Architecture's Future is Human

April 2026

Hello AIAIC Members,

I recently attended the EPIC event at Topgolf, generously sponsored by several outstanding allied professionals. While the event provided a great opportunity for networking and fellowship within our industry, what stood out most to me was the time I spent speaking with many emerging professionals who are currently navigating their paths toward licensure.

One of the clearest takeaways from those conversations was the need for seasoned and experienced architects to step forward as mentors. Many of these individuals are eager to learn, grow, and ultimately become licensed architects, but they are looking for guidance from those who have already walked that path.

Encouraging licensure and sharing real-world experience is one of the most valuable contributions we can make to the future of our profession. By investing time in mentoring emerging professionals, we help ensure that the next generation of architects not only achieves licensure, but also understands the responsibility, leadership, and stewardship that come with the title of “Architect.”

Interestingly, the United States actually has fewer architects per capita today than it did in the 1980s — a trend that has significant implications for the future of the profession and the growth of architectural firms.

The profession is currently entering a generational transition period where experienced architects are retiring faster than new architects are becoming licensed. Many industry observers believe this could lead to a shortage of licensed architects in the coming years, particularly in specialized sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

At the same time, the next generation of architects is uniquely equipped to implement new and creative approaches to practice, particularly through emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI).

I believe most of us have already used AI in some form within our professional work. AI is beginning to influence many aspects of the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. However, most professional organizations—including the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB)—agree that AI will transform architectural practice, but it will not replace licensed architects. Instead, it will likely augment and accelerate parts of the profession while leaving core professional responsibilities firmly in the hands of licensed professionals.

From my observations and research, AI will likely influence architecture in several ways.

AI tools are increasingly capable of assisting with repetitive and analytical tasks such as generative design options, rapid floor plan development, code-checking assistance, energy modeling simulations, construction documentation automation, and rendering or visualization. As a result, architects may spend less time drafting and modeling and more time focusing on design decision making, coordination, and client strategy.

AI can also dramatically improve speed and efficiency by evaluating thousands of design possibilities based on constraints such as zoning regulations, site conditions, daylighting analysis, energy performance, and cost optimization. Generative design algorithms can test hundreds—or even thousands—of layouts within minutes, allowing architects to make more informed design decisions earlier in the process.

However, architecture is not simply about producing drawings. It involves professional responsibility and judgment. Licensed architects must maintain responsible control of design, ensure life-safety compliance, interpret building codes, coordinate multiple disciplines, manage professional liability, advocate for clients, and oversee construction administration. These responsibilities are defined in statutes such as the California Architects Practice Act and similar regulatory frameworks across the country.

AI cannot legally assume professional liability, design responsibility, contract administration, or accountability for public safety. Even if AI were capable of producing a complete design package, a licensed architect must still review the work, assume responsible control, and apply their professional seal before documents can be submitted for permitting.

Architecture also involves many human-centered elements that technology cannot easily replicate, including cultural context, the emotional experience of space, aesthetic judgment, stakeholder collaboration, community engagement, and the translation of a client’s vision into a built environment. Architecture remains fundamentally a creative and social profession—not purely a technical one.

That said, AI will likely have a strong impact in areas such as early concept design, building analysis, code compliance assistance, documentation production, and visualization. These tools may help architects work more efficiently while improving design insight and performance analysis.

Most experts predict that AI will ultimately function as a “design co-pilot.” Rather than replacing architects, AI will reduce drafting time, automate repetitive documentation tasks, provide faster design analysis, and allow architects to focus more on higher-value aspects of the profession.

This technological transition is not unlike previous shifts in our profession. Computer-Aided Design (CAD) replaced hand drafting in the 1980s, and Building Information Modeling (BIM) transformed documentation in the 2000s. Each technological advancement changed how architects work, but none eliminated the profession.

The key takeaway is that AI will likely transform architectural workflows, but it cannot replace licensed architects because the profession requires professional responsibility, legal accountability, human-centered design judgment, coordination, and leadership.

The architects who will thrive in the future are those who learn to leverage AI as a tool rather than compete with it.

Ultimately, our profession needs future leaders who can embrace new technologies while maintaining a strong connection to the traditions and responsibilities of architecture. Too often we forget that along our own professional journey, someone took the time to encourage us, guide us, and teach us what it truly means to be an architect.

Becoming an architect is about far more than academic achievement or certifications. While education and licensure are essential, real-world experience and mentorship play an equally important role in shaping the professional judgment, responsibility, and leadership that the title “Architect” demands.

I encourage each of you this week to reach out to those who are currently pursuing licensure. Offer guidance, share your experience, and take the time to mentor them. Our role is not simply to sign off on AXP hours, but to help candidates understand the deeper responsibility that comes with the privilege of bearing the title of a licensed architect.

Through mentorship, we strengthen not only the next generation of professionals, but the future of our profession itself.

This is a topic that truly benefits from open discussion, and I welcome everyone’s feedback. I encourage you to share your opinions, comments, rebuttals, and insights so that we can continue to strengthen our Chapter and the profession we represent.

As always, it is an honor to serve and represent the Chapter. I appreciate the opportunity to work alongside all of you and look forward to hearing your thoughts on how I can continue to better lead and support our membership in 2026.

David Higginson, AIA
President
AIA Inland California Chapter