What happens when artificial intelligence gets total creative freedom – but is given just one real photo as inspiration?
In this post, I've shared a series of original images I captured inside various IKEA showrooms. Each photo was then handed over to AI with a single instruction:
"Surprise me."
No detailed prompts. No moodboards. Just the raw, real-life IKEA setup – and a request to dream.
What you'll see below are side-by-side comparisons of:
My original photos, taken in-store
AI-generated interpretations based on the same mood, composition, or atmosphere
It's a fascinating look at how AI envisions interior spaces – sometimes close to reality, sometimes wildly reimagined. But always through the lens of that original IKEA moment.
Let's explore what happens when reality meets imagination.
Real:
Taken in an IKEA showroom, this setup shows the KALLAX unit styled as a low TV bench with baskets, wall art, and decorative accents.
AI:
The AI version adds a dreamy glow, more symmetry, and warmer light – turning the functional corner into a serene, curated nook.
Real:
This is a real BODBYN kitchen in grey, featuring ENERYDA brass handles and EKBACKEN countertops. The photo was taken inside IKEA.
AI:
The AI version elevates the traditional look with deeper tones, dramatic lighting, and perfectly aligned objects – creating a polished, editorial feel.
Real:
A bold IKEA sofa spotted in-store, featuring a black-and-white geometric cover and surrounded by warm neutral tones.
AI:
The AI kept the contrast but softened the light, made the sofa look more plush, and added elegant decor for a modern boho twist.
Real:
Shot in a showroom, this space features a charcoal IKEA dresser, soft lighting, and a deep green accent wall.
AI:
The AI version refined the lines and symmetry, while enhancing color depth and adding more polish – turning the cozy bedroom into something out of a catalog.
Real:
Inspired by IKEA's clean, functional bathroom style, this setup includes twin sinks and muted tones.
AI:
The AI reimagines it with luxury in mind: marble surfaces, moody lighting, and a sense of upscale calm – while still clearly echoing IKEA's structure.
While AI-generated images can be beautiful and inspiring, there's something about real-life photos from actual IKEA showrooms that feels more alive. The reflections, the imperfect lighting, the way a product truly sits in a space – that can't be faked.
These AI versions are fun to explore, but for me, nothing beats the energy and authenticity of my own photos taken inside the stores. That's where the ideas start. That's where real homes are imagined.
Let me know which ones you preferred – AI or reality?
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