TRXL 192: ‘Building an AI-First Practice’, with Patrick Chopson and Eric Cesal
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Jun 17, 2025 Patrick Chopson, co-founder of Cove, and Eric Cesal, an architect and post-disaster expert, dive into the potential of AI in architecture. They discuss reimagining architectural workflows from the ground up rather than just adding AI tools to existing processes. The conversation covers the balancing act between innovation and accountability in design, the evolving relationship between architects and AI, and the necessity for education to keep up with technological changes. They also explore the unique opportunities for smaller teams to lead this transformation.
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Rethinking AI-First Firm Models
- Building an AI-first architecture firm means reimagining practice from scratch, not applying AI to old workflows.
- Traditional phases and processes are questioned to leverage AI's potential for client and architect benefit.
Cove's AI-Powered Practice Approach
- Cove solved the legal and control issues enabling them to trust AI outputs responsibly.
- They build bespoke AI tools, sometimes single-use, collaborating architects with software engineers to boost design quality and coordination.
Developers Want Risk Assumed
- Developers primarily hire architects to assume risk, not just for speed.
- Coordination quality and timely delivery are major pain points Cove addresses with AI-enhanced workflows.
