Insights & Learning

The Rise of AI in Design

From text generation to image creation, artificial intelligence has reshaped how we think about creativity. Tools like ChatGPT, DALL·E, and Midjourney now assist in every stage of the design process—from brainstorming to prototyping.

But with all this power, comes a crucial question: where do human designers still hold the edge? The answer lies in emotion, empathy, and originality—areas machines haven’t mastered yet.

AI can write copy, generate logos, and even design entire websites in seconds. So where does that leave designers? Still winning—if they evolve.

In 2025, AI is fast, affordable, and everywhere. But creativity isn’t just about output speed. It’s about vision, emotion, and meaning. That’s where humans still lead.

1. AI Creates — But Designers Feel

Tools like Midjourney and DALL·E can create stunning visuals. But they don’t understand why something works.

• Feel brand energy
• Sense tone, mood, and emotion
• Adapt to culture and context

That human gut instinct? Still unmatched.

2. AI Mimics — Designers Invent

AI learns from what’s already out there. It blends trends. That’s helpful for fast production, but not for originality.

• Push boundaries
• Start trends, don’t follow them
• Create emotional resonance

When brands want something new, they turn to people—not prompts.

3. AI Misses Nuance — Designers Catch It

Would you trust AI to design a campaign for Pride or Black History Month?

• Understand cultural depth
• Avoid stereotypes
• Make intentional creative choices

Nuance matters more than style. Human judgment wins.

4. AI Speeds Up Work — Designers Make It Work

AI is excellent at drafts. But the final 10%—the magic—still needs you.

• Adobe Firefly for fast image generation
• Figma with AI plugins for faster wireframing
• Khroma for color suggestions

But bring the polish. That’s what clients notice.

5. AI Lacks Story — Designers Build Narrative

Anyone can generate a layout. But does it tell a story?

• Connects over time
• Builds consistency across platforms
• Feels intentional

Tools don’t build brand memory. Humans do.

6. AI Follows Prompts — Designers Ask Better Questions

Designers don’t just follow. They lead with deeper thinking:

• What does this brand really stand for?
• How should this make people feel?
• What’s missing in the current experience?

AI needs inputs. Humans create vision.

7. AI Doesn’t Know Timing or Culture

AI can’t scroll TikTok. It doesn’t read Reddit or follow memes. It doesn’t “feel” a shift in public tone.

Designers do.

• Muzli for daily design inspiration
• Trends.co for what’s next
• Are.na for creative research

You’re plugged into the real world. AI isn’t.

8. AI is a Tool — Not the Creator

Tools like ChatGPT, Runway ML, and Canva Magic Studio are fast, flexible, and fun.

• A human to direct
• A goal to aim for
• A reason to exist

The creator isn’t the tool. It’s the one who uses it.

9. Collaboration Is the Future

This isn’t Humans vs AI—it’s Humans + AI.

• Using AI to mock up faster
• Delegating repetitive tasks
• Spending more time on strategy, story, and feeling

That’s the real upgrade.

10. Emotional Intelligence Still Matters

Great design makes people feel—safe, inspired, excited.

• Read between the lines
• Know when “fun” feels forced
• Recognize what lands vs. what offends

This is what tools can’t replicate.

Real-World Examples

• Apple Vision Pro – Clean, emotional design with human-led storytelling.
• Spotify Wrapped – Built on data, crafted by designers who know internet culture.
• Airbnb Rebrand – Every asset tells a story beyond the visual.

What Designers Should Focus on in 2025

• Master Creative Strategy – Learn frameworks like Brand Sprint
• Emotional Design – Study Aarron Walter’s book
• Cultural Fluency – Stay active on Dribbble, Twitter/X, Reddit
• Communication – Read The Futur to articulate your value

Final Thought

AI makes things easier. But real creativity? Still human.
Designers bring:

• Emotion
• Insight
• Context
• Culture

Essential Tools for Designers in 2025

To stay competitive, designers need to master both creative intuition and modern tools. Here’s a curated list of AI-powered and traditional design tools that enhance your workflow:

• Framer: No-code tool for interactive web design
• Uizard: AI-powered wireframing for UX/UI
• Notion AI: Brainstorm content and organize strategy docs
• Spline: 3D design and motion graphics, simplified

Blend these with your traditional tools to create faster, smarter, and more human-centered designs.

Where to Go from Here

AI isn’t a threat—it’s an invitation. A challenge for designers to redefine their role, sharpen their strengths, and use new tools to elevate their craft.

• Embrace AI to streamline repetitive tasks
• Double down on emotional and cultural intelligence
• Position yourself as a creative strategist, not just a visual maker

The designers who thrive in 2025 won’t just create—they’ll connect, question, and lead. Let AI assist, but let humanity drive.