World Interiors Day: Ghana’s interior designers spotlight AI’s role in the industry

Ghana’s interior design sector took a bold step toward shaping its future as industry leaders and creative professionals gathered for a historic roundtable discussion on May 29, 2025, in Accra.

Hosted by the Interior Designers and Decorators Ghana (IDDG), the event marked the celebration of the International Federation of Interior Designers and Architects (IFI) World Interiors Day.

Under the theme “Emotive Design, Experience, and AI,” the gathering aimed to bridge creative expression with technological innovation, positioning Ghana’s interior design sector at the forefront of global trends.

Attended by some of the industry’s most influential figures from interior designers and architects to technology experts and academics the roundtable sought to explore new paradigms in design thinking while fostering meaningful collaborations across sectors.

The panel brought together seasoned professionals, including Delilah Mercer, founder of IDDG and interior designer at Craft Consult; Architect Tony Asare, President of the Ghana Institute of Architects and Architect Kofi Essel-Appiah of Predios Group, among others.

The panelists shared personal insights, stressing that understanding and celebrating cultural identity improves user experience and creates meaningful environments.

A dynamic segment of the discussion focused on artificial intelligence’s impact on interior design, reflecting both enthusiasm and caution.

Participants discussed how AI tools such as generative design software, predictive modeling and smart building systems are transforming workflows, boosting efficiency and inspiring innovation.

Some expressed apprehension about AI potentially displacing human designers, especially as algorithms can generate designs in seconds, threatening the very creative process that has long defined architecture and interior design.

Others warned that overreliance on AI might diminish the human touch and erode the cultural and emotional depth that differentiates Ghanaian spaces.

Despite these concerns, the mood remained optimistic, with many panelists advocating for a collaborative approach that employs AI as a tool rather than a replacement.

They emphasized the importance of maintaining cultural authenticity and emotional sensitivity while embracing innovation to meet the evolving needs of clients and communities.

The dialogue also underscored the necessity for stronger cross-sector collaboration. Speakers called for closer partnerships between designers, engineers, developers, policymakers, and educational institutions.

There was an urgent plea for reform in design education and professional licensing to elevate the industry’s standards, ensure ethical practices, and foster sustainable growth.

Throughout the event, key themes emerged highlighting how emotive design, rooted in value, empathy, and spirituality, can make better Ghana’s spaces beyond utilitarian functions.

The panelists agreed that technology should serve to enhance human experience, not overshadow it, and that future success lies in integrating innovation with the rich cultural tapestry of Ghana.

Following the discussions, IDDG announced plans to publish a white paper summarizing insights from the event, providing a strategic roadmap for the industry’s development.

Additionally, preparations are underway for a subsequent symposium coinciding with Ghana’s upcoming Accra Design Week 2025, aiming to further advance industry dialogue and collaboration.

The event concluded on a note of optimism, with several companies expressing interest in sponsoring future initiatives that champion innovation in design.

The gathering not only celebrated the Ghanaian design community’s achievements but also laid the foundation for a more inclusive, sustainable, and culturally rooted approach to interior architecture and design.

As Ghana continues to harness creativity and technology, this industry roundtable marked a significant step forward, demonstrating the sector’s potential to contribute meaningfully to national development one space, one idea, and one innovation at a time.

SP/MA