The 3D Cloud Contract Interiors Product Configuration Trends Study 2025 reveals how 3D configurators are transforming the commercial design process, making customization faster, more efficient, and elevating the client experience. In this latest study, conducted in partnership with Provoke Insights, we explore how commercial designers leverage 3D tools to navigate client indecision, streamline revisions, and enhance decision-making. With widespread adoption–-81% of designers using 3D configurators and 100% reporting satisfaction–these tools are now an industry expectation. This year’s study highlights the key trends shaping contract interiors and how manufacturers can stay ahead by embracing digital-first solutions.
- Background and objectives
- Methodology
- Key findings
- Designer experience overview
- Benefits and usage of 3D configurators
- Attitudes about 3D configurators
- Future interest in 3D configurators
- 3D Cloud Contract Interiors Product Configuration Trends Study 2025 ebook download
3D Cloud Contract Interiors Product Configuration Trends Study, 2025 background and objectives
3D Cloud, a company specializing in 3D product visualization platforms, continues to empower commercial designers by enhancing their designs through a 3D product visualization platform. We collaborated with Provoke Insights to gather valuable new data including:
- Challenges faced in commercial design
- The role of 3D technology in the design process
- Critical features of an effective 3D tool
3D Cloud Contract Interiors Product Configuration Trends Study, 2025 methodology
In this research, Provoke Insights developed and conducted a 40-question online survey using phone-to-web methodology. The survey was completed by 100 commercial designers in December 2024. All participants met the following criteria.
- Employed
- Works in the United States
- Designs commercial spaces including hospitality, corporate workspaces/office spaces, healthcare, and government.
The importance of 3D in designing spaces
Commercial design professionals frequently encounter client indecision, constant revisions, delays in approvals, and budget constraints.
To streamline the process, 3D software helps reduce the back-and-forth communication. For contract furniture manufacturers, 3D configurators enhance client presentations, speed up decision-making, and improve overall efficiency. Designers overwhelmingly value these tools, making them a key factor in manufacturer and dealer loyalty.
82% of design specialists use design software to create and visualize office space plans
Those who place orders with both contract dealers and manufacturers have more diverse job responsibilities.
Clients changing their minds is the most common challenge designers face on the job
Staying within a budget and multiple revisions by clients are other significant challenges.
Nearly all contract interior design professionals used a 3D configurator
98% of those who work at larger companies have used a 3D configurator provided by a manufacturer. Sofas, tables, and office chairs are the most common types of furniture configured.
3D configurators have many benefits
Designers see the merit of 3D configurators in helping improve client interactions, reduce stress, and simplify design. Here’s what they had to say.
- “The 3D images were so realistic, making the whole experience so much more satisfying.”
- “3D configurators help us attract customers who crave unique custom-made products.
- “This has resulted in more engaged and satisfied customers, as they feel involved in the design process.”
- “The tool has eliminated the need for lengthy rounds of discussions with designers or multiple showroom visits.”
- “The tool’s customizable options allow us to create designs that meet our specific needs and preferences.”
3D configuration solves visualization challenges
Design professionals find 3D configurators invaluable in the purchasing process. With 100% satisfaction among users, these tools eliminate the guesswork and instill confidence in final selections.
Key features of 3D configurators for contact interior designers
According to design specialists, the most valuable 3D configurators offer detailed customization, ease of use, and fast, accurate visualization. Highly realistic visualization of materials, seamless integration with ordering systems, and the ability to download images or bulk order configured items further enhance their effectiveness.
70% of designers agree 3D configuration increases their loyalty to a dealer or manufacturer
Manufacturers and dealers that offer 3D configurators gain stronger loyalty from commercial designers. These tools enhance the design experience, making professionals more likely to remain committed to suppliers that provide them. Three-quarters say they want to configure and order directly from the manufacturer while seven of 10 expect manufacturers to provide 3D configurators and feel more loyal to those who do.
Loyalty is even greater among designers at larger firms, reinforcing the importance of 3D configurators in building long-term customer relationships.
More than three-quarters of commercial designers are highly interested in using a 3D configurator for future projects
Larger companies and those who place orders with manufacturers show an even greater interest.
The research confirms that 3D configurators are essential for helping contract interior designers address their pain points. Designers see these tools as indispensable for improving efficiency, decision-making, and client satisfaction—many can’t imagine working without them.
Download the complete 3D Cloud Contract Interiors Product Configuration Trends Study, 2025 report
