What's the Difference between an Architect and an Interior Designer?

What’s the difference between an architect and an interior designer, and do you need both for your project? And if so, when should I bring each professional into the project?

We hear these questions all the time.

The truth is that it depends.

Some projects legally require an architect. Others simply benefit from having one involved, depending on the size of the renovation or how much structural work is needed. When we have our Discovery Call, we walk through your plans, the current layout, and what you want to change so we can recommend the right team for your project. (If you are ready to start that conversation, our team is here to help.)

In this article, we outline what each professional does and how we work together to create a home that is beautiful, functional and a joy to live in every day.  

The Key Difference Between Interior Design and Architecture  

The key difference between interior designers and architects is what each profession focuses on and how they approach your project. 

Architects work from the outside in. 

Architects are trained to design the structure of a home.  Their work begins with the home's overall structure and form, including how it sits on the site, what it looks like from the exterior, and how that structure supports the layout inside. They consider rooflines, exterior walls, window placement, and the engineering systems that keep your home structurally safe and compliant. 

Of course, their work extends inside the home. Architects will plan the overall layout and circulation. That would include making sure factors such as the structural walls and mechanical systems are accounted for.  

Because architects have extensive training in building systems and structural design, they can stamp drawings for permit approval. In Edmonton, this is required for commercial projects and for specific residential projects. 

Interior designers work from the inside out. 

Interior designers focus on your interior space and how you will live in your home. That includes how you move through the space, where your furniture will sit and how the layout flows for your day-to-day life. 

Our scope goes far beyond colour schemes and aesthetics. We look at everything from electrical locations to cabinetry clearances, and we consider practical details that are easy to miss, like how a window’s placement affects privacy and natural light. These choices have real implications for trades and construction professionals, which is why working with a construction-savvy designer is so valuable, as we outline in this article.

And, of course, we ensure that your home looks aesthetically pleasing and has a cohesive style from the moment you step inside.

Because our drawings are carried out by trades and construction professionals, having a designer who understands construction adds significant value. (Read more about why here.)

For residential projects, interior designers typically create the full interior drawing package and coordinate with the engineer to ensure everything complies with the Building Code. We would then work with a structural engineer or architect to sign off on the drawings for permit approval.

When Do You Need Each Professional? 

Your needs change from project to project, and so does the team behind it. 

Renovations 

For most residential renovations, an interior designer and a structural engineer are usually enough. If the project involves moving walls or making any structural changes, the engineer would review our drawings and stamp them. While an architect may not be required, bringing one in can add value if you want more design input on the exterior or a deeper look at how the structure supports your layout. In many cases, it comes down to the level of service you want for your renovation.

New Builds 

For a new build, you would typically have both an architect and an interior designer. The architect designs the initial drawings and overall structure. We would shape how the interior will function and feel. The plans often go back and forth until your home makes sense from both the outside and the inside. Again, the amount of collaboration depends on how much support and expertise you want.

Commercial and Other Large Projects

In Edmonton, all commercial projects require an architect’s stamp. Interior designers still develop the full interior package, but the architect reviews the drawings and seals them for permit approval. You will also need to hire an architect for multi-family dwellings and projects above certain size thresholds.

When Interior Designers and Architects Work Together 

The best projects happen when architects and interior designers collaborate. Each brings a different perspective, and when we begin working together early in the process, the result is a home that feels thoughtful inside and out.

Once we begin working through cabinetry details, furniture placement and flow, we may discover issues that are easy to miss at the structural stage. For example, the electrical outlets may be placed in inconvenient spots in your bedroom. It sounds like a small issue...until you realize you can't plug your phone in at night. Catching these issues early prevents costly changes during construction and ensures you have a home that supports how you actually live. 

We also recently worked on a project in Edmonton's River Valley, where the lot sat on a steep slope with a beautiful view. When we completed our interior drawings and furniture plan, the architect suggested moving the fireplace. The new location reworked the living room so the clients could enjoy their views from three different angles.

When we work together with an architect who is open to collaboration, the home simply works better. Each perspective strengthens the other. 

Building Your Renovation Team with AMR Design

If you are comparing architecture and interior design and wondering what the difference is between the two, the best place to start is with a team that understands how both come together in real homes.

At AMR Design, we focus on two things: a home you love and a process that feels just as good. Your vision drives the design, and our process ensures the path to get there is clear.  

We also collaborate closely with architects and engineers when the project calls for it. Their structural insight complements our interior expertise, creating a strong team that carries through to the final finishes.

If you want a home that feels intentional, beautiful, and truly aligned with the way you live, we would love to help. Reach out to begin your design journey with a team that puts collaboration and client experience at the centre of everything.

CONTACT US

If you have a question about working with us as your interior design firm that you would like to see answered, please email myproject@amrdesign.ca.