The panel discussion titled "AI: Threat or Opportunity?" offered an exploration of diverse perspectives on the increasingly pertinent topic of artificial intelligence. This event brought together a mix of professionals, including an architect, an interior designer, a data scientist, and a risk and research manager. The combination of these varied viewpoints resulted in a rich and multifaceted dialogue on the potential advantages and disadvantages of AI.

Alia Centofanti from HOK and Reem El Khatib from Lockton presented compelling arguments on the potential threats posed by artificial intelligence. Centofanti emphasised the need for AI design to be inclusive and accommodating of neurodiverse users, highlighting the diverse relationships individuals have with technology and the risk of marginalising those who do not conform to the typical user profile. Meanwhile, El Khatib raised significant concerns about AI biases and discrimination, pointing out the susceptibility of AI systems to perpetuate and amplify existing biases if trained on flawed or manipulated data. She stressed the critical importance of data integrity, robust security measures, and ethical standards to prevent data breaches and ensure the reliability and fairness of AI systems. Their insights underscored the necessity for a cautious and well-regulated approach to AI development, prioritising inclusivity, fairness, and security to harness AI's potential responsibly.

On the other hand, Martine Wauben from GLA and Dale Sinclair from WSP highlighted the opportunities presented by AI. Wauben explored how urban infrastructure must adapt to new AI necessities, such as creating data centres, increasing home office spaces, and developing AI hubs. Sinclair emphasised AI's potential to simplify lives, envisioning a future positively driven by AI advancements. Their insights underscored the transformative potential of AI in reshaping urban environments and enhancing everyday living.

In my professional opinion, architects should view AI as a tool rather than fear it. While it is currently challenging for AI to exhibit true creativity, given that we still do not fully understand how our own human brains achieve creativity, it holds significant potential for our field. I see the use of AI positively, particularly in automating processes and aiding us in designing more quickly and efficiently. It is important to consider that there are various types of AI applied to design, not just image generators but also geometry optimisers, blueprint generators, coding assistants, and more. With the wide array of tools available today, I firmly believe that in the future, all architects will utilise AI processes, and there is no reason to fear this progression. The world is constantly evolving, and we must adapt to these changes. In my work, we employ various AI processes, which significantly assist in the early stages of design by allowing us to approve or discard idea iterations.

In conclusion, the panel "AI: Threat or Opportunity?" successfully illuminated the dual nature of artificial intelligence as both a catalyst for innovation and a source of potential challenges. By examining AI through the lenses of architecture, interior design, data science, and risk management, the discussion provided a holistic view of the opportunities and risks that AI presents. As AI continues to evolve, it is imperative for professionals across disciplines to engage in ongoing dialogue, ensuring that AI is harnessed in a way that enhances human creativity, efficiency, and well-being.