Architect and interior designers – What’s the difference?

In the context of creating projects, architects and interior designers play essential roles, but with different functions. Collaboration between the two can result in cohesive and successful projects. In this article we look at how architects and interior designers can complement each other in their work, highlighting the main differences between these professions.

What is an interior designer?

An interior designer is a professional whose aim is to improve the interiors of a space in order to create aesthetically pleasing and functional environments. This practice involves using space, lines, shapes, colors, textures, materials and lighting to meet the needs of users. It goes beyond simple decoration, focusing on the harmony between the elements of the space and adapting them to the functional requirements of the program requested by the client.

An interior designer is a qualified professional, both through academic training and practical experience, whose mission is to improve the functionality and quality of interior spaces. During the creative process, there is constant reassessment and improvement of their approaches, work and path, always seeking innovation and excellence in each project.

When talking about interior design, it can be common to associate it with the term interior decoration. In fact, there is a strong relationship between the two concepts, since both focus on the aesthetics and comfort of spaces. However, while decoration deals mainly with the selection of furniture, colors and pieces, interior design involves a more comprehensive approach, which considers functionality and the optimization of space in harmony with the existing architecture.

What does an architect do?

An architect is a professional who analyzes, prepares, designs, supervises and develops projects for new buildings, rehabilitation projects, refurbishments, among others…

The role of architects will always be to ensure that architectural projects not only respect the needs of clients, but also that the projects are harmoniously integrated into the urban or natural environment in which they are located.

Differences between architects and interior designers

Although both professionals collaborate to create spaces, there are fundamental differences between the roles of an architect and an interior designer. The architect is involved in the planning and drafting of projects from the outset, taking into account the structure, foundations, electrical and plumbing systems, and other technical issues, from the initial conception to the final execution of the construction. On the other hand, the interior designer focuses on the organization and decoration of interior spaces, taking care of the aesthetics, functionality and comfort of the environments, working mainly with furniture, colors, lighting, coverings, materials and other decorative elements.

How architects and interior designers complement each other

Despite their differences, architects and interior designers must collaborate effectively so that the building and interior space merge into one. Collaboration between the two professionals allows for a more complete approach to projects, where the architect is concerned with structural integrity and compliance with regulations, while the interior designer focuses on the comfort and beauty of the interior space. This synergy can result in a more efficient project, where decisions about structure and aesthetics can be considered together, ensuring a seamless integration between the exterior and interior.

The exchange of ideas between the two professionals can lead to innovative solutions that combine aesthetics and functionality. For example, an architect can draw up a project with unique structural elements that the interior designer can complement with creative decorative solutions. In addition, collaboration ensures that all the client’s needs are met holistically, from the functionality of the space to the detail of the interior design, resulting in greater client satisfaction and an environment that fully reflects their aspirations and needs.

Finally, it is essential to promote the collaboration of the interior designer with the architect, considering it an asset for the building and for those who will inhabit it.

Do you need an architect or an interior designer?

Before requesting any service, make sure you assess the size of the intervention you want. You can opt for an interior designer or even a decorator if the intervention is only in the interior and doesn’t require changes to the walls, structure or typology. The interior designer will help create harmonious spaces through the choice of furniture, decorative elements and colors.

On the other hand, if the intervention is more in-depth, our multidisciplinary team can help guide you depending on the complexity of the work.