The Truth About AI: A Tool for Creativity or a Job Killer?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is often painted as the ultimate disruptor, a technological wave that threatens to replace interior designers, architects, journalists, and countless other professionals. Pessimistic voices predict mass unemployment and the demise of creativity. But is this an accurate depiction of AI’s impact? Not necessarily.
Instead of seeing AI as a threat, I view it as a tool—one that, if wielded correctly, can enhance our work, streamline processes, and open doors to previously unimaginable possibilities. Let’s break down the reality of AI’s role in various industries, how it is already affecting professionals, and how you can leverage it to your advantage.
Will AI Replace Interior Designers, Architects, and Journalists?
The short answer: not entirely. However, every profession will experience AI’s influence in some way, from automation to improved efficiency. Some industries will transform, and others will evolve. But at its core, AI remains a tool rather than a replacement for human ingenuity.
Consider how architectural design has changed over the past few decades. In the past, blueprints were drawn by hand, requiring painstaking revisions. Then, software like AutoCAD, ArchiCAD, and Revit revolutionised the industry. Did architects disappear? No. They adapted. AI is simply the next evolution in this trend.
AI as an Enhancement Tool
I personally use AI every day. Whether in design projects, communication, or research, it has become an integral part of my workflow. And I am not alone. Many professionals, whether they admit it or not, are embracing AI to improve their work.
AI in Daily Tasks: My Experience
One of the most common ways I use AI is for grammar and language checking. As a Spanish speaker living in the UK, my English is proficient, but AI tools help refine my writing, ensuring clear and grammatically sound communication. Every email I send undergoes a final AI check before being delivered.
Beyond writing, AI assists in research. For instance, when working on a project in France, I asked AI to provide a list of traditional French housing styles with key characteristics. This would have taken hours, if not days, to compile manually. Instead, AI delivered a concise, well-organised response in seconds, allowing me to focus on creative aspects rather than exhaustive research.
AI in Interior Design and Architecture
How does AI benefit design professionals? Here are some practical applications:
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Concept Development: AI can generate design ideas based on historical and cultural research, helping create personalised spaces.
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Material Selection: AI tools analyse sustainability, cost, and durability to recommend the best materials.
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3D Modelling and Rendering: AI speeds up rendering processes, creating highly detailed visualisations in minutes.
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Project Management: AI streamlines workflow, scheduling, and budgeting, ensuring smooth execution.
While AI can handle repetitive and time-consuming tasks, the designer’s role remains crucial. The ability to interpret a client’s needs, emotions, and aspirations is something AI cannot replicate.
Using AI to Improve Personal and Professional Projects
If you are an individual looking to renovate your home, AI can serve as a valuable assistant. Here’s how you can use it effectively:
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Defining Your Vision: Input your preferences, inspirations, and budget into an AI tool to receive personalised design suggestions.
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Planning the Layout: AI-based floor planning tools can generate optimised layouts for your space.
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Material Selection: Ask AI about cost-effective and sustainable materials tailored to your project location.
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Researching Trends: AI can provide insights into design trends that align with your style.
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Budgeting and Cost Analysis: AI can generate cost estimates and recommend budget-friendly alternatives.
These applications empower individuals to make informed decisions while still benefiting from the expertise of designers and architects.
The Role of AI in Decision-Making
A real-world example: A client recently asked about installing an ice bath in their home. Instead of spending hours researching, I asked AI for an analysis of its pros and cons, installation costs, and potential return on investment. The response allowed for a well-informed discussion with the client, ultimately leading to a confident decision.
AI doesn’t replace expertise—it supplements it. By handling data-heavy tasks, it frees up professionals to focus on creativity, innovation, and client relationships.
The Future of Creativity and AI
Some argue that AI will strip professionals of their creative roles. I disagree. AI may generate ideas, but human intuition and artistic sensibility remain irreplaceable. Creativity is about more than patterns and algorithms; it’s about emotions, experiences, and cultural understanding.
Instead of replacing designers, architects, and journalists, AI will shift their focus. The future will see:
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More emphasis on human interaction: AI handles repetitive tasks, allowing professionals to spend more time engaging with clients.
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Faster design iterations: Concepts can be explored at unprecedented speeds, leading to richer, more diverse outcomes.
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Enhanced collaboration: AI bridges knowledge gaps, enabling cross-disciplinary innovation.