An architect’s concern is with the external skeleton and the physical components of a space, keeping in mind the form and its related function. The architect plans the basic structure with the spatial organization achieved as per the client’s needs. In the initial process, the architect has to make sure that their design follows certain given parameters, for example, making it structurally sound, meeting the main rationale of the structure and the regulations of the local authorities.  

Their next step includes more specific goals that must be met, such as the choice of materials, climate concerns, the type of façade systems to be used, or even precisely determining the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing points. They analyze the area's potential as well as the local climate and terrain. For instance, a building must be constructed in a specific way if it happens to be in a seismic zone. 

An interior designer’s concern is to take the skeleton to the next level and enhance the internal space enough to find it satisfying to reside in by adding its muscle mass, i.e., designing ergonomics, your furnishings, fixtures, lights, fabrics, and much more. They must work their minds into making the best use of every inch of space provided within the precincts of the building. Furthermore, the client’s individual preferences and lifestyle need to be well thought out, and then the spaces should be designed accordingly. 

The interior designer concentrates on the types of materials to be used, the concept and the motifs inside the building. In a case such as in a healthcare facility, interior designers favour soothing hues that brighten the environment to fit the psychology of those within to encourage the healing process.

The following fall under the architect’s scope: 

• Review a project's or client's requirements. 

• Create a strategy or design based on discussions, then establish a budget. 

• Implementing structural or technological modifications to the building envelope in response to the needs of the client. 

• Amidst the design and construction phases, take into account all applicable building codes and regulations and prepare the working drawings. 

• Preparation of 2D and 3D renders. 

• Aim to make the work consistent through collaboration and timely coordination with the stakeholders of the project, i.e., the contractors, engineers and other professionals. 

• Opportune visits to construction sites to inspect the ongoing construction progress.


The following fall under the interior designer’s scope: 

• Understanding the client’s prerequisites to produce a well-designed and safe space, considering the smaller details like furnishings, colour scheme etc. 

• Preparation of mood boards. 

• Choosing the emphasizing and ornamental components that complement the design. 

• Detailed preparation of the working drawing set, along with site visits and site supervision. 

• Getting hold of materials by the constraints of the space. 

• Calculation of costs and preparation of estimates. 

A Bachelor's degree in architecture takes a minimum of three to five years of study. You can enroll in courses for additional specialization in areas like environmental architecture, landscape architecture, digital architecture, etc. After completing their educational program, architects may opt to become licensed in order to practice their profession.

Compared to interior design, architecture gives you more specialization options because it entails both aesthetic and structural elements. Interior designers and architects are on distinct levels, with the architect being above, as evidenced by the fact that an architect can become an interior designer after completing the educational requisites but an interior designer cannot become a licensed architect. 

Amongst the many kinds of qualifications that can be obtained in two to four years of time is a bachelor's degree or a diploma in interior design. An interior designer can additionally possess aesthetic specialization for interior spaces that an architect is unlikely to possess, such as in colour theory or even lighting design.  

Although achieving a bachelor's or master's degree might help one advance in their career, you can still establish your own business through professional growth in interior design. One isn’t obliged to have a degree or formal schooling to become an interior designer. 

Building construction is a drawn-out process that frequently necessitates revision due to regulatory requirements that involve approvals, signatures, NOCs, and other regulatory aspects. Consequently, the design time frame might stretch from two to fifteen years or even more. 

In sharp contrast to architectural projects, interior architecture projects typically span from three months to one year. This facilitates the exploration of additional projects in a reduced amount of time, all of which may have a greater price compared to ones that are primarily architectural. 

Architecture and interior design work together harmoniously. In order to produce a coherent design, interior designers should pay attention to the architectural details and correspondingly architects should think about how the interior design will interact with their structural design. Together, interior designers and architects collaborate to ensure the buildings they design are both pleasing to the eye and practical. The relationship between the two disciplines is crucial for producing an environment that is pleasurable, welcoming and secure, irrespective of the structure or purpose. Together, they give it life. 

A space can be both beautiful and opulent but also functional and comfortable thanks to the coexistence of architecture and interior design. Without architecture, interior design would not have a framework to work within. In turn, interior design can affect how a room is perceived and used, for example, by determining how well circulation paths work. 


But, can you be an Architect and an Interior Designer? 
In theory, yes you can!