STF#9 - 2025: Workshops
WS05Integrating AI models into Rhino 8: transforming Design Workflows with Computer vision Techniques
Booking Note
To ensure a fair workshop attendance we kindly request a limit of 2 tickets per studio/company for this workshop.
SOLD OUT
Delivered by Grimshaw and Rhino Developers, McNeel
Integrating AI models into Rhino 8: transforming Design Workflows with Computer vision Techniques
In the evolving field of architecture and computational design, artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a transformative tool for enhancing design workflows and analysis. This workshop introduces participants to the integration of open-source AI-driven computer vision models within Rhino 8. Leveraging the platform’s new CPython integration and Script Editor, the workshop explores advanced computational design capabilities.
Participants will learn how to use AI for tasks such as image segmentation, object recognition, pattern detection, and image-to-render workflows. Through hands-on exercises, attendees will explore innovative ways to automate design processes, analyze complex visual data, and enhance creative exploration in architectural design. By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to build their own library of computer vision components or commands.
Who Should Attend?
This workshop is designed for architects, computational designers, and digital design enthusiasts who are eager to integrate cutting-edge AI techniques into their workflows. A basic understanding of Rhino and computational design concepts is recommended, but prior experience with programming is not required.
Learning Objectives:
- Introduce participants to computer vision and its applications in architectural design.
- Explore the integration of open-source AI models with Rhino 8.
- Demonstrate AI-driven techniques for design automation and visual analysis.
- Empower participants to leverage AI to enhance computational design workflows.
Expected Outcomes:
- Build AI-powered workflows using Python within Rhino8’s new Script Editor.
- Utilize a library of computer vision components or commands for tasks such as image segmentation, object recognition, and visual pattern analysis.
Requirements:
A familiarity with Rhino, Grasshopper and Python scripting is recommended.
Attendees should bring their own laptop (either Windows or Mac OS X) and ensure/note the following:
- They have Rhino 8 installed
- To run AI models locally, you’ll need a computer with a multi-core processor, at least 16 GB of RAM, a dedicated graphics card from NVIDIA or AMD with at least 4 GB of GPU memory (VRAM), and proper free disk space.
NB* This workshop is suitable for both Windows and Mac OS X users.
SOLD OUT
Hesham Shawqy – Grimshaw
Hesham is an architect and computational designer specializing in computational design, AI, and web development. Based in London, he is a Computational Design Specialist at Grimshaw and leads the Complex Forming seminar in IAAC’s MACAD program. With a master’s in Advanced Computation for Architecture & Design (2021), Hesham’s research focuses on digitizing handcrafts using machine learning and robotic fabrication. He has also worked as a consultant on diverse projects, including product design, urban development, exhibitions, and housing.
Esther Rubio Madroñal – Grimshaw
Esther is a Senior Computational Design Specialist and a registered architect. She has contributed to multiple large-scale projects at Grimshaw Architects, with a focus on automation and optimization. She previously worked for a specialist facade contractor, focusing on manufacturing and fabrication scale. Her work centers on integrating advanced digital tools and computational workflows to enhance design efficiency and innovation. Esther is also an Associate Lecturer at Oxford Brookes and has organised and delivered multiple workshops ranging from fabrication to data driven approach for urban design and master planning.
Ivana Petrusevski – Grimshaw
Ivana is a Computational Design Lead (EMEA) at Grimshaw Architects, where she leads a team of specialists within the Design Technology. With over 15 years of experience in computation for AEC, she specializes in empowering design teams through advanced tools and technologies. Ivana has worked across various sectors and scales, collaborating with cross-disciplinary teams and gaining extensive expertise in digital technologies. Her expertise includes creating custom digital workflows, automation and efficiency, designing physical-digital spaces and interaction. Actively engaged in research and academia, Ivana’s PhD focuses on using digital media to encourage social interaction in public spaces. Her work has been published in scientific journals and books, exhibited at V&A, Art Basel and honored with the Intel Innovation Reward.
Eve Tobey – Grimshaw
Eve is a Computational Design Specialist and has contributed to several large scale projects at Grimshaw and has a focus on complex geometry, interoperability workflows, and digital fabrication. Eve has previous experience at a design studio focusing on public art and architecture. She collaborates closely with architects, engineers, and designers to implement data-driven solutions that enhance project efficiency and feasibility. She develops custom scripts and algorithms to solve complex design challenges, ensuring seamless integration between conceptual development and fabrication.
Supported by:
Callum Sykes – McNeel
