Spotted: Agriculture production is both the largest user of water worldwide, and a major water polluter. According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, climate-change-induced water shortages are expected to become more frequent. In addition, farmers in many regions are facing increasing competition for water due to rising urban population density and rapid growth of the energy and industry sectors.
One way to help farmers reduce water use, as well as water pollution, is to use only as much water as each plant needs, avoiding runoff and excess usage. To make this a reality, startup Treetoscope has developed a platform that integrates AI, weather data, satellite imagery, and other remote sensing technologies to provide real-time sap and water uptake data.
Treetoscope’s sensor uses a heat dissipation model to measure the movement of water (sap flow) within the xylem of trees and vines. The sensor detects the distortion of the heat field around the probe, which is directly related to the velocity of water movement. The irrigation management platform is unique and integrates with other weather data to provide growers with insights into irrigation management.
In September last year, the company announced additional investments to its latest seed funding round, bringing the total raised in this round to over $7 million (around €6.5 million), and total investments of $10 million (around €9.3 million), including grants from the Israel Innovation Authority and the Bird Foundation. The funds will be used for research and development and speeding up the expansion across North America and beyond.
Reducing water use in agriculture is also the subject of innovations such as seeds that are more resilient to water scarcity and AI-driven irrigation.
Dutch studio MVRDV has revealed a series of residential high-rises arranged around courtyards in Shenzhen’s Qianhai bay, which will form part of a smart city development by technology company Tencent.
Named Tencent 5, the residential complex will have four courtyards surrounded by 11 apartment buildings and an adjacent kindergarten, designed to be a neighbourhood that fosters community.
Tencent 5 will have 11 apartment buildings arranged around courtyards
Located on a narrow peninsula, the bayside residences will be the centrepiece of a wider smart city campus developed by Tencent and masterplanned by US architecture studio NBBJ.
MVRDV designed Tencent 5 as a social and green development that provides housing to employees working in the city.
Muli-level balconies will puncture the facades
“By contributing to Tencent’s smart city, we want to show that smart cities are also healthy cities, green cities, and social cities,” said MVRDV founding partner Winy Maas.
“The attention in smart cities always goes to the technology, and our design of the Tencent residential complex certainly includes that, but in our conception, the technology-related aspects are inseparable from the social spaces, the green courtyards, the terraces – the technological goes hand-in-hand with the human.”
It will provide housing to employees working in the smart city campus
The terraced residential buildings, which range in height from 57 to one hundred metres, will have equally-sized apartments with views of the sea to the west and the bay towards the east.
“Located at the northern end of the campus, MVRDV’s design emphasises equality between residents,” said MVRDV. “All units are identical in size and layout, with each providing a balcony or bay window to its occupant.”
“The buildings are terraced, supporting communal green spaces that can be accessed by all residents.”
The green courtyards and other public spaces in Tencent 5 were designed to be places where neighbours can connect with each other.
Pedestrian paths through the complex will provide added outdoor space populated with sports and leisure activities.
Green pathways will cut through the site
Additional shared amenity space will be located on the ground floors of the residential buildings, and multi-level balconies will puncture the facades.
“Large, multi-floor breakout spaces puncture the towers’ facades at a variety of levels, allowing residents to gather with others who live in the same part of the building and breaking the development into a number of smaller ‘neighbourhoods’,” said MVRDV.
A series of connected blocks will form the kindergarten
A kindergarten adjacent to the residential complex will also be arranged around its own courtyard. It will be made up of a series of blocky buildings with rooftop gardens, connected by corridors and walkways.
“The courtyard, along with the spaces between the blocks, provide safe and shaded playing spaces for the children, while the blocks themselves feature rooftop gardens,” said MVRDV.
The kindergarten will also have a courtyard
Construction on Tencent 5 is underway and it is due to be completed in 2024.
Other projects by MVRDV in China include the transformation of a skyscraper in Shenzhen into a women and children’s centre and its plans for a library in Wuhan with a sweeping form.
Architizerâs Tech Directory is a database of tech tools for architects â from the latest generative design and AI to rendering and visualization, 3D modeling, project management and many more. Explore the complete library of categories here.
Urban planning has always been a complex, large-scale “brain teaser” for architects. It requires the collaboration of several disciplines: architects, urban planners, sociologists, anthropologists, environmentalists and transportation planners, and the coordination of many bureaucratic governing bodies. Throughout time, there have been many urban planning theories, such as Garden City by Ebenezer Howard or Le Corbusier’s modernist Radiant City concept, which explored new modes of city organization and ways of living by suggesting speculative social structures, resource management and nature integration practices.
Following the rapid technological advancements in the early 2000s, the concept of “smart cities” gradually emerged, eventually gaining significant traction during the AI boom. Today, AI technology has opened up new realms of possibility, where algorithms and data are added to the architect’s tool belt, aiming to create sustainable, efficient and livable environments for burgeoning populations. However, first, it is imperative to define what exactly constitutes a “smart city” as well as how architects can employ AI in today’s urban planning practices.
Delving into city design requires two distinctive modes of thinking: ways of designing urban networks and ways of maintaining them. AI-powered design tools can analyze vast amounts of data, such as environmental conditions, demographic trends and urban infrastructure, to propose optimized design solutions that meet specific criteria, such as energy efficiency, pedestrian flow or complex cultural norms.
Alárò City by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), Lagos, Nigeria
At the same time, architects can leverage AI planning tools to explore a broader range of design possibilities and quickly iterate through multiple schemes, as well as create responsive architecture proposals, which can adapt to changing environmental conditions and user preferences in real time. Responsive architecture designs also foster dynamic interactions between buildings and their surroundings, blurring the boundaries between the built environment and nature and promoting sustainable urban ecosystems.
On the other hand, AI technology can be incorporated in the actual design of buildings, where for instance, sensors and actuators can adjust lighting, temperature and ventilation based on occupancy levels, weather patterns and energy demand. It can also serve as the backbone of interconnected infrastructure systems throughout a city. AI algorithms can analyze traffic patterns to optimize road networks, predict maintenance needs for public utilities, and even detect and respond to emergencies, enhancing the overall resilience and reliability of urban infrastructure. In other words, AI becomes an integral part of a city’s operation and maintenance.
Architizer’s new Tech Directory aggregates tech tools for architects, allowing you to search, compare and review AI softwares before selecting which to you in your next project:
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These AI applications are essentially two sides of the same coin. They expose both implicit and explicit ways of using AI for urban planning and thus broadening the definition of “smart” cities. For instance, projects such as Liam Young’s Planet City, present a new mode of urban design which could potentially be characterized as an archetypal “smart city”. While the use of AI technology is not explicitly stated, Planet City introduces concepts of interactive solar panels for powering the ten billion population imaginary city. It also presents a rather eccentric idea of having a non-stop planetary festival, where different cultural celebrations are revisited throughout the year to preserve the cultural diversity of human civilization.
These two examples of AI-driven practices push the boundaries of traditional urban planning. More specifically, the first is an obvious case of responsive AI technology that leads to a more sustainable living, whereas the second one suggests employing AI algorithms to collect sufficient data and propose optimal cultural and social structures within the new city.
SmartCity Springpark Valley by planquadrat Elfers Geskes Krämer GmbH, Bad Vilbel, Germany
Another world-famous project, well-known for its AI integration, is The Line: a futuristic city currently being built in Saudi Arabia. NEOM, the company behind The Line, stated its ambition to create a digital twin backbone through the use of AI tools that will aid the city’s construction and minimize carbon emissions and material waste. Still, a “smart city” does not necessarily have to be a tabula rasa project. Using AI tools to improve existing cities that carry hundreds of years’ worth of human history might arguably be the most important endeavor in urban planning.
One example is the Barcelona Smart City Project, which revitalizes public squares and parks and integrates AI technology such as smart lighting and noise sensors, thus enhancing the city’s livability. Furthermore, Barcelona embraced open data initiatives, thus encouraging the development of numerous urban planning tools and real-time information hubs that continuously improve the city’s operation and maintenance.
Admittedly, designing as well as managing a city is no simple task. Still, whether acting as a medium through which provocative thought-experiments are designed (speculating about future urban design practices) or offering ways of utilizing data to physically realize innovative building environments, AI offers tremendous potential for reimagining urban spaces. By tackling the challenges of the world’s largest urban metropolises and striving for pioneering urban regeneration practices, AI becomes a catalyst for creating more equitable, inclusive, and resilient cities for generations to come.
Architizerâs Tech Directory is a database of tech tools for architects â from the latest generative design and AI to rendering and visualization, 3D modeling, project management and many more. Explore the complete library of categories here.
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In the realm of agrarian economies, a crucial revolution is unfolding, connecting food education, production and transformative agricultural practices. Tackling hunger and malnutrition demands strategic investments in development and research, paving the way for advanced technologies to reach farmers and enlighten the wider public. Concurrently, global challenges like climate change, population growth, conflicts and resource depletion accentuate threats to food security, underscoring the need for urgent innovation and adaptation.
Within this landscape, smart agriculture technology is emerging in visionary projects. This transformative approach integrates advanced technologies into agricultural landscapes, inspiring architects to craft living laboratories rooted in precision farming. Moving beyond physical infrastructure, architects are envisioning collaborative spaces that foster research and education.
As the principles of circularity and sustainability take root in the industry, the harmonious relationship between food production and the environment is coming into sharp focus. Embarking on this journey, the convergence of innovative technologies, circular practices and community engagement is the key to a more resilient, sustainable and interconnected future.
Architectural Transformations: RIO ECO2 Venture and Smart Agriculture
RIO ECO2 Venture by KRAUSE Architecture/Interior, Phoenix, Arizona | Concept.
Smart agriculture technology in architectural design undergoes a concrete manifestation in projects like the RIO ECO2 Venture. This transformative approach integrates advanced technologies into the landscape of agricultural spaces. Architects draw inspiration from such endeavors, conceptualizing structures that embrace precision farming, serving as living laboratories. By incorporating sensors and IoT devices, these structures facilitate data-driven decision-making concerning soil conditions, crop health and climate factors.
In the spirit of the RIO ECO2 Venture, vertical farming facilities emerge as intricately designed hubs with controlled environments, utilizing automation and robotics for tasks like planting and harvesting. The visionary designs prioritize energy-efficient greenhouses, integrating renewable energy sources and smart irrigation systems, exemplifying a commitment to optimizing resource usage.
RIO ECO2 Venture by KRAUSE Architecture/Interior, Phoenix, Arizona | Concept
Architects extend their vision beyond physical infrastructure to create collaborative spaces that inspire research and education. This synthesis of architectural ingenuity and smart agriculture technologies, mirrored in projects like RIO ECO2 Venture, gives rise to environments that harmonize innovative farming practices with sustainable architectural design, fostering efficiency, productivity and environmental consciousness.
ECO2, a visionary 213-acre self-sustaining development, tackles the challenges of rising temperatures and water scarcity through sustainable food technology, serving as a beacon of innovation and underlining the critical importance of food and water security. Beyond its role as an educational center and community strengthener with a holistic Net Positive approach, ECO2 stands as a model for Arizona’s future, adeptly embracing technology, repurposing land for sustainability, and seamlessly integrating urbanity with agriculture.
RIO ECO2 Venture by KRAUSE Architecture/Interior, Phoenix, Arizona | Concept
The community-driven GrowHaus 2.0 within ECO2 is a testament to this foresight, fostering distribution, production and education while addressing climate change and enhancing food access. As ECO2’s comprehensive plan champions the coexistence of agriculture and development, emphasizing sustainability, water reuse, and acknowledging the impact of increasing heat, it harmoniously integrates smart agriculture technologies. ECO2 stands at the forefront, symbolizing the convergence of innovation and circular food supply chains, pursuing a more resilient, sustainable and interconnected food system.
Agrotopia: Pioneering Circular Food Systems and Sustainable Architecture
Designing modern agricultural facilities with a focus on circular food supply chains is a visionary pursuit that harmonizes sustainable principles with innovative technologies. Architects and planners create closed-loop systems in these facilities, turning waste into valuable resources to prioritize resource efficiency. These designs prioritize community-supported agriculture and regional resilience, embracing local sourcing and distribution networks. The integration of precision agriculture technologies ensures optimal resource utilization, minimizing waste and environmental impact. In the quest for sustainability, the incorporation of urban farming and vertical agriculture maximizes land efficiency and shortens supply chains.
These facilities are conceived as modular, adaptable spaces constructed with sustainable materials and powered by renewable energy sources. Water recycling systems and efficient irrigation practices are seamlessly woven into the designs, while smart packaging solutions aim to reduce excess waste. Engaging communities through educational spaces within the facility fosters awareness and understanding of the circular food supply chain model.
As the principles of circularity and sustainability take root in the conceptualization of modern agricultural facilities, tangible exemplars like Agrotopia, Europe’s largest rooftop greenhouse, showcase the transformative marriage of visionary design and sustainable urban agriculture.
Agrotopia is a cutting-edge research center for urban food production, situated on the roof of the REO vegetable and fruit auction in Roeselare, Belgium. The innovative 102,257 square foot (9,500 square meters) building features striking faceted glass façades, a monumental entrance staircase and multifunctional spaces, exemplifying the future of sustainable urban agriculture. With a focus on intensive space utilization, circular energy and water use, Agrotopia serves as a transparent sculpture of glass and steel, standing out against the city skyline. The building houses high-tech research facilities for cultivating fruits and vegetables, with an educational route for the public. The building’s unique design includes a double-height façade conservatory for innovative vertical cultivation, utilizing rainwater from the roof for irrigation.
Agrotopia embraces circular practices, utilizing rainwater for irrigation, cleaning and reusing residual water, and incorporating municipal residual heat from a nearby waste incinerator. The greenhouse is a model of circular symbiosis with the city, representing the forefront of sustainable urban food production and architecture.
Innovation in Design: Architectural Solutions for Smart Agriculture’s Impact on Food Production
The harmonious integration of smart agriculture into architectural design, exemplified by projects like RIO ECO2 Venture, is a testament to the synergy between technological advancement and environmental consciousness. Beyond physical structures, visionary designs such as RIO ECO2 Venture are catalysts for collaboration, research and education, engendering efficiency and heightened environmental awareness.
In the realm of circular food supply chains, exemplified by Agrotopia, the marriage of visionary design and sustainable urban agriculture takes center stage. Agrotopia’s circular practices and space efficiency position it as a leading model in sustainable urban food production.
This symphony of innovation and circularity concludes with a resonant echo, championing resilience, sustainability and interconnectedness. The aspiration is to achieve a harmonious equilibrium between food production and the environment, recognizing the crucial need to transform agriculture for sustained productivity and address issues of hunger and malnutrition. Investing in development and research plays a pivotal role in making new technologies accessible to farmers, contributing to a broader goal of educating the wider public and ensuring a more sustainable and equitable future.
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Spotted: Maritime analysts expect “ever-increasing levels of digitisation and system interconnectivity [for] improved operational efficiency” to be one of the forthcoming improvements in the industry. As electrification of land vehicles continues apace, similar changes to the aviation and marine industries are beginning to gain traction.
In addition to the ships themselves, port traffic contributes to the industry’s considerable carbon footprint. To play a part in improving the sustainability of such busy industrial locations, Turkish marine design and engineering company Navtek created the ZEETUG. According to the company, the novel vessel is the world’s first zero-emissions, electric tugboat.
The tug is smart, efficient, and produces no noise or emissions. Fully electric, the ZEETUG’s operations are managed by smart tug energy management system (STEMS) software. STEMS works on desktops as well as mobiles and coordinates all data related to an entire fleet of tugs. From the position and route of the ship being assisted to wind speed, battery motor charge, and distance to the nearest charging station, STEMS allows the tug to self-manage its energy output.
The platform integrates with marine traffic charts and enables online diagnostics for maintenance needs. That helps operators minimise the amount of time a tug needs to spend in the yard for repair, and the smart system also enables updates and performance improvements as Navtek continues its R&D. Additionally, the tugs can be custom-built to provide a range of power outputs depending on the size of the ships and ports with which they work.
From zero-emissions cruise ships to the generation of energy from a ship’s movement water, Springwise’s library contains a number of innovations that are helping the maritime industry work more sustainably.
Architizer’s A+Product Awards is open for submissions, with the Extended Entry Deadline fast approaching on Friday, February 23rd. Get your products in front of the AEC industry’s most renowned designers by submitting today.
The time we spend at home has been on a steep incline over the past few years. Much of this time is accounted for by the considerable rise in people working from home. However, it’s not all work. Spending time on other activities at home has also seen a dramatic surge. For many people, their home has become their sanctuary, opting for intimate dinner parties over visiting lavish restaurants and cozy movie nights on the sofa above dancing in crowded nightclubs. Our homes are our offices, our gyms, our libraries, our playgrounds, and, in some cases, even our supermarkets. It is thanks to this shift in societal behavior that we are changing our view of what our homes are and what we need them to do for us, and with that, how we choose to furnish them is changing, too.
Homeowners are investing more in their homes, aiming to make their places of refuge as functional, comfortable, and efficient as they can — adopting new technologies to create spaces that are adaptable and places that can cater to an evolving lifestyle.
As of 2024, there are over 400 million smart homes worldwide, expected to reach 478.2 million by 2025. In the United States alone, over 60.4 million households are using smart home devices as of 2023, and this figure has grown to approximately 69.91 million households actively using smart home devices in 2024. Ease of use and functionality have become key factors in how we use our homes. The following products were designed to be as practical as they are stylish — as A+Product Awards winners, they also all received accolades from Architizer’s stellar jury of industry experts, comprising 200+ renowned architects and designers that truly understand what it takes to create great buildings and spaces:
If you’ve been on social media any time in the last year, you’re bound to have seen a workstation sink. The multifunctional units are the envy of every avid home chef, and this version by Delta Faucet is terrific. Designed to meet the evolving needs of modern kitchens, the workstation sinks are a blend of Delta Faucet water-delivery expertise and functional design. Each Workstation sink is sleek in design and offers a multifunctional workspace through its built-in WorkFlow™ ledge. The adaptable sink space is equipped with integrated accessories like cutting boards, dish racks, utensil holders and even a ledge to hold your phone or tablet. Constructed from durable TRU16 gauge stainless steel and featuring noise-reducing soundproofing, these sinks are designed for both durability and quiet operation.
Often, the goal of technology is to increase functionality and make things easier, but sometimes, it’s about pure luxury, and that was Kohler’s goal when creating the Statement Shower Collection—exquisite design paired with innovative performance to create the ultimate well-being experience.
The Kohler Statement™ showering collection transforms the shower experience, offering a unique blend of form, function, and flair. Drawing inspiration from furnishings and lighting, the collection’s designs integrate seamlessly into any space, encouraging personal expression through a variety of shapes, sizes, finishes and innovative spray experiences. This global line is designed for universal appeal, ensuring easy installation and specification across different regions. Kohler’s approach reimagines modern minimalism, blurring the boundaries between rooms and promoting a cohesive and warm aesthetic. The Statement collection marries powerful functionality with design sophistication to create an immersive environment.
The average kitchen extractor or cooker hood has never been the most attractive of appliances. While they have a valid purpose in most homes, bulky, shiny and painfully noisy are but a few choice descriptives for the standard extraction system, and because of these unfortunate characteristics, these silver suckers have been rapidly falling out of favor with designers and homeowners alike. But what do you do when you have poor ventilation and a fondness for aromatic foods? The answer— downdraft extractors. A relatively new innovation in kitchen design, downdraft extractors offer a sleek and discreet alternative to traditional overhead cooker hoods. They’re designed to be flush with the kitchen countertop and extract air directly from the hob when in use, making them especially suitable for kitchen islands or where a clear line of sight is preferred.
Fisher & Paykel have taken this innovation to the next level and integrated a downdraft extractor into their 36 Induction Cooktop. A true two-in-one appliance, the induction cooktop, with accurate temperature control, combines the precision of induction cooking with powerful extraction, meaning no more ugly overhead extractor.
A fridge is a fridge, right? Wrong! The 30-inch Column Refrigerator by Dacor is the epitome of refrigerator technology. Placing technology at the forefront, the innovative fridge boasts intuitive features such as the iQ Remove View, which allows users to control temperature and lighting remotely and even view the contents of their refrigerator to simplify grocery shopping and a hidden touch-control display panel regulates temperature, helping to preserve food freshness and extending the lifespan of your groceries.
The refrigerator doesn’t just stop at technological prowess, though; its sleek design comes in three high-end finishes and can be fully integrated to sit flush with other kitchen cabinets, while the water dispenser is ingeniously fitted inside the unit to maintain the uninterrupted exterior finish.
There’s nothing quite like sitting in front of the fire on a cold winter’s evening, but the thought of cleaning it out and lighting it, alongside environmental concerns, can quickly take the romance out of the idea of having a fireplace in your home.
The Wilderness Front Facing 31H by Ortal removes those problems altogether. Drawing inspiration from the natural world to redefine the fireside experience, the beautiful feature fire uses advanced ceramic log technology with a soothing, nature-inspired aesthetic. The collection aims to provide a tranquil and memorable ambiance while the Wilderness Burner technology, available in variations like Wilderness Burner Dark Brown and Wilderness Burner Chopped Wood, pays homage to the timeless tradition of humans gathering around the hearth to tell tales and watch the world go by.
Ortal’s Front Collection takes the whole concept a step further by achieving the seamless integration of high-end contemporary frameless fireplaces into a building architecture with passive cool wall technology and powerful vent systems, and over 100 models with various media options to create unique and extraordinary focal points in any space.
Architizer’s A+Product Awards is open for submissions, with the Extended Entry Deadline fast approaching on Friday, February 23rd. Get your products in front of the AEC industry’s most renowned designers by submitting today.
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“You had to live—did live, from habit that became instinct—in the assumption that every sound you made was overheard, and, except in darkness, every movement scrutinized.” — George Orwell, 1984.
Back in 1949, when George Orwell’s 1984 was first published, it was regarded as a powerful warning about the dangers of totalitarianism and omnipresent government surveillance. The best-selling book speaks of a reality where everything you do, say, and even think is observed, analyzed and meticulously evaluated for compliance. Yet, even though it ranks among the most extensively read novels in history, it appears that, in the 75 years since the text’s publication, Orwell’s stark warnings didn’t quite resonate with some readers, and as a result, our modern cities are increasingly resembling his dystopia to an extent that may have surprised even him.
With political and social instability fueling crime, corruption and chaos around the world, apprehension and perceived peril are consistently driving demand for safer cities. It was and remains a technology hailed as a savior to the plight. CCTV, monitoring and oversight are being lauded as the answer to all our troubles. However, it is clear that as technology has become increasingly sophisticated, our freedoms have gradually eroded, and while for some, this might seem a fair trade for safety and stability, there are many reasons why a surveillance state is counterproductive for society and why certain architects are likely to begin advocating for counter-surveillance measures to be included in their designs in the near future.
When it comes to surveillance rights, the fundamental question is this: How much surveillance is too much, even in the name of security?
Images created by Architizer via Midjourney
Cities like London, Beijing, Singapore and New York are all criticized for their extensive use of CCTV and surveillance for reasons such as crime prevention, anti-terrorism and public order. However, the extent and nature of such surveillance have spawned advocacy organizations and sparked debates over privacy rights, the potential for state overreach, the impact on civil liberties and the effectiveness of this technology. With projects like NEOM, Amaravati and Telosa increasing trepidation about how much the cities of the future will know about its inhabitants.
In today’s cities, cameras have been installed to reduce crime and urban planning has been established to support the most continuous views possible. However, their effectiveness in achieving this goal remains unproven. In the United Kingdom, where public surveillance cameras are widespread, London being one of the most heavily surveilled cities in the world, expert sociologists found that they have not led to a decrease in overall crime rates. In one study, criminologists found that while there were reductions in some categories, they generally failed to establish a significant impact of cameras on reducing either crime or the public’s fear of crime.
A big issue is that surveillance is often disproportionately targeted at specific communities, particularly communities of color or religion. This problem highlights ethical concerns about discriminatory practices and the misuse of surveillance tools for racial profiling. A pertinent example is the use of facial recognition technology in public spaces. This technology can track individuals in real-time and is often utilized for identifying criminals. However, weaknesses in the technology mean it is particularly prone to errors when identifying people of color, trans persons and nonbinary individuals, and can often lead to misidentification and wrongful accusations. Additionally, there are many recorded instances where surveillance tools have been misused for personal gain or political oppression. Examples include law enforcement using surveillance databases for stalking or harassing individuals or the targeting of political activists during periods of social unrest.
Images created by Architizer via Midjourney
The omnipresence of surveillance technologies in urban spaces has raised concerns that almost every movement of an individual can be tracked, recorded and analyzed, infringing on personal privacy and autonomy, with many privacy experts confirming that mass surveillance can lead to a chilling effect on human behavior, causing individuals to modify their actions and speech out of fear of being watched. In democratic societies, freedom of expression, association and movement are fundamental, and pervasive surveillance can inhibit these freedoms, creating a society where people feel constantly monitored and judged. Historical examples illustrate how surveillance can suppress dissent and erode democratic freedoms.
With ever more being understood about the level we are being monitored on and offline, many people are calling for measures that allow individuals a right to privacy. In recent years, personal data has become a highly valuable commodity bought and sold to corporations for any number of reasons, mostly without our knowledge or consent. Proponents of democratic values and civil liberties argue that the implementation of counter-surveillance strategies in our urban environments would reduce the transactional value of our personal information and the exploitation in the name of our data.
In addressing the challenges of privacy, autonomy and social ethics of surveillance, architects and designers are exploring a range of innovative counter-surveillance measures. These measures extend far beyond the evasion of surveillance cameras and are designed to uphold fundamental human rights and promote social equity.
Images created by Architizer via Midjourney
A central aspect of these strategies involves the use of materials that disrupt surveillance technologies. Maintaining anonymity in public spaces can be vital for some individuals, for their own safety, if they are well-known or public figures, or for people who work in particular industries. By designing façades with anti-reflective coatings or patterns that confuse facial recognition software and incorporating infrared-blocking materials to counter thermal imaging, architect consciously aim to safeguard the freedom of individuals to live without the constant unease of being watched. This is significant as psychological studies indicate that the sensation of being monitored can lead to self-censorship and altered behavior.
The strategic planning of urban layouts and spatial organization has also become integral to counter-surveillance architecture. Where previously open and easily monitored spaces were preferred, architects and urban planners are now designing cities with irregular, complex layouts that naturally limit long sight lines and large open spaces favorable to surveillance. This includes introducing winding streets, varying building heights and incorporating dense foliage. These designs not only impede the effectiveness of surveillance cameras but also enrich the urban environment in terms of aesthetics and biodiversity. By crafting urban spaces that inherently limit surveillance capabilities, architects are promoting a sense of security and freedom among city residents, thereby enhancing their mental well-being and fostering a sense of community autonomy.
Finally, with conversations about Smart Cities on the rise, incorporating secure communication and data networks within the urban infrastructure is a critical measure. This kind of integration, encompassing encrypted WiFi networks and secure data centers, plays a crucial role in safeguarding the digital aspect of residents’ lives. Encrypted WiFi networks, employing advanced cryptographic protocols, ensure that personal information transmitted over public networks is protected against unauthorized access and cyber threats.
Images created by Architizer via Midjourney
Secure data centers, functioning as the backbone of urban digital infrastructure, utilize robust security measures like firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and physical security controls to safeguard sensitive data. This approach helps build a commitment to the digital rights and privacy of urban residents. In smart cities, where digital connectivity is as fundamental as physical infrastructure, these secure networks and data centers are indispensable. They provide a shield against unwarranted surveillance and data theft.
These architectural and urban planning strategies represent a shift in how cities are soon to be designed and experienced. They are not ways to evade the gaze of surveillance cameras that will be celebrated by criminals; they are ways to create urban environments that respect and protect individual privacy, promote social equity and strive to foster a sense of community and well-being. By focusing on these broader societal benefits, architects and urban planners can address the concern of surveillance and can also contribute to the creation of more humane, dynamic and livable urban spaces.
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Architizer’s Tech Directory is a database of tech tools for architects — from the latest generative design and AI to rendering and visualization, 3D modeling, project management and many more. Explore the complete library of categories here.
In the realm of architectural design, “the plan” is considered one of the two fundamental drawings for creating space. It is primarily an organizational drawing that considers a plethora of factors to shape spaces through creative processes. Integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in architectural planning has emerged as a transformative force, revolutionizing traditional approaches and ushering in a new era of innovation.
AI brings a multifaceted set of capabilities that not only expedites the design process but also augments the overall efficiency and sustainability of architectural proposals. From generative design that explores a multitude of creative possibilities to sophisticated simulations predicting energy performance, AI empowers architects to make informed decisions and optimize their designs without however sacrificing their capacity for imaginative exploration.
Without further ado, here are the top seven AI tools that unlock unprecedented capabilities in architectural planning.
Best AI Tool for Creating Office Plans
qbiq is an AI software that is suitable for producing efficient planning layouts for office spaces. Acting as the architect’s co-pilot for office designs, qbiq delivers a full-suite planning solution. Architects follow the process of uploading a simple “shell” of their building, showcasing the overall usable space in each floor.
qbiq produces three ‘Test fit’ alternatives in the form of analytical furniture plans as well as immersive 3D virtual tours. Furthermore, each solution is accompanied by a performance analysis report that breaks down the properties in each space. Factors such as privacy, daylight access, density ratios and open versus enclosed spaces are the primary data used to evaluate each layout scenario, helping architects to quickly reach the most optimal solution.
Learn more and review this tool >
Best AI Tool for Collaborative Planning
Hypar is considered the best AI tool for design automation and collaboration. Performing as a cloud platform, Hyper allows architects to efficiently collaborate with other construction industry professionals and accelerate both the design and construction process. The software includes a library with preset building systems such as plumbing, mechanical and electrical schematics as well as structural charts that can be integrated in a project. Being a web-based accessible tool, Hypar allows architects, engineers and contractors to easily integrate their respective designs and building systems through real-time rendering and produce highly coordinated plans that are ready for construction.
Learn more and review this tool >
Best AI Tool for Creating Urban Plans
TestFit is among the top AI tools for feasibility studies and urban planning projects. Its main goal is to eliminate the more tedious aspects of a large-scale project, such as counting housing units or parking spots, thus allowing architects to truly delve into the creative aspect of their project. The software uses site data such as topography, flood maps and building regulations as well as additional parameters set by architects, to generate layout options for a plethora of building typologies: multi-housing projects, retail stores, hotels, industrial sites and even parking lots. TestFit’s most innovative asset is its real-time rendering capabilities and rapid iterations as well as its ability to integrate with some of the most popular design programs on the market.
Learn more and review this tool >
Best AI Tool for Site Analysis Plans
Prior to designing, architects usually spent a significant amount of time analyzing their project site. Form historic data to environmental conditions and even public transport maps, Aino transforms site analysis data into actionable and insightful maps. Architects can use the software to ask questions about their site by simply typing a few words into a search bar. The spatial data can then become visually represented through graphs, charts and geo-referenced locations placed on a map.
Aino allows architects to choose from multiple visualization style options and uncover connections between data sets. The software is also ideal for collaboration, offering an interactive interface that can be smoothly embedded on countless web platforms.
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Best AI Tool for Data-driven Plans
Finch’s primary goal is the production of data-driven, optimized architectural plans. More specifically, it allows architects to make correlations between factors such as CO2 efficiency and material selection or circulation areas and occupancy ratios. By using advanced algorithms, Finch calculates the most optimized combinations and generates an array of possible layout scenarios. The architectural plans are instantly reconfigurable through real-time processes. Every plan is backed up with instant numbers and figures as well as a built-in error prevention tool, which ensures that each design is compliant with building regulations and sustainability requirements.
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Best AI Tool for Creating Residential Plans
CONIX.AI offers a cutting-edge solution for optimizing residential plans. Architects simply draw their land on Google Maps and input the necessary building requirements. The program suggests multiple design proposals and layouts, starting from basic zoning diagrams that eventually become detailed, furnished residential plans. In fact, architects are able to set additional presets for each design by selecting specific housing typologies, such as villa or apartment, as a blueprint. Recognizing the power of human ingenuity, CONIX.AI also offers the ability to manually customize each drawing, promoting a true synergy between architects and AI tools.
It is important to note that CONIX.AI was developed for the Saudi market and includes tools specific for the Saudi Building Codes. Nevertheless, it allows architects to input their own, custom requirements, offering better control over their designs.
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Best AI Tool for Creating Zoning Layouts
Laiout is one of the most promising AI software tools for early-stage design projects. Architects upload their initial floor plans, and the program starts generating an array of zoning diagrams, accompanied by detailed statistical data. Using a set of preferences, the zoning layouts can be tweaked to match the desirable plan of the space. Laiout also offers a Freeze/Regenerate tool, in which certain areas can remain intact while others are modified, eventually producing a more intentional and controlled result. Finally, the software has the option of turning the zoning diagrams into furnished plans.
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How to Better Leverage AI Tools in Architecture
The following tips and considerations will help you maximize the potential of AI in architectural design, as well as avoiding common pitfalls associated with this fast-emerging technology.
Adopt a Critical Approach: Using AI software for inspiration and assistance, especially for completing the more mundane aspects of architectural planning, is a great way to utilize such tools. Still, it is imperative to not fully rely on them and approach each design iteration with a critical attitude. Depending too heavily on AI software, might lead to architectural plans that fail to address the more delicate and human-centric aspects of design and potentially ignore context-specific nuances.
Validate Every Result: AI tools are based primarily on specific databases. In other words, their results are as valid as the data they are trained on. As a result, false or outdated information may lead to unrealistic designs that, for example, do not comply with current building regulations or even produce incorrect site analysis maps. By regularly reviewing AI-generated designs, architects can ensure that the drawings align with the relevant project requirements. As an additional precaution, architects who have access to the primary databases can regularly update them, minimizing any potential risks for false results or biases.
Set up Streamlined Workflows: AI software is becoming an integral part of an architect’s toolkit. Nevertheless, incorporating it in a pre-established workflow often poses a challenge. Choosing AI tools that easily “plug-in” with existing architectural programs will drastically boost performance and reduce any assimilation issues. Admittedly, a tailored workflow is every architect’s bread and butter and therefore, seamless integration practices encourage architects to try new, innovative tools that elevate their design process.
Join AI Forces: In the past couple of years, countless options for AI tools have been developed. This is an opportunity to try different combinations of multiple AI programs in order to collectively elevate the efficiency of architectural planning endeavors as well as cross-check the resulting designs. By combining different types of generative design algorithms with machine learning capabilities, architects gain the power to explore an extensive array of creative solutions. Combining AI tools for data analysis, site evaluation, compliance checking and speedy iterations streamlines workflows, mitigates risks and stretches out the possibilities of AI technology even further.
Architizer’s Tech Directory is a database of tech tools for architects — from the latest generative design and AI to rendering and visualization, 3D modeling, project management and many more. Explore the complete library of categories here.
Spotted: Most people are familiar with RFID tags – a type of tracking system that uses smart barcodes in order to identify items. RFID stands for “radio frequency identification,” and the tags use radio waves to transmit data from the tag to a reader. RFID tags have uses as disparate as tracking items in retail stores and warehouses, supply chain management, and tracking the movement of vehicles, pets, and even patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
Now, Circlolink has developed RFID Threads, which it claims are the world’s first washable radio frequency digital ID that stays with the product. The radio transmitter is housed in a single smart thread that can be integrated into products, connecting them to a dedicated cloud platform. The RFID yarn can be inserted into products during manufacture and then all of the details of an item’s manufacture, sourcing, fibre types, and more can be easily tracked across its lifetime. The threads can be used in everything from clothing and mattresses to shoes and homeware, with Circlolink also testing thicker threads for incorporation into tyres.
Circlolink has partnered with e-textile company Adetex.CS, to provide the CIRCAA Cloud platform used to manage the data collected by the threads. The system also allows for the creation of digital product passports, unique QR Codes for customer engagement, and bulk scanning, and acts as a bridge to supply chain management systems.
The company recently launched its Digital Product Passport (DPP) Pilot Package wherein brands can trial the technology with 100 RFID threads, an RFID reader, and access to the CIRCAA app. In the longer term, Circlolink plans to begin distribution of the first 100 million threads over a two-year rollout period. The company points out that producing the threads in bulk will allow it to reduce the cost from $1.50 (around €1.42) per thread as part of the pilot scheme to just $0.11 (around €0.10) each, helping to make the technology as affordable and accessible as possible.
The new RFID threads join recent innovations seeking to improve circularity and traceability. These include a marketplace that connects fashion brands to deadstock materials and a circular marketplace for personal electronics.
Spotted: The World Health Organization predicts that the healthcare staff shortage experienced across the African continent will worsen by 2030. A long-standing problem, staff shortages have been exacerbated by rapid population growth alongside economic advancement, and experts recommend strengthening training programmes and governance of the workforce in order to improve the situation. While systemic change, like South Africa’s creation of national health insurance, slowly moves ahead, innovators are creating meaningful improvements to improve access to medication now.
Pelebox smart lockers from healthcare technology company Technovera are a new way of accessing prescription refills far quicker than the current standard. Designed to help patients with chronic conditions that require regular prescription refills, the Internet-of-Things-enabled (IoT) smart lockers use a one-time pin to identify individuals and dispense the correct medication.
Patients enrol in the local clinic’s refill programme and receive the pin when their refill is available. This allows people to avoid waiting up to three and a half hours at a clinic to receive their prescription. Such long waits often entail taking time off work and cause frustration both to patients and healthcare professionals. Additionally, the modular design of the smart lockers makes them well-suited to installation in high foot traffic zones such as shopping malls and transit hubs, thereby making access to healthcare services even more convenient for thousands of people.
With South Africa seeing a rapid increase in the number of patients needing treatment for non-communicable diseases, on-demand access to medication makes it easier for people to complete a full treatment schedule. Patients receive their medicine at a time that is convenient for them, rather than having to choose between travelling and waiting or not seeking care at all.
Advancements in technology are transforming the healthcare industry, with Springwise’s database including examples like an AI-powered cancer scan platform and a new last-mile delivery service that brings pharmaceutical products to customers’ doors while maintaining full privacy.
If you’ve been on social media any time in the last year, you’re bound to have seen a workstation sink. The multifunctional units are the envy of every avid home chef, and this version by Delta Faucet is terrific. Designed to meet the evolving needs of modern kitchens, the workstation sinks are a blend of Delta Faucet water-delivery expertise and functional design. Each Workstation sink is sleek in design and offers a multifunctional workspace through its built-in WorkFlow™ ledge. The adaptable sink space is equipped with integrated accessories like cutting boards, dish racks, utensil holders and even a ledge to hold your phone or tablet. Constructed from durable TRU16 gauge stainless steel and featuring noise-reducing soundproofing, these sinks are designed for both durability and quiet operation.
Often, the goal of technology is to increase functionality and make things easier, but sometimes, it’s about pure luxury, and that was Kohler’s goal when creating the Statement Shower Collection—exquisite design paired with innovative performance to create the ultimate well-being experience.
The average kitchen extractor or cooker hood has never been the most attractive of appliances. While they have a valid purpose in most homes, bulky, shiny and painfully noisy are but a few choice descriptives for the standard extraction system, and because of these unfortunate characteristics, these silver suckers have been rapidly falling out of favor with designers and homeowners alike. But what do you do when you have poor ventilation and a fondness for aromatic foods? The answer— downdraft extractors. A relatively new innovation in kitchen design, downdraft extractors offer a sleek and discreet alternative to traditional overhead cooker hoods. They’re designed to be flush with the kitchen countertop and extract air directly from the hob when in use, making them especially suitable for kitchen islands or where a clear line of sight is preferred.
A fridge is a fridge, right? Wrong! The 30-inch Column Refrigerator by Dacor is the epitome of refrigerator technology. Placing technology at the forefront, the innovative fridge boasts intuitive features such as the iQ Remove View, which allows users to control temperature and lighting remotely and even view the contents of their refrigerator to simplify grocery shopping and a hidden touch-control display panel regulates temperature, helping to preserve food freshness and extending the lifespan of your groceries.
There’s nothing quite like sitting in front of the fire on a cold winter’s evening, but the thought of cleaning it out and lighting it, alongside environmental concerns, can quickly take the romance out of the idea of having a fireplace in your home.
