Soofia Fatima
Marketing executive @Stylib
When architects and designers search for materials, they’re rarely starting with a product name or SKU. More often, they begin with an image, a moodboard, or a physical sample they want to match.
Traditional catalog search wasn’t built for this. Text fields and dropdown filters force users to translate visual ideas into rigid keywords, and too often, they leave empty-handed.
That’s why similar product finders and reverse image search tools are transforming the way materials are discovered.
What is reverse image search for materials?
A fabric reverse image search (or material image search) allows a user to upload a photo of a product, say, a fabric swatch, tile, or panel, and instantly find visually similar items in your catalogue.
Instead of guessing keywords like “dark speckled stone” or “woven matte grey fabric,” the system analyses the photo itself – pattern, texture, colour, shape, and surfaces the closest matches.
Why it matters for material suppliers
For suppliers, reverse image search and similar product tools do more than improve the user experience; they directly impact specification outcomes:
Faster discovery – Architects can go from inspiration to specifiable product in seconds.
Reduced friction – No more long back-and-forth emails asking, “Do you have something like this?”
Higher engagement – Interactive search keeps users exploring your catalog longer.
Better conversion – When clients can easily find the right match, they’re more likely to specify.
Scalable catalogues – Even large or complex product ranges remain easy to navigate.
The next step in material discovery
Modern product discovery needs to work the way architects do: starting with a picture, not a product code.
SearchTech by Stylib brings reverse image search and similar product finder tools directly into your website, helping clients find the right product faster and making your catalog truly searchable.
With visual search built into your website, clients can upload a reference image- a texture, colour, or product photo and instantly see the most visually similar items from your catalogue. It’s a faster, more intuitive way for architects and designers to explore your range without relying on perfect keywords.
SearchTech understands what people mean, not just what they type. Whether a user searches for “warm-toned outdoor tile” or “eco-certified wall panel,” the system interprets intent and delivers accurate, relevant results, even when product titles or tags don’t match exactly.
SearchTech integrates directly into your site, using your existing product data. There’s no need for redirects or external logins, just a fast, branded search experience that keeps users on your site, engaged, and closer to specifying your products.
