Perceptions of Architects Who Choose to Practice Interior Design

Very little has been published on the perceptions of architects who choose to practice interior design. That is, architects simply assume that they should engage in interior-design work. When asked why an architect practices interior design, a common reply is that architecture includes interior as well as exterior design or that being an architect implies one has the training and ability to design an entire building — inside and out. However, the advent of educational programs, representative organizations, and qualifying exams unique to interior design has introduced a more defined distinction between architecture and interior design. Only recently has the field of interior design reached a point of sophistication where some are beginning to question the traditional view of architects practicing interior design (Weigand, 2013a). This paper is a descriptive study that seeks to quantify the author’s anecdotal understanding of how the two professions see each other from the viewpoint of architects. It specifically intends to shed light on the more elusive perceptual components surrounding architecture and interior design — passive elements of opinion, understanding, and expectation — and to look at the differences and commonalities between the two professions, potentially lending further context to their identities and adding to the growing discussion in the research on this issue that investigates both professional practice and academic instruction. The research findings aim to support the rich discussions and current bodies of knowledge that have been instrumental in informing educators, students, and professionals with regard to reinforcing educational design fundamentals, devising instructional techniques, and supporting industry implementation. Journal of Architectural and Planning Research 31:3 (Autumn, 2014) 255