Architect vs interior architect: what's the difference?

An architect designs the building: its structure, facades, floors and the permit file. An interior architect designs the inside of a building that already exists, or will exist: layout, finishes, lighting and furniture.

The architect

In Morocco, "architect" is a protected title. It's set by law 016-89, which also created the National Order of Architects. To use the title, a person needs a recognised architecture diploma and must be registered with the Order.

An architect:

• Designs new buildings, extensions and added floors.
• Works on structure with engineers.
• Prepares and signs the building permit file.
• Follows the construction of the building.

The interior architect

An interior architect works inside the walls:

• Organises rooms, circulation and storage.
• Plans kitchens, bathrooms and lighting.
• Chooses materials, colours and furniture.
• Draws plans that contractors use for fit-out works.

The title isn't regulated in the same way, so experience and past work matter most when you choose one.

When do you need which?

• New house or villa: an architect for the building, and an interior architect or designer for the inside.
• Extension, new floor, facade change: an architect.
• Removing a load-bearing wall: an architect or structural engineer must check it first.
• New apartment, renovation, new layout: an interior architect or designer.
• New furniture and colours only: a decorator or designer.

Working together

On bigger projects, both work side by side. The architect fixes the shell, and the interior team plans how each room is lived in. Sharing plans early avoids surprises, like a socket behind a wardrobe or a beam over the bed.

We also work from architects' plans and 3D models. We plan the interior and produce the renders, so everyone sees the same result before work starts.