AI Is Disrupting the Design Process—And That’s a Good Thing: Exploring Generative AI’s Role in Early Spatial Planning

Artificial Intelligence is rapidly changing how architecture and design teams work—and BHDP is leaning into this shift with purpose. Rather than replacing human insight, we’re exploring how AI tools can support one of the most time-consuming and data-intensive aspects of the process: conceptual spatial planning.

Why Focus on Conceptual Spatial Planning?

The conceptual phase is where strategy and creativity intersect—where client goals, workplace data, and spatial constraints come together to shape early design direction. This phase is also where verifying program fit—whether your organization’s needs can be met within a given space—is often tedious and time-consuming. That’s why we began testing AI-supported tools that generate test fits, layout options, and data summaries in a fraction of the time traditional methods require.

What We Tested (and What We Learned)

We piloted several AI-driven space planning tools using real client scenarios. Each tool promised speed, automation, and integration with tools like Revit. While the results were promising, they also confirmed one essential truth: AI is not a replacement for strategic design—it’s a powerful assistant, when used correctly.

Where AI Delivered Value:

• Speed: Test fits that once took days can now be done in hours. While initial setup still requires human input, adjustments and iterations are significantly faster—especially as client requirements evolve.
• Option Generation: Multiple layouts were generated instantly, allowing our teams to assess pros and cons early and collaboratively.

• Data Visibility: Some platforms offered built-in quantity takeoffs and area summaries, enabling more informed early budgeting discussions.

   

Where the Human Element Remains Essential:

• Design Nuance: AI doesn’t understand proportion, flow, or spatial logic the way experienced designers do. Strategic micro-adjustments still require expert input.
• Compliance and Risk Management: Some layouts didn’t meet accessibility or jurisdictional requirements. These compliance risks must be caught by trained professionals—not left to algorithms.
• Client Communication: Polished AI outputs can create a false sense of finality. We’ve learned to use “whitebox” visuals to maintain flexibility in client conversations and avoid premature design lock-in.

• Strategic Intent: AI can’t understand your culture, brand, or business strategy. Our job is to connect space to vision—and that’s something no software can replicate.

   

What This Means for You

For our clients, this isn’t about flashy tech—it’s about better outcomes:

• Faster decision-making when opportunities or timelines are tight
• More adaptable planning as programs shift
• Deeper insights early in the process
• Smarter space optimization (explore this more in Rethinking the Modern Office: How Space Optimization Powers the Hybrid Workplace)

While AI tools are speeding up routine work, our designers are freed to focus on what matters most: aligning your space to your strategy.

Efficiency, With Oversight

Think of AI as a fast but inexperienced intern. It can do the heavy lifting—but still needs thoughtful direction and expert oversight. One tool even allowed us to test multiple layouts with basic cost estimates—giving clients a clearer picture of how layout choices impact budget. But every output still required manual review to ensure it met our standards of care.

In short: the tech gets us to "good" faster. But getting to "great" still takes experience, creativity, and strategic thinking.

Looking Ahead

We’re just getting started. Our teams are blending design expertise with emerging technology to explore what’s possible—using AI not just to speed up the process, but to elevate outcomes.

As AI tools evolve, BHDP will continue exploring how to use them responsibly and effectively. We’re focused on real-world applications that benefit our clients, but our philosophy is clear: the tools can only go so far. It's our creativity, context, and care that turn output into insight—and insight into great design.

Fill out the form below to learn more about our process, results, and how we’re helping clients unlock value through AI-supported design.