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The little-known job of the interior designer: much more than just decorating

22 April 2025June 19th, 20252 min read
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Introduction

When you think ‘interior designer’, many people simply imagine an eye for colours, curtains or cushions. However, this profession goes far beyond decoration. It relies on technical, strategic and creative expertise that is all too often overlooked. At Atelier interior design, we would like to highlight the essential and sometimes underestimated role of the interior architect through an example of a revealing project.

Beyond decoration: a mission of expertise

Being an interior architect means rethinking space, optimising volumes, improving circulation and guaranteeing safety while meeting the customer’s needs. This involves:

  • an in-depth analysis of constraints and uses
  • the creation of detailed technical plans
  • the strategic choice of materials and finishes
  • the management of contractors and work
  • compliance with safety and accessibility standards
  • each project is unique and requires a tailor-made approach, far from any standardisation.

When things don’t go according to plan: a case study

Recently, atelier interior design was called in to work on a project that had already been completed by another company, but which was unsatisfactory because it didn’t meet the client’s expectations or the functional standards of the space.

So it was back to square one: taking measurements, making new layout proposals, managing the demolition and refitting.

This work involved writing a technical report to prove that the initial solution could not work, and to justify the new layout choices.

Conclusion: a core business, not a surface business

The work of an interior designer can’t be improvised. It’s part of a technical, human and creative approach that goes far beyond simply dressing up a room.

At atelier interior design, we are committed to thinking through each project in its entirety, anticipating problems and proposing sustainable, aesthetic and functional solutions.

FAQ

  1. What is the difference between a decorator and an interior architect?
    An interior architect rethinks spaces, can modify the interior structure and manage a building site. A decorator, on the other hand, works solely on the final appearance.
  2. Do you need a diploma to be an interior architect?
    Yes, it’s a regulated profession requiring specialist technical and artistic training.