In last week’s blog, we introduced the basics of architectural interior design, which refers to the art and design of both interior and exterior structural elements. We also revealed that as architectural interior designers, we are primarily tasked with creating functional, comfortable and beautiful spaces. In this blog, we’ll drill into the details and show precisely what a day in the life of an architectural designer actually looks like.
Starting the Day
The day starts in the studio with a focus on the client brief. This is the time to learn our client’s key requirements and constraints while communicating the tools and services available at our disposal. Once we have confirmed all relevant details, we are ready to meet with our client to walk the site.
At the Site
We embark on a site survey, which is one of the most important tasks prior to initiating the practical work of a project. Here, we map out a 2D drawing of the space, taking note of all dimensions and features including doors, windows, and electrical. These measurements will form the backbone of our CAD blueprint later during the day. Overall, the site survey not only provides insight into all aspects of a project, but also highlights potential obstacles that must be factored into the design process.
Off to the Showrooms
Armed with the client brief and site survey, we head to Chelsea, opting for either King’s Road or Chelsea Harbour, where we take stock of the collections available at Osborne & Little, Designers Guild, Jacaranda Carpets, Porta Romana, and Vaughans. As we walk through showrooms, we gain further insight into design possibilities and start to formulate the basic design structure. Here, we draw creative inspiration from the latest offerings while exploring technical possibilities.
Back in the Studio
As mentioned earlier, we refer to drawings and measurements gathered at the site survey to build a blueprint. With this data, we are ready to begin technical work in CAD, where we render a visual model of the design blueprint. At this point, we start to make spatial changes and work up furniture layouts with fitted bespoke joinery ideas. Similarly, we create layouts for the bathrooms and kitchen which will form the basis for an upcoming client discussion.
Client Presentation
We are ready to present our initial ideas to the client, and make any necessary changes from the brief. Once our client is happy, we move on to more technical aspects of the project.
Technical Considerations
We start to work out lighting, power and AV considerations. As mentioned in last week’s blog, we tap into a team of structural engineers, project managers, surveyors and other architectural professionals as required.
The Real Work Begins
We begin the heavy duty work of detailing every facet of the project: no detail is left to chance! As architectural designers, we play a multifaceted role throughout the design process, from concept to completion. More importantly, each client brief presents with its own unique set of dynamic challenges. The ultimate result of each project manifests itself in an aesthetically-appealing and functional space, courtesy of a significant amount of planning, detailing and creativity. We hope this blog sheds some light on the true scale of the technical responsibility and creative challenge behind each client brief.
