Students at the University of Oklahoma are leading the way with the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in the design process. A group of Architecture students were the first at Gibbs to use an AI image-generating program to aid in the design process for their final studio project.
Professor of Architecture René Peralta implemented this technology in his studio as a part of a semester long project. Peralta’s students utilized a program called Midjourney, which uses AI technology to transform text prompts into visual images.
Midjourney assisted students as they worked on their design proposal for a Native American Studies building on campus. The program allowed them to generate images surrounding Indigenous architecture theories using terminology and ideas from Laura Harjo’s book “Spiral to the Stars.” Harjo is a Mvskoke scholar and associate professor in the Department of Native American studies.
MidJourney designs for the Indigenous Storytelling project
One of the main benefits of the program is its ability to cater to students’ specific needs. Midjourney can provide reference images that are much more personalized than typical images found online, which is incredibly helpful during the design process.
Peralta hopes that AI will continue to be a part of architecture education. This technology has the potential to streamline the design process and give students more time to focus on the theory and ideas behind architecture.
Learn more about Midjourney and the Indigenous Storytelling project.
The Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture congratulates Dr. Tammy McCuen, Robert E. Busch Professor of Construction Science, on beginning her term as president of the Associated Schools of Construction (ASC), an international organization dedicated to advancing construction education through teaching, research and service.
Following years of contributions to the College’s research and strategic initiatives, Gibbs College shares that Associate Dean for Research and External Engagement Angela M. Person, PhD, will step down from her position at Gibbs College as she moves to Tucson with her family, effective June 30, 2026.
On April 24, 2026, the Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture hosted its annual Graduate Student Showcase, a celebration of research, design innovation, and creative exploration across all graduate programs within the College.
