AI is becoming easier to use. Understanding how it actually works is where most architects struggle.
In this episode, Aya Shlachter sits down with Prof. Hank Haeusler to explore how AI and computational design are reshaping architecture in practice and in business. Hank shares how thinking in systems, data, and computation is changing how architects design, make decisions, and deliver work.
The conversation highlights the shift from manual, skill-based tasks to higher-level thinking. As AI takes over repetitive work, architects are being pushed toward strategy, problem-solving, and continuous learning. It also addresses the growing gap between academia and practice, and why firms must start treating AI as a business priority, not just a tool.
What You'll Learn:
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How computational design is changing the foundation of architecture
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Why AI is more about business strategy than just design tools
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The difference between AI for architecture, architects, and the architecture business
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How user-friendly tools are lowering the barrier to entry for AI adoption
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Why lifelong learning is now essential for every architect
Timestamps:
00:00 — Episode Snippet
01:22 — Introducing the guest, Prof. Hank Hauesler
02:44 — From electrician to AI researcher
05:28 — What computational design actually means
08:16 — The idea behind Giraffe Technology
09:40 — Sponsor Spotlight: Struggling to meet deadlines with limited staff? MGS Global Group is here for you. We provide qualified architectural professionals on demand so you can scale your projects without compromising quality. Visit https://mgsglobalgroup.com/ today.
13:00 — The rise of specialized tools
14:28 — The gap between academia and practice
16:31 — Why circular economy matters in architecture
18:52 — Technology has always shaped architecture
22:41 — Bridging academia and practice in architecture with AI
26:26 — AI will reshape architecture jobs
30:31 — Computational design is a way of thinking
34:20 — AI in architecture works on different levels
37:49 — The ethical role of AI
40:32 — AI, jobs, and the future of the next generation
44:19 — Firms that ignore AI risk disappearing
46:01 — Architects must think like business owners
52:35 — There is no single "best" AI tool
54:06 — What "vibe coding" really means
56:01 — Final advice: commit to lifelong learning
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About the Guest:
Professor M. Hank Haeusler is Co-CEO Arch_Manu; Director ARC Centre for Next-Gen Architectural Manufacturing, Lead CI CRC-P 3D printing, Deputy Director UNSW AI Institute; Head of Research, Foresight and Innovation at Giraffe Technology; and known as researcher, educator, and entrepreneur in computational design and architectural computing through over 140 publications.
Connect with Prof. Hank Hauesler:
Hank's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/m-hank-haeusler-40998110/
Arch_Manu: https://www.linkedin.com/company/archmanu/?viewAsMember=true
About the Host:
Aya Shlachter is the Founder and CEO of MGS Global Group, an architectural support services firm serving hundreds of architecture practices worldwide.With over 18 years of industry experience, she helps firm owners scale smarter, adopt emerging technologies, and build resilient, future-ready practices.
Aya also hosts the AI for Architects and Architect My Business podcasts and is the co -founder of Archicon 2026, a global architecture business conference. She was named the 2025 Global FWN100™ Most Influential Filipina Woman in the World in the Founder and Pioneer category for her leadership in business and AI.
Connect with Aya Shlachter:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aya_shlachter/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayashlachter/
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