Using AI for interior design: it's a helpful tool with a few hidden traps

Using AI for interior design offers a helpful starting point for planning spaces, but it comes with traps and limits, says Katherine Stanley of Cooper & Co. AI can spark ideas when you’re unsure where to start, yet images are often idealized and not always reflective of real-world feel or lighting. It can suggest complementary tones but tends to chase current trends, potentially making rooms look dated quickly. When color choices are settled, AI can assist with harmonious palettes, but physical testing remains essential; lighting and time of day alter perceptions. Do not rely on AI for measurements; use masking tape to map shapes and sizes, and ensure prompts include precise dimensions and layout constraints for usable results.