Lesson 2: The revolution in design: Why AI matters for interior designers

Okay, let’s be real for a second. When I first heard about AI image generation, I thought, “Great, another tech thing that’s going to replace us.” But here’s what I’ve learned: This isn’t about replacement. It’s about amplification.

Here’s what used to happen: You’d meet with a client, discuss their vision, go back to your office, spend hours (or days) either sketching, creating mood boards, or—if you had the budget—hiring a 3D renderer to visualize the space. Then the client would say, “I love it, but can we see it in blue instead of gray?” And you’d either start over or try to explain it with fabric swatches.

Here’s what can happen now: You have that same conversation, but within minutes—literally while you’re still on the call—you can generate multiple variations of the space. Different color palettes, different furniture arrangements, different lighting scenarios. The client can see their space evolving in real-time.

Why this matters for your business:

Speed: What used to take days now takes minutes. You can explore ten different design directions in the time it used to take to perfect one.

Client Communication: Some clients can’t visualize from a mood board. They need to see it. AI bridges that gap instantly. No more “I thought it would look different” surprises.

Experimentation: Want to try that wild idea you’ve been nervous about pitching? Generate it first. If it works, you’re a genius. If it doesn’t, you haven’t wasted anyone’s time or money.

Competitive Edge: While other designers are still sending Pinterest boards, you’re sending custom visualizations that look like professional renders. Who do you think wins that project?

Portfolio Building: Just starting out and don’t have a huge portfolio? You can now create spec work that showcases your vision and style—even for projects you haven’t built yet.

The truth is: The designers who learn to use AI aren’t replacing traditional skills—they’re turbcharging them. You still need to understand space planning, color theory, materials, and what actually works in a real room. AI doesn’t know if that gorgeous sofa will fit through your client’s doorway. But it does let you communicate your expertise faster and more beautifully than ever before.

Think of it like when CAD replaced hand drafting. The designers who adapted thrived. The ones who said “I only draw by hand” got left behind. This is that moment again.