Bringing Interior Design Ideas to Life

Once you commit to a home renovation project, the first step is to find a team to help bring your interior design ideas to life. Many property owners aren't sure who to call first when they are ready to begin a project: some call an architect and some call an interior designer. So who is the right person to reach out to?

The right answer really comes down to the size and scope of your project. Most property owners, however, need both an architect and an interior designer to successfully complete a renovation. The services that both professionals provide complement each other, and your project will end up being the space you've envisioned, or something even better.

Common Misconceptions of Working with Both an Architect and Interior Designer

One common misconception when it comes to hiring a team for your home remodel or renovation project is that you don't need both an architect and an interior designer. The mistaken belief is that they do the same job, so only one or the other is needed. On the other hand, some believe that architects are only needed for new construction or major projects, and that interior designers only provide decoration services such as new furniture and paint colors. The truth is that the expertise and responsibilities of both roles complement each other, and involving both professionals from the beginning of your project will ensure a smoother renovation process and a better result.

It's also common to hear people say that they believe architects and interior designers are reluctant to work together, and that they are competitive with each other. In reality, they usually work well as a team and value each other's skills. This is particularly true when adding a custom element to your project, like an accent wall or decorative fireplace. Your architect and interior designer will work together to ensure the structure is optimally placed and built to code, and that the perfect tile is selected to complement your furniture and decor.

An Architect's Responsibilities

Architects create the overall aesthetic and are the experts on any structural elements involved with a renovation project. They are licensed by the state through the National Council for Architectural Registration Boards and have a degree in architecture. Their responsibility is to make sure building additions or changes are structurally sound according to building codes. If any walls or structural elements are removed or altered, it's the architect's duty to ensure that they are functional and safe. An architect is also responsible for changes that include electrical, plumbing, ducting, and the addition of stairs or fireplaces.

Most technical issues are also handled by an architect. These include producing building design and construction drawings, understanding local building codes, researching zoning requirements, obtaining proper permits, and scheduling inspections. If you're planning to incorporate tile into your space, an architect can ensure substructures are in place to ensure a proper installation. Your architect can also help to identify areas in your space that could benefit from the long-lasting, attractive qualities of tile, such as in your entryway or kitchen.

In addition, your architect is a great resource when selecting building materials and understanding their quality and effectiveness. They are up-to-date on the newest material technology and know which interior design ideas will work best in your home. For example, when choosing tile for floors, bathrooms, or outdoor spaces, your architect can make a recommendation on which type of tile will be the most functional. He or she can also provide interior design ideas based on previous experience.

An Interior Designer's Responsibilities

An interior designer sets the mood of a space by blending all aspects of the project. Their job is to envision, plan, and fill your space in a way that's beautiful and functional. If you aren't sure what your style is, interior design professionals are who to turn to. They are experts at helping clients define their own taste. They ask questions such as, "Who will use this space the most?" and "How is this space going to be used?" They work with clients from the beginning of a project to produce an end result that surpasses expectations.

Typical responsibilities of an interior designer include implementing the right lighting, colors, and textures for a project. This includes selecting the tile that will be used. Because tile is available in a variety of colors and textures, there are limitless combinations and patterns you can make. Depending on your tastes, your designer may choose a bold and trendy accent tile for your walls, or a traditional wood-look tile to bring warmth to your floors.

A lot of people think that furniture layout isn't decided until the end of a project, but it's actually considered at the start. The interior design determines the wall space needed for windows and window treatments, and the size of furniture. It also determines if stairs, air vents, wiring, and other elements are in the proper place or if they need to be relocated.

Similar to an architect, an interior designer has a vast knowledge of design materials. They are accredited by the Council for Interior Design, usually have a design degree, and are skilled at recommending materials, colors, and textures for interior finishes. The interior finishes, including flooring, walls, cabinetry, and tile selection are all planned from the beginning of the project. Furniture, accents, and accessories are then used to help express a client's unique style and personality.

Benefits of Hiring Both

Both architects and interior designers have different responsibilities that complement each other. This makes it important for both professionals to be involved in a home renovation project from the conception to the completion. They share responsibilities in terms of making the space flow and keeping the project on schedule. While both roles view projects with different perspectives, this allows the finished product to benefit from two points of view.

With both professionals involved, they can communicate any discrepancies from the start. This will help to avoid any costly changes, especially in terms of structural elements such as doorway locations, ceiling beams, and interior or exterior columns. By collaborating from the beginning and coordinating throughout the project, your architect and interior designer will ensure that the design elements match with the structural requirements.

A key benefit of using both an architect and interior designer is the relationships they have with many vendors. Their contacts and industry knowledge will help to make the renovation process as smooth as possible. Their combined expertise allows them to recommend the best products and design ideas for your remodel. They can also both provide inspiration ideas and they both understand how certain products will appear within the size and design of your space.

Why Choose One or the Other?

If a project doesn't involve removing, adding, or changing any structural elements such as walls, windows, or columns, you might only require an interior designer. And in the opposite case, if you are only changing structural elements, but not changing any design elements, an architect might be the only professional you need.

The goal of both the interior designer and architect is to create a beautiful and functional finished space that incorporates your interior design ideas while staying on time and on budget. By collaborating from start to finish, your team will accomplish this goal and you will enjoy your renovated space for years to come.