Skip to main content

004                                                                                                                   05 JAN '25

Why AI Can’t Replace Human Expertise in Interior Architecture and Design

Inspiration for a family room remodel in London

Studio JKL project, photographed by Anna Stathaki

Artificial Intelligence has transformed the way we live, work, and even decorate our homes. With tools like Zoopla’s new room-styling feature and AI design apps promising instant layouts, it’s easy to think technology can do it all.

At first glance, these tools are impressive — they can generate room images in seconds, show different colour palettes, or suggest furniture arrangements at the click of a button. But while AI can mimic design, it can’t understand it.

The Problem with “Perfect on Screen” Design

We’ve seen AI-generated room suggestions that look striking online… until you try to imagine living in them.

Kitchens placed in lounges. Cupboards covering chimneys. Sofas blocking doorways.

AI isn’t looking at how your family moves through the home, or where sunlight hits the breakfast table. It doesn’t understand proportion, comfort, or the subtle balance between beauty and function.

These tools are fun for quick visualisation, but they miss the core of what makes a home work — the human experience.

Studio JKL project, photographed by Anna Batchelor

Studio JKL project, photographed by Anna Stathaki

Designing for Real Life, Not Just for Looks

At Studio JKL, our work goes far beyond surface aesthetics. We design for how you live, not just how you want your home to look.

That means understanding things AI can’t quantify, such as:

  • How your children move through the space
  • Where natural light falls at different times of day
  • How acoustics and storage affect your daily rhythm
  • The feeling you want to create when you walk through the door

Design is deeply human. It’s about empathy, problem-solving, and creating spaces that enhance wellbeing and connection — not just matching colours or furniture styles.

Studio JKL project, photographed by Anna Stathaki

Celebration of colour, a symphony of vibrant hues brought to life through an array of colourful accessories and styling.

Studio JKL project, photographed by Anna Bachelor

Save Strategically

Not every element needs to be custom or costly. Smart choices can stretch your budget without compromising style.

01 Trend-Led Choices

Bold tiles or statement colours can date quickly. Keep trends to easily replaceable elements like paint or soft furnishings/accessories.

02 Off-the-Shelf Where It Works

Not every room needs bespoke fittings. Standard solutions can free up budget for the areas that matter most.

03 Furniture & Accessories

These can always be upgrade later or layered in over time. You don’t need to furnish everything on day one — let your space evolve.

The Balancing Act

The smartest investments are in things that are difficult — or expensive — to change later. The key is knowing where design-led investment will transform daily living — and where budget-friendly choices still deliver impact. Layout, plumbing, electrics, and built-in storage set the stage for how you’ll live in your home. Décor and furnishings can evolve over time.


At Studio JKL, we help families make confident decisions that balance beauty, practicality, and longevity. We designing homes that are practical for today and beautiful for years to come.

If you’d like clarity on how to invest wisely in your renovation, explore our services here — and follow us for more smart design insights that save money and stress.