Gendo, a London-based startup, has raised EUR5.1mn in response to a booming demand for its AI-generated software for architects.
In 2022, British architect George Proud founded Gendo with software engineer Will Jones. The platform converts simple inputs such as sketches, 2D drawing, or text descriptions to hypereal building design. It’s a lot like Midjourney, but it was built by architects specifically for architects. The tool allows you edit specific details in your design such as lighting, colours, structural elements or furniture. The model produces results that are more lifelike than those produced by more general AI algorithms.
Gendo claims that it can produce detailed visualisations up to 100 times faster than traditional software. The tool is also available at a reasonable cost — PS15 per monthly for the midrange package.
The of EU tech
The latest rumblings on the EU tech scene
A story from our wise old founder Boris and some questionable AI artwork. Every week, it’s in your inbox for free. Sign up today!
Proud, the CEO of the startup, said: “We are big believers in bespoke generative AI tool that are designed for specific uses cases. The reception to Gendo is a huge validation of that belief.”
Gendo’s platform was launched just four months after it secured EUR1mn of pre-seed financing. Early adopters include big-name architects such as Zaha Hadid, KPF, David Chipperfield, and Benoy. Gendo is unique because it allows for easy and affordable creation of professional designs. It fills the gap between basic visualization tools and time-consuming rendering programs like Autodesk Forma or Spacemaker.
Patrik Schumacher is the principal of Zaha Hadid Architects and has been appointed to Gendo’s board. The startup is now entering its next phase. Gendo will use the new capital to expand its AI abilities and develop customised workflows and license models aimed at large design firms.
The funding round was led by German early-stage funds PT1 & LEA Partners. Concept Ventures, the UK’s largest seed fund, and London-based Koro Captial also contributed.