Interior Architect or Interior Designer: What's the Difference Between These Two Professionals?

Eszter Benes, Interior Designer
Eszter Benes, co-founder and interior designer at Homilla, draws on more than 6 years of professional experience to ensure that interior design isn’t an uncertain or stressful process.
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Have you always dreamed of a home where it really feels good to come back to? Believe me, you’re not alone. Many people feel like they want to make changes to their apartment or are about to design a new home, but they don’t know where to start or are afraid of making the wrong decisions. By working with the right interior designer or decorator, the design process will not only be stress-free but also an inspiring experience where you’ll feel like you’re in good hands every step of the way. 

Let's get this straight: What's the difference between an interior architect and an interior designer?

Many people confuse interior architects with interior designers, even though the two professions require different training and qualifications.

Interior design is a specialization within the field of architectural engineering, which takes 3–5 years to complete as part of a university program can be achieved. This technical foundation enables the interior designer to understand the space not only from an aesthetic perspective but also from an architectural one—from the relocation of interior walls, through the determination of mechanical and electrical connection points, all the way to the selection of finishes, built-in furniture, and doors and windows.

A interior design Thus, the process involves not only furniture and colors, but also the optimization of spatial relationships and the coordination of technical solutions. The interior designer shapes interior spaces with a comprehensive approach, ensuring they are realized in accordance with the client’s needs and meet high standards of aesthetic and functional quality.

In contrast, an interior decorator earns a certification through a one-year adult education program or a few short courses and focuses primarily on creating the right atmosphere in existing spaces. Interior designers can be of the greatest help when it comes to choosing furniture, creating color harmony, and addressing design issues. 

With us, you don’t have to compromise: Homilla’s experts hold university degrees in architectural engineering and have several years of experience in interior design, so every detail of your home—from technical solutions to stylistic elements—is in good hands.

When is it a good idea to bring an interior designer on board for the design process?

When renovating or furnishing a home, there are countless options and decisions to make—and often, you have to figure them out quickly. If you’re not used to this, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, and a hasty decision can lead to regret later on—or, in the worst case, result in significant costs. A experienced interior designer A professional not only takes this burden off your shoulders but also helps you avoid mistakes that would end up costing you time and money down the road. What’s more, a thoughtfully designed, inspiring home not only makes your daily life easier but also significantly increases the value of your property.

It's a good idea to consult a professional if:

  • Are you thinking about a complete home renovation?
  • You've bought a new property
  • Are you experiencing functionality issues? There isn't enough space, the layout is inefficient, and there isn't enough storage space
  • You're unsure about your decisions and you'd like to rely on an expert's opinion
  • Do you consider your home to be a sound investment? So it's important that your apartment remains attractive in the future

From choosing finishes to lighting and floor plans, there are countless details that are easy to overlook. An interior designer, however, can anticipate these pitfalls and suggest solutions that will meet your needs and work well in the long run.

Which interior design style suits you best?

Take the free quiz and get an instant answer.

Personalized advice, even just once

A Near Homilla In addition to comprehensive design services, we also offer one-time consulting sessions, which can be booked even for a single session. During the online video consultation, you can discuss any issues you’re facing with an interior designer—whether it’s about choosing finishes or materials, technical questions, or simply figuring out which direction to take.

At the end of the consultation, you'll receive a detailed written summary, and we'll also support your purchases with exclusive partner coupons, so the consultation could even pay for itself.

Interior Design Prices
Interior Design Consultation from the Comfort of Your Home

The initial consultation What's more, 100% is free of charge and has no obligations. You can learn about the process risk-free.

What does a comprehensive interior design service include?

Imagine that, when designing your home, an interior designer guides you from the initial idea all the way through to completion, and you receive the necessary support for every decision along the way. You’ll receive the same level of attention as you would at a Michelin-starred restaurant—only in the world of interior design. We’ll provide you with a detailed quote so you know exactly what to expect right from the start.

A Near Homilla We’ve designed our services to truly meet your needs. The process begins with a detailed interactive questionnaire and an online consultation with a designer, so we can accurately assess your ideas, lifestyle, and actual needs right from the start. 

During the design process, we’ll continue working together using a visual mood board, and then, with the help of photorealistic 3D renderings, you’ll be able to see what your home will actually look like. If there’s something you don’t like, feel free to let us know, because our goal is for you to be completely satisfied with the final result at 100%. Throughout the process, we also prepare construction drawings—including masonry, mechanical, and electrical plans—so that the contractor knows exactly what needs to be done and how to do it.

At the end of the design process, you'll receive a detailed shopping list with precise material quantity calculations and sourcing information, so you won't have to spend hours searching for supplies. Their ever-expanding network of partners In fact, it offers extra discounts to Homilla's customers, so the cost of the design is partially recouped this way.

Unlike traditional interior design and home decor firms, with us you don’t have to adapt to standard business hours, and you’ll save time on commuting. Consultations take place online, so you can find an available time slot from the comfort of your home, even in the late afternoon. You’ll stay in direct contact with your designer, and you can count on our support even during the construction phase, because we know that questions often come up right when the work is already underway.

How much does an interior designer cost?

Interior design prices vary widely and depend on several factors: the size of the project, the complexity of the interior design, and the service package you choose. It’s important to know that the design fee is an investment that will pay for itself in the short and long term through an increase in your property’s value.

Hiring an interior designer often results in cost savings. A professional can help you avoid costly mistakes, and with our partner discounts, you can get even more out of your budget. By entrusting the design to professionals, homes will not only be more beautiful but also more functional.

Why Is Interior Design Worth It in the Long Run?

Interior design is not a one-time expense, but an investment—in your home and your well-being. Homes designed by professionals bring joy to their residents for many years to come.

What you'll win:

  • Timeless solutions – that won't need to be replaced in a few years
  • Functional spaces – where everything is in its place and works well
  • Rising property values – A well-designed home is worth more on the market
  • Peace of mind and security – because you know your decisions are well-founded

In addition, a harmonious, personalized home has a positive effect on your daily well-being. It reduces stress, increases your sense of comfort, and creates an environment that is perfectly tailored to your needs.

Summary: Is it worth hiring an interior designer?

If you feel you could use the help of an experienced interior designer, Check out our services and choose the one that's right for you. Take the first step and request a personalized quote, then sign up for a free 30-minute consultation.

Whichever option you choose, you’ll be in good hands as we work together. We’ll help you see things clearly, make confident decisions, and create a home that’s truly a joy to come back to.

And if you're not entirely sure which style suits you best, then Take the free style quiz, which, with 98% accuracy, helps you find your perfect match in 3 minutes.

Are you building or renovating and could use some expert help?

A Homilla Experienced designers will be by your side every step of the way to make decision-making clearer, provide professional guidance, and help you find the solutions that best suit your home—all while working within your budget.

Check out what's available our services.

Eszter Benes, lead designer at Homilla
Eszter, co-founder and lead designer at Homilla, draws on more than 6 years of professional experience to help ensure that creating a home isn’t an uncertain or stressful process.

Are you ready to make your dream home a reality?

Request a personalized, free quote. Requesting a quote is non-binding.
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