Beyond Aesthetics: The Lesser Known Roles of an Interior Designer
Interior design often gets dismissed as a luxury, deemed unnecessary and costly. The common image of an interior designer might involve a poised woman arranging decor for the perfect shot.
Yet, it is usually not until working with an interior designer that one realises the full extent and true value of our role.
In this post, I will detail five lesser known aspects of our job that might surprise you.
Space Planning
Interior design is not just about selecting a perfect sofa. The base of every project is about intentional space planning, where we strategically organise rooms and furniture based on the desired function(s) and building requirements. Thinking about how the persons living in this space will benefit from a specific arrangement both in terms of function and comfort is paramount but there are also building regulations to abide by, clearances to keep in mind for furniture, etc…This requires both knowledge and a very intentional work.
2. Lighting Planning
While TV shows might depict designers casually choosing lamps, successful lighting involves meticulous planning. We create what is called a lighting layout, essentially a plan specifying the placement of all types of lighting (spotlights, ceiling lights and pendant, wall lights, floor lamps, etc…) as well as the switches and circuits. The focus is on understanding how a room will be used and tailoring the lighting solution accordingly, going beyond standard spotlights grids.
3. Technical Drawings
It is crucial to clearly and precisely communicate the design with not only you the client, but with the trades who will build it. A well planned design and project doesn’t see the contractor guessing what to build, where, etc…Instead, we produce detailed drawings with dimensions that the various trades can follow to bring the design to life. This includes plans, elevations, sections for both the general arrangement (like placement of partitions and openings, how to lay the flooring or tiles, etc…) and the construction of details such as bespoke joinery elements or concealed LED lights in the stairs or ceiling.
4. Collaboration with Architects and Specialists
For large scale projects involving structural changes, architects will have to be consulted, sometimes structural engineers and other types of specialists too depending on the nature of the project. Interior designers can act as design coordinators, ensuring a holistic vision. This involves coordinating designs and solutions, cross-referencing various elements, and aligning the efforts of architects and engineers. I am actually currently working on one of those, it is not Instagram worthy but crucial to the smooth unfolding of the project.
5. Coordination with Contractors
This type of relationship ensures the design is correctly implemented by the contractors. When challenges arise, such as product discontinuation or unexpected issues on site, they are dealt with immediately and with the design in mind. Collaboration can solve these types of issues very quickly, easily and seamlessly for the client. It is all about teamwork and brainstorming to deliver the best experience, solution and space to the client.
Being an interior designer goes much deeper than picking and arranging beautiful things. The nature of the role requires knowledge, technical skills and intentionality, all of which makes a difference to projects we are involved in and contribute to their successful delivery.
Thanks for reading, if you enjoyed this post don’t forget to let me know in the comments :-)