It’s a frequent question on this site. Sometimes the answer is simple, but most of the time there’s an undefined area! Be assured that it’s not an extremely silly question. I’ve worked as an architect as well as an interior designer throughout my career and I hope that I’m in the right place to provide a thorough answer. First of all, I believe it’s useful to sketch out the situations in cases where the answer is clear.
Architecture – where the work involves the outer shell that makes up the structure i.e. external walls, roof , etc.
Designing interiors is an art when work involves the design and design of furniture, interior finishes or textiles.
Anywhere in between – that is a wide spectrum – can be accomplished by any of them, but it all comes down to their own knowledge and expertise.
Four kinds of home designers
Certain designers may be averse to being labeled in this manner however it could be beneficial to think about these four categories when deciding your architect, architect or designer for interiors. A single person or business may be in several or all categories!
1. Architectural Techie: a person or firm that is proficient in the field of relevant technology and science, e.g. what makes buildings built in a particular manner using specific materials. It could have been an architect. Or, more likely, an architect, technologist or architectural technician.
2. Creative Architect: a lot of architects describe their work as ‘design-led which means they seek to find the most appealing and practical solution for your project. But the rigorous and extensive academic training required to become an architect ensures that they are extremely competent when it comes to such things as the technical, management or the economics of a construction project.
3. Interior Architectural Designers: Some architects (sometimes called interior architects when they’re also an architect registered) are primarily concerned with the interior, and not the thermal or structural components of the structure.
4. Interior designer (furniture and textiles) Interior designers specialize in the aesthetic ‘finishing touches to rooms – usually the elements that give the most style and character to homes. Floor and wall furnishings, finishes, and fabrics are most visible and noticeable to your guests and yourself So it’s crucial to do them correct!
Types of projects
Here are some typical kinds of projects, as well as our guide to the type of architect or interior designer is the most appropriate.
Bathroom or kitchen remodels that are new
In the case of a bathroom or kitchen home owners may decide to do it all on their own and design and select the final finishes on their own. But this is not an easy job and often leads to costly errors, so it’s beneficial to consider hiring an expert. Many kitchen businesses offer an design service with the condition the fact that you’re using their products. However, often it’s beneficial to employ an independent designer who will assist you in choosing and purchasing the appropriate materials and work out the ideal arrangement.
The best fit is an Interior Architectural Designer Creative Architect, Interior Designer. Interior designers would likely be the best choice for this type of project, since architects don’t normally take on a small task like this (unless they are involved in a bigger project for renovation). You might also find freelancers or students who are willing to assist.
Extension of the rear
Ideal for: Technical or creative architect.
If the concept is straightforward and you are able to determine what you’re looking for visually an architect who is more technically-oriented technologist, technician, or technician could be the best option. However, if you’re in need of ideas and inspiration to design an architectural statement that is more striking choose a creative Creative Architect.
Loft conversion
The best fit is for an Architectural Techie.
The most significant part of the design and construction work that goes into the loft conversion process is the structural and thermal upgrading of the roof area so that it is usable and in line with the building and planning requirements. The space is typically only adequate to sleep in, so the aspects of space planning to the design are usually quite straightforward. If, however, you are thinking of expanding instead of simply converting your loft, you might think that more creativity is needed.
Newly built house
The best fit is a Creative architect as well as an Architectural Techie.
Most people’s desire to build their own house is an artistic goal by itself, which is why it is logical to employ an architect who is creative and design-driven to help you realize your ‘grand plans’. There are also other reasons to build your own home for instance, cost, or a desire to have a zero carbon living. In that scenario, an architectural technologist or another “Architectural Techie” may be the better choice. Be aware that there are plenty of highly skilled architect and architects that are both innovative and technically proficient!
The whole house is being renovated
The best fit is for a creative architect or interior architectural designer.
This could mean tearing up the home and redesigning the arrangement. It could turn out to be an extremely large task. It will require someone adept at managing projects and is adept at spatial planning. There might be changes to the structure, and it may be necessary to involve an engineer for structural design.
“Knocking through” to open-plan living
The best fit is for an Designing Interiors or Architecture for Interiors.
Though you might think demolition of structural walls would require the help by an architect. However, this is better served by the interior designer Beckenham, or Architectural Designer. But, you’ll also require an engineer to determine the required beam for the new opening. Once the knocking through aspect is taken care of the next step is to determine the ideal layout for furniture and deciding on the best the right finishes to create a cohesive space that will be comfortable for you and your family.