This experimental project was designed with the use of machine learning (artificial intelligence) tools developed and “trained” by the designers. The AI model can be used both as a generative and perceptual tool. It can process hundreds of images and “learn” visual and aesthetic patterns through quantitative and probabilistic analyses. To design this fusion restaurant in San Francisco, an AI model was “trained” to categorize images - either as most probably Japanese food or American commercial food. These two categories were selected for their distinct visual characteristics. Materials, plate designs, lighting conditions, structural elements, seating arrangements, architectural compositions, etc., were sorted by the AI tool into a spectrum based on the two visual categories.
