When you want a remodel, your first thought might be to call for an interior designer. But stop!
Because when it comes to home design there are two professionals who can help, and they are often confused by the homeowner; the interior designer and the interior architect.
So, who are they and what are their specialties?
An Interior Designer
- An interior designer can work on all types of building, such as homes, offices, hospitals, and commercial settings.
- An interior designer produces plans for both aesthetics and functionality.
- Sometimes, interior design means only changing the soft furnishings and paintwork. Other times, it incorporates a more fundamental remodel, including the hiring of construction workers.
- An interior designer has excellent aesthetic skills and should be able to visualize and plan your project to perfection.
- An interior designer should also have good knowledge of the practical skills needed to make a design safe and functional.
- An interior designer will have a working knowledge of all the local building codes and rules. They should also be able to help you hire construction professionals if needed.
- An interior designer will be highly trained in interior design and usually hold a degree.
An Interior Architect
- An interior architect is a trained and qualified architect, who works on constructing and creating buildings. They are able to work on all kinds of construction projects, not only houses.
- An interior architect will draw up a plan for the design they wish to create with computer-aided design.
- An interior architect will liaise closely with any contractors for the building of the project.
- An interior architect is foremostly concerned with form, function, and safety. However, they also have an eye for design and aesthetics.
- An interior architect will think logically and in mathematical terms, to ensure the stability of the building.
- An interior architect will be a qualified architect and highly trained.
So, Who Should I Hire?
As ever, the decision on who to hire rests with you. But as an interior architect and designer both have similar roles it can be hard to choose which one you need.
To find out, it all depends on the type of project you have in mind.
For a remodel that does not involve any major structural changes, then an interior designer would serve your needs well. If your planned work is only confined to the walls, furnishings, and layout, then you do not need the services of an architect.
However, if you are planning on knocking through a wall, changing the structure, or building an extension, then an interior architect is the professional you need.
For more information about interior architects in your area, go to our directory!