By: Veronica Yambrovich, IIDA, LEED Green Associate, WELL AP
04.25.2022
Architects and Interior Designers seem like they both can do the same functions, or entirely different ones. It can be confusing determining which professional would be best to hire for your projects. I’ll outline the differences between the two and recommend when you should hire one, the other or both!
ARCHITECTS
Can design and create construction documents for interior and exterior of a building.
Able to complete designs for exterior walls, doors, windows and finishes (siding, stucco, etc.).
Architects are trained in structures; useful when replacing, adding or removing exterior windows, doors or infilling empty wall space.
Architect’s biggest enemy is WATER; they are knowledgeable about water-proofing the outside of the building.
Some jurisdictions require product approvals for hurricanes or earthquakes. The architect will know what products you need.
Can recommend equipment, plumbing fixtures, lighting fixtures, recommend interior finishes, furniture and complete cabinetry or millwork drawings.
Knowledge to complete your project to adhere to the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).
Many jurisdictions require signed and sealed drawings from an architect for the following:
Changes to exterior doors
Changes to exterior windows
Changes to exterior finishes such as siding, stucco, etc.
Adding structural infill to the exterior
Changes to load-bearing walls.
Review your local jurisdiction’s building code to determine what kind of work requires permitting or signed construction document drawings.
To become a licensed architect, they need a Master’s degree and to pass the six exams of the ARE (Architects Registration Exam).
Architect fees are typically higher than an Interior Designer’s because of the direct responsibility that comes with signing and sealing construction drawings (need to make sure the building won’t fall on people!), their specialized structural knowledge, amount of schooling needed and the number of exams they have had to take to earn their license.
INTERIOR DESIGNER
Interior Designers can complete construction drawings for the interior of the building.
They may place or demolish non-load-bearing walls.
Specialize in or typically have more in-depth knowledge of recommending equipment/appliance, plumbing fixtures, lighting fixtures, interior finishes (paint, tile, etc.), specifying furniture, or creating cabinetry or millwork designs.
Knowledge to complete your project to adhere to the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).
Depending on the jurisdiction, certified or licensed interior designers can sign and seal their own interior construction document drawings for permitting.
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