Designer vs. Architect: Which Should You Hire?

If you’re beginning the home building and design process, you’ll encounter a variety of professionals with invaluable skills and expertise along the way. Some professionals, like architects and designers, have a lot in common, but some very key differences. Learn the differences between a designer and an architect so you can make the right decision for your project’s needs.

What Are the Differences Between a Designer and an Architect?

Not sure what an architect is? Confused about what a designer does? An architect is a licensed professional who designs and oversees building construction projects of all sizes. There are several kinds of designers, including interior designers and architectural or building designers, all of whom can design and oversee some kinds of home construction or remodeling projects. 

Both architects and designers draw up detailed plans for projects, but architects design all aspects of a building, including structural design, utility systems, and more. Designers focus on layout planning, space usage, and aesthetic design choices. In most cases, if you’re building a new home, you should hire an architect to ensure all building codes and local requirements are met and your home is structurally sound.

Educational Differences

The educational requirements for becoming an architect are quite strict—architects are required to have a bachelor’s degree in architecture, and many architects also obtain a master’s degree. There is no required education for designers. Many designers have degrees, while some obtain their training on the job or through alternate training programs. Prospective architects may work as designers in architectural firms while completing their education before obtaining certification.

Licensing Differences

Architects must pass a licensing exam and become accredited with the appropriate regulatory body for their state after completing the necessary education. There are no legal licensing requirements for designers, although they may be accredited by various professional organizations, which may have their own standards and requirements.

Differences in Project Types

Architects have the training and expertise to handle a variety of construction projects, ranging from adding on to a home to designing and constructing large buildings. Depending on the type of architect, their projects may also include historic restoration, landscape design, and more. Architects are qualified to manage almost any type of building project, although they may specialize in one kind or another or focus on projects of a particular size.

Designers can tackle projects like remodeling, interior design, lighting design, space optimization, and layout planning. Designers are well-versed in many home styles and can help create a cohesive aesthetic design for your home. While many designers have experience in home building, they may not legally be able to complete a home build without enlisting other professionals to meet regulations and codes.

Differences in Scope of Work

Both architects and designers can oversee a project from start to finish, but architects tend to have a more comprehensive scope of work. An architect can hire and oversee contractors, source materials, obtain permits, file building plans, and manage the build site and any problems that arise. If you’re looking to hire an architect, be sure to ask questions of prospective architects to find out what’s included in their fee. 

Designers can source materials, hire and oversee contractors, and manage the build site, but depending on local regulations, they may not be able to pull permits or file building plans. You may also need to hire a structural engineer to sign off on any structural elements of a designer’s plans before legally beginning work. 

Cost Differences

Because of their extensive education and licensing requirements and the comprehensive scope of work they offer, hiring an architect costs more than hiring a designer. Architect fees average around 5% to 20% of the total project cost. Designers can cost between $50 and $200 an hour, although projects like remodels may be priced per square foot or as a percentage of the project cost.