Module 2 of 5 · Intermediate · 9 min read

Architecture and interior design

Explore concepts, render ideas, plan spaces and script design tools with AI, while leaving codes and structure to professionals.

Key takeaways

1AI is strong for concept exploration, mood boards, renders and client communication.
2Generated images aren't buildable plans; dimensions and details need real drawings.
3Scripting in design tools automates repetitive modelling and documentation.
4Building codes, structure and permits require licensed professionals and local authorities.

01Where AI helps

The fastest value is in the early, divergent phase: showing clients many directions quickly.

Mood boards and concept renders from descriptions, sketches or photos of a room.
Exploring layout options and furniture arrangements.
Material, colour and lighting palettes.
Scripts for design tools to automate repetitive modelling, scheduling and sheets.
Client briefs, presentations and design narratives.

Watch out

Not professional architectural, structural or legal advice. Structural changes, building work and change of use usually need permits and qualified professionals. Check with your local building authority.

02The workflow

Keep AI imagery labelled as concept to avoid clients mistaking it for a final design.

Gather the brief: users, needs, budget, style references, constraints and photos with measurements.
Generate concept images and mood boards; discuss with the client.
Develop the chosen direction in proper design software with real dimensions.
Use AI-written scripts to automate repetitive modelling and documentation.
Check codes, accessibility, structure and services with the right professionals.
Produce drawings and specifications for pricing and permits.

03Tools to reach for

Scripting turns hours of repetitive clicks into seconds, and AI makes scripting accessible to non-programmers.

Image models and image editors for concept renders and room restyling from photos.
Design and BIM software, many with scripting such as Python or visual programming.
Chat assistants for briefs, specifications drafts and scripts.
Rendering tools with AI denoising and upscaling.

04Prompt: restyle a room photo

Attach a photo and protect what shouldn't change.

Example

Restyle this living-room photo as {{style, e.g. warm Japandi}}. Keep the room's architecture exactly: walls, windows, doors, ceiling height and floor area. Change only furniture, textiles, lighting fixtures, wall colour and decor. Natural daylight from the existing windows. Show a realistic, buildable space with furniture at a believable scale.

05Prompt: layout options

Give real dimensions and constraints, and ask for reasoning.

Example

Room: {{dimensions}}, door on {{wall}}, window on {{wall}}, radiator under the window. Uses: {{uses}}. Must fit: {{furniture with sizes}}. Propose three layout options. For each: where each item goes (with distances from walls), circulation paths and clearances, pros and cons, and anything that might not fit. Note any clearances I should confirm against accessibility guidance.

06Prompt: design tool scripting

State the software and version, and the elements involved.

Example

Write a {{software and version}} Python script that renames all rooms on level {{level}} using the pattern {{pattern}}, then creates a room schedule with name, number, area and finish, sorted by number. Explain how to run it, and add a dry-run option that lists the changes without applying them.

07Pitfalls

Use AI to explore and communicate; use drawings, professionals and authorities to build.

Impossible spaces: renders can show stairs, structure or furniture that can't exist. Check against real dimensions.
Code compliance: fire, accessibility, structure and energy rules vary by place. Ask professionals and authorities.
Client expectations: label generated images as concepts.
Rights: check licences for generated images used in marketing, and get permission before using photos of other people's homes.

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