As a designer, I love generating images that demonstrate the practical ideas that come to mind during the design process. But I also enjoy exploring the weirder, less plausible ideas that are also generated during the initial brainstorming, when divergent thinking is most valuable.
This is one of the reasons why designers and architects like me are so enamored with generative AI: its speedy ability to visualize any number of ideas (both good and bad), almost as quickly as you can type them out. Using the free Image Creator in Microsoft Designer, you can visualize your design and remodeling ideas too, and you don’t have to be trained in design to do it!
Let's explore Image Creator's brainstorming potential by starting with my favorite design portmanteau: a “catio,” combining cat + patio. A good catio gives our furry feline friends a secure outdoor room with cat amenities, blending indoor safety with outdoor activity and sunshine.
First, we'll ask Image Creator to visualize a typical catio using the prompt: A typical catio space with warm light.
The results:
This looks cozy, right?
When I saw the results for a simple prompt, I jumped on the opportunity to elaborate further and let my imagination run wild.
Let’s get creative!
Using Image Creator, you can visualize a catio for just about any scenario, taste, or budget.
Prompt: A luxurious catio to pamper your cat.
The results:
In the image above, Image Creator's interpretation of luxury includes ample lounging cushions, a tucked-away cat tree, and even a hanging chandelier (which sounds pretty good to me)—perfect for a full day of napping.
If your cat prefers a more active lifestyle, you can change the prompt to something like this:
Prompt: Catio full of cascading platforms, terraces, and scratching posts.
The results:
I have to admit that I was pretty pleased with the results of this prompt. Can you imagine being a kitten with a home playground like that? This speaks to what I love the most about Image Creator—the results can really push your imagination to its limits, inspiring ideas you might never have dreamed of without seeing the visuals first.
Speaking of imagination, having just seen a “laser cats” meme, I decided to try the prompt, “Catio of the future.”
The results:
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The future is green and full of hammocks.
Use a prompt template to try new ideas quickly
If you're not quite sure what you're looking for and you want an efficient way to try different ideas quickly, create a prompt template. You can then swap in different styles and ideas until you get a feel for what you like.
Feel free to borrow this prompt template I made: “A ____ themed catio design, photorealistic, ____ lighting.”
Here are some examples of the template in action:
Prompt: “An 80s-themed catio, photorealistic, moody lighting.”
The results:
Prompt: “A jungle-themed catio, photorealistic, dappled lighting.”
The results:
Lush plants and wood lattices filtering the tropical sunlight.
Prompt: “A desert-themed catio, photorealistic, bright lighting.”
The results:
This looks a bit too warm for some, but as we say in the desert, it’s a dry heat.
Prompt: A cozy wintertime-themed catio, photorealistic, soft lighting.
The results:
I’m not a fan of cold winters, but this looks warm and cozy to me.
Prompt: A contemporary minimalist-themed catio, photorealistic, formal lighting.
The results:
A catio for the “less is more” crowd.
Or if, like me, you are allergic to cat dander, you can even ask for this.
Prompt: “A dog-themed catio, photorealistic, wall lighting.”
The results:
Doesn’t every pet deserve to see their own self-portrait gracing the entrance of their abode?
More ways to visualize
Another fun way to begin to visualize your catio ideas is to ask Image Creator for diagrams.
For example, I asked for “Assembly instructions for a catio in the format similar to a home furnishing store’s instructions” and got the following diagram:
Now, this isn't 100% accurate (after all, Image Creator is a latent diffusion model, not a carpenter), but they do feature many of the steps you'll take to begin your DIY project. And, of course, some of the instructions feature a cat sitting on the supplies that you need (this definitely checks out).
Another way to find inspiration for your catio is to ask Microsoft Copilot. While on my smartphone, I asked Copilot what to consider for making a catio at my home in the Mojave Desert in Las Vegas. Here was its very thorough reply:
“Imagine stepping into this serene oasis, nestled amidst the arid sands. The sun casts warm hues across the landscape, and the air carries a gentle breeze. Let’s bring this vision to life:
Structure and Design:
- The catio is an extension of your home, seamlessly blending indoor comfort with outdoor adventure.
- It features a sturdy wooden frame, painted in earthy tones to harmonize with the desert surroundings.
- Large, transparent windows allow sunlight to flood in, while maintaining a safe barrier for your feline friends.
Flooring:
- The floor mimics the desert floor: sandy beige tiles with subtle variations.
- Tiny paw prints are etched into the tiles, leading curious cats on imaginary adventures.
Plants and Greenery:
- Desert flora thrives here. Cacti of various shapes and sizes dot the catio.
- A saguaro cactus stands tall in one corner, its arms reaching for the sky.
- Low-growing succulents carpet the ground, their fleshy leaves storing precious water.
Shelter and Hideaways:
- A cozy adobe-style shelter provides shade. Cats can curl up inside, feeling the coolness of the clay walls.
- A hammock stretches between two wooden posts, swaying gently in the breeze. Perfect for lazy afternoons.
Decor and Accessories:
- Rustic clay pots hold cat-friendly grasses and herbs.
- A miniature sand dune serves as a scratching post, imitating the desert’s natural textures.
- A water fountain, shaped like a desert oasis, keeps your feline companions hydrated.
Sunset Glow:
- As evening approaches, the catio transforms. Warm sunset colors bathe everything.
- Solar-powered lanterns illuminate the space, casting intricate patterns on the walls.
Remember, this catio isn’t just for your cats—it’s a place where you can unwind too. Picture yourself sipping tea, watching the sun dip below the horizon, and listening to the distant call of a desert owl.
Enjoy your tranquil desert catio!”
Visualize the purr-fect designs with Image Creator
With Image Creator in Microsoft Designer, you can truly approach your ideas with a designer's sensibility and a cat's curiosity. Try for free today and get ready to visualize and uplevel all your brilliant ideas. Happy designing!