How to: Designing the Future with AI

Last week, we welcomed an incredible group of architects and interior designers to the Union League Liberty Hill for a conversation about one of the most talked-about topics in our industry: artificial intelligence. Here at Ernst Brothers, we spend a lot of time thinking about the future—our own, and just as important, the future of the talented partners we’re fortunate to work alongside and the industry we love so dearly.

When we planned this event, our goal was simple: demystify AI and introduce tangible ways it can make life easier. We know AI sparks excitement and skepticism in equal measure. There are plenty of questions, and sometimes a little anxiety and fear. Our hope was that everyone left feeling empowered, inspired, and ready to start experimenting with AI tools to save time, support creativity, and strengthen their businesses. 

From the start, we shared a belief that shapes how we work every day: AI isn’t a threat, it’s a teammate. At Ernst, we see AI as a way to take the repetitive, time-consuming work off our plates so we can focus on what only humans can do—creating, problem-solving, strategic thinking, and building meaningful relationships with our clients and partners. This forward-looking mindset is part of our remarkably uncommon approach to building.

To help bring this perspective to life, we invited Russ Kliman, founder of FutureCrafted and a nationally recognized voice on innovation. Earlier this year, Ernst was invited to speak at the Innovative 50 Summit, where we heard Russ speak and were blown away by his fresh, practical take on AI and human potential. Russ has spent decades spotting innovation before it goes mainstream—leading SEI’s venture capital group, teaching entrepreneurship at Villanova and Drexel, and advising startups. His message is clear: AI isn’t about replacing people, it’s about empowering them to do their best work.

During the evening, Russ showed how AI can automate routine tasks, amplify creativity, and open access to insights that once took hours or days to uncover.

Perhaps the biggest takeaway was this: firms that lean into AI with curiosity will lead the next chapter of our industry. Creativity, critical thinking, and a willingness to experiment will define what comes next. We truly believe there are two paths that lie ahead. You’re either going to embrace AI, or risk getting left behind as the industry barrels ahead. We're chosing the former, and are excited to help shape the future of the construction industry through fearless innovation.

This article originally appeared on LinkedIn. To follow Jake Taylor's insights on leadership and innovation in the construction industry as a remarkably uncommon builder, follow him here.