Guide · ZAIA Design

Interior architect or interior designer?

The question comes up in almost every conversation about renovations. In practice, when fitting out a home, the title matters less than what the person or studio you work with actually delivers.

What's the difference

An architect has studied architecture and, once licensed to sign, can sign off projects for a building permit: structural alterations, extensions, changes of use. An interior designer works on the existing space: layout changes without structural work, furnishing, finishes, lighting, colour, custom furniture.

In everyday language, “interior architect” and “interior designer” are often used interchangeably for the same kind of work: the interior design project.

When you need an architect

You're demolishing or moving load-bearing walls.
You're building an extension, converting a loft or changing the use of a space.
The work requires a building permit.

Any structural intervention can only be done with a structural engineering project and the required approvals.

When an interior designer is enough

For most apartment and house interiors — redoing the finishes, services, furniture and lighting without touching the structure — what you need is a good interior design project, not a permit.

What matters, whatever the title

A portfolio of completed projects, not just renderings.
What exactly they deliver: a dimensioned furniture layout, 3D renderings, electrical and plumbing plans, details for custom furniture, a shopping list.
Whether they oversee the build or simply hand over the documents.
How they work with your budget — a good project adapts to the budget, not the other way round.

The full list of questions to ask is in our guide to choosing a designer.

How we work at ZAIA Design

We design interiors for apartments, houses and penthouses: concept, furniture layout, 3D renderings, technical documentation and, in the Premium package, purchasing coordination and site supervision. See our package prices.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need an architect to renovate an apartment?

Only if you're altering the structure or the work requires a building permit. For finishes, services, furnishing and lighting, an interior design project is enough.

What should I receive from an interior designer?

At the very least, a dimensioned furniture layout. In a complete project: 3D renderings, electrical and plumbing plans, details for custom furniture and a shopping list.