AI usage is growing within architecture, but human input is still vital

AI adoption reaches tipping point across UK architecture, but human judgement remains critical, according to new research from the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).

The survey highlights a broader shift underway across architecture, with AI moving from experimentation to everyday business practice while raising new questions around trust, skills and the future of professional work.

The research outlines how artificial intelligence (AI) adoption has changed, how its use has developed and how design professionals view the AI-influenced future.

The number of architecture practices using AI for most projects has risen from 59 per cent (2025) to 74 per cent (2026).

Some 59 per cent of practices believe that AI adoption will lead to staff reductions across the architecture profession and 61 per cent agree that it will make it more difficult for early-career professionals to acquire essential skills and experience

The report shows a significant jump in the number of architecture practices now using AI, from 59 per cent in 2025, to 74 per cent in 2026.

Many contributors view AI as a valuable tool in boosting productivity in practices, with 75 per cent reporting an improvement in their practice's productivity, and 57 per cent of respondents reporting a positive return on investment (ROI).

Despite widespread adoption of AI, fewer than one in six (17 per cent ) of respondents agree that their designs are better because of AI.

While many practices report boosts in productivity, efficiency and ROI, the report findings suggest that architects still value creativity, human judgement and critical thinking as ‘irreplaceable’ and the key components of high-quality design.

As called for in RIBA’s Repeal, Reserve, Regulate campaign, those responsible for critical decisions in the delivery of buildings should possess the specific skills, competencies and professional judgement required for the task.

Design outputs delivered and used without professional oversight create unacceptable risks for the future, and the findings reinforce the need for maintaining a competence-led approach to regulating the built environment, underpinned by rigorous education, ethical practice and lifelong learning.

While there is no clear evidence of sector-wide AI-induced staff cuts yet, a significant proportion (59 per cent) believe that AI adoption will lead to staff reductions across the architecture profession.

There is also growing concern around the effect of AI on the training and development of early-career architects, with 61 per cent agreeing that it will make it more difficult for early-career professionals to acquire essential skills and experience, as AI increasingly automates tasks that have been traditionally used as training and development opportunities.

Overall, the profession remains sceptical about what lies ahead, with only 21 per cent agreeing that AI makes them more optimistic about the future of their organisation.

While many recognise the opportunities that AI presents, including enhanced productivity, efficiency, and ROI, 77 per cent of respondents agree that it can never replace human creativity.

The findings make it clear that creativity, human judgement and critical thinking remain at the heart of the profession.

RIBA President Chris Williamson said: “AI adoption is moving at a remarkable pace, reflecting a broader shift taking place not only across architecture, but throughout the UK's professional businesses and services more widely.

“Organisations are increasingly implementing AI in day-to-day operations, and architects, like many other professionals, are already seeing benefits in productivity and efficiency.

“On the other hand, this research makes it clear that the profession does not see AI as a replacement for human creativity and judgement, which remains at the core of architecture. Professional oversight of design remains essential if tomorrow’s buildings are going to be safe and sustainable.

“The research suggests AI adoption is likely to have its greatest – and potentially most detrimental – impact on entry-level and early-career roles.

“If that proves to be the case, what are the long-term implications for the profession?

“If fewer people have the opportunity to develop foundational skills through early-career experience, how will practices support the next generation of architects?

“RIBA is committed to ensuring AI is implemented throughout practices responsibly, while maintaining the creativity, skills, and judgement that are essential to architecture, and UK businesses more widely.”