For those who may not know about interior design, they may mistakenly say that it is simply decorating. This is far from the truth! (Although, we have much appreciation for interior decorating too!) Interior design involves a lot of planning to create functional spaces that are as beautiful as they are safe. The following will explain why interior design is more than just decorating by looking at its overall approach to creating spaces people wish to spend time in.
Technical and Structural Considerations
The job of an interior decorator is to focus mainly on the space’s aesthetic appeal. This includes the colors, fabrics, furniture, and accessories used within the space. Interior designers, on the other hand, must also address matters concerning building codes, spatial planning, and the structural integrity of the space.
For example, perhaps a client wishes for a room to serve a specific functional purpose. With the help of an interior designer and possibly contractors/architects, the space can be assessed to ensure any modifications are up to codes and regulations.
Factors like accessibility, the floor plan and layout, and complying with building codes all come into play. Interior designers may have even more involvement by helping to draft the blueprints. This ensures the use of the available space is optimized and as functional as possible. We discuss this further below.
There is always the possibility that the roles of interior designers and interior decorators overlap. This is why ensuring the professionals you hire are both capable and knowledgeable. It is integral when doing any form of home alteration!
Functionality
Interior designers focus on how a room can be used. Therefore, they try to think outside of the box to make the room as functional as possible. What may work for one person may be completely irrelevant for another. This is why hiring an interior designer who can assess what will make the room the most practical and efficient is advantageous.
Seeking a professional opinion concerning home interior styling can undoubtedly be beneficial too! However, in contrast with interior designers, decorators generally don’t have the proper knowledge base to fully handle design aspects. For example, they consider factors like pathways and furniture placement to allow traffic flow. This way, optimal movement is possible. The combination of an interior designer’s knowledge, analytical skills, and creativity can make a world of difference in the design concept.
Client Consultation
It’s natural for the client to not have an exact plan of what they would like to accomplish. Usually, they know they want and need a change but they don’t know where to start. This is where interior designers come in. Part of their job is to have an interior design consultation with clients to understand their hopes for their space. They help to assess their style preferences, their needs, and their budget to conceptualize different options.
Concept Development
Once the space has been properly assessed, the interior designers can create more in-depth concept plans. This may involve material and color scheme selection, choosing furnishings, lighting fixtures, and other decorative elements. Inspiration boards have become a quite popular tool during this stage as well.
These concepts can then be shown to the client to hear their feedback and narrow components down until the plans can be finalized. It’s important for clients to feel comfortable discussing the changes. Being able to make changes, both small and large, without feeling pressured or hurried into decision-making is important. The proper interior designer will do their best to facilitate the process, not hinder it.
Project Management
From managing costs of labor, materials, and furnishings, interior designers must work within the client’s budget. This includes creating detailed technical drawings and documents for contractors to properly implement the requested designs. Specifications are an important part at this stage as having the wrong information can be a very costly mistake.
They also need to coordinate the installation of the design elements, coordinating the schedules of all who are involved. Overseeing the installations is another crucial part of their job as this ensures they can keep clients updated on the status of the project. If there are any concerns along the way, they will do everything they can to provide clients with peace of mind until the job is complete.
Innovative Design
As we’ve seen in this article, interior design involves the functionality of the layout, building codes and safety, and possible renovation planning. While aesthetics are not their main priority, by working with interior decorators, they create a winning team that can completely transform a space.
Interior Design Solutions
If you’d like to speak to a professional, WIHM Design is one call or message away! All interior design needs in Saint-Lazare can be trusted with our talented team. Contact us to discuss how our 15 years of experience is all you’ll need to make your home functional and comfortable.
Call (450) 452-9990 or email us at office@wihmdesign.com today! Our space planning experts will make sure that your home is a place you’ll never want to leave.