Research Article

A Case Study of a Machine Learning Usage in Design: Conceptual Models from Graph-based GANs

Volume: 8 Number: 2 October 28, 2025
TR EN

A Case Study of a Machine Learning Usage in Design: Conceptual Models from Graph-based GANs

Abstract

This paper presents a novel machine learning (ML) pipeline that transforms architectural graph representations into fully rendered three-dimensional (3D) conceptual massing models. Unlike previous ML approaches that focus primarily on 2D floorplan generation, our method integrates multiple components into a single workflow: (1) graph-based input using HouseGAN++, (2) image-based shape extraction via custom MATLAB processing, (3) 3D model construction with FloorplanToBlender, and (4) diffusion model–based style transfer for visual enhancement. This end-to-end approach is distinctive in its combination of automated plan-to-volume conversion and aesthetic exploration through generative image synthesis. The results show that our pipeline enables efficient, multi-stage architectural ideation while significantly reducing manual effort. The proposed method contributes to early-stage design processes by accelerating concept development and offering stylistically diverse outputs from abstract spatial inputs.

Keywords

Supporting Institution

No financial support has been received for conducting the research and/or for the preparation of the article.

Ethical Statement

All procedures followed were in accordance with the ethical standards.

References

  1. As, İ., Pal, S., & Basu, P. (2018). Artificial Intelligence in Architecture: Generating Conceptual Design via Deep Learning. International Journal of Architectural Computing, 16(4), 306-327.
  2. As, I., Pal, S., & Basu, P. (2019). Composing frankensteins: Data-driven design assemblies through graph-based deep neural networks. In the 107th Annual Meeting BLACK BOX: Articulating Architecture’s Core in the Post-Digital Era. Pittsburgh, PA, USA, ACSA
  3. Atalay, M., Çelik, E. (2017). Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Applications in Big Data Analysis. Mehmet Akif Ersoy Üniversitesi Sosyal Bilimler Enstitüsü Dergisi 9 (22) 155-172.
  4. Chaillou, S. (2019). AI + Architecture: Towards a New Approach. Harvard University, Graduate School of Design. Boston: Harvard University.
  5. Egor, G., Sven, S., Martin, D., & Reinhard, K. (2019). Computer-aided approach to public buildings floor plan generation.Magnetizing Floor Plan Generator. 1st International Conference on Optimization-Driven Architectural Design (pp. 132-139). Amman: Elsevier Procedia.
  6. freewayML. (2022). freewayML. Retrieved from freewayML: https://www.freewayml.com/about-us stability.ai. (2021). DreamStudio. Retrieved from DreamStudio: https://dreamstudio.ai
  7. Gatsy, L. A., Ecker, A. S., & Bethge, M. (2015, September 2). arxiv. Retrieved from Cornell University: https://arxiv.org/abs/1508.06576
  8. Grebtsew. (2021, May 7). FloorplanToBlender3d. Retrieved from Github: https://github.com/grebtsew/FloorplanToBlender3d

Details

Primary Language

English

Subjects

Architectural Computing and Visualisation Methods, Architectural Science and Technology, Information Technologies in Architecture and Design

Journal Section

Research Article

Publication Date

October 28, 2025

Submission Date

November 26, 2024

Acceptance Date

June 25, 2025

Published in Issue

Year 2025 Volume: 8 Number: 2

APA
Koç, M., & As, İ. (2025). A Case Study of a Machine Learning Usage in Design: Conceptual Models from Graph-based GANs. GRID - Architecture Planning and Design Journal, 8(2), 621-639. https://doi.org/10.37246/grid.1591809
AMA
1.Koç M, As İ. A Case Study of a Machine Learning Usage in Design: Conceptual Models from Graph-based GANs. GRID. 2025;8(2):621-639. doi:10.37246/grid.1591809
Chicago
Koç, Mustafa, and İmdat As. 2025. “A Case Study of a Machine Learning Usage in Design: Conceptual Models from Graph-Based GANs”. GRID - Architecture Planning and Design Journal 8 (2): 621-39. https://doi.org/10.37246/grid.1591809.
EndNote
Koç M, As İ (October 1, 2025) A Case Study of a Machine Learning Usage in Design: Conceptual Models from Graph-based GANs. GRID - Architecture Planning and Design Journal 8 2 621–639.
IEEE
[1]M. Koç and İ. As, “A Case Study of a Machine Learning Usage in Design: Conceptual Models from Graph-based GANs”, GRID, vol. 8, no. 2, pp. 621–639, Oct. 2025, doi: 10.37246/grid.1591809.
ISNAD
Koç, Mustafa - As, İmdat. “A Case Study of a Machine Learning Usage in Design: Conceptual Models from Graph-Based GANs”. GRID - Architecture Planning and Design Journal 8/2 (October 1, 2025): 621-639. https://doi.org/10.37246/grid.1591809.
JAMA
1.Koç M, As İ. A Case Study of a Machine Learning Usage in Design: Conceptual Models from Graph-based GANs. GRID. 2025;8:621–639.
MLA
Koç, Mustafa, and İmdat As. “A Case Study of a Machine Learning Usage in Design: Conceptual Models from Graph-Based GANs”. GRID - Architecture Planning and Design Journal, vol. 8, no. 2, Oct. 2025, pp. 621-39, doi:10.37246/grid.1591809.
Vancouver
1.Mustafa Koç, İmdat As. A Case Study of a Machine Learning Usage in Design: Conceptual Models from Graph-based GANs. GRID. 2025 Oct. 1;8(2):621-39. doi:10.37246/grid.1591809