Can You Be Both an Architect and Interior Designer?

Every building has a story to tell, a tale embedded within its walls, whispers of which could be heard through its doors and windows. Such chronicles are crafted by the intricate works of its originators – architects and interior designers, both of whom work in sync to make the exteriors and interiors of a building pleasant, appealing, and functional.

However, since both professions share a similar, design-centric work profile, many people ask the question – Can you be both at the same time? Before answering it, let’s look at what both professions deal with and the differences between them.

 

What is the job profile of an architect?

Simply put, building empty spaces to perfection, with a bit of both planning and execution, is the job of an architect. They create engaging, fresh, creative, and colorful spaces, and their domain knowledge extends to new construction projects, redevelopments, even alterations. Designing and review also fall under the umbrella of an architect’s job. 

There’s a growing misconception that architects only work on the exterior. Nothing can be further from the truth. Architects also ensure the correct placement of all rooms and spaces within the building, along with making sure that sufficient space is provided to all areas. Some architects also deal with materials used in construction.

 

What is the job profile of an interior designer?

After a building space is constructed, the responsibility of furnishing and accessorizing the interiors falls on the interior designer. As the name suggests, interior designers design an empty space so that it looks beautiful and feels functional.

For instance, in a home setting, an interior designer will decide the overall color scheme of the house, which curtains would go well with the sofas, where to place the furniture, and so on. In an office setting, an interior designer will design the cubicles, desks, and office cabins in a way that promotes productivity and seamless connection between employee and employee, between employee and the external environment.

 

What are the differences?

Although architects work on the inside, it has generally got to do with ergonomics rather than aesthetics. On the other hand, interior designers work on the ergonomics, aesthetics, and emotional feel of interior spaces.

Moreover, architects usually focus on technical requirements like lighting, ventilation, flooring, and materials, while interior design caters towards the look of the space and making it more functional.

Also, architects are trained in building structures that meet local, state, and national codes. Therefore, the job has a license attached to it. However, interior design doesn’t require you to have a license.

 

Can you work as both?

Now that we have all the definitions and differences out of the way, let’s address the elephant in the room: Can you be both an architect and interior designer? Well, yes! Architecture and interior design studies in India have various overlapping elements, making it possible for architects to practice interior design.

However, the reverse is not true. Architects require a license to practice their craft, which is only issued after one has pursued formal education on the subject.  So, if you are already an interior design graduate or are on the path to becoming one, you won’t be able to practice architecture without a license.

 

Having formal education or qualification can boost your career prospects by leaps and bounds. That’s why choosing the right institute and course is of utmost significance for aspiring interior designers. Ergo, the interior design bachelor's option by Pearl Academy must be your top choice. If you wish to design exquisite functional spaces, then this all-inclusive program is your best bet!