The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in design education presents both opportunities and challenges for developing future-ready graduates. This study investigates how final-year interior design students engaged with generative AI tools during a brief that required them to improve a previous submission by working on rendering quality, refining project presentation layouts, with the option of incorporating AI-assisted tools. Students explored platforms such as Midjourney, Photoshop, and Revit, concluding with a written reflection on their process. (Yanhua 2024) posits that “AI can transform interior design, addressing existing gaps and fostering a deeper understanding of the symbiotic relationship between advanced technologies and creative processes”.

The ideation process is one of the most challenging components of the design process for students in Higher Education. Many students struggle with a lack of inspiration and confidence due to the need for perfection, which demotivates them to share or develop their ideas fully. Traditional ideation techniques often feel repetitive or restrictive, resulting in frustration and disengagement.