Interior Designers
Interior Designers are suitably qualified professionals that have studied interior design or interior architecture at either degree or diploma level. They have studied subjects such as architecture history and styles, colour theory, use of colour, space planning, materials and their application, computer graphics and presentation techniques, writing specifications and schedules, application of hard and soft furnishings.
They are responsible for the overall interior of an architectural space and will often help form part of the design team, working with the architect.
Interior designers can specialize in various disciplines such as aged care, institutional and civic interiors, retail and showroom s, hospitality including hotels and resort accommodation, display homes and residential interior design.
Their work will include initial sketches and finishes selections, mood boards and colour schemes, furniture selection and procurement or custom furniture design.
The area of colour philosophy is a very important aspect of an interior designers work. For example a designer that specialised in hospitality can work on resort accommodation that, due to its tropical beach location, uses soft cooling colours to impart a relaxed yet welcoming interior that makes all guests want to stay. While working on an inner city hotel the same designer may well use stronger or darker moodier colours and finishes to impart a high end corporate feel.
Lighting is often overlooked but plays such a big role in determining the mood of the interior spaces. Interior designers will often use various lighting systems to create the right and appropriate interior styling for the function of the various interior spaces.
Interior designers, due to their experience with colour will often assist with the exterior colour scheme of a building, therefore blending the interior and exterior architecture with the landscape to create a harmonious flow of spaces. It’s often a feeling that “Its right”.
Interior Decorators
Interior Decorators are also suitably qualified professionals having studied at a diploma or certificate level. Some decorators don’t have a formal qualification but they may possess a natural talent for colour, decorating and design. They are very good with colour and through their experience they have developed skills that help enhance the experience of the interior spaces. They may lack the formal knowledge of design principals and may not be as technically minded as interior designers however a good interior decorator can work wonders. Interior decorators tend to be well versed in the latest design trends and assist with things such as accessorising and displaying of artwork etc.
Colour Consultants
Colour Consultants are designers in their own right that specialise in the use and application of colour. They have studies the psychology of colour and its impact on people. Often used in larger buildings or public structures they will select colour psychology to promote the building or spaces design philosophy. Colour can “Making it a Happy Place” or “A Restful Space” or perhaps a room to invite you in or to appear authoritive. They are often at the forefront of colour fashion and will provide the correct amount of colour into any project. Colour plays such an important role in our everyday life. Don’t underestimate it!
Interior design and decorating is often undervalued and can make a world of difference.
If you see an interior scheme that appeals to you try to find out who did it and make contact with them because you obviously have a connection with their work.
