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Reimagine your space with AI: Turn bland areas into design masterpieces
From snapshots to stunning spaces with multimodal AI.
This article is part of the eBook: Everyday AI guide: Practical genAI life hacks from real users, a free download from We Love Open Source.
The challenge: Making the most of underutilized and boring spaces
We’ve all stared at a bland, underutilized space wondering how to transform it into something beautiful and functional. This entryway was the perfect example: a simple corridor with good bones but zero personality. It had nice dark marble flooring and a beautiful arched niche, but felt cold and unwelcoming – plus the floor wasn’t weather friendly.
Could ChatGPT transform this forgettable space into something fabulous?
The power of simple AI prompting
I’m a fan of starting simple with AI prompts. For this project, I uploaded a photo and said (use the microphone or type) into ChatGPT: “This is a downstairs hallway. What artwork and design suggestions do you have to change it up a bit? Maybe make better use of the space and make it more attractive?”
Note: This prompt should work with any GenAI tool capable of vision (seeing/uploading) and creating images.The desired output is photo or photorealistic image or visual, as well as, identifying products, materials, supplies, methods, and shopping links.
Why simple works
My prompting style is to start simple and then build iteratively. It’s one of the most effective ways to work with GenAI. Large language models respond best when you give them space to generate an initial vision and then refine step by step.
ChatGPT analyzed the photo and created prioritized goals: quick wins, weekend projects, and statement transformations. Then I prompted: “Create a professional photo of your vision with the quick wins.”
The result? A stunning visual that turns a daydreamer into a designer!
I was impressed with the visual. Next, I asked for a few more things like a bench and a few hooks for winter coats. Perfect! Since I started with a simple prompt, I let ChatGPT guide the direction of the design, I could ask for different colors, upgraded lighting or other features, maybe add a chair and small shoe hideaway, maybe it works and maybe it doesn’t. If you don’t like the chair and shoes hideaway, send another prompt and remove it. Try it for yourself!
For best results add details to your iterative prompts:
- Measurements and room dimensions
- Lifestyle needs and how the space will be used
- Style preferences (modern, boho, industrial, coastal, etc.)
- Non-negotiables like existing plumbing, electrical, or structural elements
- Constraints for budget and timeline
- Personal considerations like children, pets, or accessibility needs
- Desired atmosphere – how do you want to feel in the space?
When things go off track
If the AI design drifts from your actual space, try these fixes: Re-upload the original image, provide photos from different angles, restate your constraints, or use image editing tools to highlight specific areas you want preserved.
Your design template – if you prefer to use a structured prompt template
I want to redesign my [SPACE]. Current setup: [conditions].
My goals: [objectives]. Style: [aesthetic]. Budget: [range].
Constraints: [limitations]. Measurements: [dimensions].
Provide a design plan with specific recommendations
and implementation steps.Bonus tips: Getting specific implementation details
Ask AI to provide complete project specifications including color palettes with exact codes, paint brand recommendations, fabric types and quantities, tool lists, and online shopping links. Request styling tips for finishing touches and alternative options at different price points.
The future of AI-assisted design
We’re moving toward virtual reality previews, real-time cost tracking, smart home integration, and personalized recommendations based on your lifestyle data. AI interior design is just getting started. For right now – it’s really great for those odd or unusual areas and nooks in a house, those oddly shaped places where nothing quite seems to belong – You don’t need design expertise to create beautiful, functional spaces. Just a photo, a simple prompt, and the willingness to experiment with AI’s creative suggestions.
Bonus inspiration: Awkward loft space envisioned as an office or play area
I love this office design more than I should – I asked for some WOW factor – and I got it! My reading nook is even behind a hidden door panel! And look at the floor lighting!
This is the same empty loft space, re-imagined as a kids play space.
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The opinions expressed on this website are those of each author, not of the author's employer or All Things Open/We Love Open Source.