Devon housebuilder reveals over a third of locals are turning to AI for festive help this Christmas
A local housebuilder has found that people across Devon are turning to artificial intelligence to help ease the pressure of Christmas preparation.
The research conducted by David Wilson Homes, which is currently building at Hampton Mill, in Okehampton, and Barum Knoll, in Barnstaple, found that over a third (36%) of the 2,000 people surveyed across the UK plan to use AI to support their festive planning this year – with 11% of those in the South admitting to using AI to find gift ideas.
Participants said AI is helping with everything from recipe inspiration (12%), and writing personalised notes (9%), to ideas for festive games and decorations. The findings form part of a wider look at how households are preparing for Christmas 2025 and how technology is shaping modern traditions.
Despite the rise of digital tools, the research found that home remains the heart of Christmas. More than half of respondents (53%) plan to spend Christmas Day in their own home, while one in four will head to a family member’s house. Just 4% expect to dine out and only 3% will travel abroad for the big day.
Comfort, tradition and togetherness topped the reasons for wanting to celebrate at home, with 74% preferring the taste of a home-cooked Christmas dinner overeating out. In fact, 69% would choose a roast at home over a Michelin-star meal.
With hosting remaining such a key part of the season, it’s no surprise that dining space, open-plan layouts and kitchen islands continue to top homebuyers’ wish lists. One in five (22%) people hosting Christmas this year say they’re doing so specifically because their home has the size, layout or kitchen space to accommodate guests.
Richard Lawson, Sales Director for David Wilson Homes, said: “It’s fascinating to see the rise of AI as a festive helping hand, particularly for Christmas hosts wanting inspiration for recipe ideas and table decor. And although AI might be helping save time when it comes to admin, it’s certainly not replacing the need for a great space to host at home or iconic family traditions.
“At David Wilson Homes, we know that customers want the best of both worlds when it comes to the homes they live in - modern technology and efficiencies, without losing great space to entertain, cook and celebrate the festive season.
“It’s interesting to see more Brits than ever blending tradition with technology to make their homes more prepared, more personal, and more ready to host, than ever before.
“For anyone in Devon looking to start the new year in a home that’s truly built for hosting, we’d encourage you to visit our developments at Hampton Mill and Barum Knoll to see the spaces for yourself.”
David Wilson Home’s Top 10 Merry GPT Christmas Hacks: What the Nation are Using AI for this Festive Season
1. Gift ideas
2. Recipe inspiration
3. Festive games
4. Funny content ideas
5. Decorating advice
6. Writing personalised gift notes & cards
7. What’s on ideas
8. Elf on the shelf
9. Avoiding less regifting
10. Settling family disagreements
For more information about David Wilson developments, or to book an appointment to tour Hampton Mill or Barum Knoll, please visit www.dwh.co.uk/hampton-mill or www.dwh.co.uk/barum-knoll.
