AI as a catalyst for innovative scientific research in urban design: enhancing analytical rigour and human centred design

This paper examines Artificial Intelligence (AI) in urban design research as both an analytical tool and an adaptive evaluation framework. By comparing AI-based and traditional methods, it shows how AI can reveal hidden patterns in complex urban systems while supporting human-centred design. Using a human-in-the-loop perspective, the paper highlights AI’s integrative, interdisciplinary role in strengthening methodological rigour, accountability, and contextual validation. It argues that AI-driven evaluation can enable more responsive, inclusive, and sustainable urban design solutions, providing a foundation for more effective and accountable research and practice.