Guest Blog -Architect or Interior Designer....or les deux?

Chris Dale • October 21, 2024

Guest Blog kindly written by Katie Hyde owner of A T E L I E R id

So, you've finally decided to take the plunge....

That dream new house build you've been sketching on napkins for years? That long awaited extension that will make family life SO much easier? Or that ambitious renovation you’ve been saving the pennies for? 
It's finally happening!
But as you dive headfirst into Pinterest boards and paint swatches, a big question pops up: Do I need an architect, or an interior designer, or both?
It feels like a fork in the road, where each path offers a unique version of your dream space. Let’s face it, navigating the world of design can feel like learning a new language. And who wants to end up with a "lost in translation" scenario for their haven.
That’s why we’re breaking it all down to explore and clarify the roles of architects like Artichoke and interior designers like A T E L I E R | id . Consider this your cheat sheet for understanding who does what and, more importantly, who you need on your team to turn your dream home into a reality.

Space dreams: when do I need an architect?


 Even before you think about what home you might want, or how you might want to make it bigger, a good architect will ask you questions. They will want to know why you're doing it, what your priorities are and what your budget is. It's only by knowing these things that they can help you to understand what options are possible and achievable.


Architects are the experts in helping you to develop a brief and then turn that into conceptual and detailed designs - and then into reality. They are designers, so of course, they can help you with space, form and light, but they are also organisers, so they will make sure that you have the right team to make sure that you have the right experts on board to achieve your priorities.


If you're planning a new build, an extension, or a major renovation, an architect should be a non-negotiable consultant. They'll collaborate with you on everything from the overall layout and flow of your home, to the strategic placement of windows to maximize natural light. In essence, Artichoke are the conductors of your home's symphony, ensuring every element is in harmony.

Beyond the walls: what does an interior designer bring to the table?


Once the architect has started the creative juices flowing, the interior designer joins in, working with you and the architect to infuse your space with even more personality and style. Think of them as the artists who paint life onto the architect's canvas.
 
Interior designers like A T E L I E R    id focus on maximizing functionality while reflecting your unique style. They guide you in selecting everything from the perfect paint colours and flooring to furniture, lighting, and those essential finishing touches that make a house a home. But their expertise goes beyond just aesthetics.


A skilled interior designer will work with the design team to consider your lifestyle, needs, and budget to create a space that's both beautiful and practical. They can produce lighting designs to compliment the architects design, but without compromising functional light. They can develop bathroom s to be aspirational spa envy spaces, and they can take cabinetry design to the real max. Not to mention they're also pros at sourcing unique furnishing pieces! Interior designers can take the stress away from you and manage the often-overwhelming logistics of an interior design project.

The power of collaboration: can an architect and interior designer work together?


Absolutely! Having both an architect and an interior designer can be a fantastic combination. They work together seamlessly to create a home that not only has the best design and space (and of course will be structurally sound and functional) but also visually stunning and perfectly suited to your needs.
 
When an architect and interior designer collaborate from the get-go, they can bounce ideas off each other, ensuring that the buildings' design and spatial elements and the intended interior design complement one another.


For example, the architect may specify an opened up space that requires new structural steel required for an extension, while the interior designer may suggest leaving this exposed to create a bold feature within a slightly industrial and eclectic interior.
 
This collaborative approach ensures a cohesive and harmonious design, where every detail, from the grand architectural gestures to the smallest decorative accents, work together to create a truly exceptional space.

Budgeting bliss: is hiring both professionals realistic?


I know what you're thinking:

"This all sounds amazing, but can I afford both an architect and an interior designer?" It's a valid concern, but the answer isn't as black and white as you might think.

Firstly, keep in mind that both architects and interior designers offer a range of services. You may opt for full design service for both, or take a more collaborative approach, working with the architect on structural elements and then bringing in an interior designer for specific rooms or aspects of the project.

Secondly, consider the long-term benefits. While hiring both professionals might seem like a significant upfront investment, it can save you money in the long run. Their expertise can help you avoid costly mistakes, ensure your project stays on budget, and ultimately increase the value of your home.


To make sure you're aware of how far your budget can stretch and that all designers are maximising the spend of every penny, it can be well worth adding a Quantity Surveyor to the team. Then, just as you would for your personal budget, you can decide where it's best to allocate your budget and critically that you know from day 1 that someone is keeping an eye on the spending. By doing this, you significantly reduce the chances of running out of money and having to chop out beautiful bits of the designs. 

Finding my dream team: tips for choosing the right professionals


Whether you decide to go with an architect like Artichoke, or an interior designer like Atelier ID, or both, finding the right professionals for your project is crucial.

Here are a few tips to guide you:

  • Do your research: Look for local professionals with an established client base in your area who will have great relationships with local trades and supplier expertise.
  • Check out our portfolios: This will give you a good sense of our varied aesthetics and the wider expertise across different styles that we can bring to your project.
  • Read reviews and testimonials: See what past clients have to say about our experience and approach on our websites, or ask to talk to our previous local clients for a real second opinion.
  • Look for Professional Affiliations: Independent industry bodies like the British Institute of Interior Design have Codes of Conduct that reflect the quality and experience of its members that guarantee professionalism.
  • Schedule consultations: This is your chance to get to know Us, ask questions, and see if there's a good fit, and whether our approach resonates with you.
  • Trust your gut: Ultimately, you need to feel comfortable and confident with the professionals you choose.


Building or renovating a home is a significant undertaking, but it's also an incredibly exciting journey.

By understanding the roles of architects and interior designers, you can assemble the perfect team to bring your vision to life, creating a space that's not just a house, but a true reflection of you.

​

So get in touch to discuss your dream project further and together we can create your perfect home!

https://www.atelierinteriordesign.co.uk/


“Architecture is the learned game, correct and magnificent, of forms assembled in the light” 


L E  C O R B U S I E R


Guest blog kindly written by Katie Hyde, owner of A T E L I E R id

Manor Farm Regeneration: Planning Application Finally Submitted

By Chris Dale • December 1, 2025
This marks a huge milestone in what has been one of the most exciting, challenging, and rewarding projects our practice has ever worked on. An Opportunity and a Privilege When we were first approached by Step Property almost five years ago, it was immediately clear that Manor Farm was a once-in-a-career project — a historic farmstead with five Grade II listed buildings, a sensitive Conservation Area setting, Green Belt & flood plain constraints, a struggling commercial yard and collapsing historic buildings that all urgently needed a coherent long-term vision and a strategy to achieve that. To be entrusted with leading the design and coordination of such a significant site has been a genuine privilege, one which we have not taken lightly.

Why Our Kickstarter Package Could Be The Smartest Investment You Make

By Chris Dale • November 3, 2025
Across the UK, many homeowners and small developers are pausing their plans. Construction costs are at record highs, planning requirements have become more complex, and professional fees are also increasing, so even a seemingly simple home extension or redevelopment is much more of a risk. Possibly the greatest concern we hear is – “What if we spend thousands of pounds only to find out it’s not even possible?” That’s exactly why we created the Kickstarter Package — our fixed-fee feasibility study that helps you to make informed decisions at a nominal cost in comparison to house purchases and developments. What is the Kickstarter Package? The Kickstarter Package is a design-led feasibility consultation that explores the planning, budget and design potential of your property. For a modest, fixed fee (from £750 excl. VAT), our experienced architects help you understand whether your ideas are likely to be achievable, affordable, and aligned with current planning policy — saving time, stress and money later on. You’ll receive clear answers to the key questions every homeowner faces: Is planning permission likely to be granted? What might the project cost? How long could it take? What could it look like? What’s Included — and Why It Matters Each element of the Kickstarter Package offers exceptional value compared with typical early-stage architectural or consultant fees. 1. Initial Consultation and Site Visit We start with a detailed discussion about your goals & requirements — from extending your home to redeveloping a site or purchasing a property. Then we visit the site to review opportunities and constraints in person. This early visit often uncovers crucial planning, drainage or design issues before you spend thousands on detailed drawings.

Is It Still Worth Extending Your Home?

By Chris Dale • September 30, 2025
For many families, extending or renovating their home has long been the dream solution — more space, a better layout, and a home that works for modern life. But in today’s climate, with projects in the £100,000–£300,000 range, things feel a lot more challenging. So what’s changed, why is it harder, and how can you still make your project work? The Main Challenges • Planning is getting pricier – application fees are higher, and councils are demanding more specialist reports (heritage, ecology, flood risk, transport, sustainability). • Build costs keep rising – materials and labour are much more expensive than even a few years ago. • Tougher regulations – stricter building rules on energy efficiency, fire safety and accessibility add extra costs. • Financing is harder – borrowing is still more expensive than it was pre-2022. • Trades are stretched – good builders and subcontractors are in high demand, pushing prices and timescales up. • Delays and uncertainty – planning decisions are taking longer, especially in sensitive areas like the Green Belt, Conservation Areas or with listed buildings. • Budgets are squeezed – with the cost of living rising, homeowners are weighing up whether extending or simply moving makes more sense.

A Guest Blog with Mark Taylor Design

By Chris Dale • September 3, 2025
1. Tell us a little about Mark Taylor Design — how did it start, and what defines your approach to bespoke interiors and kitchens? Mark Taylor Design was set up 29 years ago. I was trained in both furniture production and management and was also a keen designer. I had completed an MBA and wanted to apply all these skills to build a business, doing something I loved. I have always believed that you can design beautiful furniture and rooms without imposing a specific ‘look’. The company has built its reputation on listening to the ideas and desires of clients. We then help to steer their vision through space design, interior expertise and craft skills. What people have at the end of their design and build journey is their vision made beautiful – rather than ours. 2. What makes a truly successful kitchen or interior design in your view — and how do you balance aesthetics with day-to-day functionality? There is nothing quite like the beauty of bespoke. Having something created to your specifications is arguably the epitome of modern luxury. Bespoke is most commonly used to refer to hand-made suits and shoes. Now the concept has become much more sought after within the world of interiors and design – with bespoke kitchens leading the way. And it’s not too hard to understand why. Bespoke means not having to compromise - getting exactly what you want and how you want it. It also allows you to unleash your imagination and embrace your creativity. The end result is a room that is crafted, in every way, to embrace your lifestyle and personal taste. Importantly, by incorporating some elements of bespoke furniture into a custom made kitchen it’s possible to give people a unique room without breaking the bank. This could be a bespoke island or dresser for instance. By combining bespoke and custom made you can optimise the space so that the end result flows smoothly and looks amazing too. 3. How do you typically collaborate with architects on a project? What makes those relationships work well? Collaboration early on always helps. We ask architects not only about style and budget but also about the client’s favoured ways of working. Ideally, we like to meet the clients with the architect from the outset. Where this isn’t possible, we at least aim for a walk round the space or a chat through all the plans – even for the areas we might not be designing for, as this gives us a more comprehensive understanding of the clients’ vision.

The Architecture of Relaxation: Designing Spaces That Feel Like a Holiday

By Chris Dale • August 19, 2025
It’s summer holiday season — and as clients return from coastal cottages, mountain cabins, or sun-drenched villas, one theme keeps coming up: “How can I bring this feeling home?” That sense of ease, simplicity, and quiet joy isn’t just about being away—it’s about how those spaces are designed. At Artichoke: Architectural Consultancy, we help clients capture that same serenity in their everyday environments, with thoughtful design that’s tailored to how they live. Restful spaces aren’t created by chance. They’re the result of purposeful decisions—about layout, light, flow, and function. And often, it’s the small, well-considered changes that make the biggest difference. With decades of experience navigating UK planning, building regulations, and complex design briefs, we know how to deliver spaces that feel effortless, yet are deeply intentional. A calming home doesn’t need to be minimalist or expensive—it needs to be clear. That might mean reconfiguring a hallway to reduce visual clutter, introducing built-in storage to keep surfaces free, or designing a garden connection that invites you to step outside. These aren’t grand gestures—they’re subtle shifts that support a more peaceful way of living. Previously, on projects such as Halfacre (pictured below) we have found that storage, in particular, plays a quiet but very powerful role. When clutter is tucked away with care, rooms feel lighter, more spacious, and more welcoming. We design storage that’s integrated, intuitive, and tailored to your lifestyle — so your home supports simplicity without sacrificing function.

Should we save or borrow for our extension?

By Chris Dale • July 16, 2025
Like many, I am generally a saver rather than a borrower by default. A client recently told us that they planned to delay their project, so that they could save the additional money they needed to be able to do the extension that they really wanted, rather than compromising. Wisely they had asked us to carry out a costing exercise, so they knew this and could assess the situation and plan for it. In that instance they had £75,000 and needed save roughly another £25,000 to do what they wanted to do, which they thought they might be able to do over the course of 3-4 years. Their question was actually when they should resume the process, which we answered and I suggested that they give themselves a year to be comfortable to get planning, building regulations and find themselves a builder (it’s always better to allow more time than less!). However, it occurred to me that whilst saving rather than borrowing (in my mind at least) is an admirable and patient approach, it made me wonder what other factors should be considered.