What is interior design and why is it important? Many people do not understand that there is more to interior design that meets the eye. There are many different types as well in the interior design profession, as well as different certificates, licenses, and qualifications that a designer may obtain. From the Council of Interior Design Qualification they state that the definition of Interior Design is as follows:
"Interior design is a multi-faceted profession in which creative and technical solutions are applied within a structure to achieve a built interior environment. These solutions are functional, enhance the quality of life and culture of the occupants and are aesthetically attractive. Designs are created in response to and coordinated with the building shell and acknowledge the physical location and social context of the project. Designs must adhere to code and regulatory requirements, and encourage the principles of environmental sustainability. The interior design process follows a systematic and coordinated methodology, including research, analysis and integration of knowledge into the creative process, whereby the needs and resources of the client are satisfied to produce an interior space that fulfills the project goals."
National Council for Interior Design Qualification, Inc.
They also are your time savers. If a person would hire an interior designer, they would be able to help with project management. What does that mean? The designer would be the one going out and looking for the best materials, products, contractors and quotes for your home. Below is a list of many of the other things they are also doing for you as a client.
Research and analysis of the client's goals and requirements; and development of documents, drawings and diagrams that outline those needs.
Formulation of preliminary space plans and two and three dimensional design concept studies and sketches that integrate the client's program needs and are based on knowledge of the principles of interior design and theories of human behavior.
Confirmation that preliminary space plans and design concepts are safe, functional, aesthetically appropriate, and meet all public health, safety and welfare requirements, including code, accessibility, environmental, and sustainability guidelines.
Selection of colors, materials and finishes to appropriately convey the design concept and to meet socio-psychological, functional, maintenance, life-cycle performance, environmental, and safety requirements.
Selection and specification of furniture, fixtures, equipment and millwork, including layout drawings and detailed product description; and provision of contract documentation to facilitate pricing, procurement and installation of furniture.
Provision of project management services, including preparation of project budgets and schedules.
Preparation of construction documents, consisting of plans, elevations, details and specifications, to illustrate non-structural and/or non-seismic partition layouts; power and communications locations; reflected ceiling plans and lighting designs; materials and finishes; and furniture layouts.
Preparation of construction documents to adhere to regional building and fire codes, municipal codes, and any other jurisdictional statutes, regulations and guidelines applicable to the interior space.
Coordination and collaboration with other allied design professionals who may be retained to provide consulting services, including but not limited to architects; structural, mechanical and electrical engineers, and various specialty consultants.
Confirmation that construction documents for non-structural and/or non-seismic construction are signed and sealed by the responsible interior designer, as applicable to jurisdictional requirements for filing with code enforcement officials.
Administration of contract documents, bids and negotiations as the client's agent.
Observation and reporting on the implementation of projects while in progress and upon completion, as a representative of and on behalf of the client; and conducting post-occupancy evaluation reports.
National Council for Interior Design Qualification, Inc.
With all that said, there is also another part that interior designers take part in, and that is protecting the public. How? A good and qualified designer, again talking about the different certifications, is a great asset to all builders and construction teams, because they have the knowledge and take responsibility to know the critical features that are out to protect the public's health, safety and the overall welfare of all. They also are able to provide knowledge and expertise on meeting the accessibility requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), installing correct doors, lighting, and equipment for compliance with local, state, and federal building and fire safety codes. They also provide qualified information on specified ergonomic, sustainable designs and furnishings to protect human health and well being.
In other words, Interior Designers are definitely professionals you want to hire, but that's a later post, because we not only want to make your spaces beautiful but we also want the spaces to function for you and anyone around you that is using them.
Again, thank you for reading and stay tuned for my next blog.
