KENNESAW, Ga. | Mar 21, 2025

First-year architecture student Tuere Thomas is reimagining the way students consume design education through the use of artificial intelligence (AI). Her research focuses on how AI tools can spark creativity and help beginners visualize architectural concepts in innovative ways.

Thomas's passion for architecture dates back to her middle school years when she dreamed of living in a self-sufficient glass dome in the desert, combining shelter and nature. This early fascination deepened in high school, leading her to Kennesaw State, where she could explore both architecture in KSU’s College of Architecture and Construction Management and game design in the College of Computing and Software Engineering.

“Architecture has always been about more than just buildings for me,” she said. “It's about creating spaces that connect people to their environment in meaningful ways.”

Thomas’s current research investigates how AI can enhance the beginning design process. She is particularly interested in how computers can be used to teach architecture in ways that inspire creativity and push boundaries. This exploration led her to use AI tools like MidJourney, a program that generates images based on word or image inputs. By using these AI-generated visuals, Thomas aims to help students overcome creative blocks and push past the difficulties often encountered in early-stage designs.

Although AI is a powerful tool for enhancing creativity, Thomas stresses that it’s not a substitute for the hard work required in architecture. She believes AI can assist in the ideation process, but it can't replace the architect’s hands-on effort.

“AI can’t do all the work for you,” she said. “But it can help students visualize vague or early-stage concepts in a more digestible form. It can add complexity to hand-drafted designs. You could upload an image of a hand-made model and use AI to generate ideas that you could then build on physically.”

Her vision extends to AI becoming a standard tool in architecture classrooms. Thomas believes that students, particularly those who are more comfortable with technology, will embrace AI as an assistive tool.

“Just like a dishwasher takes away the chore of washing dishes, AI can take away some of the mundane aspects of design, allowing students to focus on the more creative and intricate parts of their work,” she said.

Thomas’s research has been supported by her mentor, assistant professor Trace Gainey, who has provided her with guidance throughout her journey.

“Professor Gainey has been a great help, keeping me focused and ensuring the research progresses,” she said. “He’s also explored the use of AI himself and contributed ideas on how AI can add complexity and generate new concepts.”

Gainey commended Thomas on her drive and passion when it comes to her research.

“Tuere’s dedication and passion for architecture are evident in her research,” Gainey said. “She approaches her work with curiosity, pushing boundaries and exploring new ways to enhance the design process. Her research on AI driven design is forward thinking and represents the future of the field.”

Looking ahead, Thomas is passionate about sustainable design, with a particular focus on environmentally responsible housing. Her future goals involve using eco-friendly materials and innovative structures to create buildings that benefit both people and the planet.

– Story by Raynard Churchwell

Photos provided

A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees to its more than 47,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university’s vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties, and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 8 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.