How to Hire an Interior Designer or an Architect (or both)
- Nigel Palmer
- Apr 6, 2023
- 6 min read
Updated: Feb 7
As you begin renovating your home, you may start thinking about hiring an interior designer, an architect, or both. You know about planning permission, you already read all the interiors mags, so do you really need them?
Here's our hot take...
What Does an Interior Designer Do?
Interior designers focus on combining a beautiful aesthetic with maximum functionality to make your home work for you. They create designs and floor plans, select fabrics and furnishings, manage budgets and oversee building works.
We are architectural interior designers here at Catherine Wilman, so we also have expertise in 'spatial design' which includes creating a blueprint for the layout of lighting, working out the feasibility of removing internal walls, and changing the layout of a residential property. A large part of the work also includes steering and advising you as you try to pin down the styles and finishes you love, helping you to make cohesive choices that will stand the test of time, but still reflect your unique style.
The Benefits of Hiring an Architectural Interior Designer:
They possess knowledge and training in both interior design and internal architecture, making them well-equipped to handle all aspects of a project.
They can work closely with structural engineers and quantity surveyors to ensure that the design meets all safety and building regulations.
They manage both the aesthetics and functionality of a space, as well as any structural changes.
They can create designs that incorporate lighting, storage solutions, and other practical living insights.
They work with architects when necessary to handle external factors such as extensions and windows.
They can liaise with a Project Manager throughout the entire project, ensuring all aspects of the design are coordinated and cohesive.
They have an encyclopaedic knowledge of interiors history and styles, with a bulging contacts book of creatives, artisans, suppliers and stylists that can help you bring any vision to life
What Does an Architect Do?
Architects are trained to design buildings and spaces, both inside and out. They can draw up plans and cost estimates, supervise contractors, and ensure that the finished product meets safety standards. Architects are often required when major architectural changes are needed, such as retrofitting a home, when an extension or demolition is required, or for major renovation projects. In smaller projects, they certainly have input into interior design but their expertise is in structure and not in aesthetics.
Key tasks and responsibilities of an architect include drawing up plans and cost estimates, dealing with the tender process and project administration, supervising all contractors involved in the design, and ensuring the finished product meets the required safety standards.
An interior design team can help bring your moodboard to life. Just like this splash of pink from Pierre Frey.
The Benefits of Hiring an Architect:
They handle projects that require planning permission, party wall agreements, and other legal requirements.
They oversee the tender process and project administration, ensuring that the project is completed on time and within budget.
They can work alongside an interior designer to ensure all aspects of the design are coordinated.
Can an interior design firm do it all?
Mostly, yes. When an interior designer is hired for a project that involves knocking down walls, they would work closely with a structural engineer to confirm the safety of any walls being removed and if a steel support or lintel is needed.
Catherine gets stuck into the majestic original shutters in our Georgian townhouse project in St John's Wood. Before: Measuring up for extra long curtains. After: A stunning breakfast nook with views over lush greenery.
So when should an architect come in?
If a project is being built from scratch, or gutted and remade, if it involves major planning permission or party wall agreements or requires an extension, hire an architect.
Conclusion:
Architectural interior design is an effective holistic one-stop-shop for creating a space that is both visually appealing and functional. It combines the principles of architecture and interior design, taking into account the structural components of a building as well as its aesthetics.
When deciding whether to hire extra help, it's important to consider the scope of your project and your specific needs. As well as your budget of course. In some cases, involving both an interior designer and an architect at the start of the design process can be beneficial, especially for large-scale projects.
The architect can handle external factors such as extensions and windows, oversee Construction Design and Management (CDM)- the building's health & safety- and deal with tender processes and project administration. Meanwhile, the interior designer can provide clever insights and design tricks for practical living and create an interior that makes you smile to wake up in. Working together, an architectural interior designer and architect can create a space that is both beautiful and functional.
Case Study
For those seeking luxury interior design services in London, a good example is one of our clients who was looking for interior designers in and around Chelsea. Due to the scale of their project, they opted to work with us and a local architect for the renovation of their townhouse. See our portfolio page 'Crittal Meets Georgian' for the results.
Frequently Asked Questions. A Cheatsheet
For Hiring an Interior Designer:
What does an interior designer do?
Interior designers focus on the aesthetics and functionality of interior spaces, including creating designs, selecting furnishings, and managing budgets.
Do I need to hire an interior designer for my project?
It depends on the scope and goals of your project. Interior designers are valuable for enhancing the look and feel of your space and for coming up with nifty design tricks to make everyday rooms work more craftily.
How do I find the right interior designer for my project?
You could start by researching local interior designers, checking their portfolios, and meeting with them to discuss your project. Or you could use the design directories in the back pages of your favourite interiors magazines or even someone you've stumbled across on Instagram. Look for a designer whose style aligns with your vision and someone you get along with as you will be working together so often. Make and bring along your own mood board with lcippings or on Pinterest, just as you might when visiting a hair salon. This will really help you to find a perfect match.
How much does it cost to hire an interior designer?
The cost can vary widely depending on the designer’s experience and the scope of your project. Discuss your budget upfront to ensure alignment with the designer’s services. At Catherine Wilman Interiors we charge hourly for our services.
Can an interior designer handle structural changes in my project?
While some interior designers have knowledge of internal architecture, major structural changes may require the expertise of an architect.
For Hiring an Architect:
What is the role of an architect in a project?
Architects are responsible for designing both the interior and exterior of buildings, drawing up plans, and ensuring the finished product meets safety standards.
When should I hire an architect for my project?
Architects are essential for projects involving major architectural changes, retrofitting, extensions, or significant structural modifications.
How do I find the right architect for my project?
Start by researching local architects, reviewing their portfolios, and discussing your project’s requirements. Choose an architect with relevant experience.
What qualifications should I look for in an architect?
Look for architects who are licensed, registered, or members of professional organizations, such as the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).
What is the cost of hiring an architect?
Architectural fees vary based on the complexity and scale of the project. Many architects will charge between 10% - 15% of the construction budget. However, at Catherine Wilman Interiors we work with architects who typically charge a fixed fee or hourly rates. Be transparent about your budget to ensure the architect’s services align with your financial constraints.
Can an architect work with an interior designer on my project?
Yes, architects often collaborate with interior designers to ensure the design is cohesive and coordinated in both interior and exterior aspects of the project.
