The creation of images through artificial intelligence (AI) surprised many people a few years ago.  

Utilising algorithms such as convolutional neural networks (CNNs), these systems are trained to identify visual patterns in images from the huge database of the Internet, interpret them and generate new compositions. 

Eduardo Souza, brands and materials senior editor at ArchDaily, writes that initially, the results tended to be rudimentary, often distorted and strange. However, with the evolution of systems and training methods, AI has started to produce highly detailed and visually impressive images, challenging the limits of digital creativity. 

AI in architecture 

As architectural design evolves, technologies that allow architects to bring their visions to life are progressing alongside it. AI renderings are transforming the way spaces are visualised and conceptualised.  

Realistic visualisations early in the design process facilitate communication with clients, allowing them to better understand the project. Image courtesy of Snaptrude

Conventional rendering methods are labour-intensive and involve multiple steps. From detailed 3D model construction to manual adjustments of lighting, textures and shadows, AI tools produce images while saving time and minimising human errors.  

Design workflow 

Tools such as Stable Diffusion and MidJourney have revolutionised the design workflow by using machine learning to generate high-quality images much faster than traditional processes.  

They also expand creativity by offering designers new perspectives and unexpected solutions, helping to overcome creative blocks.  

Providing realistic visualisations early in the design process, AI also facilitates communication with clients – allowing them to better understand the project and make informed decisions more effectively. 

Addressing limitations 

Renders, while capable of creating impressive visuals, often fall short in a critical area: Scale accuracy and the creation of unexpected results.  

The images are attractive, but inaccurate for practical applications, with elements such as oversized doors, misaligned staircases or windows that are out of proportion.  

These flaws can cause significant complications in later project stages, requiring corrections that could have been avoided from the start. To remedy this, model-based AI rendering has brought significant advancements to overcome these challenges.  

Integrating geometry information with the AI render engine, ensures that the dimensions and spatial relationships are accurately represented. Such advancements not only improve the visual quality of renderings but also transform the practical viability of architectural projects, ensuring more accurate designs from the outset. 

Each tool comes with unique features tailored to various architectural needs. Image courtesy of Snaptrude

Evaluating tools 

Options such as Nemetschek AI Visualiser, Veras and Snaptrude offer different strengths. It is therefore essential to evaluate factors such as ease of integration into the existing workflows, rendering speed and cost.  

Each tool comes with unique features tailored to various architectural needs, whether for rapid ideation, large-scale project visualisation or refined architectural accuracy. 

Rendering the future 

The future of AI rendering is undoubtedly heading towards greater precision, efficiency and collaboration. As tools like model-based AI rendering with advanced depth mapping emerge in the industry, firms that embrace these technologies will find themselves at the forefront of a new era in architectural design.  

This shift is not merely an enhancement of current workflows – it represents a fundamental change in how architects visualise and bring spaces to life. With these tools, firms can achieve significant gains in both cost-efficiency and creative flexibility.  

Artistic and highly realistic renderings prove especially valuable in the early design stages. By viewing spaces through diverse visual styles, architects have greater freedom to explore and refine creative concepts. Thus, designs meet aesthetic aspirations and functional requirements, closely aligned with creative vision and client expectations. 

Renders, while capable of creating impressive visuals, often fall short in a critical area: Scale accuracy and the creation of unexpected results. Image courtesy of Snaptrude

Looking ahead 

AI rendering has evolved from an exciting innovation into an indispensable tool in the architecture industry. AI-driven solutions streamline workflows by reducing manual labour, automating complex tasks and ensuring that the scale and spatial relationships of architectural elements are true to life.  

Their integration into architectural design enhances collaboration across teams and disciplines, fostering greater precision and adaptability. By adopting these innovative solutions, firms can expect significant gains in terms of cost-effectiveness and creative freedom.  

AI rendering is setting new standards for how architectural spaces are designed, communicated and built. 

Full acknowledgement and thanks go to www.archdaily.com for the information in this article. Original article written by Eduardo Souza. “The future of AI rendering: Boost efficiency and cut costs with the right tool”. 1 November 2024. ArchDaily. Accessed 7 November 2024. ISSN 0719-8884.