Glossary of Terms

Building Information Modeling:

Building Information Modeling(BIM) is an intelligent 3D model-based process that gives architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) professionals the insight and tools to more efficiently plan, design, construct and manage buildings and infrastructure.

Computer-Aided Design:

Computer-aided design (CAD) is the use of computer systems (or workstations) to aid in the creation, modification, analysis, or optimization of a design. CAD software is used to increase the productivity of the designer, improve the quality of design, improve communications through documentation, and create a database for manufacturing. CAD output is often in the form of electronic files for print, machining, or other manufacturing operations.

Design Budget

A design budget assists in defining the amount of money, work costs and resources necessary for the specific project. In interior design, this can occur in one of three primary ways. 1) Based on the client’s needs, the designer will create a proposed design budget. If this amount exceeds the client’s allowable budget, the designer will work with the client to prioritize items into design phases. Following this blueprint, the project can move forward as more funds become available. 2) If the client provides no budget, the designer can determine the level of quality the client desires and then create a design concept and budget. 3) A more general rule-of-thumb is to invest 20 to 30 percent of the home’s value into remodeling (not including furnishes).

Interior Decorating

Interior decorating is the art of decorating a residential home or commercial business according to a client’s personal preferences and style. It includes selecting color schemes, flooring materials, furniture, artwork, and accessories. It transforms an area into an aesthetically pleasing and budget-friendly design. Interior decorators rarely make structural changes and focus on the visuals of a space.

Interior Design Style

Design styles alter and conform to the changing trends. There have been numerous design styles over the years. These styles differ on the dimensions of past vs. present, bold vs. neutral colors, less vs. more in space, and urban vs. rural.

Interior Design

Interior design is the art and science of understanding people’s behavior to create functional spaces within a building. Interior design implies that there is more of an emphasis on planning, functional design and the effective use of space, as compared to interior decoration.

Interior Designer

Though they go hand in hand, interior decorators differ from interior designers. Interior designers perform similar tasks as decorators but must receive formal education and professional certification by the National Council for Interior Design Qualification.

As opposed to an interior decorator, an interior designer can undertake projects that include arranging the basic layout of spaces within a building as well as projects that require an understanding of technical issues such as window and door positioning, acoustics, and lighting. Although interior designers may create the layout of a space, they may not alter load-bearing walls without having their designs stamped for approval by a structural engineer. Interior designers often work directly with architects, engineers, and contractors.

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