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  • Writer's pictureMargie Stapf

The Difference Between Residential and Commercial Interior Design


Mechanicsburg PA Residential Interior Design for a Dining and Living Room

Interior design is a broad term and a large field with many different areas of focus. Two of the main categories within the interior design realm are commercial interior design and residential interior design. Understanding the differences between these two categories can help clients determine the type of designer to work with and the services to request.


Residential Interior Design


Residential interior design refers to the design of new homes or the redesign of existing interiors. This specific type of interior design applies to home living spaces to create or revamp the design within the home. This type of design should directly reflect the needs, wants, and desires of a homeowner within their space. Residential interior design can also be done during new home construction without a current homeowner there, and it generally takes on a less specific approach to attract homebuyers and provide a neutral space to work with. Residential interior designers work directly with homeowners to translate the aesthetic and functional goals of the client into their space. When they work with construction companies, they lean heavily on design trends to ensure that the space is going to be welcoming to the targeted demographic.


Commercial Interior Design


Commercial interior design refers to the design of commercial spaces such as businesses, offices, hospitals, and schools. Commercial spaces usually have certain criteria they require, and the look and feel of the space are meant to reflect the overall vision for the business or entity. This may seem limiting, but there is still quite a bit of room for innovation and creativity within this sector. Skilled commercial interior designers can work within a specified budget to keep the space safe and highly functional without sacrificing aesthetics.


Interior Design Functionality


Though creating a beautiful space for a client is a large part of interior design, functionality is another very important factor of the design process and plan. Maybe even the most important factor! Interior design can add more functionality and flow to a space that was previously cluttered and closed off. This provides not only a better look but also a better feel for the home. Commercial spaces, depending on the industry, can be designed to boost productivity and increase the use of provided space, while still making sure to adhere to certain safety codes. Functionality within commercial interior design is highly important because the commercial space needs to be utilized properly to keep the functions of the business running smoothly.


Branding Through Design


Working with businesses on commercial interior design requires the brand's look and feel to be translated into the design of the space. Determining the vision, clientele, and goals of the business will help to make the correct design decisions that reflect the company within every inch of the interior.


Residential Interior Design Central PA Professional Photography

The right interior designer can turn a house into a home or a commercial space into a booming business. Design plays a critical role in the success of a business and the feel within the walls of a home. Determining your goals for your residential or commercial needs can help a designer plan and execute ways to maximize your space while delivering exceptional designs that exceed all of your expectations.


If you're interested in connecting with Margie Stapf Interiors, please send us a message.

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