AEC Tech Journeys with Mayur Mistry

AI in Architecture Research with Karla Ochoa

#ai #aec

Tech Adoption in AEC: Lessons from Erin Khan Consulting

From Code to Strategy: Petr Mitev on Evolving AEC Design Solutions

Petr's career highlights include working at Kieran Timberlake, NBBJ, and currently at Chaos (after a merger with Andscape), where he has contributed to both architectural projects and software development.
At Kieran Timberlake, he worked on a University of Seattle student housing project that won an AIA award, where zoning challenges led him to develop his first automation tools.
At NBBJ, he helped develop the Applied Science Toolkit, collaborating with experts from various fields including psychology to create better healthcare spaces through data-driven design.
A significant project at NBBJ was the Amazon Spheres in Seattle, where he developed automation tools to optimize the glass facade's unique pieces for cost efficiency while maintaining the design vision.
Early in his career, he was inspired by pioneers like Andrew Heumann and Brian Ringley, who were among the first to integrate technology into architectural design processes.
He emphasizes that rule-based aspects of architecture (like building codes and ADA compliance) are prime candidates for automation, potentially reducing human error and improving efficiency.
Regarding AI in architecture, he believes the technology hasn't yet reached its full potential, comparing it to the BIM revolution where tools eventually became mission-critical rather than optional.
He identifies a significant challenge in AI adoption: the lack of AEC-specific training data due to IP and client ownership issues, suggesting that industry organizations like AIA could help address this through contract modifications.
On accessibility of technology, he stresses the importance of democratizing tools for smaller firms, noting that the average architecture firm has just two employees and limited resources for advanced technology.
Looking ahead, he sees AI as augmenting rather than replacing creativity, similar to how Adobe's tools enhance rather than replace artistic capability.

High Density AEC Automation Ideas with Bill Carney, Technology Leader DLR Group

Bill transitioned from being an architect to a technology leader, making the crucial decision to stop designing and focus on teaching and implementing design tools after gaining early expertise in Revit (2004).
At DLR Group, he evaluates technology investments using three key criteria: improving efficiency, enhancing quality, and enabling better design capabilities - projects must meet all three to be prioritized.
The firm has a unique approach to R&D investment, with dedicated budgets and teams, unlike many AEC firms that invest minimally in innovation and technology development.
His team follows a "20% automation rule" - aiming to automate 20% of routine work year-over-year, focusing on tasks like file archiving and project setup to free up time for more valuable activities.
DLR Group uses a structured forum system to identify and prioritize technology needs, including sector-specific forums (like K-12, Cultural) and discipline forums (Architecture, Engineering), ensuring comprehensive input.
Bill emphasizes gradual technology adoption using a "balloon analogy" - change is more effective when driven from within the organization rather than pushed from outside.
The firm actively pursues partnerships with other companies to share technology development costs, as demonstrated by their collaboration on the space program module with Imaginit.
Rather than focusing solely on computational design, DLR Group emphasizes machine learning and AI, with a strategy centered on collecting and grooming data for future predictive design capabilities.
For smaller firms with limited resources, Bill recommends partnering with other firms to maximize technology investments and leverage shared development costs.
A major challenge in implementing AI in the AEC industry is the complexity of data and the rare combination of data science and AEC expertise needed to effectively utilize it.

Nerding Out with Shajay Bhooshan: AI, Design Automation and Beyond

Insights

From Strategy to Implementation: Building Domain-Specific AI in AEC with Theodoros Galanos

Summary
In this conversation, Mayur Mistry and Theodore Galanos delve into the evolving landscape of AI applications in 2024, discussing the surprises and shifts in AI development, strategic planning in a rapidly changing environment, and the importance of building relationships and networks in the AI field. They explore budgeting for generative AI strategies, the transformative potential of AI in digital transformation, and the need for domain-specific models. The discussion also highlights the challenges of multimodal understanding, the significance of user-centric design, and the complexities of integrating AI into existing workflows.
Takeaways
AI applications are expanding rapidly in various sectors.
Surprises in AI development include pricing wars and model improvements.
Strategic planning must adapt to the fast pace of AI advancements.
Building relationships in the AI community is crucial for success.
Budgeting for AI strategies should focus on human capital and expertise.
AI can transform digital transformation strategies significantly.
Domain-specific models are essential for effective AI applications.
User-centric design is vital for successful AI integration.
Expert feedback mechanisms need to be improved for better AI systems.
Continuous improvement and adaptation are key in the AI landscape.
Chapters
00:00 Exploring AI Applications and Research in 2024
02:26 Strategic Planning in a Rapidly Evolving AI Landscape
04:23 Surprises and Shifts in AI Development
05:42 Building Strategic Thinking with GenAI
08:11 Networking and Community Engagement for AI Insights
10:57 Budgeting for GenAI Strategies in Organizations
13:26 Digital Transformation: A New Era with AI
15:48 The Role of Domain-Specific Tools in AI
18:45 Future of Foundation Models and Domain Adaptation
20:28 Exploring Multimodal Models and Their Gaps
25:30 The Role of Domain-Specific Data in Engineering
30:04 Challenges in Implementing Retrieval-Augmented Generation
36:12 User Expectations and Feedback in AI Systems
Sound Bites
"You need to build relationships in AI."
"The hardest part is the human capital."
"AI is transforming the way we work."

L152 : Consultancy vs Startup: Insights from Valentin’s Bootstrapped Success in the AEC Industry

Join Mayur as he hosts Valentin, CEO of E-verse, a software development consultancy specializing in AEC automation solutions. In this engaging interview, you'll hear about Valentin's exciting journey from working in various companies to founding E-verse, and his passion for both architecture and software development. Discover the career highlights and pivotal moments that influenced his entrepreneurial path, the motivation behind choosing consultancy over a startup route, and the unique challenges and rewards of bootstrapping a company in the AEC industry.
Valentin shares invaluable insights on navigating the early stages of building a consultancy, including the importance of sales, customer service, and transparency. He delves into the intricacies of pricing strategies, maintaining client relationships, and the impact of mentorship on his entrepreneurial journey. This interview also explores the evolving landscape of AEC tech startups, highlighting saturated markets and untapped opportunities, and Valentine's candid thoughts on the role of AI in construction. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned professional, this video offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to help you succeed in your own ventures.
00:00 - Introduction
00:30 - Valentin's Career Highlights
01:00 - Valentin's Background
02:00 - Starting First Company
03:00 - Decision to Start E-verse
04:00 - Choosing Consultancy Over Startup
05:30 - Importance of Bootstrapping
06:30 - Challenges of Sales and Consultancy
07:30 - First Client Story
09:30 - Building the Company: Realizations and Skills
11:00 - Importance of Sales and Service Quality
12:00 - Value of Transparency and People Development
14:00 - Success Without Scaling
16:00 - Value-Driven Pricing Strategy
19:00 - Equity Options for Early-Stage Startups
21:00 - Advice to Young Entrepreneurs
24:00 - Balancing Persistence and Pivots
28:00 - Personal Enjoyment and Company Success
29:30 - The Role of Mentors
32:00 - Possible Equity for Mentors
36:00 - Motivation and Enjoyment in Work
38:00 - Go-To Market Strategy for Startups
39:30 - Partnership Opportunities
42:00 - Observations on Market Saturation
45:00 - Common Mistakes by AC Tech Startups
50:00 - Real Talk on AI
54:00 - Limitations of AI in the Industry
57:00 - Final Thoughts
57:30 - Rapid Fire Round
#everse #aectechconsultancy #aecsoftwareautomation

L151 : Transitioning from traditional architecture to AI architecture work with Adeline Chan

In this insightful discussion, Adeline, founder and CEO of AAL Innovation, shares her incredible journey from a promising athlete to a transition in the architecture and AI industry. Throughout the interview, she emphasizes the transformative power of AI in architectural design and project management. Adeline recounts her experiences, highlighting the pivotal moments that led her to embrace artificial intelligence as a cornerstone of her professional endeavors. She passionately discusses the future of architecture, envisioning a landscape where AI not only enhances productivity but also democratizes access to sophisticated design tools.
Listeners will be captivated by Adeline's visionary approach to integrating AI with traditional and contemporary architectural practices. Her reflections on personal growth, flexibility, and the collaborative nature of the industry provide valuable insights, making this video a must-watch for anyone interested in the future of architecture and innovation. Don’t miss out on this inspiring conversation that bridges the gap between technology and design, promising a more efficient and imaginative architectural future.
00:00 - Introduction and Series Recommendation
00:28 - Guest Introduction and Early Career
02:00 - Education and Career Shift
04:00 - First Steps in Architecture
05:00 - Managing a Small Firm
06:00 - Client Experience with AI
09:00 - Diving into AI and Architecture
10:00 - Exploring AI Roles in Design
12:00 - Second Startup Discussion
15:00 - Balancing Work and Sleep
17:00 - Advice for Beginners in AI
20:00 - Key Resources for Learning AI
23:00 - Education and Teaching AI in Architecture
28:00 - Future of Architectural Education
33:00 - Lessons from Entrepreneurship
34:00 - Outlook on AI Integration in 2030
38:00 - Managing AI in Project Management
40:00 - Insights from Seminar Series
47:00 - Concerns and Optimism About AI
51:00 - Unmentioned Topics and Encouragement
53:00 - Importance of Spatial Quality and Regulations
#aiarchitecture #aidesign #Adelinechan #aalinnovation

L150 : Grasshopper, Rhino3D, and GPT-4 with Michael (The “Bob Ross” of Grasshopper) Wickerson

In this engaging interview, Michael Wickerson, renowned for his intriguing experiments in
Grasshopper, takes the audience on a journey through his early career, his approach to computational design, and his passion for teaching and art. Michael shares invaluable life lessons, emphasizing the importance of being present and committed, whether in learning or in professional endeavors. He candidly discusses his teaching philosophy, where he encourages students to explore their creativity within the computational realm and to embrace both digital and traditional art forms.
Michael also touches upon his experiences with influential mentors and peers who have shaped his perspectives. His advice to his younger self—focusing on the importance of fully engaging with educational opportunities and finding the right mentors—resonates deeply. Additionally, he delves into the technicalities of computational design, scripting, and his iterative learning process, offering insights that are both inspirational and instructive. This discussion is a must-watch for those interested in the intersections of art, technology, and education, and for anyone seeking to understand the mind of an innovative thinker dedicated to his craft.
00:00 - Introduction to Michael Wickerson's Grasshopper Work
00:36 - Early Career and Life Choices
02:50 - Advice for Younger Generations
06:01 - Personal Teaching Philosophy and Approach
09:00 - Encouraging Creativity in Education
16:04 - Teaching Methodologies and Sculptural Practices
26:25 - The Importance of Curiosity and Learning in Art
29:21 - Cross-disciplinary Learning and Applications
33:05 - Fostering Computational Thinking in Students
43:02 - Challenges and Insights into Advanced Computational Tools
49:53 - The Impact of Mentor Influence on Learning
54:35 - Advice on Maintaining Passion and Motivation in Learning
57:20 - Reflecting on Life Choices and Academic Experience
#michaelwickerson #grasshoppertutorials #artandtechnology

L149 : Revolutionizing Real Estate with AI & Big Data: Olivia’s Inspiring Journey at Deepblocks!

In this engaging interview, Mayur welcomes Olivia Ramos, a remarkable AEC Tech founder, who shares her inspiring journey from migrating from Cuba to becoming a prominent tech entrepreneur. Olivia discusses pivotal life moments that shaped her discipline and resilience, such as her rigorous musical training and her educational experiences in architecture and real estate. Viewers are given insight into her innovative approach to integrating big data and AI in the real estate sector through her startup, Deepblocks. Olivia emphasizes the crucial learning curves she faced, the importance of understanding real estate finance for architects, and how digitizing zoning data has revolutionized their business model. She talks about the challenges of being a first-time founder, adaptive strategies, and the importance of staying updated with technology. Viewers will appreciate her visionary thoughts on how AI and blockchain could transform the future of real estate investments and city planning, making this video a must-watch for anyone interested in tech-driven innovation in urban development.
00:00 - Introduction and Guest Introduction
00:31 - Olivia's Early Life and Highlights
01:00 - Migration from Cuba and Cultural Adaptation
01:31 - Musical Discipline and Structure
02:01 - Graduate Studies and Impact on Career
03:36 - Aspirations During Columbia Days
06:02 - Tips for Young Architects
06:46 - Impactful Professors and Mentors
08:37 - Use of AI and Big Data in Real Estate
10:05 - Early Days and MVP of Deepblocks
11:59 - Challenges in Bringing Product to Market
14:12 - Handling R&D vs Revenue and Customer Development
18:01 - Experimentation and Practical Application of AI
20:44 - Deepblocks Today and Future Plans
25:35 - Learning and Staying Updated as a Founder
27:10 - Recommended Books and Their Impact
29:50 - Week in the Life of Olivia
31:28 - Key Decisions for Deepblocks' Trajectory
33:01 - Deepblocks Vision for 2030
36:37 - AI and Blockchain in Real Estate
37:31 - Data Ownership and Transparency Issues
42:46 - Rapid Fire Round
46:01 - Final Thoughts and Reflections on Biomimicry in City Development
#deepblocks #oliviaramos #bigdataforrealestate