The Benefits to Collaboration Between Architects and Interior Designers

We often enter buildings with anticipation. We expect to experience a dynamic relationship or connectivity between exterior and interior space. At times the experience can be very restful. At other times, very jarring. How the architecture and interiors respond to one another is vital to a successful and meaningful environment. How they are created is therefore key.

Why is This Important?

A unified and focused design approach between an Architect and Interior Designer through masterful application of materials, form and texture can harmonize or contrast a building’s exterior with its interior. Without this focused intent and execution, experiencing the building may feel imbalanced and disconnected rather than one cohesive statement. Creating cohesion, requires the Architect and Interior Designer to be connected and focused as a team. This relationship has traditionally been very territorial. But clearly, the role of the designer is meant to be shared, two disciplines working as one for the creation of onespace.

The Benefit to the Client?

Imagine you’re a Client sitting between an Architect and an Interior Designer who can’t seem to agree on a design approach, style or use of materials. The team breaks down, and consulting costs escalate beyond your budget. Having a connected and focused team sharing the role of designer makes your job less stressful and far more cost-effective. The success or failure of your project is ultimately a direct reflection of the working relationship established amongst your team members during the design process. It’s too important to ignore, as the building is also a reflection of your brand.

The Benefit to the user?

A great design can enhance the lives of its users on a daily basis. We use space constantly for different things; living, working, entertaining or dining. Experiencing an imbalanced or disconnected relationship between exterior and interior space can throw us off balance and negatively impact us on a subconscious level, sometimes creating a dramatic shift in mood. This can be said for the continuity of the shift between exterior and interior as well. Imagine walking into a very modern restaurant to find that the interiors are anything but modern, and run down. It will likely throw you right off and potentially sway you from entering that establishment again. Likewise is the experience we feel when a condominium or hotel exterior is jarringly different than the interior space.

Architects and Interior Designers working in collaboration and sharing the design role with one vision is key to creating successful, meaningful buildings for Clients and users alike.