Interior architect or interior designer – what’s the difference?
We often come across people using these terms interchangeably. Although the scope of work of an interior architect and an interior designer may seem similar, is that really the case? What are the differences, and when is it worth using their services?
What is the difference between an architect and a designer?
In everyday life, these terms are mistakenly used as synonyms. Although both of them plan spaces and prepare visualizations, the difference lies in education, qualifications, and the scope of work.
An interior architect is a person who has completed several years of study in interior architecture. In addition to designing the aesthetic aspects, an interior architect also handles installations and documentation for contractors.
An interior designer, on the other hand, can become one after just a course, and the service focuses mainly on the aesthetic aspect of the project.
What does an interior architect do?
The scope of an interior architect’s work is much broader and is not limited to arranging the interior from an aesthetic point of view. They handle comprehensive design and analyze the needs of the residents, while translating them into solutions that are both functional and beautiful.
You can read more about the work of an interior architect in our separate article on this topic:
👉What Exactly Are We Paying For When We Hire an Interior Architect?
What should you pay attention to, and what questions are worth asking yourself when choosing an interior architect or interior designer?
When choosing the person who will create your dream space, it is worth taking a few important aspects into account:
- scope of services offered
- portfolio
- experience with similar projects, as well as overall experience on the market
- client reviews
It is also worth asking yourself a few questions that will help you choose the right person:
- What exactly does the project include?
- What does the technical documentation look like?
- Does the specialist cooperate with contractors?
- Can I count on help with choosing materials and furnishings?
Interior architect or interior designer: who should you choose?
Once we know the differences between an interior architect and an interior designer and can define our needs, it is easier to choose which specialist is right for us. If we are planning a comprehensive renovation, a change to the layout of the rooms, a functional remodel, or want to approach the interior holistically, from planning the space through selecting materials and furnishings to detailed documentation, working with an interior architect is a good solution. If, on the other hand, the scope of work is smaller and we mainly care about arranging an existing space, the help of an interior designer may be enough. It is worth remembering, however, that working with an interior architect allows you to look at the space more broadly and take care not only of its aesthetics, but also of its functionality and how well the interior fits your everyday needs.
If you are looking for an interior architect to design your interior, contact us. We will combine functionality with aesthetics so that the interior is tailored to you.
