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Guest Blog -Architect or Interior Designer....or les deux?

Chris Dale • Oct 21, 2024

Guest Blog kindly written by Katie Hyde owner of A T E L I E R id

So, you've finally decided to take the plunge....

That dream new house build you've been sketching on napkins for years? That long awaited extension that will make family life SO much easier? Or that ambitious renovation you’ve been saving the pennies for? 
It's finally happening!
But as you dive headfirst into Pinterest boards and paint swatches, a big question pops up: Do I need an architect, or an interior designer, or both?
It feels like a fork in the road, where each path offers a unique version of your dream space. Let’s face it, navigating the world of design can feel like learning a new language. And who wants to end up with a "lost in translation" scenario for their haven.
That’s why we’re breaking it all down to explore and clarify the roles of architects like Artichoke and interior designers like A T E L I E R | id . Consider this your cheat sheet for understanding who does what and, more importantly, who you need on your team to turn your dream home into a reality.

Space dreams: when do I need an architect?


 Even before you think about what home you might want, or how you might want to make it bigger, a good architect will ask you questions. They will want to know why you're doing it, what your priorities are and what your budget is. It's only by knowing these things that they can help you to understand what options are possible and achievable.


Architects are the experts in helping you to develop a brief and then turn that into conceptual and detailed designs - and then into reality. They are designers, so of course, they can help you with space, form and light, but they are also organisers, so they will make sure that you have the right team to make sure that you have the right experts on board to achieve your priorities.


If you're planning a new build, an extension, or a major renovation, an architect should be a non-negotiable consultant. They'll collaborate with you on everything from the overall layout and flow of your home, to the strategic placement of windows to maximize natural light. In essence, Artichoke are the conductors of your home's symphony, ensuring every element is in harmony.

Beyond the walls: what does an interior designer bring to the table?


Once the architect has started the creative juices flowing, the interior designer joins in, working with you and the architect to infuse your space with even more personality and style. Think of them as the artists who paint life onto the architect's canvas.
 
Interior designers like A T E L I E R    id focus on maximizing functionality while reflecting your unique style. They guide you in selecting everything from the perfect paint colours and flooring to furniture, lighting, and those essential finishing touches that make a house a home. But their expertise goes beyond just aesthetics.


A skilled interior designer will work with the design team to consider your lifestyle, needs, and budget to create a space that's both beautiful and practical. They can produce lighting designs to compliment the architects design, but without compromising functional light. They can develop bathroom s to be aspirational spa envy spaces, and they can take cabinetry design to the real max. Not to mention they're also pros at sourcing unique furnishing pieces! Interior designers can take the stress away from you and manage the often-overwhelming logistics of an interior design project.

The power of collaboration: can an architect and interior designer work together?


Absolutely! Having both an architect and an interior designer can be a fantastic combination. They work together seamlessly to create a home that not only has the best design and space (and of course will be structurally sound and functional) but also visually stunning and perfectly suited to your needs.
 
When an architect and interior designer collaborate from the get-go, they can bounce ideas off each other, ensuring that the buildings' design and spatial elements and the intended interior design complement one another.


For example, the architect may specify an opened up space that requires new structural steel required for an extension, while the interior designer may suggest leaving this exposed to create a bold feature within a slightly industrial and eclectic interior.
 
This collaborative approach ensures a cohesive and harmonious design, where every detail, from the grand architectural gestures to the smallest decorative accents, work together to create a truly exceptional space.

Budgeting bliss: is hiring both professionals realistic?


I know what you're thinking:

"This all sounds amazing, but can I afford both an architect and an interior designer?" It's a valid concern, but the answer isn't as black and white as you might think.

Firstly, keep in mind that both architects and interior designers offer a range of services. You may opt for full design service for both, or take a more collaborative approach, working with the architect on structural elements and then bringing in an interior designer for specific rooms or aspects of the project.

Secondly, consider the long-term benefits. While hiring both professionals might seem like a significant upfront investment, it can save you money in the long run. Their expertise can help you avoid costly mistakes, ensure your project stays on budget, and ultimately increase the value of your home.


To make sure you're aware of how far your budget can stretch and that all designers are maximising the spend of every penny, it can be well worth adding a Quantity Surveyor to the team. Then, just as you would for your personal budget, you can decide where it's best to allocate your budget and critically that you know from day 1 that someone is keeping an eye on the spending. By doing this, you significantly reduce the chances of running out of money and having to chop out beautiful bits of the designs. 

Finding my dream team: tips for choosing the right professionals


Whether you decide to go with an architect like Artichoke, or an interior designer like Atelier ID, or both, finding the right professionals for your project is crucial.

Here are a few tips to guide you:

  • Do your research: Look for local professionals with an established client base in your area who will have great relationships with local trades and supplier expertise.
  • Check out our portfolios: This will give you a good sense of our varied aesthetics and the wider expertise across different styles that we can bring to your project.
  • Read reviews and testimonials: See what past clients have to say about our experience and approach on our websites, or ask to talk to our previous local clients for a real second opinion.
  • Look for Professional Affiliations: Independent industry bodies like the British Institute of Interior Design have Codes of Conduct that reflect the quality and experience of its members that guarantee professionalism.
  • Schedule consultations: This is your chance to get to know Us, ask questions, and see if there's a good fit, and whether our approach resonates with you.
  • Trust your gut: Ultimately, you need to feel comfortable and confident with the professionals you choose.


Building or renovating a home is a significant undertaking, but it's also an incredibly exciting journey.

By understanding the roles of architects and interior designers, you can assemble the perfect team to bring your vision to life, creating a space that's not just a house, but a true reflection of you.

​

So get in touch to discuss your dream project further and together we can create your perfect home!

https://www.atelierinteriordesign.co.uk/


“Architecture is the learned game, correct and magnificent, of forms assembled in the light” 


L E  C O R B U S I E R


Guest blog kindly written by Katie Hyde, owner of A T E L I E R id

Guest Blog -Architect or Interior Designer....or les deux?

By Chris Dale • 21 Oct, 2024
So, you've finally decided to take the plunge.... That dream new house build you've been sketching on napkins for years? That long awaited extension that will make family life SO much easier? Or that ambitious renovation you’ve been saving the pennies for? It's finally happening! But as you dive headfirst into Pinterest boards and paint swatches, a big question pops up: Do I need an architect, or an interior designer, or both? It feels like a fork in the road, where each path offers a unique version of your dream space. Let’s face it, navigating the world of design can feel like learning a new language. And who wants to end up with a "lost in translation" scenario for their haven. That’s why we’re breaking it all down to explore and clarify the roles of architects like Artichoke and interior designers like A T E L I E R | id . Consider this your cheat sheet for understanding who does what and, more importantly, who you need on your team to turn your dream home into a reality.

Let the planning package commence!

By Chris Dale • 18 Sep, 2024
We’re beyond excited and honoured to have been appointed on the next chapter of this phenomenal project to revitalise and develop Manor Farm – a charming, partially Grade II Listed heritage farmstead in Laleham. We’ve been working on this project with our clients, Step Property, for over two years; they have a strong local connection and a true passion to make it something that will be a positive contribution with architectural merit and care. After two positive rounds of pre-application advice with Spelthorne Borough Council and another with 2 councillors directly – the button has been pushed and it's now full steam ahead! Working on any one of these projects individually would be good, so it’s incredible to be working on 11 separate buildings, all of which need special attention given the site’s planning constraints: Conservation Area, Flood Plain & Green Belt. - Farmhouse – Grade II Listed - 2 Hay Barns – Grade II Listed - A Sensitive Modern Extension to the Hay Barns - Granary – Grade II Listed - Milking Parlour – Curtilage Listed - A Replacement Commercial Barn/Office - 4 New Light Industrial Barns with extra architectural finesse See a short video of the listed part of the site (link in bio) - https://www.artichoke-design.co.uk/manor-fa rm Artichoke will be leading the designs of the buildings & site and are very lucky to be working with the following expert consultants to ensure the project will have the consideration it needs to maximise its chances of planning permission being granted. - Planning Consultant – Andrew Black Consulting - Heritage Consultant – Heritage Fusion - Highways Consultants – Motion - Flood Consultant – Motion - Ecology Consultant – Ecology By Design - Structural Engineer – TBA Step Property have been insistent from the outset that this development should not just be a commercial venture to maximise space to gain the maximum return. They have truly embraced the opportunity to create a ‘place’ which not only aims to have a unique & special character not only with careful thought to the restoration of listed buildings or the creation of sensitively designed modern barns but most importantly something that has longevity both in itself and as an asset to the local community. Consequently, a huge amount of thought has already gone into the conceptual design and the client’s instructions to progress the planning information couldn’t be more attractive as a passionate practice of architects – to spend the time that we need to spend to ensure a beautiful set of buildings set within a sympathetically developed site – all of which of course should lead to a far greater chance of planning success. It is always the case that you should consider the existing context; and often the case that you should work with it – especially with Listed Buildings and in Conservation Areas. That doesn’t always mean just to create pastiche copies of anything that’s already there. In this case it does mean that we spent months understanding the site, buildings and surroundings before we explored how we might resolve the designs, which concept was unanimously supported by the client, the entire design team and the local authority; which included a conservation & heritage expert, a senior planning officer and senior conservation office (and consultant in their own right). At a high level, the site will be split into two distinct Character Zones: 1. Heritage – Conserved, refurbished & new buildings – to match existing materials & style

Bright potential for Grey Belt Development

By Chris Dale • 21 Aug, 2024
Beautiful, Chilterns AONB home

Inspiring future architects

By Chris Dale • 29 Jul, 2024
 “Jackson is still raving about his work shadow day with you, Chris! He loved doing his own blueprints and chatting with your super friendly team amongst other things so thanks so much!!” Being passionate about something often also means caring about it. This obviously means caring about our clients and the buildings we design for them but also nurturing future architects through work shadow placements. At artichoke we all relish the opportunity to guide the next generation, believing that by sharing our expertise and enthusiasm, we can champion better architecture, ultimately resulting in better buildings, spaces & towns and happier, healthier communities. Fostering Talent Through Experience Work shadow placements are designed to provide aspiring architects with hands-on experience in the field. We believe it’s better to go beyond mere observation, immersing students in the real-world processes of architectural design. This is not just passive mentoring; we actively involve students in project discussions, site visits, design sessions and give them their own pretend project. This approach allows students to witness firsthand the complexities and challenges of the profession. By engaging with various aspects of architectural practice—from sketching initial ideas to refining final plans—students gain an understanding of what it means to create meaningful and functional spaces. Championing Better Architecture The team at Artichoke is driven by a belief that better architecture leads to better living environments for our clients. Through work shadow placements, we share these values with our mentees, hoping to inspire a new generation who foster quality and sustainability. Where students are with us longer, they learn about the importance of considering the environmental impact of their designs and the value of creating buildings that enhance the well-being of their occupants. By encouraging these principles, we aim to do our bit to encourage a generation that will push the boundaries of traditional architecture and lead the way in creating sustainable, liveable spaces. Building Better Communities One of the most rewarding aspects of offering work shadow placements is the potential to influence the future of architecture and hence our built environment. Today's students are tomorrow's architects, planners, and community leaders. By providing a platform for these young talents to explore and develop their skills, we are investing in a future where buildings and spaces are respected, designed with thoughtfulness and responsibility. The feedback from students who have participated in these placements is overwhelmingly positive. They often highlight the invaluable insights gained from working alongside experienced professionals. These experiences often solidify their career aspirations but also broaden their understanding of the responsibilities that come with being an architect. The Ripple Effect The impact of Artichokes passionate approach to work shadow placements will hopefully extend beyond the immediate experience of the students. It creates a ripple effect, where inspired young architects carry forward the principles and practices they have learned, which will have a positive influence on their own future projects and will improve the chances of a better built environment. By nurturing talent and championing better architecture, Artichoke is trying to help build a better physical and educational environment —one that values both aesthetic beauty and functional, sustainable design. This commitment to education and mentorship underscores the vital role that work shadow placements play in shaping the future of architecture and, by extension, the quality of life in our homes and our communities. Offering work shadow placements is not just a professional duty; it's a commitment to cultivating passion, responsibility and excellence in architecture, ensuring that future generations continue to create spaces that inspire and uplift us all.

Success! Thames Valley Build & Design Live 2024

By Chris Dale • 29 May, 2024
It was brilliant to get an opportunity to talk at length with people who are planning an extension, renovation or garden project at our recent Thames Valley Build & Design Live event. They were seeking help, advice and inspiration for how they might go about their projects with the professional support and guidance from us and our fellow consultants and suppliers. Everyone who came along to the event said how brilliantly helpful it was. Not only because of the advice from each of the consultants and suppliers they spoke with, but also being able to meet with more than one consultant on the same day, in the same place. This provided the answers they needed, giving them the confidence to push on with their project. By attending the event, they now have a much better understanding of the steps along the process, which professionals they need to engage with and an understanding of the costs involved. Easthampsted Park Hotel was the perfect venue, providing a beautiful, relaxing & spacious backdrop to the event. And the sun shone all day so our visitors were able to take a stroll in the landscaped gardens. We also had an unexpected performance from Chris’s son’s barber-shop quartet who were absolutely brilliant and provided some incredible entertainment.

Thames Valley Build & Design Live 2024

By Chris Dale • 17 Apr, 2024
Hot on the heels of the hugely successful Windsor Design Live 2023 events, we are delighted to share with you details of our next event – Thames Valley Build & Design Live, being held at the beautiful Easthampstead Park Hotel in Wokingham on Saturday 11th of May. Private homeowners, self-builders and independent developers will visit Thames Valley Build & Design Live because they want to learn more about the opportunities and challenges of property development from a host of specialist consultants and suppliers with extensive experience of these types of projects. The consultants and suppliers will be available throughout the day at Thames Valley Build & Design Live to provide lots of really useful information, advice and will answer your questions and address your concerns. This is an in-person event where you can book one-to-one meetings with the consultants and suppliers, or you can just turn up on the day. Consultants and suppliers you can meet include: • Architect • Planning consultant • Builder • Interior designer • Furniture designers and manufacturer • Garden & Landscape designer • Energy consultant • Smart home consultant Visit https://thamesvalleylive.com/ to find out more about the consultants and suppliers and to book one-to-one meetings on the day. They each bring specialist expertise and knowledge to the event and will answer all of your questions as well as provide brochures and information for you to take away. Easthampstead Park is one of Berkshire’s finest hotels and is set in 80 acres of woodland, parkland and formal gardens. There will be complimentary refreshments throughout the day. In attendance will be a wide range of consultants to help you every step of the way including architects, planners, builders, electricians, energy experts, landscape gardeners, interior designers & furniture designers.
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