1970s-inspired interior to a twentieth century townhouse by Studio Hagen Hall. Photo by Mariell Lind Hansen.
Choosing between an architect and an interior designer can be confusing for many homeowners.
While an architect can provide a complete design for both the exterior and interior, their main focus is often on the structure and layout of your building. In contrast, an interior designer focuses exclusively on the aesthetics and functionality of interior spaces.
The expertise of the professionals involved and the complexity of your project will determine who you need. This guide will help you understand their roles and how they might overlap.
Architects are highly trained professionals who manage projects from the initial concept to final completion. As lead designers, they handle both the external structure and interior layout, ensuring everything works together seamlessly. They also coordinate with consultants such as structural engineers to ensure compliance with building regulations, optimise costs, and maintain design quality.
In addition to preparing planning applications and securing building regulations approval, architects manage building contracts and monitor construction to ensure the work follows the design. Many residential architects also offer interior design services, creating a cohesive design inside and out.
READ: How Much Do Architects Cost in the UK?
Warehouse interior by Emil Eve Architects. Photo by Mariell Lind Hansen.
Interior designers specialise in creating visually appealing and functional interior spaces. They typically provide concept or mood boards to define the design vision, alongside schedules for finishes, furnishings, and decorations. Layout plans showing furniture positions and 3D visualisations are also common.
Once the design is complete, an interior designer can either hand over the plans for you to manage the build and purchases, or they can offer a full service, overseeing the project and even purchasing and installing furniture.
For simple home renovations, where the focus is on the interior and you want detailed input on finishes and furniture, hiring an interior designer may be sufficient. However, as interior designers have limited technical and contractual knowledge, for more complex projects that require structural work, repairs, or upgrades (e.g., insulation, weatherproofing), you will also need an architect or another suitably qualified professional, such as an architectural technologist, to oversee construction and coordinate the work.
If you’re building an extension or a new house, you’ll need an architect. They can design the entire project, coordinate work from other consultants (such as structural engineers, party wall surveyors, and heating engineers), and oversee the building work to ensure it’s of high design quality, safe, and fully compliant.
READ: Architect vs Architectural Designer: What’s the Difference?
Staircase and panelling by Bradley Van Der Straeten Archtitects. Photo by Jim Stephenson.
Yes, architects and interior designers can work together effectively, but it’s important to clearly define their roles from the start. A common approach is for the architect to design the exterior, structure, and spatial planning, while the interior designer focuses on finishes, furnishings, and fittings.
Choosing professionals with an established working relationship can help ensure the design process runs smoothly and efficiently.
It's important to understand the differences in qualifications and responsibilities.
Architects are regulated professionals who must complete extensive training, register with the Architects Registration Board (ARB), and carry Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII). This ensures a high level of professional competence and accountability.
In contrast, the title "Interior Designer" is unregulated. Anyone can use it, regardless of qualifications or experience, meaning the quality of service can vary significantly. For peace of mind, choose a designer who is registered with the British Institute of Interior Design (BIID), as they follow a code of conduct and carry PII.
Living room interior and built in joinery by OMMX. Photo by Inigo.
Appointing an architect as the lead designer helps ensure smooth coordination between consultants, maintains design quality, and prevents delays or budget overruns. Problems can arise if an interior designer is brought in late and suggests changes without understanding earlier decisions. This can lead to unnecessary revisions and additional costs.
To avoid this, integrate the interior designer early in the process, ensuring their work complements the architect’s overall design. The architect should oversee their input, as they hold ultimate responsibility for project delivery.
Hiring a residential architect who specialises in both external and interior design will ensure a cohesive design and seamless project management, regardless of the project scale.
For simple renovation projects, an interior designer may suffice.
If you’re hiring both an architect and an interior designer, careful planning and clear communication are key to ensuring the design process runs smoothly and achieves the desired results.
The information provided in this article is intended for general guidance and educational purposes only. For specific expert advice on your project, choose a skilled residential architect featured on Designs in Detail.
About the author
Aron Coates is an architect with over two decades of experience, working on projects ranging from historic building restoration to contemporary home design.
