Architect vs Interior Designer: What Is the Difference and Which Is the Best Option?

Before delving into the differences between architects and interior designers, let’s understand the meaning of both professions. Although both are similar in terms of the work profile, the basic difference lies in terms of their respective design work. An architect is involved in designing the exterior of the building while an interior designer designs the interior of the building. 

So, when you are planning to buy a flat in any city like Bangalore, you can find both architects and home interior designers in Bangalore by doing some basic research. However, there is loads of information that might confuse you. To help you understand who is behind those beautiful homes that you see very commonly nowadays, there is a summary of the differences between architects and interior designers that exist:

Educational Qualifications & License

An architect must obtain a bachelor’s degree in architecture that lasts for five years. After that, they can get authorisation from the regional development authority i.e. Council of Architecture in India. The approval of a license is an important step to work as an architect. On the other hand, an interior designer can get a certification, or diploma or pursue a bachelor’s degree for three to five years duration.  Interior designers don’t require a license to start working.

Aesthetics

Interior designing focuses more on aesthetics i.e. usage of texture, form, color, space and light to create a striking visual impression of your home. However, in the comparison of architect vs interior designer roles, it is important to note that the architect doesn’t need to focus on the aesthetics part. They can construct the building based on a specific design. Nonetheless, they can focus on aesthetics without impacting any client guidelines and building regulations. You can find many such aesthetically pleasing exteriors that showcase that even architects can create aesthetically pleasing buildings, which can later be created into homes.

Renovations

Next in our comparison of architect vs interior designer roles, we look into their function in renovations. Interior designers have to work with architects, contractors, technicians, and builders for renovations or rebuilding the interior structure. Basically, the interior designer has to indulge more in the technical side of the design process. They also have to make sure that the structure of the house is not impacted while doing any home interiors work.

Functions

When exploring the differences between architecture and design roles, you must understand that when designing a building, the architect has to meet the specifications of the client as well as the regulations of the local building authorities. The first function of an architect is to submit the plan to the authority after the design is done. Post the approval of the design, the construction can start. Apart from this, an architect has to coordinate with the on-site contractors and monitor the construction process.

On the other hand, an interior designer’s responsibilities include making the living room, kitchen, bedroom and other interior spaces look elegant and useful. The first and most important function of an interior designer is to determine the specifications and goals of their clients. The next function would be to research and make the clients understand the different materials available & their usage for the type of design they want. Apart from this, an interior designer must be aware of the different colour schemes, hardware, wallpaper, etc. to give their clients an overview of the interior to be designed. An architect interior designer unique method smoothly integrates structural design with attractive interior features, resulting in harmonious and useful environments.

Time of Approach

Another criterion that adds to the differences between architecture and design roles is their time of approach. The correct time to approach an architect is when you need to get a building constructed or renovate an already existing building. However, you can approach an interior designer when you want to design your home interiors with something new and useful or want to change the look of your home. The various options available to design the interiors of your home include  kid-friendly rooms, personality-based houses, etc. 

Your Needs and Wants 

Both architects and interior designers apply their creativity, problem-solving ability and artistic minds to make your space look stunning. But it is your choice on how much of their creativity and artistic mind you want them to use with regard to your interior or exterior. The selection would not be very difficult after getting to know the differences. Well, in most cases, you would want your interior expert to use more creativity, while would be happy if the architect is just following the guidelines. Also, it is not just about the preference but also about how both can be integrated to get a perfect outcome.

Parting Thoughts

If you still have any questions or doubts regarding how you should design your dream house, you can get in touch with Asense Interiors. We are well-experienced to answer the queries you have regarding designing your home.