The Value of an Interior Designer in the Age of AI

Hello, I’m Saori, an interior designer based in Singapore.

Let me start with a question — do you use AI?

Many people who have relocated to Singapore are now using tools like ChatGPT or Gemini to search for furniture shops or to get layout ideas based on their floor plans.
While AI-curated suggestions can certainly be helpful, I strongly believe there is irreplaceable value that only a human interior designer can offer.

Interior designers draw on their upbringing, cultural background, and everyday life experiences — a unique “sensibility” that allows us to carefully read between the lines and understand what clients truly feel and need. Through conversations, we shape spaces together.

The “chemical reaction” that happens in those moments is still something AI cannot replicate.
(Of course, I also believe I must keep learning and evolving!)

So, what is the value an interior designer provides that AI cannot?

For me, the answer is simple: truly being present for people.

We listen deeply to each client’s individuality, introduce the stories behind each design and brand, and explore options together — “This is nice!” “That one is lovely too!”
That shared sense of discovery and excitement is something I consider a core part of the value I provide.

With that in mind, there are services offered by Sollys Design that I can confidently say AI cannot replace — particularly when it comes to the strengths of a designer living in Singapore and offering hands-on support. Let me explain these in detail.

▲We carefully select accessories and floor lamps together with our clients, as the final touches of styling can completely transform the atmosphere of a room.
You can view photos of our completed projects here.

Bringing Out Each Client’s Authentic Style

AI cannot fully grasp the nuances of “what kind of life you want to create.”
This comes from human-to-human communication.

At Sollys Design, we take time to understand:

• Your family’s preferences and lifestyle
• How you move through your home’s layout
• How your children will grow over the next few years
• Your frequency of guests
• Your personal and family memories

We dive deep into these unspoken details.
Then, rather than simply arranging furniture, we design a space where your family’s natural way of living can grow.

Supporting Your Move with a Comprehensive Interior Service

Interior design and overseas relocation are closely connected — especially when it comes to how quickly your daily life can settle.

If you buy everything from scratch after moving, the process can be overwhelming:
figuring out what you need, measuring, searching for shops, scheduling deliveries…
All while adjusting to new supermarkets, daily essentials, and local routines.

I’ve experienced this myself, so I deeply understand the stress.

That’s why I want to help families settle into their new life as smoothly and quickly as possible.

Sollys Design provides:

• Pre-move site measurements with a key, proposing perfectly fitting furniture sizes
• Delivery scheduling and coordination
• Negotiation with furniture shops and price adjustments
• Custom cabinetry and TV wall design & project management
• Local troubleshooting and mediation for issues (e.g., defects)
• Optional: a local Japanese assistant who helps shop for daily necessities
• Sharing Singapore lifestyle know-how

Many clients say, “We were able to start living comfortably from day one — the move felt almost stress-free.”
AI can suggest furniture, but it cannot take action on the ground in Singapore.

Singapore’s furniture industry also follows Asian business practices, which can lead to unexpected issues. Clients often say having “someone in the middle” gives them great peace of mind.

“Finding Furniture Beyond Your Expectations” — Showroom Tour & Consultation

Although interior design is my profession, I genuinely love visiting showrooms, exploring materials, and discovering new designs. I visit many furniture brands across Singapore and frequently exchange insights with local designers.

As I walk through showrooms, I often find myself thinking,
“This sofa would be perfect for this client!”

For clients living in Singapore, we always include a few showroom visits together.
For those living overseas, we try to schedule visits during short trips whenever possible.

(If in-person visits are difficult, no worries — I send photos and videos so you can still experience the details.)

During showroom visits, you can touch materials, compare samples, and try seating comfort firsthand.

Because we define your overall interior concept before visiting showrooms, clients appreciate being able to explore freely without losing sight of their design direction — a comfort that comes from having a professional by your side.

▲As we guide you through different brands, we review the proposed furniture designs together, checking materials and seating comfort so we can carefully select each piece with you.

Conclusion

AI will continue to evolve, and I will continue learning from it.
But the heart of interior design — connection between people and the sensibility that shapes a home — is something I will always cherish.

If you are considering furniture selection or setting up your new life in Singapore, please feel free to reach out anytime. I would love to support you.

▶︎ Contact Sollys Design for Interior Consultations in Singapore