Interior Architect vs Interior Designer: How to Tell the Difference

Two of the most commonly confused professionals during home renovations or commercial space makeovers are interior architects and interior designers. While they both make spaces beautiful and functional, their approaches, training, and the scope of work differ significantly. Understanding these distinctions helps you choose the right professional for your project and ensures your vision comes to life exactly as you imagined.

What Does an Interior Architect Do?

The focus of the interior architect is the structural and technical elements of the interior space. They know the building codes, load-bearing walls, and also the spatial engineering. They are the bridge between architecture and interior design because they know how to reimagine a space from the ground up.

Their work involves:

• Modifying structural elements like walls, ceilings, and floors
• Creating detailed technical drawings and blueprints
• Ensuring compliance with building regulations and safety codes
• Coordinating with structural engineers and contractors
• Managing space planning for large-scale renovations

Most interior architects hold degrees in architecture and additional certifications. They are best hired to remove walls, add mezzanines, or completely reconfigure a floor plan. Most charge between $100 to $250 per hour, reflecting their technical expertise and regulatory knowledge.

What Does an Interior Designer Do?

Interior designers are the aesthetic masters who bring personality and style to your space. While they understand spatial relationships and functionality, their primary focus is creating beautiful, livable environments through finishes, furnishings, and decorative elements.

Interior designers excel at:

• Selecting color palettes, materials, and finishes
• Sourcing furniture, lighting, and accessories
• Creating cohesive design concepts and mood boards
• Space planning within existing structures
• Maximizing functionality without structural changes

Most interior designers complete specialized design programs and may hold certifications like NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Qualification). Their rates generally range from $50-$200 per hour, or they may charge flat fees or percentage-based pricing depending on the project scope.

Interior Architect vs Interior Designer: The Key Differences

The main distinction boils down to structural authority and technical capability.

Education and Licensing: Interior architects typically need architecture degrees and must understand engineering principles, while interior designers focus on aesthetics, materials, and human-centered design during their training.

Scope of Work: Interior architects can legally modify building structures and submit permits for structural changes. Interior designers work within existing architectural frameworks, transforming spaces through non-structural elements.

Project Involvement: Interior architects join projects early during the planning and construction phases. Interior designers often come aboard once the structural work is complete, or can work independently on projects requiring only cosmetic updates.

Cost Considerations: Hiring an interior architect makes sense for gut renovations or additions, typically costing more due to structural complexity. Interior designers are perfect for refreshes, redesigns, and projects where the bones of the space remain unchanged.

Making Your Space Work for You

Choosing between an interior architect vs interior designer depends entirely on your project needs. Tearing down walls for an open-concept kitchen? You need an interior architect. Refreshing your living room with new furniture and a killer color scheme? An interior designer is your person. Sometimes, the best projects involve both professionals working together, where the architect handles structural changes while the designer perfects the finishing touches.

Whether you are planning minor updates or major renovations, Zicklin Contracting connects you with the right professionals to bring your vision to life. Visit Zicklin Contracting today to discuss your project and find out how our team can transform your space into something extraordinary.