools like Mid Journey and Stable Diffusion.
The final phase involved detailing the design, pondering over the materialization and the new narrative of the redevelopment. Drawing analogies between a housing estate and a harp, I explored how the existing structures could be rejuvenated with new 'strings' of design. AI’s metaphor of social fabric translated into practical applications, suggesting materials like woven fabric laminate and metal-laminated glass for facades and bamboo panels for ground floor enhancements.
01 This exploration into the integration of AI in architectural design, using Chui Hong’s redevelopment as a case study, demonstrates a groundbreaking approach. It shows how AI can be leveraged to enhance traditional design methodologies, offering new dimensions of complexity and depth. This method not only streamlines the design process but also enriches it with diverse perspectives and innovative solutions. The ability of AI to transform textual and poetic inputs into tangible architectural concepts and strategies marks a significant leap in the field. This research underscores the potential for AI to revolutionize architectural design, making it a collaborative, dynamic, and continually evolving art form.
Conclusion
This research presents an intriguing alternative in architectural design, where AI collaboration enables a continuous flow of ideas and innovation. The methodology demonstrates how a singular architect, through AI integration, can initiate a perpetual cycle of design evolution. The project not only reimagines the Chui Hong estate but also proposes a transformative approach to architectural design, leveraging the potential of AI to enrich and diversify the creative process.
