10 AI Tools That Made My Arch Viz Workflow 10x Faster (and Clients Happier)

Introduction to AI Tools in Architecture

Overview of the Speaker and Purpose

• Aga from Arch Viz Artist introduces herself, highlighting over 10 years of experience in architectural visualization (arch-viz).

• Emphasizes the importance of using AI tools for efficiency, stating that not utilizing them results in working significantly harder for minimal output.

• The video will cover 10 essential AI tools that enhance workflow and client satisfaction, moving beyond typical image generation tutorials.

Tool #1: Comfy UI

Features and Benefits

• Described as a powerful node-based interface for AI image generation, crucial for professionals despite its steep learning curve.

• Allows users to create multiple variations from a single input image quickly, significantly reducing time spent on presentations.

• Control is emphasized; users can define specific areas to change with custom workflows using prompts from ChatGPT.

• Most functionalities are free when run locally with installed models; however, a strong GPU is recommended for optimal performance.

• Nunchaku enables efficient handling of complex workflows even on systems with lower VRAM.

Tool #2: Leonardo

Key Features

• Leonardo is highlighted as an easy-to-use platform with high-quality models and built-in controlnets for guiding generations.

• A subscription-based course has been developed to help users navigate the rapidly changing landscape of AI tools effectively.

• Users can transform images by adjusting prompts and settings within Leonardo, showcasing impressive results through various tests.

• Offers options to upscale images or create videos directly from generated content; subscription plans range from $12/month to $60/month.

Tool #3: ChatGPT

Applications in Workflow

• ChatGPT serves as a creative partner throughout the workflow, aiding in prompt writing and storyboard drafting.

• Particularly useful for interior design tasks by suggesting realistic furniture arrangements based on user inputs.

• Ready-made GPT assistants like Armada help streamline processes by providing tailored prompts for animations or adjustments.

Tool #4: Photoshop with Astria Plug-in

Enhancements Offered

• The Astria plug-in enhances Photoshop's capabilities; it includes updated scripts that improve functionality compared to other available options.

Generative AI Tools Overview

Comparing Models: Nano Banana vs. Seedream

• Each generative model has its advantages and disadvantages; the key is selecting the right one for specific tasks.

• The Nano Banana model provides a photorealistic approach but suffers from low resolution.

• In contrast, Seedream offers sharper images with a dreamy style, although it sacrifices some resolution.

• Pricing for these tools includes a one-time fee of $9 for the plugin and approximately 4 cents per generation.

Tool Highlight: Kling AI

• Kling AI is a generative text-to-video and image-to-video model that converts prompts or still images into high-quality video clips.

• Previously favored, Kling now faces competition but remains useful for turning 3D renders into videos using its image-to-video feature.

Impressive Results with Kling AI

• The results from Kling are impressive, especially in challenging lighting conditions where cars move between shade and sunlight.

• Improvements have been noted in how people inside vehicles are rendered compared to older models.

Practical Applications of Multi-Element Option

• The Multi-Element option allows users to replace objects in videos creatively; an example shown was replacing a car with a panda bear.

• Users can upload first and last frames for tighter control over video shots.

Freepik: An All-in-One Creative Toolbox

• Freepik serves as an aggregator of various AI models, providing access to numerous image generators and video models in one platform.

• It saves time by allowing users to test ideas quickly without needing multiple subscriptions across different platforms.

Features of Freepik

• Offers tools like simple image generators, editors, and Topaz Video Upscaler among others.

• The "workflows" section features Comfy UI workflows running behind the scenes, which grow as new models are released.

Pricing Structure of Freepik

• Freepik's pricing ranges from $9/month to $250/month with options for annual savings up to 40%.

Weavy: A Simplified Alternative

Overview of Weavy Tool

• Weavy is described as a simplified version of ComfyUI with pre-installed models ready for use; it requires payment per generation unlike ComfyUI which is free.

User-Friendly Node System

• Weavy’s node system allows single nodes to represent mini-workflows, simplifying video generation processes significantly.

Accessing Latest Models

• Users always have access to the latest updates and models within Weavy, ensuring they stay current with advancements in technology.

Advanced Features in Weavy

Generating 3D Models

• Users can generate alternative views from images using templates that create variations based on original inputs.

Video Generation Capabilities

• Users can generate videos based on images by connecting them through nodes while specifying prompts such as requesting rotations or movements.

Pricing Options

• Weavy offers three subscription plans ranging from $24/month to $60/month along with an option for free trials.

Image Generation and Editing Tools Overview

Image Selection and Customization Features

• Users can choose the type of image to generate: Exterior, Interior, or Birds Eye. The "creativity" bar suggests options based on input type.

• The tool allows for step-by-step image refinement with features like Material ID and Reference images, enabling separate material generation and automatic color masking.

• Reference images help convey desired atmosphere but lack control over influence compared to other platforms; users can only upload images for guidance.

• Users can add elements (e.g., trees) by drawing regions and typing prompts. A chatbot feature allows for interactive changes like adjusting the time of day.

• Visoid offers subscription plans ranging from $29/month to $50/month, with a free option available.

Video Editing Innovations with Runway

• Runway is highlighted as a leading AI video editor that simplifies editing through prompting rather than manual adjustments.

• Users can replace backgrounds or apply stylistic transformations by describing desired changes directly in the interface.

• While changing seasons in a video worked well, attempts to create new camera angles were less successful; quality may drop compared to original footage.

• Runway's subscription plans range from $12/month to $76/month, with a 20% discount for annual subscriptions available.

Exploring Higgsfield's Capabilities

• Higgsfield serves as a video model aggregator featuring an extensive library of ready-to-use models along with pre-made camera movements and effects.

• It simplifies creating dynamic videos without complex workflows; however, results may vary significantly based on user input.

• The main model, Higgsfield Soul, generates images effectively but may produce unexpected results during video generation (e.g., random people appearing).

• Quick creation is possible without deep knowledge of tools; however, achieving precise outcomes often requires trial and error.