Interior architect, interior designer, interior decorator: what are the differences and how to choose the right one?
- L Martin
- Jul 2
- 3 min read
In the world of space design, three profiles are often jumbled together in the same sentence: interior architect, interior designer, and interior decorator. However, each has a specific role and specific skills. Knowing who does what is essential, both for choosing the right professional and for understanding how these talents can complement each other to enhance a space.
Interior architect: the strategist of volumes and technical aspects
The interior architect is the strategist of volumes and technical aspects: he opens up walls, modifies the structure, adjusts circulation, manages electricity and plumbing, and ensures compliance with standards.
He is mainly involved in major renovation projects, overall reorganization and space optimization.
He's the driving force when it comes to redesigning buildings, obtaining permits, or coordinating major projects. However, pure decoration isn't his core business.
Interior Designer: The Creative and Functional Balancer
The interior designer bridges the gap between technology and aesthetics. They imagine functional and stylish spaces, offer custom-made furniture, and play with light and materials.
He creates precise plans and ultra-realistic 3D visuals so his clients can envision their future interiors. However, he doesn't work on the structural aspects, remaining focused on interior design and light interior renovations.
Interior decorator: the magician of ambiance
The interior decorator is the ambiance specialist. He or she chooses colors, textures, furniture, and accessories.
He dresses the place so that it tells a story and creates a unique atmosphere.
His mission focuses on staging, without touching the walls or technical plans. He excels at assisting with decoration, providing the finishing touch that transforms a space.
How these profiles complement each other
The interior architect lays the foundations and manages the technical aspects.
The interior designer imagines a space that combines functionality and aesthetics through innovative solutions.
The interior decorator enhances with style and details that make all the difference.
These roles are therefore complementary, and often necessary for a harmonious result, especially in ambitious projects combining renovation, development and decoration.
Where I fit in, and what I bring to my customers
I'm officially an interior decorator, but my approach also encompasses the optimization and redistribution of volumes, a task similar to that of an interior architect, to create a fluid, intelligent layout. I therefore intervene in the rearrangement and redistribution of spaces to optimize circulation and functionality.
I create ultra-realistic 3D visuals, like an interior designer, so that my customers can project themselves perfectly into their future interior. I design bespoke furniture - benches, niches and other unique elements - which specialized craftsmen, such as carpenters or masons, then carry out with precision.
For projects requiring more extensive structural modification, I work closely with interior designers to ensure perfect coherence between technique and creativity.
My hybrid role enables me to offer my customers a comprehensive, warm and pragmatic service, combining aesthetics, functionality and technical expertise. I'm there to transform their space into a place that's truly theirs, with solutions that are personalized, concrete and designed to last.
So, choosing the right professional depends above all on the nature of your project. For a complete, technical and structural overhaul, an interior architect is your ally of choice. If you're looking for a balance between creativity and intelligent design, turn to an interior designer. If your aim is to sublimate the ambiance and personality of your space, an interior decorator will meet your expectations.
As for me, I'm that decorator-interior designer who combines style and functionality, capable of imagining tailor-made solutions, rearranging volumes and collaborating with interior architects when the structure calls for it. I accompany my customers with finesse and pragmatism, transforming each project into a unique and successful experience..
Would you like to transform your interior with tailor-made support? Contact me for a personalized consultation and discover how to combine aesthetics, functionality and technology in your project.
