Exploring Interior Design with AR

Interior designers have access to a wide range of tools, including many apps and desktop software. While having many options is beneficial, learning new software can be overwhelming. That’s why we created Minsar—to enable creatives to build AR/VR experiences without needing any coding skills. With simple drag-and-drop technology, you can design dynamic experiences and share them effortlessly.

In the video below, you’ll see how a Minsar user designs a mantelpiece display by dragging and dropping 3D elements.

As shown, the user can place objects on the mantelpiece, arrange their positions, adjust sizes and orientations, and swap items as needed. This is a great way to try out furniture or decor before buying.

Who uses AR for interior design?

IKEA was among the first companies to develop an AR app for viewing furniture and interior designs. Since 2017, their app has allowed customers to preview items—whether couches, lamps, or smaller decor—superimposed in their homes. This reduces returns and boosts customer satisfaction by helping shoppers avoid buying items that don’t fit their space.

Target has also added AR features to its app, letting users view furniture and decor items in their homes before purchase, much like IKEA’s solution.

So how do you find the content for interior design experiences?

To get 3D models of your products and furniture, you can hire a 3D designer or freelancer. Alternatively, you can create your own assets by learning software like Blender, though it requires considerable time and effort. If custom content isn’t necessary, many options exist online.

Sketchfab is our preferred platform for 3D content, with many free downloadable assets. We encourage supporting artists by purchasing some of their work as well. When searching on Sketchfab, use filters like “downloadable” to find suitable models. After downloading, upload your assets to Dropbox for easy access within Minsar.

What happens if you can’t find the content you want on Sketchfab, and you’re not ready to hire a 3D designer?

You can supplement your experience with 2D assets like images and videos. For example, importing PNG files works well for objects like paintings or wall decorations, which are mostly flat.