Unsure whether you would need an Architect or Interior Designer working on your project? Read on to see how an Interior Architect can be the perfect fit!
‘Interior design’ is a phrase we’ve all heard many times before. It’s something we’ve become familiar with when browsing through glossy magazines, scrolling through social media and from regular mentions on some of our favourite television shows. But, ‘interior architecture’? Not so much. Interior architecture, as a subject, can often be confused with architecture or interior design.
In simple terms, interior architecture is a combination of both interior design and architecture.
Whilst an architect looks to design the framework of a building, and also advise in its construction, an interior architect looks to remodel an existing one by reconstructing or reshaping or adding to the internal spaces. An interior architect works with an existing structure and makes changes through considered design alterations. This can be anything from minor updates, such as the repositioning of doors or walls, to gutting the interior to a bare-bones space with the intention of a full redesign.
When would a project need an Interior Architect?
An interior architect's main role is to ensure that improvements to an existing building meets the needs of those using it.
This means that interior architects are often called on in relation to extensions, loft and basement conversions, helping to maximise the potential of your home or commercial space that is already in use.
Interior architects will create 3D imagery and walkthroughs of a project to allow clients to visualise how the new space will look once it’s complete. This provides a fantastic opportunity for the client to get a real understanding of their project, allowing important design decisions to be made or finalised.
With the three professions, there are overlaps in the occupations, interior designers are well versed in utilising spaces, but you’d need to call on an interior architect if you envisage your work will need more structural attention.
What can you expect from an Interior Architect?
Discussing the requirements of the project, (the brief) with clients, colleagues, contractors and sub-contractors
Planning what methods and materials will most successfully meet the requirements of your space set out in the brief
Providing an accurate schedule detailing when certain stages of the project will be completed
Researching around the project and providing new proposed plans and/or ‘mood boards’ to discuss with the client
Using industry software to create working designs, 3D models, visualisations and plans for your space
Sourcing materials for fittings, furniture, lighting and decoration required for the project from vendors
Have knowledge and understanding on local regulations (e.g. planning guidelines / building regulations)
Working closely with quantity surveyors to discuss and agree on costs and scheduling
Working with local governing bodies and councils to gain approval for planning consent, building regulation or advertisement consent where required.
Working with architects, structural engineers and other design professionals and contractors to establish any potential problems at an early stage
Working with the construction team to ensure the design is followed
Here at Nathan Price Design
The term Interior Architect should only ever be, used by those who have studied and gained a qualification in this particular specialism. Here at NPD Nathan has a BA (hons) Interior Architecture degree along with over 8 years of experience working in Architectural practices; most recently as a Senior Design Manager leading teams of Interior Designers, Interior Architects and Architectural technicians on a wide ranging number of projects.
Rest assured you're in safe hands!
These skills enable him to work on a project from concept to completion, whether independently or alongside a traditional architect and other specialist technicians and trades. Essentially, we have a broader understanding of new build and renovation projects. For instance, our work can span spatial planning, electrical and mechanical design, the structural and technical aspects of a building internally and the control of light and air. This is in addition to designing interior schemes to enhance a space aesthetically.
I hope you agree, here at NPD we are the perfect fit to work with you on your projects!