Interior Architect vs Licensed Architect

Understanding the Difference & When to Hire Each

The Importance of Choosing the Right Professional

When it comes to interior design, understanding the difference between an interior architect and a licensed architect is crucial. Each professional plays a unique role in the design process. Choosing the right one can make all the difference in your project’s success. So, how do you know who to hire? Let’s break it down.

1. Scope of Work

| Role | Interior Architect | Licensed Architect |

|-----------------------|--------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------|

| Primary Focus | Interior layout, spatial flow, interior structure, materials, and finishes | Entire building design—exterior and interior structure, site planning, and envelope |

| Specialty | Interior renovations, tenant improvements, space planning, interior systems (lighting, HVAC coordination) | New construction, additions, structural framing, foundation, zoning approvals |

2. Education & Licensing

| Education | Interior Architect | Licensed Architect |

|-----------------------|--------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------|

| Education | Degree in interior architecture or design, with architectural training | Professional architecture degree (B.Arch or M.Arch) |

| Licensing | May or may not be licensed, depending on jurisdiction | Legally required to be licensed to sign and seal architectural plans for permitting |

| Regulatory Scope | Can design interior alterations; cannot sign off on structural or exterior changes unless licensed | Can sign off on all building components including structural, fire, and life safety systems |

3. Use Cases & Project Types

| Project Type | Best Professional to Hire |

|------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------|

| Full ground-up construction (home, commercial building) | Licensed Architect |

| Major addition or structural reconfiguration | Licensed Architect (with potential collaboration from interior architect) |

| Interior renovation or tenant improvement (no major exterior/structural changes) | Interior Architect |

| Space planning, finishes, lighting layouts, custom millwork | Interior Architect |

| Code compliance for occupancy, ADA, egress | Both, depending on licensing and local laws |

4. Collaboration Potential

These professionals often work together:

• The licensed architect handles the core building envelope, structure, and permits.

• The interior architect focuses on user experience, spatial efficiency, and the interior feel and function.

• On commercial projects, the interior architect may lead the fit-out phase once the shell is complete.

  
  

Why Hire an Interior Architect

You might consider hiring an interior architect if:

• You’re focused on how the space works and feels inside (circulation, use, finishes).

• You're doing a renovation or tenant improvement, not ground-up construction.

• You want someone who understands interiors deeply, especially in hospitality, workplace, or retail.

• You need help coordinating lighting, millwork, furniture layout, and finishes.

  
  

Why Hire a Licensed Architect

On the other hand, a licensed architect is essential if:

• You’re building a new structure or making major exterior/structural changes.

• You need someone to submit drawings for a building permit.

• Your project needs zoning, site planning, or structural engineering coordination.

• Your jurisdiction requires stamped plans for the work you're doing.

  
  

🔑 Key Takeaway:

If you’re renovating an existing interior or creating a functional and beautiful interior space—especially in a commercial setting—an Interior Architect is often your best first call. If you’re building new, making structural changes, or need stamped plans, a Licensed Architect is essential—and you may still want to bring in an Interior Architect for the interior experience layer.

Conclusion

Understanding the differences between an interior architect and a licensed architect is vital for your project’s success. Each has unique skills and specialties that cater to different aspects of design. Whether you're looking to create a cozy home or a vibrant commercial space, knowing who to hire can save you time, money, and stress. So, take your time, assess your needs, and make the right choice for your project. Happy designing!