Introduction

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools were integrated into the redesign process of the WAU KAPAL COMMUNITY CENTER to explore alternative design solutions, enhance sustainability, improve accessibility, and strengthen user experience. Three AI platforms were selected due to their complementary capabilities: ChatGPT for design reasoning, Gemini for conceptual visualization, and Bing Image Creator for rendering future design scenarios.

The AI workflow followed an iterative process where outputs from one tool informed subsequent stages of design development.

AI TOOL 1: ChatGPT

Purpose

ChatGPT was used to:

• Analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the original design.

• Suggest sustainability strategies.

• Improve universal design features.

• Enhance community engagement.

• Develop architectural narratives.

Prompt 1: Design Analysis

Prompt:

Analyze an architectural project called "WAU KAPAL COMMUNITY CENTER" located in Bukit Malawati, Malaysia. The project is inspired by the traditional Wau Kapal kite and Sou Fujimoto's House Before House. Suggest improvements in sustainability, accessibility, user experience, and cultural engagement.

AI Output:

ChatGPT suggested:

• Solar panel integration.

• Rainwater harvesting systems.

• Cross ventilation strategies.

• Universal accessibility measures.

• Interactive cultural spaces.

• Expanded digital experiences.

Design Decision:

The AI recommendations directly informed the redesign by introducing environmentally responsive systems and inclusive design elements.

Prompt 2: Sustainability Enhancement

Prompt:

Propose sustainable architectural strategies for a tropical community center in Malaysia that utilizes passive cooling, daylighting, and water conservation.

AI Output:

Suggested strategies included:

• Roof-mounted photovoltaic panels.

• Operable louvers.

• Shading devices.

• Green landscaping.

• Rainwater collection tanks.

Design Decision:

These strategies were integrated into the revised proposal to reduce environmental impact and improve building performance.

AI TOOL 2: Gemini

Purpose

Gemini was used for:

• Concept exploration.

• Form generation.

• Diagram production.

• Spatial visualization.

Prompt 3: Concept Generation

Prompt:

Generate conceptual architectural diagrams inspired by the flowing movement of the Wau Kapal kite tail, using layered volumes and open terraces inspired by Sou Fujimoto's House Before House in a tropical Malaysian context.

AI Output:

Gemini generated multiple massing concepts emphasizing:

• Layered platforms.

• Organic circulation paths.

• Open-air terraces.

• Visual connectivity.

Design Decision:

The outputs inspired modifications to circulation routes and terrace arrangements.

Prompt 4: Spatial Experience

Prompt:

Visualize a community center where architecture blends with nature through terraces, shaded spaces, and cultural activities centered around traditional kite-making and play.

AI Output:

Generated visual scenarios of:

• Interactive gathering spaces.

• Outdoor play areas.

• Community workshops.

Design Decision:

The redesign introduced outdoor kite flying zones and expanded public gathering areas.

AI TOOL 3: Bing Image Creator

Purpose

Bing Image Creator was used for:

• Future visualization.

• Rendering alternative architectural scenarios.

• Communicating design ideas.

Prompt 5: Exterior Visualization

Prompt:

A contemporary community center inspired by the Wau Kapal kite, featuring layered terraces, tropical architecture, solar panels, open public spaces, natural ventilation, and interactive cultural zones in Bukit Malawati, Malaysia. Architectural rendering, realistic style.

Prompt 6: Interior Visualization

Prompt:

Interior of a community center inspired by traditional Malaysian kite culture, with interactive exhibitions, VR experiences, natural lighting, timber materials, and inclusive spaces. Architectural rendering.

Prompt 7: Universal Design Visualization

Prompt:

An accessible community center with ramps, tactile paving, shaded walkways, universal design features, and public gathering areas integrated into tropical architecture.

AI Iteration Process

Design Evaluation

ChatGPT

Performance analysis

Sustainability

ChatGPT

Environmental strategies

Concept Exploration

Gemini

Massing concepts

Spatial Visualization

Gemini

User experience

Rendering

Bing Image Creator

Exterior & interior images

What Changed?

1. Addition of solar panels.

2. Rainwater harvesting system.

3. Improved cross ventilation.

4. Expanded outdoor public spaces.

5. Interactive kite exhibition zones.

6. Enhanced VR learning experience.

7. Universal accessibility features.

8. Improved shading devices.

Why It Changed?

The redesign aimed to:

• Improve environmental performance.

• Strengthen cultural identity.

• Increase user inclusivity.

• Enhance community engagement.

• Integrate digital technologies.

• Create a more resilient and sustainable public building.