Insights: Mindful Integration of AI
Harmonising Technology and Aesthetics: Bean Buro's Mindful Integration of AI in the Creative Process
May 2023
Kenny Kinugasa-Tsui, founder of Bean Buro
Lorène Faure, founder of Bean Buro
KKT: Over the past five months, we have seen significant advancements in our design process thanks to the integration of AI technologies at Bean Buro. With AI-generated images, we have been able to explore unique digital art, colours, and inspirations for architectural interior designs. Grounded with conventional research methods, our AI-powered processes have also opened up new possibilities in terms of forms and spatial atmospheres.
LF: Whilst we do not use AI to generate the final design for our clients, which are more delicate and complex design solutions, this innovative approach has allowed us to create a wide range of intriguing ideas and qualities that complement Bean Buro's existing design methodology. Traditionally, we've focused on mediums such as hand sketches, hand drawings, hand painting, artwork and model-making, computer modelling, 3D printing, and CAD CAM prototyping. The inclusion of AI as a new 'medium' in our creative process has only strengthened our ability to explore design narratives and deliver exceptional results for clients.
KKT: At Bean Buro, we have always been at the forefront of incorporating cutting-edge technologies in our creative process, and the integration of AI has been no exception. We firmly believe that artificial intelligence can enhance our design capabilities, but we also understand the risks and challenges associated with embracing this powerful tool.
Core to our approach is the careful blending of man and machine, where our team's intrinsic taste and aesthetic control play a significant role. Great taste, in selecting and interpreting AI-generated images, becomes crucial to the success of our creative output. We are aware that AI, while brimming with creative potential, may generate outputs that don't align with our design philosophy. Thus, we extensively vet and conduct quality control on these generated images.
LF: This process of continuous evaluation allows us to select the most fitting images while disregarding others to prevent undesirable outcomes. By using AI as a reference, rather than treating it as a final solution, we ensure that our aesthetic values, intent, and experience guide us through the creative process.
In embracing AI, we at Bean Buro have managed to preserve our essence as creative professionals, always prioritising great taste and aesthetic control. We see AI as an extension of our creative abilities, a powerful tool that empowers our team and enriches our design projects, while remaining ever-mindful of its potential challenges.
