If you've been thinking about a remodel, you've likely seen various titles - architect, designer, decorator, and perhaps more. You know you need a team with different specialties to get your dream home just right. But what is the difference between a designer and a decorator, and how do either of these work with an architect? Here, we'll discuss the different roles of a designer, decorator, and architect, what those titles typically mean, and how all three work together to achieve your dream home remodel.
Not all remodels require a licensed architect. However, an architect is a smart investment if your project involves significant structural changes, such as an addition. Architects understand how to achieve your desired look safely to verify that your project meets local building codes and blends naturally with the existing structure.
While the terms designer and decorator are sometimes used interchangeably, they serve different purposes. However, some professionals are designer-decorators and incorporate both into their business models. A designer typically starts with the bigger picture, ensuring that the intended designs are laid out in a manner that flows well, with special considerations for things like furniture layout and the family's lifestyle. A decorator typically handles the things you can see and touch - the final layer of polish that makes the room delightfully yours with finishes such as light fixtures, wallpaper, and other selections).
It depends. While no one loves this qualifier, it entirely depends on the project scope and the architecture firm's experience and skill set. Just like you would interview a contractor, you should interview your architect and designer to determine their skill set, personality fit, and what level of detail to expect from their construction plans. At Hopedale Builders, we like to connect with clients' architects, designers, and decorators before starting the project. This helps everyone start on the same page, allowing for a smooth project and process. Choosing the right remodeler, architect, or interior designer is something that can take some time.
Over time, we've found that the best partnerships and smoothest processes often start with plans drawn by an architect or designer, with a decorator involved in the finish selections if your designer doesn't handle that. Working together, they optimize interior spaces, making your Charlotte home remodel precisely what your family wants and needs.
Imagine a four-legged stool—each leg representing a key player: homeowner, contractor, architect, and designer/decorator. When all legs are strong, you get a well-balanced, smooth process from start to finish. But take one leg out of the equation, and what you built is unbalanced.
All of these professionals, from your architect to your designer and/or decorator to your builder, contribute to the success of your Charlotte remodel from start to finish, and without one, things fall out of balance.
Start by getting a preliminary plan drawn by an architect or designer. This will allow us to give a project an investment range. Investing a small amount initially for the plans will allow you and everyone else to understand the total scope of work and the corresponding investment amount. Once your architect or designer has drawn up basic plans, the rest of the team can assemble.
Now that you understand what these titles mean, we can't forget the builder's role in this process. The builder takes the plans and builds your dream home or remodel. Our home remodel services are achieved by partnering with architects, designers, and decorators to give you the home of your dreams. Hopedale Builders prides itself on establishing strong, healthy relationships with our industry partners and clients to allow for constant communication throughout the process. We are individually the parts that make your project succeed. Our work showcases our passion for projects that are done to the highest caliber of excellence.
Contact us today to get started on your next project!