Workshop: AI-Driven Architectural Design in Linz

Integrating AI from Concept to Production AI-generated images are everywhere, but do they actually change how architecture is designed? In most practices, AI is still used as a post-production tool. This workshop proposes a different approach: AI as an active design partner, embedded from early research and concept development to geometry, communication, and final presentation. Rather than focusing on image-making alone, the workshop explores how AI reshapes decision-making, iteration, and design thinking. Your UpgradeWe move from “AI as renderer” to “AI as design intelligence.” Participants will learn how to integrate AI across: research and reference building concept generation and iteration spatial and formal development storytelling and client communication The goal is not better images, but optimized design processes. What We’ll Work OnPart 1 — AI in the Creative & Concept Phase (Midjourney live demonstration + hands-on with your own project; no Midjourney account required) Building research workflows and AI-assisted moodboards Controlled prompting for style references Version comparison and iterative concept development When to increase chaos, stylization, and weirdness, and why How AI influences design decisions, not just image outcomes Hands-on: develop a moodboard and prompts for your own project with Claude; selected prompts are run live in Midjourney Part 2 — AI in Architectural Communication (Claude) Image-to-video and camera prompting Presentation storytelling with AI Architectural copywriting with custom agents How AI enhances spatial and narrative communication Part 2b — Live Showcase: AI That Acts (demonstration, no installation required) Claude or Codex modelling in real time in Rhino via MCP (Model Context Protocol) What agents can, and can’t yet, do inside professional software Setup guide provided to try it yourself after the workshop Part 3 — From Geometry to Production (hands-on with ComfyUI Local) Sketch-to-render and Rhino viewport-to-render pipelines Render-to-drawing workflows Custom AI tools for CAD-style output Image-to-3D and text-to-3D Workflow integration around one coherent project example Part 4 — Reflection & Critical Discussion Where does AI fall short? What still requires human judgment? How is authorship changing in architectural practice? Agents that act: control, permissions and accountability when AI operates your software How do offices implement AI responsibly? Data privacy and professional standards (overview) Who This Is ForThis workshop is primarily designed for architects, spatial designers, exhibition designers, and interior designers - professionals who work with space, atmosphere and built environments. The tools and workflows are equally relevant for creative professionals and art directors who want to build visual worlds and AI-supported presentation material. You work in architecture, interior, exhibition, or spatial design You want to integrate AI meaningfully into your concept and production workflow - not just generate images You're curious how these tools apply to your specific projects (you'll have the chance to work on your own during the workshop) You prefer depth and structure over quick demos What You’ll Take HomeA working AI concept workflow — a research-to-render pipeline you can apply to your next project immediately Prompting strategies tailored to architectural aesthetics and spatial communication A critical framework for where AI helps, where it doesn’t, and how to make that call Practical tool setups across Midjourney, Claude and ComfyUI Peer exchange with other practitioners navigating the same questions AI Mindset – opportunities & limitations What to BringLaptop & charger Active accounts: Midjourney Claude ComfyUI Local (setup instructions will be sent in advance) A Comfy account with approx. USD 10 in credits One of your own projects or reference images to work with (3D Model Screenshots, Renderings, Moodboard References) NOTE: ComfyUI Local is free, but the hands-on workflows use cloud-based API models for faster generation. Please create a Comfy account and top up approx. USD 10 in credits before the workshop (one-time, no subscription). Date & Schedule12 November 2026 08:30: Open Doors, Coffee & Croissants 09:00: Introduction & Framing: AI-driven design — what it actually means 09:30: Part 1: AI in the Creative & Concept Phase (Midjourney) 12:00: Lunch Break 13:30: Part 2: AI in Architectural Communication & Prompting (Claude) 15:00: Part 3: From Geometry to Production (ComfyUI) 16:00: Part 4: Reflection, Critical Discussion & Feedback 17:00: End / Optional After-Work Drinks Our Workshop Host: Ebrar EkeEbrar Eke is a Turkish architect and designer based in Vienna, currently working as a Design Architect and AI LAB Expert at Delugan Meissl Associated Architects (DMAA). She leads the integration of AI-informed methodologies into architectural workflows, merging computational intelligence with innovative design strategies. She holds a Master of Architecture degree from Studio Greg Lynn at die Angewandte and is the founder of AI.Architecture Studio.