Marymount University’s Interior Architecture + Design program recently hosted the inaugural Dana Keegan & Martha Child Lecture Series event in response to the rapidly evolving landscape of AI technologies and their integration into various professions. Held on February 28 in the Ballston Center auditorium, it aimed to foster increased knowledge and insightful discussions surrounding the advancements of AI within the context of interior design and related industries.
Mark Bryan, senior foresight manager at Future Today Institute, served as the inaugural speaker for the lecture series. Drawing from his extensive experience, he explored the role of AI in interior design, technology and business. His presentation explored the multifaceted aspects of AI, from its functionality as a tool to its potential integration with immersive augmented reality (AR). Emphasizing that AI is a starting point rather than a final destination, Bryan highlighted AI’s transformative impact on ideation and turning concepts into reality.
“Lean into the uncertainty, because that’s actually an opportunity space for you to use where you might be able to create something new,” Bryan told the audience.
The lecture series, initiated to provide a platform for leading interior design professionals to share insights and thoughts about the industry, was established thanks to the Keegan family’s support through scholarships for Interior Architecture + Design students. Attendees, including VIPs Dana Keegan (‘95 and ’08), Brendan Keegan, Kaylie Keegan and Martha and Don Child, gathered to engage and learn from trailblazing leaders within the field.
Covering a diverse array of AI topics, Bryan discussed concepts such as digital twins – virtual replicas of physical objects —and ‘reperception,’ an activity that involves envisioning the future of self-invented objects. Stressing the significance of data in AI development, he described the vast potential these tools hold for shaping the future.
“Most importantly, I want you to ask, ‘what if now?'” Bryan told the audience. “So that in the future, you’re not asking, ‘now what?'”
As the lecture concluded, Bryan encouraged students to engage in conversations and educate themselves on the skills necessary for an AI-driven future. Questions from the audience touched upon various themes, including potential future iterations of AI, ethical concerns surrounding AI integration in the workplace and predictions for stricter data privacy laws.
The lecture was proceeded by a VIP reception in the Ballston Center attended by Marymount students, faculty and staff.
