Finding the right partner to transform your home is a crucial step. Between technical expertise, aesthetic style, and budget management, here are the key points to help you choose the right interior architect.
1. Check qualifications and insurance (Safety first)
Interior architecture is not regulated in the same way as licensed architecture, but essential guarantees still apply.
- Training: prefer a qualified professional (schools recognized by bodies such as the CFAI, for example).
- Decennial insurance: non-negotiable. It protects you for 10 years against defects impacting the structure of the works.
2. Review the portfolio and design language
Every interior architect has a signature. By reviewing their work (portfolio), you can see whether they adapt across styles or focus on a specific aesthetic (Scandinavian, industrial, Haussmann, minimalist).
3. Look at reviews and reputation
Online word of mouth is one of your best tools. Read Google reviews or recommendations on specialized platforms. A strong interior architect is often praised for listening skills, reliability, and the ability to solve technical surprises.
4. Understand pricing structure and quotes
Financial transparency is the foundation of trust. An interior architect is usually paid in one of two ways:
- Fixed fee: typically for the design phase (plans, concept).
- Percentage: often around 10% to 15% of the total construction budget for site supervision.
5. The “fit”: the human side of the project
You’ll be working together for months. Clear, smooth communication is essential. During the first meeting (often a consultation visit), check whether the professional understands your needs, respects your budget, and offers concrete solutions you hadn’t considered.
What to verify
Before you commit, make sure you have these items in writing. Simple, but it prevents most unpleasant surprises.
| Item to verify | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| 🛡️ Insurance certificate | Legal and technical protection. |
| 🧾 Detailed quote | Avoid hidden costs during the works. |
| 📅 Provisional schedule | Confirm delivery timeline expectations. |
| 🤝 Contractor network | Work with reliable, well-coordinated trades. |
Conclusion
The right interior architect secures your project as much as they elevate it: insurance, method, transparency, and the ability to run the site smoothly. Take time to compare, and choose a partner you can see yourself working with over the long term.