Designing What’s Next: How AI Is Transforming Architecture & Engineering

By Zachary Robinson, Electrical EIT

ZACHARY ROBINSON, Electrical EIT Zachary supports the Building Systems Division by providing electrical system design services, such as code reviews, load calculations, photometric modeling, service coordination, and detailed power and lighting designs.

Architecture & engineering (AE) design has been profoundly shaped by technological breakthroughs over the course of the industry’s history. From starting out on manual drafting tables with pen and paper, to transitioning over to Computer-Aided Design (CAD) programs, tools available to AE firms are constantly developing and improving alongside the technology of their day. 

In 2026, we in the industry once again find ourselves on the verge of another profound shift in what our tools are capable of; Artificial Intelligence (AI) is redefining the way we think about the design process. From project inception through to construction completion, AI is quickly becoming an everyday tool in a designer’s toolbox.

With the topic of AI creating such a buzz in today’s age, it is more important than ever to understand what it really is and how it is being adapted by AE firms. At its core, AI refers to the use of computer science to create systems that are designed to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence to complete. When provided with the correct instructions, these systems can learn from data, recognize patterns, make decisions and even generate content. So how can architects and engineers harness that potential? Well! We here at AES Northeast are seeing many positive ways that this can be applied to our everyday workflow.

AI tools significantly boost efficiency and productivity by automating time‑intensive tasks like code analysis and QA/QC reviews. They can quickly process large volumes of design data, cross-check codes such as NFPA, IBC, or IECC, and identify compliance issues in real time. Additionally, they can scan construction documents to detect conflicts across disciplines (e.g., mechanical, plumbing, electrical), preventing costly delays before construction begins.

AI also enhances design workflows through generative tools that use project inputs—like location, building type, and budget—to rapidly produce design options, reports, renderings, and BIM models. This allows teams to explore more possibilities in less time while reducing the effort and cost of manual processes.

 These are just a few of the many ways in which AI tools are finding their way into the design process at AE firms across the industry. As we find ourselves on the cutting edge of this developing technology, we are presented with a great opportunity to embrace it appropriately. It provides a vast potential for enhancing what we are capable of. However, it comes with a set of new challenges. It is critical to understand the security in place with the AI tools we are using and how we can interact with them safely.

More than anything, it is imperative for us to recognize that AI tools are just that: tools. They are there to build upon and improve the services we are already providing. In practice, these tools are not perfect. At the end of the day, it is up to us as professionals to thoroughly and extensively review all AI assisted products for accuracy, quality, and readability. 

This is an exciting time for the industry, and I can’t wait to see how AI continues to shape the future of what AE can be moving forward! If you ever want to learn more about AI tools or how we use them in our services feel free to contact us!

Architecture, Engineering, and Land Surveying Northeast, PLLC (AES Northeast) is a full-service design firm with over 30 years’ experience, offering professional services for every phase of a project, from planning through construction.