Artificial intelligence has come a long way in recent years, especially in architecture and design. While AI still struggles with finer details, there are several tools and prompts available that can help generate complex architectural designs, graphics, and artwork.
Based on our AI experience and testing several tools, we have identified the best AI image generators for architecture and building-related imagery. Please note that we ordered these AI tools in random order.
1. Jasper Art
Jasper AI, originally a text generator, has expanded to include an impressive AI image generator called Jasper Art. It can create realistic and original architectural designs and concepts with text input. To achieve the best results, try to use the following order in your prompts
- subject
- description
- style.
Here is an example: a white stone house (subject) on the beach at sunset (description) in a photorealistic style (style).
Jasper Art allows users to apply different styles and tweak attributes until they get the desired result. To quickly master Jasper Art, users can browse its internal gallery, which includes practical, prompt formats to get similar results.
However, it is recommended to refrain from generating text or signage as it mostly comes out garbled, which is a common issue with most AI image generators. You can easily add that later in a regular image editor.
Jasper Pricing:
Individual creators can access Jasper Art for $49 monthly, while teams can subscribe for $125 if they choose monthly payments. You can also purchase an annual plan with a 20% discount.
Jasper offers a seven-day free trial.
To access Jasper Art, visit the official website and sign up for a subscription.
2. Fotor
I recently discovered Fotor and was impressed by its capabilities. It is a fantastic tool for architecture visualization, and I was surprised to learn that it offers so much more. Fotor is an innovative solution that allows for the effective transfer of design ideas and the development of new concepts. It's an excellent platform for discovering creative ideas in architecture and beyond.
It has a beginner-friendly interface and is free to try. Users can enter prompts for the image using a text box and choose from three aspect ratios. They can also select one of the preset styles or describe a typical style with the prompt. For example, using "interior design" or "floorplan" creates stunning top-down interiors.
Fotor can output up to 8 images per prompt with a premium account. These can then be quickly regenerated to get different results, or users can instantly click different styles to change the pictures. Fotor also supports image-to-image, which lets users upload an existing photo or blueprint. The latter can turn concept sketches into photorealistic images in seconds.
Fotor offers a range of image editing tools alongside the AI generator so that users can tweak their architectural designs under one platform. Fotor is an excellent solution for those who want to convey their ideas effectively and quickly explore new design concepts.
In summary, Fotor is a powerful web-based AI tool that can generate architectural designs and images. It has a beginner-friendly interface and offers a range of image editing tools alongside the AI generator. With Fotor, users can effectively convey their ideas and explore new design concepts quickly.
Fotor Pricing:
Users can access Fotor for $7.49/mo or $2.83/mo (billed yearly) for 100 credits.
3. DALL-E 2
Did you know that the DALL-E 2 platform uses advanced artificial intelligence algorithms like CLIP (Contrastive Language-Image Pre-training) to create high-quality visualizations based on written content? This fact makes it one of the most advanced AI architecture generators available today.
OpenAI's DALL-E 2 is an AI-powered image generator that can produce technically accurate and photorealistic images from simple text descriptions. This tool is handy for AI-generated architecture, allowing architects to visualize and share their ideas with clients quickly.
DALL-E 2 can also edit or retouch existing photos or designs, saving architects from spending hours creating design variations manually.
Architects can upload a photo of an empty lot and generate a new home, providing a quick way to visualize new architecture in an existing area.
The process is quick and efficient, but the more details provided, the better the results. When an image stands out from the pack, architects can refine it further and create new variations from the base template.
DALL-E 2 is integrated into multiple platforms, including Bing. Have you heard of the Bing Image Creator? The robot uses DALL-E 2's capabilities to create stunning images.
One of the most incredible things about DALL-E 2 is that users own the images they generate. That means you can sell, reprint, and commercialize your creations to your heart's content. It's no wonder why DALL-E 2 is one of the most popular platforms for producing digital artwork.
Overall, DALL-E 2 is a powerful tool for architects looking to quickly and efficiently generate photorealistic images and designs.
DALL-E 2 Pricing:
The tool works on the credit model, so professionals must spend at least $15 for 115 credits, which is well worth it for the quality of the results.
4. Stable Diffusion
Stable Diffusion is an open-source AI image generator that offers several learning models for architecture design. These models include Lora, dvArch, and urbanscene15.
Stable Diffusion is a deep learning model that employs diffusion processes to create images based on text descriptions. In simpler terms, if you provide Stable Diffusion with a prompt like "a stunning sunset," the model is programmed to produce a lifelike image corresponding to your description.
There are two main ways to use Stable diffusion: on your PC or in the cloud.
- Locally installing on your PC
- In the cloud
You can download everything from GitHub if you want to set it up yourself. Check this detailed explanation of how to set it up in this beginner's guide.
Stable Diffusion is a powerful tool with many potential applications. As the model continues to be developed and improved, we can see it used more creatively and innovatively.
Stable Diffision Pricing
API usage typically requires credits, which are priced based on compute usage. Credits cost $10 for 1,000, and you can buy 500 SDXL images.
5. MidJourney
MidJourney version 5 has become so advanced that it can be difficult to distinguish its AI-generated designs from actual photos. This intelligent tool utilizes a technology akin to Stable Diffusion and was launched to users in mid-2022.
Here is an example of its capabilities: a piece of art that won first place in a competition with 20 other entries at the Colorado State Fair.
Professional architects use it to speed up rendering, simplify workflows, and generate inspirational designs.
Architects can escape practical considerations by using Midjourney's surreal world to present unique visual narratives of complex concepts and architectural ideas to employers.
However, the success of MidJourney is dependent on the user's ability to master prompting. Vague and broad descriptions will still produce alien-looking structures, so it takes time to learn the proper language of AI.
To prompt MidJourney, users should follow a specific order:
- [Description of the main subject]
- [background and environment]
- [architectural style, period, famous architect or photographer’s name],
- [other parameters]
Following a detailed prompting guide can be helpful for users to get the hang of it.
MidJourney is not limited to text-to-image conversion. Users can also upload existing images or blend different images together to generate unique results.
Unlike other design tools, MidJourney runs on the Discord messaging app rather than a website, mobile app, or local installation.
MidJourney Pricing
Plans start from $10/month or $8/month (billed annually).
Conclusion
As AI technology advances, architects use AI image generators to aid their design process. The choice of AI image generator for architecture depends on the desired design and the user's AI skill level. Both hobbyists and professionals can benefit from incorporating AI into their work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of using AI in architecture rendering?
Using AI in architecture rendering has several benefits. AI can help architects to generate designs more quickly and accurately. It can also help to identify potential design flaws and suggest improvements. Additionally, AI can assist architects in creating more sustainable and energy-efficient designs.
Can AI generate architecture plans and designs?
Yes, AI can generate architecture plans and designs. AI image generators use neural networks to interpret textual descriptions and create corresponding images. However, it is essential to note that AI-generated designs still require human input and oversight to ensure they meet the necessary safety, functionality, and aesthetic standards.
How can AI be used in architectural design?
AI can be used in architectural design in several ways. AI image generators can help architects visualize and communicate their ideas more effectively. AI can also assist architects in creating more sustainable and energy-efficient designs by analyzing data and identifying areas for improvement. Additionally, AI can help architects to identify potential design flaws and suggest improvements.
Are there any free AI house generator tools available?
Yes, there are free AI house generator tools available. Some of these include ArkDesign.ai, BricsCAD BIM, and Kaedim. These tools use AI to generate house designs based on user input. However, it is important to note that these free tools may have limited functionality and may need to be more suitable for professional use.
What are some recommended AI architecture courses for beginners?
There are several recommended AI architecture courses for beginners. Some of these include "Artificial Intelligence in Architecture" by Columbia University, "AI for Architecture" by the University of Hong Kong, and "AI in Architecture and Design" by the University of Pennsylvania. These courses cover topics such as AI image generation, machine learning, and data analysis in the context of architecture design.
