Meet James Zhou, RA | Founder & Architect

We had the good fortune of connecting with James Zhou, RA and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi James, how does your business help the community?
Since the launch of Simile, people have asked about what we do and why we started the company. Simile is an AI toolset for architects; our goal is to make it easy for design firms to get started using AI.

Why did we start Simile?

𝗟𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗼𝗳 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗼𝗼𝗹𝘀 – The majority of AI tools are designed for general consumer use (virtual staging, image editing, etc). While many have experimented with platforms like MidJourney, there are more suitable models for architecture. Unfortunately, these superior models often come with steep learning curves and demand technical expertise. Simile utilizes the best tested models and makes it accessible for all professionals.

𝗨𝗻𝗳𝗮𝗶𝗿 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗲 – It’s a known fact that leading architectural firms like Gensler and Foster + Partners are already utilizing their own internally developed AI tools for their projects. Given the rapid pace of AI development, smaller firms will find themselves at a significant disadvantage as this gap continues to grow.

𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗢𝗻𝗯𝗼𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 – Many architects haven’t experimented with AI, not due to a lack of interest, but because they feel unsure about where to begin. Our goal is to eliminate those barriers, creating a product that is user-friendly and provides dependable results. Simile handles all the behind-the-scenes tasks to ensure you have access to the latest models and features.

My co-founder and I are both convinced that the architecture field is poised for a transformation in the years ahead due to AI, similar to the influence that computer-aided design had on the industry. While our titles will stay the same, the nature of our daily tasks will change considerably. We aim to proactively embrace this shift and ensure the future is user-friendly, professional, and equitable for everyone. This is why we created Simile.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
One of the biggest challenges in bringing AI into creative fields is overcoming the understandable hesitation of legacy industries. Designers, agencies, and studios that have built their reputations on traditional workflows often worry that AI will replace their craft or that it simply won’t deliver the quality their clients expect.

But AI isn’t a gimmick; it’s a powerful tool that can amplify creativity, speed up ideation, and lower barriers to entry for everyone. The best way to prove its potential is to show it in action.

That’s why I’m excited to announce the launch of 5 Dollar Design, an on‑demand service powered by Simile that delivers photorealistic redesigns of any interior or exterior for just $5 with a 24 hour turnaround. Every design is personally curated by me to ensure quality, context, and originality. Just upload an image of your current space and get redesign via email. Its less than a cup of coffee.

Check it out: https://5dollardesign.com/

If you’re curious, give us a try. If you know anyone thinking about a renovation and don’t know where to start and dreads the process of finding the right designer just to get started, send them our way.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
While Culver City has evolved a lot, it remains one of my favorite spots. For fireworks on July 4th or New Year’s Eve, head up to Baldwin Hill Overlook for a panoramic view across the city. If you’re craving Brazilian BBQ, Pampas Grill never disappoints, and Simonette is my go-to for a leisurely brunch. For a quick breakfast sandwich, you can’t beat Jerry’s Market whenever you’re in the neighborhood.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to give a huge shoutout to my wife for her unwavering support, honest feedback, and boundless encouragement. She has cheered me on late into the night as I chased deadlines, challenged me to think bigger when I played it safe, and reminded me to celebrate even the smallest wins, and her belief in me has made all the difference.

Website: https://simile.app/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simile.app/