Many people assume that interior architecture and interior design are the same, but while they have many similarities, so many that people often use the terms interchangeably, the truth is that they’re actually quite different. Though related and though they work in tandem, there are instances where it’s better to hire an architect rather than a designer and vice versa. Here’s what you need to know about architecture vs interior design.
Architecture Vs Interior Design: An Overview
Architecture and interior design fuse together in order to make a pleasant, functional building interior that is both structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing. They’re very closely related, hence why people wonder at the difference between architecture vs interior design, but are too shy to ask outright in case the difference is either obvious or not at all. It’s easy for people who do not work with architecture or interior design to assume they’re essentially the same – it is not an uncommon question at all.
When it comes to architecture vs interior design, the difference boils down to structure versus aesthetics. Architecture focuses on the structure of a building, making one that is functional, structurally sound, and beautiful, that utilizes space planning, lighting concerns, working with aspects such as HVAC, and linking functionality with design. Interior design focuses on the aesthetics of a space, making them fit with their preferred purpose and the environment the client is trying to cultivate with furniture choices, wall designs, color schemes, art, and more.
The Differences Between Architecture Vs Interior Design
In order to understand the differences between architecture vs interior design, it’s helpful to go over the responsibilities of architects versus those of interior designers.
What Architecture Entails
Architecture typically starts before the building is even built, as architects work with clients in order to determine the kind of building that they want, what they will be using it for, the plans for the structure, and how feasible said plans are with the surrounding environment and the materials available.
Architecture certainly combines science and art, as architects design buildings that are meant to be both functional and aesthetically fit with their intended purpose. Architects need to work with cost estimates and timelines for their plans, abide by regulations and codes, and oversee the progress made at the construction site.
At its core, architecture entails designing, reviewing the plans of, and the overseeing of the construction of structures. Architects are responsible for building a space that functions according to its purpose while being pleasing to the eye.
What Interior Design Entails
Interior designers come into play once a space is ready to be utilized. They ensure that the inside of a building is both comfortable for people to spend their time in, and safe. The key difference between architecture vs interior design is that architects care about the buildings as a whole while interior designers care about what goes into said building. Interior designers choose materials for things like carpeting or wall paint or color schemes, and focus on details like floor layouts and lighting fixtures to cultivate an atmosphere that fits the client’s vision.
Interior designers are responsible for selecting colors that will work well together, what kind of furniture would work best in a given space and how best to arrange it for the intended atmosphere, as well as what paintings and carvings and decor would suit the space. For instance, you wouldn’t put loud, neon colors in a hospital room – interior designers take things like this into consideration so that the space fits its intended purpose.
Similarities Between Architecture And Interior Design
There’s a reason why people ask about architecture vs interior design: they influence each other a great deal and have many similarities. An architect influences the choices an interior designer makes with how they design the building’s structure, which in turn affects how an interior designer would go about decorating the space and selecting the best layout for furniture and the like in it. The best interiors are ones where the architectural design and the interior design really flow well together, making it seem seamless and obvious that this is how a space should look.
Both architects and interior designers need to take into consideration things such as floor plans, interior details, flooring, interior elevations, hardware, and what a space’s intended purpose is. If you are building a new space, you’ll want to work with BGW Architects to ensure that it perfectly fits your vision, and then seek out an interior designer to add the finishing touches with furnishing and décor and the like. Contact us today to learn more about our architectural services and how we can bring your vision to life.
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