The Role of Interior Designer in Commercial Construction

Écrit par M Tchamakam

In the world of commercial construction, interior designers play a critical role in shaping the spaces where businesses operate, customers shop, and employees work. While their work might sometimes be confused with that of architects, interior designers have a distinct set of responsibilities and skills that focus specifically on the internal environment of buildings. This article explores what sets interior designers apart from architects, what they do, the scope of their work, and the process they follow to bring a commercial space or any other space to life.

1. Interior Designers Are Not Architects

Interior designers and architects have different roles and expertise. As highlighted by Dami Lee, an architect and interior designer from British Columbia, architects derive their concepts from external sources, whereas interior designers focus on internal aspects, drawing inspiration from internal sources.

Architects primarily focus on the structural aspects of buildings, addressing design, function, and safety while ensuring the overall integrity of the structure. They consider the entire building, including its foundation, walls, roof, and structural system, balancing aesthetics with functionality on a macro scale. Interior designers focus on creating an environment that reflects a particular mood and meets the needs of its users.

2. What Are Interior Designers?

Interior designers are professionals specialized in creating functional and aesthetically pleasing interior spaces. Their role extends beyond simply decorating; they work on planning, designing, and furnishing spaces to enhance both their functionality and visual appeal. According to the Association of Registered Interior Designers of Ontario (ARIDO), interior designers collaborate closely with clients to develop design solutions that align with their vision, lifestyle, and budget. The APDIQ (Association Professionnelle des Designers d’Intérieur du Québec) adds that interior designers aim to create environments that promote well-being, safety, and a positive human experience through innovative and practical solutions.

Interior designers focus on the interior space, emphasizing aesthetics, functionality, and the psychological and emotional impact of the design. Their work involves creating interior layouts and selecting furnishings, colors, and materials to craft spaces that are both functional, visually appealing and aligned with the workplace strategy and brand identity.

The Architects Act in Quebec allows interior designers to prepare drawings and specifications for interior layouts under certain conditions. They can work on single-family homes up to 600 m² and on multi-family or commercial buildings up to 300 m². If these limits are exceeded, their work is still possible, but it must not change the building's use or affect its structural integrity, fire-rated walls, exits, or envelope - which must be done by a licensed architect.

3. The Scope of Interior Designer Work

Interior designers engage in a wide range of activities that are necessary for the successful completion of commercial construction projects. Their work usually include:

  • Conception of interior spaces: Designing and planning the layout of internal spaces to ensure they meet the functional needs and aesthetic preferences of the client.

  • Design of furnishing products: Selecting and creating furniture, fixtures, and equipment that complement the overall design and enhance the space’s usability.

  • Scenography of communication spaces: Drafting environments that effectively convey a brand’s identity or a specific message through thoughtful design and layout.

According to the US National center for educational statistic, interior design training enables them to “apply artistic principles and techniques to the professional planning, designing, equipping and furnishing residential and commercial interior spaces […]”. It aslo covers various aspects, including interior lighting, acoustics, systems integration, color coordination, and compliance with building codes. This broad expertise enables them to address the unique challenges of different types of spaces, from offices and hotels to retail environments and factories.

4. The Interior Design Process

The interior design process, according to the APDIQ, is made of five key phases:

·       Programming: Collecting and analyzing all necessary information to ensure that the design is coherent and suitable for the intended use. This includes understanding the project’s general orientations, organizational layouts, and specific space and equipment requirements.

·       Composition: Organizing and structuring the space according to constraints identified during programming. It involves planning the layout of rooms and furniture and studying circulation patterns to ensure functionality and flow.

·       Expression: Integrating aesthetic elements and ensuring that the design is harmonious and visually appealing. This includes selecting materials, colors, textures, and patterns that align with the space’s intended mood/feelings and function, while adhering to accessibility and safety standards.

·       Infrastructure: Ensuring that all technical systems, such as lighting and HVAC, are well integrated into the design. The goal is to enhance occupant comfort and meet the practical requirements identified during the programming phase.

·       Realization: Preparing preliminary for client approval and detailed documentation for the project and overseeing its execution. Interior designers collaborate with architects and engineers to ensure that the construction aligns with the design vision and meets quality standards.

Conclusion

In commercial construction, interior designers play a vital role in creating spaces that are both functional and visually appealing. Their expertise in space planning, material selection, and mood creation is essential for transforming a building’s interior into a productive and engaging environment. By focusing on the internal aspects of a space, interior designers ensure that commercial spaces meet the practical needs of their users but most importantly reflect their brand and values, contributing to an overall positive experience.

Looking to elevate your next construction project?

Reach out to Xenofan Consultants Constructions today and see how our expertise can turn your vision into reality. From planning to execution, your project delivery experience is our priority.

References

M Tchamakam
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