Interior design
Conceptualizing and producing aesthetic, functional and safe designs for interior spaces in residential, commercial, cultural, institutional and industrial buildings.
This might include; offices, hotels, restaurants, retail spaces, hospitality, healthcare, theatre set and exhibition design, domestic interiors, and so on. It may involve interiors for new buildings, or the redevelopment of existing spaces.
Interior design covers a wide range of activities and includes elements of the creative arts and of architecture. Interior design is a complex subject that often involves working alongside other professionals such architects and engineers as part of a larger project, and requires detailed knowledge of:
- Design styles
- Spatial design
- How people are affected by their environments
- Construction and materials
- Regulations and approvals
- Procurement and project management
- Technical matters such as acoustics and lighting, and increasingly, technologies such as audio visual equipment and smart homes
- Sustainability
- The role of other consultants
Main fields:
- Consulting with clients to determine needs, preferences, safety requirements and purpose of space
- Developing detailed plans and 3D models showing arrangement of walls, dividers, displays, lighting and other fixtures using computer-assisted design (CAD) software and graphics software
- Developing plans, elevations, cross sections and detailed drawings
- Advising on selection of colours, finishes and materials, floor and wall coverings, window treatments, interior and exterior lighting, furniture and other items, taking into account ergonomic and occupational health standards
- Estimating costs and materials required and advising on leasing, real estate and marketing
- Preparing plans and specifications for the final interior designs in accordance with current practices and codes