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ORCID

Walaa Hussein: 0009-0002-4722-3618

Subject Area

Architectural Engineering

Article Type

Original Study

Abstract

This study develops and empirically validates a Hybrid Cognitive Design Framework (HCDF) that integrates artificial intelligence, parametric design, and environmental simulation as a cognitive partnership system for sustainable architectural design. The research addresses a gap in existing studies, which have largely focused on the functional benefits of AI while giving limited attention to its influence on designers’ cognitive and ethical decision-making. A quasi-experimental study was conducted with 30 architecture students divided into two groups: an HCDF-assisted group and a traditional design group. Participants were tasked with designing a self-sufficient residential neighbourhood in Toshka, Egypt. Data were collected using Think-Aloud Protocol analysis, Social Network Analysis (SNA), environmental performance simulations, and a newly developed Philosophical Sustainability Index (PSI). The HCDF-assisted group achieved significantly higher PSI scores (M = 84.7 vs. 68.2, p < 0.001, d = 2.53), reduced design time by approximately 28%, and improved energy performance by 22.5% compared with the traditional group. Qualitative analysis also revealed greater ethical reflection and iterative exploration within the AI-supported workflow. The findings provide initial empirical evidence that integrated human–AI cognitive partnerships can enhance sustainability-oriented design processes. Although the study represents a proof-of-concept validation within an educational setting, the proposed framework offers potential applications in architectural education, professional practice, and future sustainable design research.

Keywords

Generative Design; Human–AI Collaboration; Cognitive Partnership; Environmental Simulation; Philosophical Sustainability Index; Design Thinking

Additional Files
Appendix A.pdf (156 kB)

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

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