What is Interior Architecture?

For many, whether it be interested students or industry outsiders, the difference between “interior architecture” and “interior design” can be a curious point. 

In this article, you’ll learn about some of the differences between the practices, discover what an interior architect does, and see a few examples of interior architecture projects.

Interior architecture is a dynamic field that blends elements of architecture and interior design, focusing on the art and science of enhancing the interiors of buildings while considering structural, technical, and regulatory aspects. Students are often drawn to this discipline because it offers a path that sits at the intersection of creative design and technical expertise.

What defines interior architecture is nuanced and varies by region, educational institution, and even individual practice. As Kesoon Chance, Vectorworks senior industry specialist – interior architecture, noted, “From the UK’s perspective, it depends on the college or university that you go to. It depends on the course you complete, as there are varied accreditation levels involved in courses, colleges, and universities.” Generally, colleges and universities that have interior design programs have started to "rebrand" their programs to interior architecture, giving them an edge over their competitor, but the reality is that what they teach is often very similar. 

Interior architecture, compared to interior design, for example, involves a greater emphasis on structural changes, building codes, and adaptive reuse — reconfiguring a building’s use or layout to meet new needs. Luc Lefebvre, Vectorworks product marketing manager – architecture, added, “As an interior architect, you’ll have more advanced knowledge about building codes and building safety.”

There’s more than one way to become an interior architect, and the path you choose often depends on your background, interests, and the country in which you work.

One common route is to study interior design or interior architecture at a college or university. With time and experience, you can then define your career path further and pursue accreditation through organizations like SBID (Society of British and International Interior Design) in the UK or NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Qualification) in the USA.

Alternatively, you may begin by studying architecture, then decide to specialize in interior architecture. This path typically involves further developing your skills and working toward becoming a registered architect, following the requirements specific to your country.

Interior architecture roles vary—some require formal accreditation, while others, particularly in residential or independent practices, may not. Ultimately, your career could span a variety of environments, from architectural firms to design studios, progressing from intern to designer, and potentially to project manager or partner.

“So, the career path to become an interior architect can differ for individuals and will be defined based on each individual's skills, interests, and experience,” said Lefebvre.

Interior architects are involved in a wide range of project types, including:

•     Residential interiors

•     Hospitality spaces (hotels, bars, restaurants)

•     Retail environments

•     Workplace and commercial interiors

•     Experiential and branded environments

Their work may include space planning, selecting materials, safeguarding code compliance, and collaborating with other professionals such as graphic designers and building contractors. Their day-to-day responsibilities can vary significantly depending on the sector and project type. 

"I've come across a lot of designers who started in residential design and then moved to retail or office design. Often, you do various things in the industry to find what you like," said Chance.

Reimagining spaces (like converting empty offices into apartments) is growing increasingly common with the rise of sustainable demands and trends. In fact, projections estimate that 90% of real estate growth within the next decade will involve adaptive reuse.

Transforming existing structures for new purposes is a rewarding opportunity to blend the past with the future. While adaptive reuse projects come with distinct considerations, like working within budgets and thoughtfully integrating modern systems, they also offer a creative and sustainable alternative to new construction, unlocking hidden potential in every space.

Click here to learn more about adaptive reuse.

If you’re interested in starting a career in interior architecture, Vectorworks Architect is the ideal design companion with a comprehensive suite of tools for 2D drafting, 3D modeling, BIM (Building Information Modeling), and rendering. 

Vectorworks also has free and unique offerings for interior architecture students and educators, such as an individual license or lab educational license, or offers like student2PRO, a 40% discount on the first year of a professional annual subscription, or EDU40, a discount code for professional certifications. 

Students like Pablo Prieto have embraced Vectorworks design software as they prepare for their careers. “For my interior architecture projects, Vectorworks isn’t just software – it’s a complete design experience. From concept to professional-quality visuals, it’s my go-to software for bringing projects to life,” said Prieto.

The "Forever Home" in Lake Bluff by Kipnis Architecture + Planning is a standout example of how interior architecture can transform an ordinary structure into a highly functional and aesthetically breathtaking residence.  

This project began with a 1950s ranch house and underwent a comprehensive renovation that reimagined both its spatial experience and long-term livability.

A key aspect of the redesign was the introduction of a dramatic vaulted ceiling, running from the front of the house all the way to the back. This new architectural feature created a sense of openness and is also expressed on the exterior, giving the home a distinct identity.

Learn more about Nathan Kipnis’ residential workflows with this Architectural Record webinar.

When Starbucks EMEA opens a new store, it strives to create a space that speaks to the local customer base to foster community and reinforce its brand identity. This means that every Starbucks store needs to not only be identifiable as the quintessential Starbucks retail space but also incorporate key elements that reflect the community it serves.

Watch Starbucks EMEA’s process in action:

Priding themselves on “disrupting the hospitality industry by creating and delivering the best possible experiences,” Red Engine is the award-winning team behind Flight Club and Electric Shuffle.

Flight Club, a darts bar with locations in Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, hosts an eclectic design with festive lights and warm touches.

Red Engine’s Electric Shuffle locations feature a warmth similar to Flight Club, but instead of the fun around a dart board, it’s centered around shuffleboards.

To learn more about Red Engine, click here.

 

 

Featured image courtesy of King + King Architects.