Atlanta consultant launches AI-powered architecture practice
cove, an Atlanta-based consulting firm that specializes in artificial intelligence-driven sustainable design, has launched a full-service AI-powered architecture practice, Cove Architecture, which recently completed its first project: a multifamily complex located in Atlanta’s West End neighborhood.
This project, whose design was achieved in 15 days, leveraged two AI frameworks—VItras.ai and ARK_BIM—that cove developed. The firm said in a prepared statement that it has been working on and refining these software products for a decade at a cost of more than $25 million.
Vitras.ai sifts through volumes of data that would otherwise take a human team weeks to process and surfaces critical insights in real time. It flags cost variables, highlights code or FEMA compliance issues, and pinpoints potential red flags with over 95% accuracy. ARK_BIM takes the intelligence from Vitras.ai and translates it into dynamic 3D models, complete with cost analyses and construction documents. This all happens in a web-based platform designed with a Git-style version control enabling parallel collaboration.
“When we started cove, we began by building software for others to optimize costs, compress timelines, and meet performance standards,” explained Sandeep Ahuja, Co-founder and CEO of cove. “Over time, we realized that the best way to showcase the true potential of our technology was to use it ourselves, end to end. Today, that technology forms the bedrock of our architecture services – rather than just offering tools, we guide projects from concept to completion.”
Patrick Chopson, Co-founder and CPO of cove, added that the firm has spent years perfecting simulation engines and building the robust data sets that now serve as the “brain” for Vitras.ai and ARK_BIM.
Encourages human collaboration
BD+C interviewed Ahuja about Cove Architecture this week via email. Here’s an edited version of her responses:
What data is cove using to train its AI for design?
We’re not focused on training AI in the traditional sense but rather on applying the appropriate AI models and framing design challenges effectively. Our AI system collaborates closely with human designers, enhancing their capabilities rather than generating designs independently. This collaborative process ensures every outcome is uniquely tailored to each project, backed by the rigorous data-driven insights and precision that AI brings.
Who provided that $25 million in R&D money?
The $25 million investment comes from both our operational revenue and funds raised from strategic partners, including Coatue, Robert Downey Jr., Third Sphere, Mucker, among others.
Did cove work with partners to develop the VItras.ai and ARK_BIM software?
Our Vitras.ai and ARK_BIM frameworks were developed entirely in-house by cove’s dedicated software team. With our extensive tech background, notably launching the world's leading sustainability software platform for architects, we've invested heavily over recent years into practical and impactful applications of AI.
About your first AI-designed project in Atlanta, you state it took 15 days to design. How long would that have taken if done conventionally? And when will construction begin?
Conventionally, reaching a zoning set could take several additional weeks compared to our current AI-accelerated timeline. On this project, for instance, Vitras.ai swiftly analyzed zoning regulations to identify a highly optimized combination, maximizing site yield. This allowed us to increase the number of units, improve affordability, and lower carbon impacts through better product choices. Construction is set to start in early Q3 2025.
Where does originality come into play with AI-designed projects?
Originality is integral to our design process. We employ AI alongside human designers who shape the creative vision. AI’s role is primarily to handle complex data and regulatory requirements efficiently, allowing designers the freedom and time to focus on achieving outstanding and original design excellence. This collaboration ensures uniqueness and high-quality results—while also enabling our team to enjoy a healthier work-life balance.
Where does this leave cove? Will all the firm’s work going forward deploy AI?
All our projects integrate AI into their delivery processes. AI is fundamental to how we’re redefining high-quality architectural services—delivering projects efficiently, on time, and within budget. Our approach ensures consistent design excellence, precision, and affordability across every project we undertake.
