EP 64 | Hypar: Automating Building Design with AI & Automation with Ian Keough & Andrew Heumann

In this episode of the ATN Podcast, Oliver Thomas is joined by Ian Keough, founder of Hypar, alongside Andrew Heumann, software engineer and creator of the Human plugin, to unpack what BIM 2.0 could look like — and how automation and AI are changing architectural design. Ian brings a rare dual background in architecture and software development, while Andrew’s career spans design, computation, and engineering. Together, they explore how Hypar was born out of real-world frustration with traditional tools, particularly during Ian’s time at WeWork, where scale, speed, and repetition exposed the limits of conventional BIM workflows. The conversation traces Hypar’s evolution from early concept to Hypar 2.0, focusing on a core philosophy: automate the boring and repetitive parts of design while keeping architects firmly in control. Rather than positioning AI as a replacement for designers, Ian and Andrew discuss how it can act as supportive infrastructure — enhancing flexibility, speed, and creative decision-making. We also dive into the realities of building architectural software: Why user experience is critical (and often overlooked) How feedback from real projects shapes the platform The shift from consulting to product-led development And whether architecture is approaching its own “Canva moment” This episode is a must-watch for architects, computational designers, and anyone interested in the future of architectural technology, design automation, and AI-powered workflows. Andrew Heumann |   / andrew-heumann-13751414   Ian Keough |   / ian-keough-4b1ba91   Try Hypar | https://hypar.io/ ATN HOST | Oliver Thomas |   / olly____t   ATN MASTERCLASS | https://archi-tech.network 00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates 01:30 Introduction to the ATN Podcast and Guests 04:36 Backgrounds of Ian Keough & Andrew Heumann 07:31 The WeWork Experience 10:25 Founding Hypar 13:36 The Evolution of Hypar 16:31 Hypar 2.0 & Designer Control 19:28 Technical & Business Evolution 22:27 UX and Software Insights 25:30 Automation vs Creativity 28:32 Hypar Today: The Elevator Pitch 37:09 Long-Term Vision 40:01 The “Canva Moment” for Architecture 43:41 Integrating AI into Design 56:34 AI & Building Design Challenges 01:00:17 From Consulting to Product 01:07:20 What’s Next for Hypar Enjoyed the video? Be sure to like, subscribe, and share for more insights into the intersection of the Metaverse and Architecture. Don't forget to hit the bell icon to stay updated on our latest content. Like our new wall art? check out our collaborator Zaglono here: Instagram:   / zaglono   Website: https://www.pared.art/artistas/zaglono/ Join the conversation on our social media platforms: INSTAGRAM |   / architech.network   LINKEDIN |   / archi-tech-network   TIKTOK |   / architech.network   EVENTS | https://linktr.ee/architech_network #hypar #BIM2.0 #Architecture #AEC #ATN #AIinDesign #BIM #architechnetwork #architecture #podcast