Revolutionizing Interior Design: The Groundbreaking Collaboration Between Saskatchewan Polytechnic and Metric Design
In a bold and innovative move that stands to transform the landscape of interior design, Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Digital Integration Centre of Excellence (DICE) and Metric Design have partnered to create a unique software solution utilizing advanced technologies. This collaboration has been awarded a staggering $730,000 in grants, enabling teams to combine their expertise for a groundbreaking homegrown AI project.
The Need for Innovation in Interior Design
Tamara Bowman, owner and creative director at Metric Design, emphasizes the need for a more efficient interior design process. Traditional methods can be cumbersome and prone to errors. “While there are tools for project management and time tracking, none focus on the specifications and procurement processes that slow designers down,” she explains. With the objective of creating a tool that streamlines these processes, the partnership aims to introduce software that is unprecedented in the interior design field.
Grant Funding: A Catalyst for Change
Thanks to multiple Applied Research and Development (ARD) grants from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and Mitacs, Metric Design will kick-off two parallel digital projects this fall. Notably, the larger ARD grant includes $150,000 from NSERC and $75,000 from Mitacs for three years dedicated to machine learning and generative AI systems. Additionally, a smaller grant of $40,000 from NSERC and $15,000 from Mitacs will focus on building software to create digital twins of designed spaces. This significant funding totals $730,000, which includes support for student interns who will contribute to these innovative projects.
What Is a Digital Twin?
At the heart of this project lies the concept of the digital twin—a virtual representation of a physical space that accurately reflects its dimensions and characteristics. This technology allows designers to scan or measure a room and create a digital format that facilitates the design process. Dr. Cyril Coupal, DICE research manager, highlights the utility of this approach: “The digital twin will replicate the client’s space, enabling quick adjustments to layouts without the complexities of redesigning in CAD/CAM software.”
Streamlining the Design Process
Using digital twin technology and generative AI, the software aims to enhance clients’ experience by offering them customized design options. “We envision providing multiple virtually designed options, allowing clients to visualize and customize their spaces with ease and precision,” says Bowman. The software will facilitate real-time adjustments according to budget, aesthetic preferences, and desired atmospheres—breaking down barriers in the traditional design process.
Overcoming Challenges in Interior Design
Interior designers often grapple with ambiguity and inconsistencies in early design stages, leading to costly revisions. The new generative AI approach promises to expedite design efforts and improve communication of concepts, thereby minimizing human error that typically arises from manual measurements and specifications. One of the critical features of the software will be its ability to produce a list of materials and costs, taking the guesswork out of the process for both designers and clients.
Aiming for Affordability and Accessibility
One of Metric Design’s most ambitious goals is to make their virtual design services available nationwide. “By reducing project hours through technology, we hope to make high-quality interior design more affordable and accessible,” notes Bowman. With this innovation, the firm is not looking to eliminate the artistry of design but rather to equip designers with powerful tools, enhancing their ability to deliver exceptional results.
The Role of DICE
DICE has positioned itself as a vital partner for organizations aiming for technological advancements. With access to cutting-edge computational facilities and a network of expertise, partnerships through DICE open doors to innovative solutions and effective problem-solving strategies in various domains. Funding from NSERC and Innovation Saskatchewan supports these initiatives, specifically enabling projects like the one taking place between Metric Design and DICE.
Conclusion
As Metric Design and DICE embark on this exciting venture, the future of interior design looks promising. Their collaboration not only signifies a leap forward in technological integration within the industry but also stresses the importance of accessibility and affordability in design services. As Bowman aptly puts it, “This is an amazing opportunity—Metric Design retains all intellectual property, allowing us to further innovate and lead in this space.” With the potential for sweeping improvements in efficiency, creativity, and client satisfaction, this partnership truly heralds a new era for interior design.
This innovative approach is not merely a step forward; it’s a leap into a transformative future where technology enhances human creativity, making stunning interiors accessible to all. Discover more about this collaboration and its implications for the interior design industry by visiting saskpolytech.ca/dice.
