“Can architects do interior design?” is a question we’ve heard asked many times as there is often a lot of confusion over the services they provide. While there is some crossover between the two fields, architects are also experts in their own professions who provide unique skills. Here we explain what an architect can do and what they can’t, helping you decide whether to hire an architect or interior designer for your project.
An architect’s job is to design the structure of a property and outline the external plans before construction work begins. Once a site consultation has been completed they will produce technical plans and be responsible for managing the building phase of the project. A qualified architect will be a member of the Architects Registration Board (ARB) which is an organisation that serves as the statutory regulator for all professional architects working in the UK.
Architects also take care of the health, safety and environmental aspects of the property to ensure it is compliant with current laws. If an extension is being built on an existing property an architect will ensure the exterior is the same as the original sections of the house.
However, an architect does not get involved with designing the layout of the interior of the property once it has been built. Instead this would be something taken on by an interior designer. While an architect is a necessity for the construction of every building, hiring an interior designer may be optional depending on the type of property being built.
There are also architects who work as interior architectural designers, focussing on the interior build of the property. This requires them to create designs for elements such as hard furnishings, walls, windows and doors and to plan where they will be positioned.
An interior designer will help create the aesthetics of a particular room or space, designing the overall layout. This can include things such as selecting furnishings, colour schemes, wall finishes, flooring and more. The role of an interior designer also plays an important part in ensuring the interior meets all building, health and safety and product regulations.
Architects and interior designers do work together on some elements of the build. This can include things like the design of fitted shelves and cupboards, as well as determining where plug sockets should be positioned in order to maximise use of the space. Some architects also get involved in elements such as choosing the tile and woodwork finishes and interior doors.
Traditionally the two fields were kept separate from each other, although it has now become more common place for architects and interior designers to collaborate closely on property builds.
Deciding whether you hire an architect or interior designer will depend on the project you need to complete. If you are building from scratch or constructing an extension then you will first need an architect. Structures that have already been built will benefit more from the input of an interior designer. Depending on your budget, you may choose to use both options if you are starting work from ground zero, ensuring you enjoy expert help from professionals who can cover every aspect of the build.
If you need help with this topic then please fill out the form below and we'll put you in touch with an expert architect local to you who can help. Alternatively you can email us: email us
