PLAIA - A knowledge Platform for AI and the soft values of Architecture

PLAIA explores how artificial intelligence can be used in architectural design without losing sight of social, cultural, and emotional values. In today’s design practice, AI and digital models are mainly applied to optimise technical performance — such as energy use, construction, or spatial efficiency. So-called ‘soft values’ — including spatial experience, identity, orientation, well-being, and social cohesion — are difficult to quantify and are therefore often excluded from these digital processes.

This project investigates how such soft values can still be systematically integrated into AI-driven design. PLAIA examines new computational techniques, such as sentiment analysis, knowledge graphs, and human-centred predictive models, to enable the inclusion of subjective experiences and emotions in design workflows. The goal is not to replace designers, but to support them: AI as a form of ‘co-intelligence’ that enriches, rather than overrides, the design process.

PLAIA connects knowledge from architecture, computer science, cognitive psychology, and social sciences. The project develops a shared conceptual framework, maps existing and missing datasets, and formulates methods and conditions for the responsible use of AI in architectural and urban design. Ethical, legal, and societal dimensions are explicitly part of this exploration.

The results form the foundation for an interdisciplinary research platform and a long-term roadmap. PLAIA delivers knowledge and tools for design practices that want to apply AI in ways that are not only efficient, but also support quality of life, meaningful spatial experience, and social sustainability.

€76,546 will be used as a PPP program grant.