Definitions on Design

As I mentioned last week, today I begin a new section called Design Punctuation. Here we'll be exploring issues about design starting with basic concepts moving into more complex, this way we'll have a better appreciation of design and how it affects our life.

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The design world is made up of many disciplines dealing with the two and three dimensional worlds. There are many of these disciplines that are well defined like graphic, furniture, textile and product... But those dealing with the built environment are are little bit blurry because there are some grey areas where they overlap.

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Interior decorators main focus {generally!} is on the decorative and ornamental elements like paint colors, furniture, fabrics, moldings, artwork and most elements that do not require construction or can be easily introduced into a space.

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The work of an Interior Designer is more complex as it deals with space planning and functionality as well as the decorative aspects. These designers have a knowledge of ergonomics, building codes, and in many places are regulated by local authorities because of the effect they have in interior architecture. In many sates in the US you cannot call yourself an Interior Designer unless you have a license or certification.

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Architects are trained to build projects from the ground up. They look at a design project from a wider perspective as they not only look at a building itself, but the impact this will have on the surrounding environment. Once I heard an architect say that the social responsibility of the architect is greater because you cannot avoid a building in the same way you avoid an interior space... they are larger and long lasting.

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These definitions are not to be taken as a law, as there are many industrial designers that have made the transition to interior design successfully and vice versa. They are to be used as a reference, especially by those looking to hire design professionals. Remember to always check on any designer's credentials with previous clients, professional organizations or anyone who can back up their experience and professionalism.

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Now that we about design disciplines, we can move on to principles and fundamentals of design and their applications in our everyday life... come back next week for more!

Have a great day!