Design Hive: Hans Davis and David Lee on using AI tools in architecture workflows
January 27, 2026
Two designers talk about experimenting with AI design tools for an internal architecture competition
intelligence (AI) tools in IdeaXchange, Stantec’s internal design innovation competition.
Hans and David share firsthand insights into using AI-driven design workflows. They highlight the practical benefits for architects and designers who want to boost creativity, speed up project delivery, and collaborate more effectively. They talk about the AI design mantras they outlined in their recent blog post.
In this episode, you’ll learn about:
- How Hans and David got into architecture
- Using artificial intelligence tools for various tasks in a digital design workflow including workplace programming, building massing, parametric façade design, and design visualization
- How the team approached IdeaXchange, an internal competition project at Stantec
- Why experiment and play are important approaches to using AI for design
- The importance of overcoming fear and seeing AI as a tool, not decisionmaker
How Hans and David are using what they learned about AI design tools in their day-to-day roles in architecture and interior design
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In his role as an associate architect, Hans leads design initiatives related to integrating art and technology in airports. He integrated large-scale public artworks into the overall design of the Great Hall project at Denver International Airport.
Contact Hans -
A design coordinator, David designs workplace and office spaces, multi-family residential housing, education and healthcare facilities, and stadiums. He also creates AI-assisted visualizations for projects and AI guidelines and training.
Contact David
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