Interior Design, Interior Architectural Design, Architecture, or Architectural Technology?

As someone who began their career studying interior design and went on to work as an architect and university lecturer, I’ve seen the built environment from multiple angles. Whether interior design, interior architectural design, architecture, or architectural technology - all offer unique opportunities, but choosing the right path depends on your interests, skills, and long-term career goals.

In this post, I’ll break down each discipline, the education and qualifications you need, and the jobs you can pursue after graduation.

Interior Design

Interior design is focused on the aesthetics, functionality, and user experience of indoor spaces. It’s all about creating beautiful and practical environments whether in a home, office, or retail space. Interior designers work with colour schemes, furniture, lighting, and finishes to enhance the usability and look of a space.

Creativity & Aesthetics - You’ll need a strong eye for design, colour, and spatial awareness

Technical Knowledge - You’ll need to understand materials, ergonomics, lighting, and acoustics

Client Collaboration - You’ll need to be able to understand client needs and translate them into design solutions

Education and Qualifications: (Diploma or BA in Interior Design)

You can start with a diploma, but a full bachelor’s degree will provide more opportunities. Coursework covers design principles, CAD (computer-aided design), and space planning. You work on design projects in the studio and at home, and have classes and lectures. Feedback is given via tutorials and presentations. Upon graduating, your portfolio is crucial for showing your design skills to potential employers or clients.

Career Opportunities:

Interior Designer
Residential Designer
Retail Space Designer
Event Designer
Lighting Specialist

Interior Architectural Design

Interior architectural design bridges the gap between interior design and architecture. While interior design focuses on furnishings and aesthetics, interior architectural design delves deeper into structural aspects of interior spaces, such as spatial layout, materials, and even light as it interacts with built structures.

Understanding of Structures - It’s not just about the interior and how a room looks or feels, you’ll study walls, floors, ceilings, and systems that impact the functionality of a space.

Technical & Creative Balance - This discipline blends creative design with technical architectural knowledge.

3D Thinking - Skills in 3D visualization (by hand and computer) and software like SketchUp or Revit are essential.

Education and Qualifications: (BA in Interior Architecture or Interior Architectural Design)

Courses in this field will cover spatial planning, building codes, sustainable design, and architectural detailing.

A key differentiator is that your knowledge and skill level is a step up for interior design, technical proficiency with architectural drawing and both physical and computerised modelling.

Career Opportunities:

Interior Architectural Designer
Space Planner
Exhibition Designer
Set Designer for film/theatre
Retail and Hospitality Design Specialist

Architecture

Architecture is the comprehensive discipline of designing and constructing buildings. Architects are responsible for both the aesthetics and functionality of structures, ensuring that they are safe, sustainable, and meet the needs of the end users. Architecture combines elements of art, science, and technology.

Holistic Design - Architects think about the entire building, from concept to construction including structure, systems, and materials.

Technical Knowledge - A deep understanding of spatial design, ergonomics, material, construction, structure, and sustainability is essential.

Problem Solving - Architects are problem solvers who need to balance creativity with the practicalities of budgets, materials, and regulations.

Education and Qualifications: (BA/BSc in Architecture)

A 3-4 year undergraduate degree followed by a 1-2 year Master’s in Architecture. You’ll need to complete practical experience (typically 2 years) through work placements in architecture firms. To become a licensed architect in the UK, for example, you must pass the RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3 exams. This then gives you the professional accreditation and you can register as an architect.

Career Opportunities:

Architect
Urban Planner
Landscape Architect
Historic Building Conservationist
Sustainable Design Specialist

Architectural Technology

Architectural technology is focused on the technical side of architecture. Architectural technologists are experts in building science and construction techniques. They play a key role in turning an architect's designs into reality, ensuring that buildings are constructed efficiently, safely, and in compliance with regulations.

Building Technology Expertise - You’ll need a strong grasp of materials, construction methods, and building regulations.

Collaboration - Architectural technologists often work closely with architects, engineers, and contractors to ensure the successful implementation of designs.

Project Management - Technologists are often involved in the practicalities of project management, ensuring timelines and budgets are adhered to.

Education and Qualifications: (BSc in Architectural Technology)

A degree in architectural technology focuses on construction methods, technical drawing, and building regulations. The Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) offers professional recognition for those who pursue this field and want to get accreditation.

Career Opportunities:

Architectural Technologist
Building Information Modeling (BIM) Specialist
Technical Project Manager
Construction Technologist
Building Inspector

How to Choose the Right Path

Choosing between these four fields can be difficult, but it all comes down to your interests and strengths. If you love designing interiors but not the entire building structure then Interior Design or Interior Architectural Design might be perfect. Fascinated by how buildings come together from the ground up? Architecture or Architectural Technology will allow you to engage with both the artistic and technical sides of construction.

Regardless of the path you choose, gaining experience is essential. This can come in many forms, including internships, freelance work, or apprenticeships. Building a strong portfolio and gaining practical experience will set you apart in a competitive job market.