AI was unsurprisingly a hot topic at ADW. While many creatives are exploring new tech and ways of working, others are looking to more primal sources of inspiration. Matt Le Grice of WAM Architecture shared insights from his time at legendary Zaha Hadid Architects and how those lessons are shaping his work in Aotearoa. He showcased two projects that embraced a more elemental approach, starting with BEEAH Headquarters, an ambitious design he contributed to during his time at Hadid. An architectural design that mimics the organic flow of sand dunes, blending into its surroundings as if it were born out of the sand. Following this was a dive into his thesis project where the movement of ants became the blueprint for a structure that seamlessly weaves through existing buildings. These projects prove that while AI has its place, nature-inspired solutions are an untapped power that can redefine our cities.

During a panel discussion, Liv and Toni of Material Creative sat down with Super Creative podcast host Catie to share the realities of building a successful interior design business and making it last the test of time. Like many businesses they found themselves having to pivot their entire approach when the pandemic hit. Looking back, they admitted that their focus was almost entirely on hospitality venues, a tough realisation when those spaces were forced to close. They have since been making a conscious effort to diversify their portfolio as to not put all of their eggs in one basket. Now, they’re expanding into residential projects and exploring opportunities in public services, healthcare, and community infrastructure. It’s a lesson to all those who love a niche, stick to it and you may sink with it.

I found Simon Devitts talk on architectural photography as a ‘multi-sensory lens; thought-provoking. Rather than just a tool for documentation, he presented photography as something that goes beyond sight to engage touch, sound, and even smell. He challenged the idea that “A photograph is not just a place; it’s a place in time.” It has the power to evoke emotion, memory and connection.

A great photograph captures what the space felt like, the temperature, the atmosphere, the context. For Devitt, the best images don’t answer questions; they create them, leaving viewers wondering: What happens next? It did make me wonder, as creatives, could we be thinking beyond aesthetics to consider other senses to create deeper, more meaningful connections in our work?

Perhaps the most sobering takeaway from the talks at ADW was the ever-evolving world of AI and who is truly shaping its future. During a panel discussion following the screening of Director Leanne Pooley’s film We Need to Talk About AI, several poignant questions were raised. Although the film was first released in 2020, long before the arrival of AI led projects like ChatGPT, it’s clear that the world of AI is progressing rapidly. Even experts in the field have adjusted their perspectives on timelines since the film’s release.

The film was a reality check to see that most of the decision-makers in AI are a small, homogenous group of mostly white men, highlighting the significant lack of diversity in the field. If we’re relying on such a limited pool of society to shape the future of AI, how are we ensuring it doesn't reflect bias toward the rest of the world?

What stood out even more was the film's emphasis on how the largest investments are directed toward industries like the military and the sex industry, prompting me to reflect on our societal priorities. As AI continues to evolve, it’s clear that the conversation around ethics, inclusivity, and its societal impact must evolve alongside the technology itself. It raises the question: Just because we can, does it mean we should?