The world is currently being supercharged by AI. We believe that technology complements human connection and creativity, and can never replace it. The 21st edition of Decor + Design & The Australian International Furniture Fair (AIFF) will take place from 16 – 18 July at Melbourne Exhibition Centre, with 10,000+ design trade visitors expected over three days to connect with their design peers and experience 200+ brands in person.
The International Seminar Series at Decor + Design will this year feature a workshop on how designers can harness AI to enhance the design process and deliver personalised project management experiences for clients.
In the meantime, here are some tips on how to start using AI in your interior design or furniture business.
3D Visuals in Minutes
Manual layout planning still has its place in the creative process. However, AI-powered platforms like Planner 5D and Homestyler enable designers to quickly generate photorealistic 3D visuals, making it easier to experiment with layouts, lighting, and textures. These intuitive tools use machine learning to offer smart suggestions on furniture placement and décor, allowing designers to focus on their creative vision.
Smart Material and Colour Selection
Selecting the right materials and colours can make or break a design. Colour powerhouses such Dulux Australia now have smart online tools which analyse current trends and recommend palettes that align with your project’s aesthetic.
We’re delighted to once again welcome Dulux as our 2025 Official Colour Partner! Watch out for some on-trend palettes when strolling the show floor in July.
Automated Space Planning: Designing with Precision
Space planning has never been easier, thanks to AI. Tools like Spacemaker AI analyse dimensions, natural light, and even human movement patterns to optimise layouts for both form and function. These solutions take the guesswork out of designing ergonomic and efficient spaces, ensuring that every square metre is utilised effectively.
AI-Generated Mood Boards
Creating mood boards is an essential part of the design process, and AI tools such as DesignMyRoom make it easier than ever. By taking client preferences and existing aesthetics into account, these platforms generate inspiration boards that align with a project’s vision, helping designers communicate ideas with clarity and precision.
Immersive AR and VR Experiences: Bringing Designs to Life
AI is driving a revolution in Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR), allowing clients to visualize their spaces before a single piece of furniture is moved. Apps like IKEA Place let users see how different pieces will fit in their home, reducing uncertainty and enhancing decision-making.
Automation of Administration…
…means more time to be creative. Interior design isn’t just about creativity though —it also involves a lot of behind-the-scenes work. Software like Programa can automate appointment scheduling, follow-up emails, and invoicing, freeing up valuable time for designers to focus on what they do best.
Managing timelines, budgets, and supply chains is an integral part of any design project. AI-powered tools offer real-time tracking of project progress, providing insights that help designers stay on schedule and within budget.
It Can’t Replace the Human Touch
While AI can be a game-changer for the productivity of interior designers, it complements rather than a replaces human creativity. The beating heart of interior design remains in storytelling, emotion, and personal expression—elements that only a designer can truly bring to life.
Watch out for the release of our AI workshop at Decor + Design & The Australian International Furniture Fair (AIFF) in April. Register now as a trade visitor to receive news on the show and to start planning your trip to Australia’s premier trade event for the interior design and furniture industry, 16 – 18 July 2025 at Melbourne Exhibition Centre!
Images in article designed by DALL-E and Skye Rytenskild.