PriMera Scientific Engineering (ISSN: 2834-2550)

Research Article

Volume 8 Issue 1

Customer Insights on AI-Agent-Based Facade Technologies: An Examination of Quality, Design, and Functional Expectations

K Rajaprabakaran* and A Geetha

January 05, 2026

View PDF

Abstract

As artificial intelligence continues to reshape architectural practice, one area seeing notable change is building façades. These once-static elements are now being reimagined as smart, adaptive systems capable of responding to both environmental conditions and user needs. This study explores how users in Chennai, across both residential and commercial contexts, perceive AI-agent-based façade technologies. By conducting a structured survey, the research examines how people evaluate these systems in terms of quality, visual appeal, and functionality. The findings suggest a growing openness toward responsive façades, especially those that combine energy efficiency with aesthetic adaptability. However, users also raised valid concerns, chief among them, maintenance demands and long-term costs. These insights reveal a gap between technological potential and everyday practicality, offering valuable direction for architects, product developers, and urban planners aiming to align smart design with user priorities.

Keywords: smart façades; artificial intelligence in architecture; user perceptions; adaptive building systems; design and functionality; energy-efficient urban design; Chennai property users; intelligent building envelopes; human-centered innovation; architectural technology adoption

References

  1. Asadi E., et al. “Multi-objective optimization for building retrofit strategies: A model and an application”. Energy and Buildings 44 (2012): 81-87.
  2. Azari R and Brown GZ. “Comparative energy performance of intelligent façades in hot and humid climates”. Journal of Building Performance 1.1 (2010): 41-49.
  3. Becerik-Gerber B and Kensek K. “Building information modeling in architecture, engineering, and construction: Emerging research directions and trends”. Journal of Professional Issues in Engineering Education and Practice 136.3 (2010): 139-147.
  4. Chien SF and Shih S. “Design automation in intelligent buildings”. Automation in Construction 16.3 (2007): 344-351.
  5. Cook DJ and Das SK. “How smart are our environments? An updated look at the state of the art”. Pervasive and Mobile Computing 3.2 (2007): 53-73.
  6. Dear R and Brager GS. “Thermal comfort in naturally ventilated buildings: Revisions to ASHRAE Standard 55”. Energy and Buildings 34.6 (2002): 549-561.
  7. Delzendeh E., et al. “The impact of occupants’ behaviours on building energy analysis: A research review”. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 80 (2017): 1061-1071.
  8. GhaffarianHoseini A, Berardi U and GhaffarianHoseini A. “What drives the green building movement?”. Sustainable Cities and Society 17 (2015): 20-30.
  9. Hay R and Ostwald MJ. “Understanding adaptive architecture: A review”. International Journal of Architectural Computing 11.2 (2013): 139-158.
  10. Janda KB. “Buildings don’t use energy: People do”. Architectural Science Review 54.1 (2011): 15-22.
  11. Kim J and Clayton MJ. “The effects of virtual building environments on occupant comfort and productivity”. Building and Environment 56 (2012): 38-47.
  12. Kolokotsa D and Santamouris M. “Review of the indoor environmental quality and energy consumption studies for educational buildings”. Energy and Buildings 94 (2015): 10-32.
  13. Kwon J, Kim Y and Jeong J. “Application of smart façade systems for improving building energy efficiency and indoor comfort: A review”. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 113 (2019): 109234.
  14. Lee ES and Selkowitz SE. “The New York Times Headquarters daylighting mockup: Performance of the daylighting control system”. Energy and Buildings 38.7 (2006): 914-929.
  15. Mahdavinejad MJ and Asadi I. “Post-occupancy evaluation of smart building performance based on users’ satisfaction and environmental comfort”. Journal of Building Engineering 43 (2021): 102569.
  16. Marengo M and Pagani R. “AI-based building envelopes: A new frontier for sustainability”. Journal of Sustainable Architecture and Civil Engineering 23.2 (2018): 15-25.
  17. O’Brien W, Gunay HB and Shi Z. “Human-centric intelligent buildings: Recent advances and research challenges”. Building and Environment 182 (2020): 107101.
  18. Pérez-Lombard L, Ortiz J and Pout C. “A review of buildings’ energy consumption information”. Energy and Buildings 40.3 (2008): 394-398.
  19. Salama AM and Gorgulu S. “AI in the built environment: Potentials and limitations”. Architecture and Urbanism 2.1 (2019): 21-32.
  20. Wang L, Gwilliam J and Jones P. “Case study of zero-energy house design in the UK”. Energy and Buildings 41.11 (2009): 1215-1222.