AI and Computational Design in Architecture

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Price

A$99.00

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Course Content

I. Introduction (5 minutes)
II. Learning Objectives (2 minutes)
IV. Module 2: Generative Design for Concept Exploration (15 minutes)
VII. Summary and Key Takeaways (3 minutes)
Final Quiz – AI and Computational Design in Architecture

★★★★★

This advanced CPD course introduces architects, building designers, and engineers to the role of artificial intelligence and computational design in contemporary architectural practice. It explains how generative design and AI driven simulation can support early concept exploration, performance evaluation, and evidence based decision making. The course also shows how these tools align with the Australian regulatory framework, particularly the performance based structure of the National Construction Code and NatHERS assessments. Participants learn how digital methods can improve energy performance, daylight access, and overall design efficiency while supporting compliance pathways. The session concludes by addressing ethical considerations, professional responsibility, and best practice principles for responsible use of AI in architectural design.

This CPD provides general guidance on professional responsibilities and documentation practices. It does not constitute legal advice or replace project-specific contractual or statutory obligations.

  • CPD Points: 1 Formal CPD Point
  • Duration: 1 hour
  • Certificate Upon Completion
  • Difficulty Level: Advanced
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This session is designed for

Architects
Building Designers
Building Surveyors
Certifiers
Building Performance Engineers


By the end of this course, participants will be able to identify key artificial intelligence and computational design tools used in architectural and building design practice. They will be able to apply generative design methods to explore design options during early concept stages. Participants will also be able to evaluate building performance using AI assisted simulation and analysis. They will understand how these digital methods support compliance with the National Construction Code and NatHERS requirements. Finally, participants will be able to recognise the ethical, professional, and regulatory responsibilities associated with using AI in design practice.

  • Identify key artificial intelligence and computational design tools used in architectural and building design workflows.
  • Evaluate building performance using AI assisted simulation methods for thermal, daylight, and energy analysis.
  • Explain the differences between computational design, parametric modelling, and artificial intelligence in the built environment.
  • Understand how digital design tools support evidence based compliance with the National Construction Code and NatHERS.
  • Apply generative design principles to explore multiple design options during early concept development.
  • Recognise ethical, professional, and regulatory responsibilities when using AI assisted tools in architectural practice.

This ensures that CPD efforts align with professional regulatory requirements.

Framework/Body

Relevant Sections

Focus Areas

National Construction Code (NCC 2022)

Performance-based compliance pathways; Performance Solutions and verification methods; energy efficiency provisions (Whole-of-Home and Section J); documentation/evidence expectations for demonstrating compliance

Using AI/computational design to test and document performance outcomes (thermal, daylight, energy); generating traceable evidence to support Performance Requirements; transparency of assumptions, inputs, and limitations in compliance submissions

NatHERS Protocols

Thermal performance modelling and rating workflow; inputs/assumptions and model integrity; using simulation outcomes to inform design decisions prior to assessment

AI-assisted iteration to improve NatHERS outcomes; early-stage envelope and massing decisions informed by thermal modelling; aligning design optimisation with compliant NatHERS pathways (decision-support, not certification)

ABSA CPD Competency Area

Building sustainability assessment capabilities (modelling/simulation literacy; evidence-based sustainability decision-making; ethical and professional responsibilities in assessment-related workflows)

Interpreting AI-driven simulation outputs for sustainability outcomes; validating data quality and bias risks; documenting methodology for defensible performance advice

Building Designers

Design workflow integration (concept → development); planning constraints and feasibility; coordination of performance testing; responsible use of digital tools

Generative concept exploration within planning/NCC constraints; performance-driven iteration (solar access, overshadowing, thermal/daylight); buildability awareness while maintaining design intent

NSCA 2021 (Architects)

PC17, PC20, PC28, PC31, PC33, PC45

Applying computational methods to refine concept options; integrating performance analysis into design development and documentation; ethical governance of AI outputs; clear communication of assumptions and limitations to stakeholders/regulators

Engineers Australia (Stage 2)

Problem analysis and solution synthesis using contemporary tools; evaluation and verification; risk and professional responsibility; communication of technical outcomes

AI-enabled simulation for thermal/daylight/energy performance; selecting and validating modelling approaches; documenting decisions and limitations; interdisciplinary collaboration across design teams

Building Surveyors

Assessment of compliance pathways; review of Performance Solutions evidence; documentation sufficiency and traceability; understanding modelling assumptions and verification methods

Interpreting AI/simulation evidence supporting NCC compliance; checking transparency, inputs, and limitations; aligning outputs with acceptable verification methods and robust documentation

Urban Planners & Landscape Architects

Planning controls, massing limits, site constraints; solar access/overshadowing impacts; option testing to support planning negotiations

Generative massing and layout optimisation against planning controls; quantifying solar access and overshadowing outcomes; communicating scenario testing to planning stakeholders

What’s Included

This course examines how emerging digital technologies are transforming the way buildings are designed and evaluated in professional practice. It explores the integration of computational processes into architectural workflows and how these methods help manage complex design constraints. The session also investigates how data informed analysis can improve decision making during the early stages of a project. Attention is given to the relationship between digital modelling, environmental performance, and regulatory expectations in Australia. The course further considers governance, transparency, and professional responsibility when advanced design technologies are used in real projects.

  • A 1-hour video session covering NCC-aligned strategies and real-world case studies.
  • An interactive quiz to test and reinforce knowledge.
  • An audio summary version via NotebookLM for flexible, on-the-go learning.
  • A downloadable certificate of completion for CPD compliance reporting.
  • Centralised CPD tracking dashboard to support audits and personal recordkeeping.
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Why Take This CPD Session?

Gain practical insight into how advanced digital design methods can support better architectural decision making.

Learn how performance analysis and simulation can strengthen design outcomes and improve regulatory compliance.

Understand how to responsibly integrate emerging technologies into professional architectural workflows.

Professional development is an investment in career growth and regulatory compliance. Take the next step today.

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