From Code to Strategy: Petr Mitev on Evolving AEC Design Solutions

AEC Tech Journeys with Mayur Mistry

• Petr's career highlights include working at Kieran Timberlake, NBBJ, and currently at Chaos (after a merger with Andscape), where he has contributed to both architectural projects and software development.
• At Kieran Timberlake, he worked on a University of Seattle student housing project that won an AIA award, where zoning challenges led him to develop his first automation tools.
• At NBBJ, he helped develop the Applied Science Toolkit, collaborating with experts from various fields including psychology to create better healthcare spaces through data-driven design.
• A significant project at NBBJ was the Amazon Spheres in Seattle, where he developed automation tools to optimize the glass facade's unique pieces for cost efficiency while maintaining the design vision.
• Early in his career, he was inspired by pioneers like Andrew Heumann and Brian Ringley, who were among the first to integrate technology into architectural design processes.
• He emphasizes that rule-based aspects of architecture (like building codes and ADA compliance) are prime candidates for automation, potentially reducing human error and improving efficiency.
• Regarding AI in architecture, he believes the technology hasn't yet reached its full potential, comparing it to the BIM revolution where tools eventually became mission-critical rather than optional.
• He identifies a significant challenge in AI adoption: the lack of AEC-specific training data due to IP and client ownership issues, suggesting that industry organizations like AIA could help address this through contract modifications.
• On accessibility of technology, he stresses the importance of democratizing tools for smaller firms, noting that the average architecture firm has just two employees and limited resources for advanced technology.
• Looking ahead, he sees AI as augmenting rather than replacing creativity, similar to how Adobe's tools enhance rather than replace artistic capability.