Navigating AI Anxiety in Interior Design
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Navigating AI Anxiety in Interior Design: A Professional’s Perspective
Hi Designers! It’s Jenna Gaidusek here. As interior designers, we’re no strangers to change—whether it’s trends, technology, or new client expectations. But lately, there’s been a lot of buzz around a particular shift: the growing presence of AI in our industry. Understandably, this has sparked concern, with some wondering if AI could eventually replace us. Today, I want to address those concerns and offer a perspective that frames AI not as a threat, but as a tool that can elevate and enhance our work as design professionals.
Addressing AI Anxiety Head-On
First, let’s acknowledge the fear many of us are feeling. It’s no secret that AI has made waves across many industries, and ours is no exception. Whether it's through conversations in industry groups, social media discussions, or chats with peers, there’s a common thread of anxiety about what AI could mean for the future of interior design. Will it replace us? Will it take away the creativity and human touch that defines our work?
I’m here to reassure you: AI is not going to replace the role of interior designers anytime soon. What it can do, however, is help streamline certain tasks, push the boundaries of creativity, and allow us to focus on the parts of our work that truly matter—creating beautiful, functional spaces for our clients.
The Reality of AI in Design
There’s a common misconception that AI can do everything a designer does, and that’s simply not true. AI tools like ChatGPT or MidJourney are undeniably powerful, but they lack the human intuition, experience, and emotional intelligence that designers bring to the table. While these tools can generate visual inspiration or help with administrative tasks, they don’t have the ability to understand a client’s personal style or create spaces that tell a unique story.
As professionals, our value lies in our ability to blend aesthetics with functionality, to listen to clients’ needs, and to craft spaces that enhance how people live, work, and play. No AI program can replicate that, and it’s this human element that will continue to set us apart.
How AI Can Enhance Your Workflow
So, how does AI fit into the work we do? Rather than fearing it, let’s look at how it can actually improve our processes. One of the greatest strengths of AI is its ability to handle repetitive, time-consuming tasks. Tools like Fathom, for instance, can record and transcribe meetings, allowing you to focus on engaging with clients and diving into creative conversations rather than worrying about note-taking.
Another area where AI can shine is in concept generation. While AI-generated images and layouts aren’t a final design solution, they can serve as starting points or mood board ideas. AI can quickly pull together color schemes or layout ideas, which you can then refine and elevate with your own expertise. By taking care of these more basic tasks, AI allows you to spend more time perfecting the details that make each design special.
AI and the Question of Originality
One of the most common concerns I hear is that AI-generated designs lack originality, and to some extent, that’s a valid point. AI operates by analyzing patterns, data, and trends—it can’t create something truly innovative or unique. But here’s where we come in: as designers, it’s our job to take those generated ideas and push them further.
Think of AI as a collaborative tool, much like working with an intern or design assistant. It can give you ideas, suggest solutions, or even spark inspiration, but it’s up to you to apply your professional knowledge, creativity, and experience to turn those ideas into a functional, beautiful reality. AI might give you a starting point, but the magic happens when you layer in your own perspective and personal touch.
How to Start Using AI Without Overwhelm
If you’re feeling hesitant about diving into AI, that’s completely understandable. The key is to start small and integrate AI tools in ways that make sense for your workflow.
For example, you might use AI for project management tasks—like scheduling, invoicing, or client follow-ups. Tools like ChatGPT can help you draft client emails or proposals, saving you time and allowing you to focus on design work. Or, you could experiment with using AI for early-stage ideation, such as generating quick mood boards or color palettes.
By starting small and focusing on areas where AI can make your life easier, you can gradually integrate it into your practice without feeling overwhelmed.
The Future of Interior Design with AI
As we look to the future, it’s clear that AI isn’t going away. In fact, it’s becoming more integrated into the tools we already use. From CAD software to design apps, AI is being woven into the fabric of our industry, offering us new ways to approach our work.
Rather than seeing AI as competition, we can view it as an asset—one that allows us to be more efficient, creative, and adaptable. As interior designers, we’ve always been at the forefront of innovation, and this is just the next step in that journey. By embracing AI, we can stay ahead of the curve and continue to provide top-tier service to our clients, while also pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in design.
Final Thoughts: AI as a Tool, Not a Threat
At the end of the day, AI is just another tool in our toolbox. It’s here to support us, to make certain tasks easier, and to open up new creative possibilities. It will never replace the human touch, intuition, and experience that only a professional designer can provide.
So, my advice to fellow designers: don’t let AI anxiety hold you back. Start small, stay curious, and use these tools to enhance the incredible work you’re already doing. The future of interior design is bright, and AI can help us get there—without ever replacing what makes our work truly unique.
Until next time, keep innovating, keep designing, and keep sharing your unique perspectives with the world. Don’t forget to follow and subscribe for more insights on AI in interior design. See you in the next episode!
Warm regards,
Jenna Gaidusek
CEO, AI for Interior Designers™️
Disclaimer: This blog was written using AI as a recap from the recording then edited by the author for accuracy and details.
