
This research paper explores a central and timely question: Can artificial intelligence understand architectural meaning? Using Louis Kahn's theory of "served" and "servant" spaces as a philosophical framework, the study investigates how AI interprets architecture beyond formal simulation into the realms of ethics, atmosphere, and symbolic structure. As one of Kahn's most iconic works, the Exeter Library exemplifies monumental form, human-centred space, and material spirituality. By generating visual outputs using MidJourney and evaluating them through five analytical categories—monumentality, spatial order, light, material, and semiotics—this research examines whether AI can approximate meaningful architecture's emotional and metaphysical essence. While AI tools offer impressive capabilities regarding efficiency, environmental responsiveness, and form generation, they often struggle to grasp the humanistic, symbolic, and moral dimensions embedded in architecture. This paper argues that when guided by architectural theory and evaluated through semiotic frameworks, AI can act as a generator of form and as a reader of architectural values.
Exeter Library, Architecture, Architectural Semiotics, Louis Kahn, Generative Design, Architectural Theory and Criticism, NA1-9428, Architectural Design and Artificial Intelligence
Exeter Library, Architecture, Architectural Semiotics, Louis Kahn, Generative Design, Architectural Theory and Criticism, NA1-9428, Architectural Design and Artificial Intelligence
| selected citations These citations are derived from selected sources. This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically). | 0 | |
| popularity This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network. | Average | |
| influence This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically). | Average | |
| impulse This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network. | Average |
