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

We believe that every building tells a story. And these stories are made unique by professionals like interior designers and architects. But very often, people get confused about whom to contact when it comes to building/designing their home. Additionally, the overload of information on the web can confuse everyone. To help you, here is a comprehensive list of differences between an architect and an interior designer.

	Architect	Interior Designer
Scope of Work	Responsible for the structure and facade of a building	Responsible for the interiors of a building
Qualifications	Bachelor’s degree in architecture	Bachelor’s degree/ diploma in interior designing
When to Approach	When a building needs to be constructed from scratch, or when the space needs a renovation or structural changes	When a new space requires a new design or when an old space requires a facelift

Difference Between Architect and Interior Designer: Who Is an Architect?

To understand architect designing, you must first know who an architect is. An architect is someone who designs, reviews and oversees the construction of buildings. In addition, they also look at the interiors (though, not always!)

His/her main aim is to build a functional structure that’s structurally sound and aesthetically appealing. Moreover, s/he also needs to have good analytical and problem-solving skills. 

Also Read: Modular vs Carpenter-Made Kitchens: 4 Reasons Why Hiring a Carpenter Is a Mistake

Difference Between Architect and Interior Designer: Roles of an Architect

As you must have gathered, an architect should have good technical designing knowledge. That said, there are more responsibilities that fall into the purview of home architecture design. Here are some of them:

• Review the needs of a project/client
  
• Devise a plan/design based on discussions and propose a budget
  
• Take into consideration the building codes and other rules and regulations during the construction
  
• Additionally, they must work with the construction crew and contractors to ensure that the work is consistent and sticks to the plan
  
• Travel to/visit construction sites to inspect the work-in-progress

Difference Between Architect and Interior Designer: Skills of an Architect

An architect should essentially have the following skills:

• Creative Mindset
• Good Problem-Solvers
• Technical Skills
• Good Communication Skills

Difference Between Architect and Interior Designer: Who Is an Interior Designer?

Interior designers, on the other hand, bring their creative hats to the job in addition to technical knowledge. Once a building is constructed, it is the designer who’s called on to furnish and accessorise the empty interiors.

They do so keeping in mind the needs, lifestyle, preferences and budget of their client. Additionally, details like selecting materials, furniture, wall designs, colour schemes, accessories and more fall within the scope of the designer. 

Difference Between Architect and Interior Designer: Roles of an Interior Designer

Interior designers, too, have certain essential tasks as a part of their job. While having a creative mind is important, here are some of the other responsibilities they have:

• Meet potential clients and try to pitch their ideas to them. In addition, discuss and understand the needs and lifestyle of the clients
  
• Prepare a carefully thought-out design plan
  
• Additionally, propose a tentative budget plan to the clients
  
• Change their designs according to the budget or preferences of the client
  
• Also, source all the materials and work with carpenters
  
• In addition, focus on details like furniture, wall design, colour scheme, design style, kitchen layouts, flooring, lighting, furnishing and more

Difference Between Architect and Interior Designer: Skills of an Interior Designer

The main skills of an interior designer include:

• Creativity
• Knowledge about design styles, colour theory etc
• Eye for style
• Communication skills
• Organisation and time management skills

The Major Difference Between an Architect and Interior Designer:

Now we’ll tell you the main differences between the two professions:

• What they do: Architects design and deliver the complete building. On the other hand, a designer tries to create the desired look/mood/feel within the building
  
• Where their expertise lies: An architect is trained to build a structure that abides by certain codes, rules and measurements. Moreover, their main aim is to make the building functional. On the other hand, an interior designer takes care of creating stunning and comfortable interiors
  
• Basic requirements that they focus on: Architects focus on more technical aspects like form of a building, direction, materials, etc. An interior designer, however, focuses more on aspects like human wants and needs, functionality of the space, and aesthetics
  
• When should you approach the two: If you have a structure ready and need to decorate the interiors, then you should hire an interior designer. However, if you have an empty plot and need to construct a building from scratch, or need to renovate, then you should hire an architect
  
• Charges: Charges by both professionals are relative. Some charge a percentage of the project value, while others charge a lump sum. Additionally, it will depend on the size, value and type of project 

Also Read: With 146 Quality Checks, Our Livspace Interior Design Practices Will Win Your Trust

How Can Livspace Help You? 

We hope this guide helped you understand the difference between an architect and interior designer! At Livspace, we can help you get beautiful interiors for your home. In addition, our designers can ensure your home is a comfortable space designed within your budget.

Book an online consultation with Livspace today. Additionally, if you have any thoughts or suggestions you’d like to share with us, drop us a line at editor@livspace.com.

Disclaimer: All contents of the story are specific to the time of publication. Mentions of costs, budget, materials, finishes, and products from the Livspace catalogue can vary with reference to current rates. Talk to our designer for more details on pricing and availability.