Chapter 1: AI in Modern Architecture and Design: Rethinking the Boundaries of an Emerging Field

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and AI-based tools, as well as other sophisticated ICT-based technologies and tools, exert disruptive impact on modern architecture and interior design. While AI and related tools and technologies have been hailed for their transformative potential, the down to earth questions of how to responsibly and effectively integrate them in daily practice of practitioners and educators have remained largely unaddressed. By sketching the broader context in which the debate unfolds, this chapter offers an insight into the book’s content, including its objectives, structure, and value added. In this way, the key lines of the argument weaving through the consecutive chapters of the book are highlighted. It is thus argued that AI, alongside technologies such as generative AI (GenAI), extended reality, the metaverse, nanotechnology, and photogrammetry, shapes architectural education, user experience, and the built environment. Special emphasis is placed on the Arab World, supported by real-world case studies, offering culturally contextualized perspectives. In addition, a case for the integration of socio-emotional and environmental dimensions in contemporary architecture and interior design is made. Finally, it is also argued that responsible and informed use of AI can be a powerful enabler for achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.