GP 48: Can Architects Stay Relevant? AI and More with Keir Regan Alexander of Arka Works

In this episode of the Grow Places podcast, Tom Larsson sits down with Keir Regan Alexander of Arka Works to ask a big question: Can architects stay relevant in the age of AI?

They explore:

• Why architects need to move beyond aesthetics to embrace responsibility, coordination, and strategy.
• How AI tools—from masterplanning software to generative models—are reshaping design practice.
• The risk of architecture being reduced to “product” and how the profession can push back.
• The evolving role of the architect as lead consultant, custodian of vision, and human in the loop.
• What bundling, unbundling, and future industry structures might mean for practice over the next decade.

As Tom reflects, “If architects only define themselves by aesthetics, they risk giving away the real value they bring.”
And as Keir warns, “The danger is treating design like pure science—cities and places are more human than that.”

This wide-ranging conversation looks at where value lies in architecture, how the profession can adapt, and why human judgement, taste, and responsibility remain essential.