Often clients are unclear about which type of provider they need. With so many constraints, clients are often contending with questions like, "how much will this cost me", "how long will this take", "am I engaging the right person for this job"...all valid questions! One of the ways we tackle these questions at Kemi Collective is by strongly advising clients to book a discovery consult with us.
Our discovery consultation is an exchange. We get to know your current and future state of affairs, and you get to know about us: our capacity, capabilities and most importantly our values and way we work. Fit is key. We also want to make sure that we 'vibe' with one another...this is your home after all, and we regard our clients' homes as sacred spaces - we only enter/engage once fully invited to do so. The discovery consult is also a mini orientation if you will: an opportunity for us to explain the differences between the various disciplines (service providers) potentially involved in your project...so let's get into it...what is the difference between an Interior Designer, Interior Decorator and Architect?
Using the structure of the human body as an analogy, one can think of the Architect as the skeleton, the Interior Designer as the flesh, muscle and organs, ears, eyes and nose, and the Interior decorator as the physical adornment, the clothes, shoes, accessories, makeup etc. Interior Designers (the good ones anyway :) must be well-versed in architectural and interior decoration disciplines. Both Architects and Interior designers have licensing requirements, the critical difference between the two, is that in almost all States, only licensed Architects can draft, approve, and file for building and construction permits. Interior decorators' purview is narrowly focused on the acquisition and placement of furnishings and decor in the space. Interior decorators aren’t Architects, or vice versa. But Interior designers can certainly perform all the requirements of interior decoration and almost ALL the requirements of architects (with exception of permit stuff :)
I like to think of the Interior designer's role as the "Swiss-army knife" of the 3 disciplines. An Interior Designer must be well-versed in architecture principles (form, function, code, and compliance requirements) to ensure that the space is both functionally and aesthetically to the client’s requests. Interior designers must have the theoretical and practical knowledge of how MEP (mechanical/HVAC-electrical-plumbing) systems work, and how they work synergistically with the homes other systems, as well as construction principles and practices (this is where the GC and subcontractor trades come in...so many people I know! ;), all while maintaining that tenuous balance between form and function. The purview/scope of an Interior designer can be quite wide, whereas the scope can be quite narrow for the other two disciplines.
Too much? Or wow, great explanation? :) No worries, here at Kemi Collective we can help you find and onboard the appropriate service provider for your project. Collaboration is our love language! We offer contractor bid process management services and construction project management services. We also have a few preferred architect and contractor partners, should you need trusted service providers that are already vetted. All in all, we've got you covered!
Thanks for reading!
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