Episodes

What happens when architecture starts shifting from a profession built on forms and materials to one shaped by data, circularity, and AI? In this episode, host Aya Schlochter sits down with Dr. Christopher Bamborough, postdoctoral research fellow at the University of New South Wales and the ARC Centre for Next Generation Architectural Manufacturing, to explore how intelligent systems are changing the future of design practice. Chris shares how his path moved from architecture practice in the U...

What if the biggest challenge in AI adoption isn't technology at all, but understanding people, culture, and practice? In this episode, host Aya Shlachter sits down with Annie Ferguson, Head of AI & Digital Innovation at DKO Architecture, to explore why most firms get AI adoption wrong, not because of the tools, but because of the people. Before leading one of Australia's most ambitious architecture AI transformations, Annie studied languages, conducted ethnographic research in rural Mexico, a...

AI is becoming easier to use. Understanding how it actually works is where most architects struggle. In this episode, Aya Shlachter sits down with Prof. Hank Haeusler to explore how AI and computational design are reshaping architecture in practice and in business. Hank shares how thinking in systems, data, and computation is changing how architects design, make decisions, and deliver work. The conversation highlights the shift from manual, skill-based tasks to higher-level thinking. As AI tak...

Most design firms are experimenting with AI. Very few know how to make it work. In this episode, Aya Shlachter sits down with Stephanie Lindsay and Jessica Nelson, co-founders of Etch Design Group and AI for Interiors, to explore how design firms can stop treating AI as a side experiment and start using it as a core business strategy. Stephanie and Jessica share how they went from testing AI tools to building real workflows — and eventually a platform that helps designers understand where AI a...

In a profession facing rapid technological change, understanding how to use AI without losing the human element has become one of the most important challenges for architects today. In this episode, Aya Shlachter sits down with Mark R. LePage, an entrepreneur architect and Chief Executive Officer and co-founder of Gābl Media Group, Inc., to explore how AI is reshaping the AEC industry and what it means for the future of architectural practice. With decades of experience building firms, communit...

In a world where knowledge is power, having the right system to manage that knowledge might just be the smartest investment a growing firm can make. In this episode, Aya Shlachter sits down with Christopher Parsons, founder and CEO of Knowledge Architecture, the team behind Synthesis and the KA Connect conference. With over 15 years of experience shaping knowledge management in AEC firms, Chris shares his journey from history major to tech consultant during the dot-com boom, and eventually to l...

What happens when craftsmanship meets artificial intelligence? The future of architecture is changing fast, and it's challenging architects to rethink how they design, teach, and create. "We have a responsibility to adapt for the betterment of our environment. To stay connected to humanity, we must earn it through craft, our core value that drives sustainable design, better quality of life, and a stronger built environment. That's the future Super Architect envisions." In this episode with...

Ever spent weeks figuring out if an AI tool is actually worth your time? Welcome to the AEC industry, where researching companies, checking funding, sitting through demos, and dodging overpromises can feel like a full-time job. AI has huge potential, but without a game plan, it can quickly become chaos in a spreadsheet. In this episode with Stjepan Mikulić, we explore how AI is reshaping the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry through both education and technology managem...

In this episode of AI for Architects, host Aya Shlachter interviews Michael Jansen, Chief Business Officer of TwinMaster, an innovative AI platform leveraging digital twin technology to transform architectural design and project delivery. The conversation dives into the power of digital twins, the role of AI in speeding up processes, and the challenges architects face when navigating interoperability among today's tools. Michael shares how Twin Master is built to simplify these challenges, unlo...

AI is no longer optional for AEC firms, it's the key to staying competitive. In this episode, we're answering the 3 most asked questions by leaders in the AEC industry about adopting AI: 1️⃣ How do you measure ROI from AI investments? 2️⃣ What are the biggest barriers to AI implementation? 3️⃣ How can firms close the AI skills gap without losing team morale? This conversation highlights why AI is more than just technology. It's a strategic business tool. Learn how to start small, integrate AI ...

AI isn't just a tool — it's a strategic decision that could reshape how your firm operates. In this episode, Aya shares key takeaways from AEC Innovate 2025, including how top firms are using AI to transform leadership, business models, and team structures. Aya highlights keynotes, firm case studies, and panel discussions from industry leaders—including Deltek, Nvidia, and top architecture firms—emphasizing how AI is impacting everything from design workflows to firm strategy, staffing, and cli...

In this episode, host Aya Shlachter interviews Richard Petrie about his journey from a professional cricket career to founding the Architect Marketing Institute. The discussion revolves around the importance of niching down in marketing, particularly for architects, and the common challenges they face. Richard emphasizes the role of AI in enhancing marketing strategies and introduces his six+ AI framework, which includes AI agents designed to streamline marketing efforts for architects. The con...

In this episode of AI For Architects, host Aya Shlachter dives into the evolving world of AI in architectural design, with a spotlight on the innovative tool, Hektar. Aya shares insights from a recent webinar on AI in architecture education, emphasizing the critical need for AI literacy among students. The discussion explores various AI tools applicable across different design phases, highlighting Hektar's capabilities for ideation and site planning, and the broader implications of AI's inevita...

In this episode of AI For Architects, host Aya Shlachter explores ArchiTechtures, a cutting-edge generative AI platform transforming residential building design. The discussion examines how this powerful tool enables architects and developers to rapidly generate and iterate designs, dramatically accelerating the journey from initial concept to detailed feasibility studies. Aya also emphasizes the importance of adapting to new technologies and the potential for AI to transform traditional archite...

In this second episode of season 2 of AI for Architects, host Aya Shlachter explores LookX.AI, a powerful architectural rendering tool that utilizes a diffusion model to generate high-quality images from sketches. The conversation also covers insights from the Podfest Expo, including the potential of custom GPTs for architectural firms. Aya discusses the features of LookX.AI, its user-friendly interface, and its applications in architectural design, emphasizing the tool's ability to enhance cli...

In this season opener of AI For Architects, Aya Shlachter discusses the implications of AI in architecture, focusing on the predictions made by Ray Kurzweil regarding The Singularity and the future of human-AI integration. She then introduces Veras, an AI-powered visualization tool for architects, detailing its features and the importance of prompt engineering for effective rendering. The discussion finally emphasizes the need for architects to adapt and leverage AI as a tool to enhance their se...

In this season ender of AI for Architects, host Aya Shlachter reflects on the podcast's highlights of the past year and discusses the future of AI in architecture. She emphasizes the importance of integrating AI tools into architectural practices, the need for leaders to adapt and educate themselves, and the potential for AI to enhance productivity and creativity. The episode also features insights from industry leaders and a review of various AI tools that can benefit architects. Aya encourage...

In this episode of AI for Architects, host Aya Shlachter discusses Maket, a generative design tool tailored for residential architects. She explores its features, pricing, strengths, and weaknesses, while also sharing personal insights and real-world use cases. The conversation emphasizes the potential of AI in architecture, the importance of human creativity, and the evolving landscape of design tools. Subscribe to the AI for Architects newsletter 👉 aiforarchitects.ai/subscribe Takeaways: Make...

In this episode of AI for Architects, host Aya Shlachter sits down with financial consultant Ryan Sullivan to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping financial planning for architects. Together, they discuss the concept of singularity, strategies for preparing finances for an AI-driven future, and the importance of diversifying income streams. Ryan offers practical advice on adapting to technological changes and making smart investments to secure long-term financial stability. Subscrib...

In this episode of AI for Architects, host Aya Shlachter dives into the ins and outs of Snaptrude, an AI-powered tool that's transforming architectural workflows. Aya unpacks its standout features—including seamless real-time collaboration, broad compatibility with multiple file types, and its growing adoption within the architectural community in 2024. The discussion also examines the concept of AI agents, all while highlighting why architects should embrace these technologies in their practic...

In this episode, host Aya Shlachter explores TestFit, a transformative software that's changing the landscape of real estate feasibility and architectural design. Aya breaks down TestFit's key features, discussing its practical applications through real-world examples. The episode also covers the influence of AI in architecture education, stressing the need for a balance between foundational design skills and emerging technologies to equip future architects better. Subscribe to the AI for Arch...

In this episode of AI for Architects, host Aya Shlachter dives into the latest developments in architecture technology, with a special focus on Autodesk Forma and its transformative applications in the industry. Aya shares key insights from the EntreArchitect Annual Meeting, emphasizing the role of profitability, the value of human-centered design, and how AI tools are reshaping sustainable practices in architecture. Aya also underscores the importance of annual planning for architecture firms, ...

In this episode of the AI for Architects podcast, host Aya Shlachter welcomes Tamra Moroski, the Director of Partnerships at the Marketing AI Institute. They explore the transformative role of AI in marketing and how architects can leverage these tools to increase visibility and client engagement. The conversation also delves into practical applications of AI tools like ChatGPT and HubSpot, providing valuable insights for architects looking to enhance their marketing efforts. Subscribe to the A...

In this episode of the AI for Architects, hosts Aya Shlachter and Mike George discuss the integration of AI tools in architecture, focusing on SWAPP, the use of ChatGPT for design, and the importance of education in AI. They explore how AI can automate repetitive tasks, enhance creativity, and improve workflows in architectural practices. The conversation also highlights the significance of prompt engineering and the need for collaboration in the industry. Additionally, they touch on AI competi...