How to Spot AI Interior Design Images

AIVisualisation

29 May

How to Spot AI-Generated Images in Interior Design

I've been creating images in MidJourney for a while now. It can be a valuable resource for ideation in the design process. But like any new tool, the rules of use have yet to be defined. Some unscrupulous individuals create images using tools such as MidJourney and DALL-E and pass them off as reality.

In this blog post, I'm going to show you how to spot some telltale signs of a generative AI image. Currently, it can be quite easy to spot, but note that the technology is improving quickly. It is getting more and more difficult.

Understanding Generative AI in Design

Generative AI tools like MidJourney and DALL-E are revolutionizing the design world. They can create stunning images based on prompts you provide. These tools can help spark creativity and streamline the design process. But, as with any powerful tool, there are ethical considerations.

Some people misuse these tools. They create AI-generated images and present them as real designs. This can mislead clients and create trust issues. As a designer, it's important to use these tools responsibly. Always be transparent about how you create your images.

Tips for Identifying AI-Generated Images

Before we jump into examples, here are a couple of tips:

1. Don’t look at the image in its entirety. Focus on the details.

2. Analyze parts of the image and see if they make sense. Check appliances, faucets, or decorative items. They can be strangely placed.

3. Look for parts of the image that are slightly blurry.

Look at the Details

AI-generated images can be very convincing at first glance. But, if you look closely, you may notice something off. Here are some common issues:

- Fingers and Arms: Generative AI is notorious for getting fingers and arms wrong. They may appear distorted or unnatural.

ai generated image of a desk with a misshapen wrist writing on a computer

- Misplaced Objects: Sometimes, objects appear in strange places. For example, a vase might be sitting on a kitchen range.

image of a kitchen with a vase on the cooktop ai generated

Analyze the Placement

AI can sometimes place items in illogical positions. This is a clear sign of an AI-generated image. Here are some examples:

- Faucets and Taps: Faucets or taps are often a giveaway. They might be in places where they shouldn't be.

image of a ai generated bathroom with misplaced faucets and strange addition to the towel rail — AI generated image of bathroom with misplaced faucets and extra detail on towel ring

image of a kitchen with a misplaced faucet and no sink — AI generated image of a kitchen with misplaced faucets, no sink, too many plants

- Decorative Items: AI can also place decorative items strangely. You might see odd vases, out-of-proportion light sconces, or chairs that look out of place.

image of a study with strange decorative items — AI generated image of a library with out of proportion light fittings and decorative items that are unidentifiable

ai image of living room with chair with no seat, no doors — AI generated image of a living room with missing panes of glass, no doors and strange chair

ai image of a dining room with lightfitting — AI generated image of a dining room with strange decorative arrangement and light fittings

Identify Blurriness

AI-generated images may have parts that appear blurry. This happens because AI sometimes struggles with rendering certain details. For example:

- Table Legs and Window Panes: Look at the legs of tables or edges of windows. They may not make sense or be incomplete.

ai image of kitchen with incorrect window, strange textures — AI generated image of a kitchen with missing window and strange textures

These examples show common errors in AI-generated images. But remember, AI technology is improving quickly. Soon, these mistakes may be harder to spot.

The Future of AI in Design

AI image generation is here to stay. The images are getting better and better. In the future, there will likely be fewer mistakes. As a designer, you must keep up with these changes.

Ethical Use of AI

Being upfront about using AI in your design process is important. Transparency builds trust with your clients. It would be extremely embarrassing if a client discovered that an image on your website was AI-generated and not acknowledged. An action like this does not inspire trust.

Your clients should trust your skill and taste. This is what they are paying for. So, the next time you are looking at an interior design image, especially on social media, take a closer look!

Final Thoughts

I hope you have found this information helpful. AI is a powerful tool, but it comes with responsibilities. Use it wisely and ethically. Always be transparent with your clients about how you create your imagery. This will help you maintain trust and credibility in your design practice.

See you in the next blog post!

You can watch a video on this subject on YouTube.

Hi 👋🏽 I’m Joanne!

I’m an interior designer, content creator, educator, and business coach. After studying Economics and Education at uni, the design world beckoned, drawing me to Christie’s in London, where I completed post-grad studies in art & design, and then to Hong Kong, where I founded Eclectic Cool, a design firm and design store. Eclectic Cool represented international brands such as Gubi, &tradition, HAY, Armadillo Rugs & Dinosaur Designs to name a few. My work and store have been featured in Monocle, Conde Nast Traveller, Elle Decor, Expat Living, Cathay Pacific inflight magazines, South China Morning Post, and the ABC (Australia) network and more. I live between on the south coast of Australia and Hong Kong with my husband and cavoodle. I’m the mum of three adult children.

Don’t forget to grab the free stuff! For Interior Designers!

Want a free investment guide you can use in your interior design business?

This 24-page investment guide, made in Canva, is yours to customize with your logo and branding. Fill out the form to download now!