We are pleased to share that Professor Hee Sun Choi (corresponding author), together with Wang Zhang, has authored a new book chapter entitled AI-aided Urbanism, forthcoming in Tech-Enabled Urbanism and Entrepreneurship for Inclusive Cities (Springer Nature, Lecture Notes in Civil Engineering series, 2025).

Chapter Overview

This chapter investigates how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the foundations of contemporary urbanism. By situating AI within the socio-technical history of urban development, the work draws critical comparisons with earlier technological shifts that have transformed cities.

Rather than reinforcing the traditional “smart city” paradigm focused on infrastructural efficiency, the chapter explores how AI fosters a more evidence-based, human-centred, and inclusive urban design approach. Through systematic review and international case studies, it identifies three major transformations in urban design practice:

1. A shift from problem framing to human–computer interaction (HCI);

2. Data-informed design models co-created with diverse stakeholders;

3. Emerging new typologies of urban form influenced by evolving materials and design logics.

The discussion further addresses the ethical and justice-related challenges of AI adoption, positioning AI as both a powerful tool and a collaborative agent in advancing equitable, resilient, and opportunity-driven urban futures.

This contribution aligns with UN SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities, highlighting the transformative role of AI in shaping future urban design.