Space design
The interior architect first gathers information about the client’s needs and aspirations, whether they are a professional (for a business, office, etc.) or a private individual. They propose initial mood boards to fully understand the client’s desires. Then, they take measurements or involve a surveyor for large spaces, along with creating a site plan to incorporate the constraints and potential of the space to be highlighted.
Development of plans
Taking into account the client’s needs, financial constraints, technical requirements, and regulations to be followed, the interior architect develops concepts (at least two proposals), creates the initial sketches of the project, and provides a financial estimate (preliminary quote). The interior architect draws the plans on a computer, then in 3D, incorporating the carefully selected furniture.
Next comes the presentation of the project to the client with the various plans (section plans, elevation plans, technical plans, and final layout plans), along with material samples.
Project manager
After the client’s approval of the layout plans, the architect becomes the project manager: they plan and coordinate the execution, choosing the most suitable and qualified contractors (usually a general contractor and a carpentry company, if this role is not handled in-house by the TCE company, with other specialists such as window installers or security equipment experts potentially involved).
The interior architect puts at least two quality companies in competition, each with different specifications, to propose two types of quotes at different price points.
Once one of the companies is selected, they create a work schedule.
Site meetings are scheduled, and the interior architect monitors the progress and provides construction reports.
Once the project is completed, the architect, along with the client and the general contractor (and others), performs the site handover and issues the acceptance report. If necessary, a list of defects is drawn up.
Finally, the architect ensures payment of the contracts and assists the client in settling the remaining balances.
After understanding the crucial role of an interior architect, dive into our article on the importance of plans and 3D renderings, where you’ll discover how these essential tools enhance the design and visualization of your interior design projects.
