Interior design pertains to the planning and design of human-made spaces, intricately connected to environmental design and closely intertwined with architecture. While the aspiration to craft pleasant surroundings dates back to ancient civilizations, the formalization of interior design as a distinct discipline is relatively recent.
Over the course of the 20th century, the term “interior decorator” has been used so broadly that its significance has become diluted, prompting the adoption of more descriptive terminology. “Interior design” denotes a broader scope of activity while underscoring its stature as a serious professional pursuit. In some European nations where the profession is firmly established, it is referred to as “interior architecture.” Those engaged in shaping human environments now encompass the entire domain under the umbrella term “environmental design.”
Fundamental to interior design is the recognition that it constitutes a specialized facet of architecture or environmental design, while acknowledging that specialization loses relevance if divorced from its broader context. Exemplary buildings and interiors seamlessly integrate various elements such as structural components, site planning, landscaping, furniture, architectural graphics, and interior details. Many notable structures and interiors have been conceived and coordinated by a singular guiding vision.
Given the intricate technological landscape of contemporary planning and construction, no single architect or designer can be proficient in all facets of modern building. Instead, effective collaboration among specialists is imperative, underpinned by shared communication and foundational knowledge to achieve common objectives. While architects typically oversee the overall building design, interior designers focus on the finer-grained aspects of design, addressing aesthetic, functional, and psychological considerations, and infusing spaces with individual character.
Although interior design continues to evolve as a profession without clearly defined boundaries, it can be delineated into two primary domains: residential and nonresidential. The latter, often termed “contract design,” involves compensation through contractual arrangements, contrasting with the commission-based models prevalent in residential interior decoration. While the residential sector sees ongoing growth, there appears to be diminishing demand and complexity for professional designers, leading many qualified practitioners to concentrate on nonresidential projects.
The field of interior design encompasses numerous specialized areas, including the burgeoning field of “space planning,” which involves analyzing space requirements, allocation, and functional interrelations within commercial enterprises. Design firms specializing in this domain are often experts in office design, offering comprehensive solutions tailored to the needs of modern businesses.