The Definition of Interior Design
Interior design is a multi-faceted profession in which creative and
technical solutions are applied within a structure to achieve a built
interior environment. These solutions are functional, enhance the
quality of life and culture of the occupants, and are aesthetically
attractive. Designs are created in response to and coordinated with the
building shell, and acknowledge the physical location and social context
of the project. Designs must adhere to code and regulatory requirements,
and encourage the principles of environmental sustainability. The
interior design process follows a systematic and coordinated
methodology, including research, analysis and integration of knowledge
into the creative process, whereby the needs and resources of the client
are satisfied to produce an interior space that fulfills the project
goals.
Interior design includes a scope of services performed by a professional
design practitioner, qualified by means of education, experience, and
examination, to protect and enhance the life, health, safety and welfare
of the public. These services may include any or all of the following
tasks:
- Research and analysis of the client's goals and requirements;
and development of documents, drawings and diagrams that outline
those needs;
- Formulation of preliminary space plans and two and three
dimensional design concept studies and sketches that integrate the
client's program needs and are based on knowledge of the principles
of interior design and theories of human behavior;
- Confirmation that preliminary space plans and design concepts
are safe, functional, aesthetically appropriate, and meet all public
health, safety and welfare requirements, including code,
accessibility, environmental, and sustainability guidelines;
- Selection of colors, materials and finishes to appropriately
convey the design concept, and to meet socio-psychological ,
functional, maintenance, life-cycle performance, environmental, and
safety requirements;
- Selection and specification of furniture, fixtures, equipment
and millwork, including layout drawings and detailed product
description; and provision of contract documentation to facilitate
pricing, procurement and installation of furniture;
- Provision of project management services, including preparation
of project budgets and schedules;
- Preparation of construction documents, consisting of plans,
elevations, details and specifications, to illustrate non-structural
and/or non-seismic partition layouts; power and communications
locations; reflected ceiling plans and lighting designs; materials
and finishes; and furniture layouts;
- Preparation of construction documents to adhere to regional
building and fire codes, municipal codes, and any other
jurisdictional statutes, regulations and guidelines applicable to
the interior space;
- Coordination and collaboration with other allied design
professionals who may be retained to provide consulting services,
including but not limited to architects; structural, mechanical and
electrical engineers, and various specialty consultants;
- Confirmation that construction documents for non-structural
and/or non-seismic construction are signed and sealed by the
responsible interior designer, as applicable to jurisdictional
requirements for filing with code enforcement officials;
- Administration of contract documents, bids and negotiations as
the client's agent;
- Observation and reporting on the implementation of projects
while in progress and upon completion, as a representative of and on
behalf of the client; and conducting post-occupancy evaluation
reports.
|