From light refurbishment to complete renovation, working with experts may be necessary and have many advantages.
Architect vs Interior Designer: What is the difference? What are the good reasons to work with these professionals?
Architects are responsible for the structure and façade of a building. They work on extension, façade modification, creation of a glass roof,… also on rehabilitation project (opening in the building façade or in the roof) and for apartments, on work relating to the structure of the building (merging of apartments for example) or common areas (fireplaces, landing,…). Some architects also deliver interior design services.
Here are reasons why hiring an architect is essential:
- He or she will take an impartial view and come up with ideas that you would never have considered yourself. He will offer a solution that best suits you within your budget.
- Architects study the feasibility of the project and guide you through the process every step of the way. Working with an architect is quite inevitable when it comes to renovation work subject to building permits.
His presence is mandatory as soon as the project floor area is greater than 150 sqm (renovation, extension).
- You can decide how involved the architect is. You can hire an architect just to design the project and create all the necessary drawings. For an additional fee, architects will manage the project by establishing the work schedule and confirming that all work is done properly according to the final plan.
Any architect who exercises a project management mission will be held responsible for construction faults that compromise the solidity of the building or that render it unsuitable for the purposes for which it was built for a period of 10 years.
- Hiring an architect generates an additional cost (fees range between 8 and 12% of the cost of the works – pre-tax price) which can be quickly amortized. The architect ensure that costs do not outweigh the expected benefits. He knows what will add value and what won’t to stay within budget.
If your project doesn’t require professional intervention, meeting an architect can be a good idea, especially for his role of adviser. It is possible to obtain free advice from the CAUE (Council for architecture, urban planning and environment) or from the urban planning services of the municipality where your property is located.
Interior designers bring things into a space to make it functional, safe and appealing. They take into consideration space, colors, materials, finishes to create environments that meets their client’s expectations, lifestyle and budget. They may have to work with an architect to study the feasibility of a project if it affects the structure of the building.
Hiring an interior designer can help you avoid costly mistakes and help you make design decisions that will increase the value of your home. He will also save you on time: he knows what needs to be done and when and are able to anticipate any obstacles that may come up.
An interior designer can be consulted for a “simple” advice, for one day or for the entire project and deal with administrative tasks, choice of craftmen and on-site supervision.
For a renovation project, architects as well as interior designers can intervene, the two being complementary. For major renovations, the architect will have a more global vision, including the technical aspects.
These professionals will define with you a project that meets your needs, your expectations and your budget. Furthermore, experienced architects or interior designers have built strong relationships with suppliers and will be able to deliver good services at the best prices.
Involving an architect in your home renovation or extension project isn’t just a good idea, it’s essential. It isn’t an expense but an investment. The more you can improve your property, maximize the available space, the more you stand to increase its value.
