What's The Difference in Types of Design?

When people talk about transforming a space, they often think: Interior Designer, Interior Architect, and Interior Decorator are the same. But while these titles go hand in hand in some areas, they’re actually very different in education, design and responsibilities.

Whether you're renovating a home, redesigning an office, or just curious about career paths in this field, it’s necessary to understand what each of these professions really means. Here’s a breakdown of how interior design, interior architecture, and interior decorator differ and where they work together.

1. What is Interior Design?

Interior design is the art and science of understanding people's behavior to create functional spaces within a building. Interior designers go beyond just aesthetics—they plan, research, coordinate, and manage projects from start to finish.

Planning:

• Space planning and layout
• Selecting materials, finishes, furniture, and lighting, etc
• Ensuring designs meet building codes and safety regulations
• Collaborating with architects and contractors
• Often use CAD software to create design plans

Designing a hotel lobby to be both visually pleasing and able to handle high foot traffic with the right materials and flow.

2. What is Interior Architecture?

Interior architecture is both architecture and interior design. It involves structural changes and architectural elements within interior spaces. (To note: Not Exterior.)

Planning:

• Redesigning structural layouts (e.g., removing or adding walls)
• Working closely with architects and engineers
• Often involved and overseeing from the beginning of a construction or renovation project
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Converting an old industrial warehouse into a modern coworker space. Or any residential property with a kitchen or bathroom renovation. 

3. What is an Interior Decorator?

Interior decorators focus exclusively on the aesthetics of a space. They come in after the structural and spatial planning is complete to style and furnish a room. Their job is to make a space visually appealing and aligned with the client’s taste. An Interior Designer also does this but not ONLY this. 

Planning: 

• Selecting color schemes, textiles, and furniture
• Styling shelves, walls, and accessories
• Enhancing the mood or theme of a room
• Often hired for “makeovers” or seasonal updates
• No formal education or certification is required (though many decorators do have training or certifications)
• Strong sense of style and understanding of color theory and trends
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Example: Decorating a living room with coastal-themed furniture, light fixtures, and art to create a beachy vibe. Any sort of decor and accessories. 

Which One Do You Need?

• Renovating your kitchen? You might need an Interior Designer or Interior Architect, especially if you’re moving walls or plumbing.
• Styling your living room? An Interior Decorator can help you refresh the space without any construction. And again, an Interior Designer can do this also. 
• Reconfiguring a commercial space or historic building? You’ll likely need an Interior Architect to handle that.

We hope that this helped you understand the differences in both the title and role they play in design. I do both! Interior Architect and Design and have the education and degrees in each. There is a Fall Promo going on right now, so if you’re in need of my expertise, contact us today!